After hiring an outside photographer, what is the primary question related to copyright you should ask regarding photos taken?

The primary question to ask regarding copyright after hiring an outside photographer is about who owns the copyright to the images. This is crucial because copyright ownership determines who has the legal rights to use, reproduce, and distribute the photographs. If the photographer retains the copyright, then the company may not have the rights to use the images in the ways they intend without obtaining permission or paying additional fees. Understanding copyright ownership upfront helps avoid potential legal disputes and ensures that the organization can fully utilize the photographs for their intended purposes, such as marketing, promotions, or publication. By clarifying this aspect, you set clear expectations regarding the usage and restrictions of the photographs.