They say a picture is worth a thousand words but, is it worth a thousand dollars?! It’s important to protect yourself and your business from violating copyright laws when using graphics on websites, advertisements and social media posts. It’s easier than ever now for copyright victims to locate unauthorized users through image searching. The copyright laws serve to protect copyright owners in the digital world so, it’s strongly advised not to use any materials without written permission or license from the owner of the image.
Here are a few tips on avoiding any copyright issues:
- Purchase licenses for your graphics. There are plenty of websites that allow you to license stock photos. Rates vary and most offer unlimited subscription services.
- Ask permission! If you did not create the image, ask permission to use it. Be sure to credit the original author, if requested.
- Use Google’s “usage rights” search tool to find images that are labeled for reuse.
- Take the pictures yourself! Sometimes it’s the best way to get the perfect image.
Keep using those great images in your promotions; just make sure you have the right to do so!
