What images can you use for your content?
Images 101: On Copyright Infringement and Fair Use
Humans are visual creatures. According to recent studies, 65% of the population are visual learners and 80% of what we learn are perceived visually. No wonder why as kids, we are entertained by vibrant picture books, or why we easily retain information through infographics compared to boring old texts. Indeed, images are powerful tools for learning information. In today’s fast-paced digital world, images hold an even greater role in various aspects, especially in business and marketing and social media.
As a writer and content creator, one must know the basics in using images to complement and supplement one’s content effectively. Producing images for the internet does not come free. It is a must that you educate yourself on copyright and fair use laws and save yourself from the hassle of paying legal fees for simply using that one photo you found on the web.
Lesley Ellen Harris, founder and CEO of Copyrightlaws.com and a published author and educator, simplifies concepts about copyright. Her areas of expertise include U.S. and Canadian copyright law, international copyright law, and licensing digital content. Take note of the following tips on how to use images for your content.
RESEARCH. Do your research before using images you find on the internet. According to Harris, “(Based on) the Berne Convention, a work is copyright protected as soon as it’s put into a fixed form. There’s no requirement to put a copyright symbol (©) on it or to register it with a government copyright office. Always assume that all images are protected by copyright laws.
ASK PERMISSION. Found a good image but it is protected by copyright? Ask permission from the owner of the image or from an authorized representative regarding permission and license to use their work.
GIVE CREDIT. Just like your high school term paper, giving credit to others’ published work is a must. It works the same with images and photos. There are many ways on how to credit or cite the owner of the image.
READ COPYRIGHT LAWS. According to Harris, “You should always assess the digital use of copyright protected works from an international copyright law perspective.” Laws governing image use may differ from one country to another.
Harris also discusses Fair Use and Public Domain in using images.
“The US Copyright Act sets out types of uses a fair use may apply to, and then, lists four factors to consider in determining whether a use may be fair use. Fair use may be raised if the use is for a purpose such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, or research.”
“Fair use is a deliberately ambiguous principle in the US copyright law, and there is a risk that your use of it may be challenged as copyright infringement. Ultimately, fair use can only be definitively determined in a court of law.”
There are many websites offering free stock photos that you can use for your books, blogs, and other published content. Fees may be charged for high-resolution images and certain restrictions also apply based on use and purpose of the image.
In a nutshell, copyright and fair use laws exist to protect your content from being used without permission and exploited for others’ purposes. As a content creator yourself, you have high regard for your own craft. By following these tips, you promote responsible use of images, and give high respect for others’ work as well.
Publishing your book or blog anytime soon? Always remember these tips and make the most out of using images for your content.
The Ewings Publishing
At The Ewings Publishing, we believe in the power of storytelling and the potential of every author. Our mission is to help you share your voice with the world and achieve your dreams. If you're ready to take the next step in your writing journey, contact us today! Together, we'll turn your vision into reality. Your story deserves to be told!
Thank you! We'll be in touch soon.
