1. Identify Image License Requirements:
Firstly, determine the type of license associated with the image you want to use. Common types of licenses include:
– Royalty-Free: Allows images to be used without paying royalties but may have an initial fee.
– Creative Commons: Features several licenses that allow various levels of use (some require attribution, non-commercial use, or allow modifications).
– Rights-Managed: Grants specific and detailed usage rights regarding how, where, and for how long an image is used.
2. Understand License Limitations:
Carefully read through the licensing terms. Make sure your intended use complies with restrictions such as commercial or non-commercial use, whether the image can be modified, or if it needs to remain unchanged.
3. Provide Proper Attribution:
If the license (like many Creative Commons licenses) requires attribution, make sure to include:
– The creator’s name.
– The title of the image (if provided).
– A link back to the source (where you found the image).
– The specific type of Creative Commons license and a link to the license text.
4. Include License Certificate or Information:
If you obtained the image from a stock photo website, include a printout or screenshot of the license certificate or any transaction that indicates proof of license purchase.
5. Create an Attribution/ Credit Section:
It’s a good practice to have a designated section in your article for attributions and credits where all this information can be placed.
6. Keep Records:
Even if not displayed publicly with the image, keep records of the licensing agreements and attributions in your files in case they are ever needed for verification.
7. Check For Changes in Use Over Time:
Always revisit licenses if your use changes over time to ensure continued compliance.
By taking these measures when adding images to your work, you ensure legal respect for creators’ property rights and protect yourself from potential infringement issues.