Thread: How do I find out whether an Image copyrighted?

How do I find out whether an Image is copyrighted or not?

If you made it you own the copyright.

If someone else made it they own the copyright, or they might let anybody use their work depending on what it will be used for. See Creative Commons.

yes, but how will I know the image I am using or took from web is copyrighted or not.

it's probably at the bottom of almost every website. it states the contents of the site is copyrighted @2009 or whatever. that doesnt apply just to the text. It applied to everything, including the source code.

yes, but that doesn't mean the images are 'really' copyrighted. Moreover some right those lines for fun sake!

Assume that they are all copyrighted, unless you can get written notice from the creator of the work, that he has allowed it to be used without license.

If you find a photo, and can locate the owner, contact them, and see if they will allow a limited use license, for a specific purpose. As long as you dont sell it, you might be allowed to use it, if you give proper credit to the creator of the piece.

Especially if you are going to use it for commericial purposes.

There was a true case where a guy's photo was used on a coffee can for a number of years, no one asked him for permission, he didn't know it was there.

He sued and got 5% (I think) of the total sales, which equaled many millions of dollars.

Mind you, if its just for a small time website, or a private production, I would take a punt and see if anyone notices

Besides I doubt people will complain if you ask for the pic.