"If a photo turns up on a national product that would be different "
Like you position. Had one of my photos "stolen" by giving a copy to the restaurant owner in which it was taken. Some weeks later, found that photo on their menu. Indignation rose. Then I noticed my name was below the photo - free advertising can't be often had.
No worries mate, Imitation they say is the purest form of flattery, I think we are all inspired by someone else's "take" ,this is ART.. We need collective soul. Even though a person might think they have the most imaginative piece around chances are at least two out there in the world . I think were are all given the same information and the mind does the editing we call "creative" . If someone blatantly steals for commercial purposed without giving credit then is is reason to "Squawk" Thanks Joe , I have enjoyed your insightful comments
If this happened on another site, I'm fairly certain the pilferer would be looking for another place to post pix. I can think of at least one site that punishes cheaters that way!