Why are pictures printed as "Courtesy Photo" when Photographer is known?

I recently submitted a small article, with photo, of something that happened at a recent event in Alpena, Michigan. I really didn't expect the article or photo to be published since I'm not well known nor am I "in the know" with people at the paper. However, I was thrilled when on Oct. 19, 2009, my husband pointed to the paper and asked "Isn't that the picture YOU submitted?" There, I saw a portion of my article and photo had been published in The Alpena News. For that I was thrilled; however, credit was given as "Courtesy photo" and my husband and I would like to know why?

I've seen this happen with other people in the area as well. It seems you have to know someone to get credit for your photo or to get an article published. My article and photo were a way of thanking a wonderful organization for helping to make a memorable event for those attending an annual event in our wonderful town. It would be nice when photos are submitted, that credit is given to more than just "courtesy photo."

Thank you to anyone who can shed some light on this. Either "Courtesy photo" or identified, I know it's my photo.

Call the paper and ask them, silly. Asking the people on here will only lead to speculation. Let us know what you find out!

Most newspapers will label a photo "courtesy photo" or "submitted photo" unless it was taken by a staff member. It's a common practice.