Images makes it fair game for use without copyright concerns. However, this is not always the case. Whether you find an image on a stock photo site or via a Google search, copyright laws still apply and using images without permission from the copyright holder may result in copyright infringement.
Just Because You Find It on Google Images Does Not Mean It Is Free
One common misconception about copyright rules and image use is that simply finding an image on Google Images makes it fair game for use without copyright concerns. However, copyright laws still apply even when you find images via a Google search. In addition, just because you find an image online does not mean it’s free to use – many stock photo sites require you to purchase licenses for images before you are able to use them.
Providing a Link Back to the Source Does Not Negate Copyright
Another common misconception about copyright rules and image use is that providing a link back to the original source of an image automatically gives you permission to use it. However, copyright laws still apply even when you provide a link back to the copyright holder, and using images without permission from the copyright holder may result in copyright infringement.
Providing Credit to the Photographer Does Not Negate Copyright
In addition to providing a link back, many people believe that simply crediting the photographer of an image gives them permission to use it as they wish. However, copyright laws still apply even when you provide credit to the copyright holder, and using images without permission from the copyright holder may result in copyright infringement.
If you’re looking for images to use online, it’s important to understand copyright rules and how they apply to image use. To protect yourself from copyright infringement, be sure to only use images that you have permission to use, and always be sure to comply with copyright laws when using images online.
Commonly Discussed Topics About Using Images Found Online
We have found a lot of questions and misinformation online about the use of images. To clarify some of the more frequently asked questions about copyright, please review the points below:
1 – Using a Cropped or Size-Reduced Version of a Photograph Does Not Excuse a Copyright Violation. When it comes to copyright, cropping or resizing an image does not change whether or not copyright laws apply. Whether you use an entire image or just a portion of it, copyright laws still apply and using images without permission from the copyright holder may result in copyright infringement.
2 – Claiming that “It Is Just a Personal Blog” Does Not Overcome the Copyright Violation. While copyright laws may differ when it comes to personal blog use, simply stating that your blog is personal does not excuse copyright infringement. Whether you’re running a business website or a personal blog, copyright laws still apply and using images without permission from the copyright holder may result in copyright infringement.
3 – Putting an Image on a Website that Drives No Revenue Does Not Excuse a Copyright Violation. Copyright laws still apply even when an image is used on a website that does not generate any revenue. Whether you’re posting images to your own personal blog or using images as part of your business marketing strategy, copyright laws still apply and using images without permission from the copyright holder may result in copyright infringement.
4 – Images “Shared” on Social Media are Still Protected by Copyright. It can be easy to assume that copyright laws don’t apply to images you find on social media platforms such as Facebook or Instagram. However, copyright laws still apply and using an image without permission from the copyright holder may result in copyright infringement.
5 – The Best Way to Protect Yourself? Take Your Own Photos or License Images Directly from a Photographer or Reputable Stock Photo Site. When it comes to copyright, the best way to protect yourself is to always be sure that you have permission from the copyright holder before using an image. This can be done by either taking your own photos or licensing them directly from a photographer or reputable stock photo site, so you know that copyright laws are always being followed. By following these guidelines, you can ensure you are always in compliance with copyright laws when using images online.
Are You a Photographer Whose Copyrights Have Been Violated? Contact Us Today for Assistance
If you’re a photographer whose copyright has been violated, or if you have any questions about copyright laws and their application to online image use, please don’t hesitate to contact us today.
At Sanders Law Group, we are dedicated to protecting copyright holders from copyright infringement and can help guide you through the process of filing a copyright infringement claim. With experienced copyright attorneys at your side, you can enforce the law and protect your rights.
Call us today at (800) 979-3707 to learn more about how we can help you with copyright infringement cases, or complete the inquiry form on this page.
