Amy Louise Taylor, lead vocalist of Amyl & The Sniffers, has filed a lawsuit against US photographer Jamie Nelson alleging unauthorized commercial use of her image. The case, filed in the district court of California, centers on photographs taken during a Vogue Portugal photoshoot.
The Dispute
The legal action stems from an initial approach in July 2024, when the band’s manager, Simone Ubaldi, contacted Nelson regarding a photoshoot to promote their upcoming album, ‘Cartoon Darkness’. This shoot ultimately did not proceed after the band communicated they did not want their likeness used to promote Nelson’s business or sold as merchandise, including “fine art prints”.
Despite this, Nelson reportedly contacted Taylor months later with a proposal to photograph her for exclusive publication in the July 2025 issue of Vogue Portugal. Taylor agreed to this shoot, but allegedly did not grant permission for any other commercial use of the images. Following the magazine’s publication, Nelson, on September 4, presented Taylor and Ubaldi with a proposal to sell the images as “fine art prints” on her website.
Ubaldi immediately objected, stating Nelson lacked the necessary license or permission. Nelson allegedly continued to seek a license, but Taylor consistently rejected these requests. On September 20, Taylor discovered Nelson was already selling prints and using the images to promote her business. Nelson also created a “zine” featuring both published and unpublished images from the Vogue Portugal shoot.
Image and Brand Protection
The complaint alleges Nelson was “well aware of [Taylor’s] antipathy to such an expanded exploitation of her image” and that her actions may have been retaliatory. It further states that Taylor’s image, recognized for its “rebellious spirit” and “distinctive Australian ‘pub rock’ aesthetic,” is central to her brand and fanbase. Nelson’s actions, the complaint argues, could “cause confusion or mistake, or to deceive” regarding Taylor’s endorsement of Nelson’s commercial activities, potentially causing financial and reputational harm.
NME reports reaching out to Nelson for comment, but she has not yet formally responded to the claim.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the lawsuit?
The lawsuit was filed after photographer Jamie Nelson allegedly began selling “fine art prints” and a “zine” featuring images of Amy Louise Taylor taken during a Vogue Portugal photoshoot, despite the band explicitly communicating they did not want their image used for such commercial purposes.
What was the band’s initial position regarding the use of their image?
The band “expressly communicated” to Nelson that they did not want their name, image, and likeness used to promote her photography business or sold as merchandise, including “fine art prints”.
What is the band alleging as a result of Nelson’s actions?
The band alleges that Nelson’s actions constitute an unlawful exploitation of Taylor’s image, potentially causing confusion among fans, damaging her reputation, and resulting in lost profits.
As the legal process unfolds, it remains to be seen whether the court will find in favor of Taylor and what remedies, if any, will be awarded. It is possible Nelson will defend her actions, potentially arguing implied consent or fair use. A settlement outside of court is also a potential outcome.
