With you there Mickma.

Modelling or texturing anything from the real world will infringe someones copyright or trademark, even the smallest detail like the design of a dustbin or piece of graffit. 

Also most of these hassles don't come directly from the companys either, but from lawyers who've got bored chasing ambulances. Even if you comply these lawyers will often keep on hoping to make a few quick bucks. 

If you infringe a major companys - you get a C&D, your hosting co gets some grief and you have to pull stuff or be closed down. But if that company infringes you - then you have no chance because  they know you can't afford the legal fees.

You can't post a photo of the effiel tower here, because of this Lockheed thing will they pull photos of aircraft from here, or close down places like airliners.net ?

Overall it's all very silly and mostly related to greed and thats why I think the whole issue of copyrights needs to be looked at again by those who make the rules,  both to protect the IP holder and to allow things such as a greater level of fair use by artists etc etc.  

Increasing pressure on those that "infringe" doesn't work either it just forces things underground and that only makes things like warez more prevelant.

Pinky - you left the lens cap of your mind on again.