An author or creator holds copyright automatically upon creation! You don't need to "get" copyright. All you need to do is satisfy two conditions:

1. Your work has to be an "original work of authorship".
2. Your work has to be "fixed in a tangible form of expression" (for example, writing it down).

You do not need to add a © symbol to secure copyright protection, although it is recommended. For official copyright registration with the U.S. Copyright Office, one needs to fill out a form and submit $45.00. This official registration offers some additional protections for copyright owners.