Works Made For Hire—Who Owns What You Created?

What is a “work made for hire” and when does it apply? Generally, the person who creates a copyrightable work is considered the work’s owner and author, unless the work is a considered a “work made for hire.” In this case—barring a signed, written agreement to the contrary—the work’s author and owner is the employer or other person/entity for whom the work was prepared.