Judge Warns Photographer: "Things Only Get Worse"

In a significant development in the copyright dispute between Amyl and the Sniffers frontwoman Amy Taylor and photographer Jamie Nelson, U.S. federal judge George Wu has ruled largely in Taylor's favor. The judge denied Nelson's anti-SLAPP motion and mandated mediation within three weeks, setting a deadline of April 23, 2026, with a follow-up hearing on April 27, 2026.

Judge Wu issued a stark warning to Nelson, stating that "things are only going to get worse" if the case goes to trial. He indicated a potential default judgment against Nelson's company, Jamie Nelson Studios LLC, by April 29, 2026, should a settlement not be reached. Taylor's legal counsel characterized the hearing as a "near-complete victory" for their client.

The contentious issue arose from a 2025 photoshoot for Vogue Portugal, where Nelson photographed Taylor. Taylor's side asserts that the images were intended solely for the magazine, but Nelson allegedly proceeded to offer them for sale as fine art prints and in a zine without authorization, despite management's rejection.

Nelson, however, maintains her copyright counterclaims against Taylor and associated entities remain active. She stated, "My copyright counterclaims remain active and will continue to move forward." The legal battle has seen previous escalations, including Nelson's unsuccessful attempt to obtain a civil harassment restraining order against Taylor in December 2025.

This latest ruling underscores the court's preference for a mediated resolution. Amyl and the Sniffers, formed in 2016, are recognized as a prominent Australian rock band, with their 2022 album achieving significant chart success and critical acclaim.