Oh, those are really bad.
![[Big Grin]](images/icons/grin.gif)
I was just trying to figure out a quick and dirty way of applying a simple watermark in Gimpshop, because I currently couldn't use Photoshop on my computer at home (compatibility issue with Intel Mac -- I'm still waiting for CS 3). I usually don't put a copyright notice on web photos. See more on that farther down below.
The simple method with a non-embossed logo in Gimpshp involves simply writing your text in 50% grey and saving it with a clear background in its own file. When you want to apply the watermark, copy and paste it into your image, which creates a new layer. Adjust the position of the watermark, size it and or change its shape with "transform" and adjust opacity in your layer menu. By adjusting opacity, you make the text stand out more or less by. The Gimpshop that I have lacks the emboss and bevel filters needed to make a really nice looking watermark. Photoshop has them.
Usually, if I really want to add a copyright mark, I use Photoshop to create an embossed watermark, which looks much better. You can check this
tutorial, which describes the process in detail.
Instead of using watermarks as a means of theft deterrence, I generally prefer to simply post small pictures, which look okay only on a monitor. Contrary to popular belief, the creator of an image holds the copyright even if he does not mark his image. However, should litigation occur, having had a clearly marked image "stolen" and "used" by someone will make proving that is is indeed your image a lot easier.
However, even with stolen, copyrighted and clearly marked images (copyright symbol or word "copyright" plus creator's name plus year of creation), you are really only in an excellent legal position, if your artwork (photos, sculptures, etc) is registered with the US Copyright Office at the US Library of Congress. You can submit a number of images (proofs, for example contact sheets of negatives and chromes) at the same time for a (relatively) small fee. All your potentially commercially exploitable art should be registered in your own best interest.
US Copyright Office