Which action provides initial copyright protection for marketing images created by a graphic designer?

Initial copyright protection for marketing images created by a graphic designer is automatically granted upon the creation of the images. This protection applies as soon as the images are fixed in a tangible medium—meaning once the graphic designer creates and records the images, they are protected under copyright law without the need for any additional actions. This principle is a fundamental aspect of copyright law, which recognizes the creator's rights to their original works from the moment of creation.

While registering with a copyright office or publishing the images can enhance the protection and provide additional legal benefits, they are not necessary steps for initial copyright protection. Simply declaring the images to be copyrighted does not confer the legal protection that originates upon creation. Thus, the act of creating the marketing images is what triggers copyright protection immediately.