Full Breakdown
Sleep Token Faces Copyright Infringement Allegations from Photographer
12/21/2025, 11:45:31 AM
Allegations of Unauthorized Use of Photography
Sleep Token, a British band, is currently embroiled in a copyright infringement controversy initiated by photographer Laura Loana V. She claims that a photograph she took of the band's frontman, Vessel, during their performance at the 2023 Copenhell Festival in Denmark was used without her permission on a limited-edition "Ritual Coin" sold at their 2024 concert in Frankfurt, Germany. Loana stated that she did not sign any contract granting licensing rights for the use of her photo, and her attempts to communicate with the band's management have been unsuccessful.
In her Instagram post dated December 18, 2025, Loana expressed her frustration, stating, “As a small creator it is a bit disheartening when you do something with passion and it gets stolen for profit and dismissed like this.” She also highlighted that this incident is not isolated, referencing previous copyright issues involving the band and other creators, including tattoo artists and fan artists.
Context of the Controversy
The situation has drawn attention due to Sleep Token's history of protecting their own copyright. Earlier in 2025, tattoo artist Emily-Jayne, known as InkITEJ, faced a copyright strike from Rico Management, the band's management firm, which resulted in her Instagram account being shut down. This action was met with backlash from fans and was later reversed after public outcry. Loana's case has reignited discussions about the band's treatment of independent creators, with multiple fan accounts alleging that Rico Management has issued takedown notices against fan-created content.
Responses from the Band and Management
As of now, Sleep Token's management has not publicly responded to Loana's allegations. However, Loana updated her post on December 19, indicating that management had finally contacted her, and she is awaiting a proposed solution. Fellow photographer Daniel Lønberg also shared his experience, noting that a similar situation occurred with his Copenhell photos, although his case was resolved by framing the image use as "inspiration" rather than direct reproduction.
Criticism and Community Reaction
The allegations have sparked significant criticism from fans and fellow creators, who have expressed solidarity with Loana. Many are calling for greater accountability from Sleep Token and their management regarding the treatment of artists whose work is used without permission. The community's response underscores a growing concern over the rights of creators in the music industry, particularly regarding the use of their work for commercial purposes.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Her post read: “This year I found out the photo I took in 2023 at @copenhell festival (on an editorial assignement for a magazine) was used for merch in 2024, without my permission.” — Laura Loana V, Photographer
- “As a small creator it is a bit disheartening when you do something with passion and it gets stolen for profit and dismissed like this.” — Laura Loana V, Photographer
- “I have only been in contact with one person who was involved with the coin and I have been called aggressive for saying the settlement they offered was unfair and that it's an unacceptable situation, so hoping to get to the band management directly.” — Laura Loana V, Photographer
The ongoing situation highlights the complexities of copyright in the creative industries and the need for clearer communication and agreements between artists and management entities.
