Guest post by Ivy Attie, content manager at Stockphotos.com
Visual content plays a vital role in engaging the audience. It also improves your brand image by being appealing. However, the illegal use of images can cause numerous problems. A minor mistake in following the copyright rules can result in unfortunate scenarios such as a penalty, a DMCA takedown notice, and even jail time.
In this guide, we will share the most effective tips on using stock images legally. With these practices, you can easily fill in the visual gap on your website without copyright infringement.
What are stock images
Stock images are a readily available set of pictures that anyone can use on their marketing projects. You can opt for them if you cannot arrange photographs of your desired location or scenario. They are also cost-effective as you can purchase their usage license for free or a nominal fee. These images can be used in various ways based on your requirements.
Understanding the licenses in stock images
Many stock image websites on the internet offer photographs, vectors, illustrations and videos in a broad range of categories. These visual resources are shot by professional photographers and submitted to stock image websites for distribution to marketers and individuals.
However, it is essential to note that each stock image present on the website is backed with a license. To utilize the pictures, you must understand and adhere to the agreements of the license.
The main licenses include the following:
Royalty-free license
As the name suggests, images with a royalty-free license are exempted from any type of royalty. The user only has to pay a one-time fee for the stock image. This allows them to utilize the resource repeatedly without any restrictions.
This form of a stock picture is the most affordable and convenient. It is also the most preferred by businesses and individuals who frequently require stock photos.
Rights managed license
This licensing is different as compared to other types of licensed images. In this licensing, the buyer can use the photo while remaining confined within the specified terms. This includes the use of pictures, placement, geographical location and volume of users. The buyer cannot overuse the image, or he will have to pay legal consequences.
The licensing exists until you use the image for the specified number of times. After that, the license ceases to exist. If you choose to use that image differently in the future, new licensing will be required.
Extended license
The extended license is an upgraded version of the standard royalty-free license. With this type of license, the users are allowed to utilize the pictures in “resale” products such as cups, T-shirts, mobile apps, posters, etc.
Although the extended license is more expensive than other types, they do offer broader usage rights. Plus, there is no restriction on the number of copies, allowing you to print as many products as you want.
Key tips to remember about stock photo licenses
In addition to the usage guidelines, it is important to be aware of additional limitations that come with stock image licenses. This includes:
- The pictures cannot be transferred or gifted to a third party.
- You cannot use stock pictures in pornographic material or adult content.
- You cannot use the images as part of a logo or trademark.
- The pictures cannot portray a negative connection with any person, religion, culture, ethnicity, etc.
Attribution of the image
While it is not always mandatory by stock photo websites, it is a good idea to credit or attribute the source of the picture. This would help avoid any legal issues and also show appreciation to the photographer for their contribution.
Can I edit stock photos?
One of the best features of stock photos is the ability to edit as per your brand needs. Yes, you can modify the pictures, crop, change backgrounds, and add overlays to enhance their appeal and make them more relevant to your message. But again, make sure to read the license terms carefully to ensure you are allowed to edit the pictures. The guidelines will also clarify the scope of edits and the types of alteration allowed on the pictures.
Are there any other sources for legally safe pictures?
Many individuals make the mistake of using pictures right from Google without clarifying their copyright. The practice should be avoided because Google serves as a search engine that displays pictures from the internet relevant to your query. Most of the images shown by Google are copyrighted and can land you in legal trouble in case the owner decides to pursue the case.
To stay safe, you should look to acquire pictures from credible stock photo websites or turn toward public domain libraries. These pictures are considered public domain because their copyright has expired or the author has explicitly released the pictures to public libraries. They can be used in commercial projects without any restrictions.
Creative Commons is another source for free and “safe” stock photos. These pictures are subject to different licenses and conditions. For example, some Creative Commons licenses allow the use of images in marketing, while others don’t. A specific set of licenses also grants the user permission to upload the pictures without giving any attribution. Just like stock photo licenses, read the terms carefully for Creative Commons and public domain before committing to avoid legal formalities.
Best practices for using stock photos
- Always choose relevant and high-quality pictures.
- Study the terms and conditions carefully before buying any type of photo.
- Edit the images to make them unique, but only if the stock photo agency allows them.
- Select the pictures that follow the latest photography trends to avoid outdated styles.
- Do not use stock photos with posed or generic models. Instead, look for candid pictures.
- Be prepared to remove the picture if a copyright owner sends a notice for using the picture illegally.
Conclusion
Using stock images is a good idea if you are trying to establish your business and lack the budget or resources to create custom photographs. They are easily available with numerous choices, making it convenient for you to select relevant pictures based on your requirements. But remember: Using images from the internet is a sensitive step and should be done with meticulous attention and care. Failure to comply with the guidelines set by the website can have unwanted consequences. Therefore, be careful and follow the best practices for uploading pictures. Good luck!