If a photographer were to take a picture of downtown with buildings, posted it up on a website, would it be allowed?
you mean it is the photographer himself puts it up? If yes, there shouldn't be any problem coz it is his photo
Yes, in general that would be allowed if the photographer puts it up himself, or provide permission for the website owner to put the image up on the site. However some buildings could provide problems. A building (in rare cases) can be copyrighted (e.g. The Eiffel Tower at night, where the lighting display is copyrighted), if there is artwork or trademarked signs on the building it could also cause problems. However those cases are rare and most times you should be safe.
Correct, i think if you are taking pictures of area51 that you are really f*ckd Normal(homes,family animals ect) pictures or naturepictures are no problem - Robert
Well, with people (yes, family counts as people) you will first have to obtain a model release from the person before putting their images up online.
The Saddam hanging was published by most as a news event. The rules are a bit different for publishing image / video for other commercial uses such as the OP's question. Generally... if the photo is shot while on public property and shows what a normal person could view publicly... and you have a signed release from any recognizable person... you should be safe.
Depending on where you live there can be different regulations. Buildings in the states for instance are also copyright protected when build after 1989 or 1990 (have to look it up). Timo