Effective Strategies for Lawfully Employing Google Images in Your Work
Switchin' It Up: Using Google Images Responsibly in the Digital Age
In the era of online content, finding that perfect image for your presentations, documents, or social media posts is as simple as a quick Google search. But before you copy and paste that perfect fit, listen up! You need to consider copyright law.
Found the Dream Image? Now Check the Copyright!
We all know the struggle of sifting through countless search results to find the perfect image, illustration, or photograph. But remember, just because Google presents it to you doesn't mean it's free game for use without consequences.
Google is a magical tool that helps you find content based on your search requirements. It's not a treasure trove of public domain or copyright-free works, so take that pirate's plunder mentality and dump it in the briny deep.
Treat Every Image Like a VIP (Very Important Picture)
Once you find the picture of your dreams, treat it like your favorite rock star backstage---with respect. From a copyright perspective, treat it just like any other content you find online. This means conducting a careful copyright analysis before using the image.
It might take some convincing within your circles that every image found through a Google search isn't fair game for use without permission. Check out our tutorial, 21 Virtual Ways to Build Copyright Awareness in Your Library or Organization, to learn how to creatively and practically teach others the copyright ropes.
Google's Copyright Crusade
In recent times, Google has introduced initiatives to make it easier for you to locate credit, creator, and copyright information, as well as identify images available for licensing. This info is provided by the publisher or creator in the image metadata. For more information, take a gander at Image Rights Metadata in Google Images and the IPTC article Google's 'Licensable Images' Feature is Now Live.
Assume Every Image is Copyright Protected
To steer clear of copyright woes, it's essential to assume that all online images are under copyright protection. Then, roll up your sleeves and do your research. Begin by taking these two vital steps:
- Determine if the image is under copyright protection (it probably is!)
- If the image is protected and there's no license attached to it, you need to request permission to use it before making it your own.
Digging for Copyright Information
Sometimes, the copyright owner's name will be plainly displayed on the image with a link to contact them for permission. If this lucky break occurs, kudos to you! However, it won't always be smooth sailing.
Your research may require some time, effort, and creative investigation to determine and investigate the copyright status of a work.
In some instances, your research may indicate that your use of the image doesn't require permission. For example, images and photographs in the public domain don't require permission.
Got a Creative Commons (CC) License? Breathe Easy and Study Up
If a CC license is attached to the image or photograph you wish to use, you're in luck! There are various CC licenses that may allow you to use an image or photograph without having to first obtain permission. But before you dive in, read the license to see what it entails and what it permits. You may be able to use the image as is, modify it, or use it for noncommercial purposes. Regardless, you'll need to acknowledge the owner of the image.
Terms and Conditions: The Fine Print
Pay close attention to any specific terms of use written on the site where you found the work. These terms may require you to follow specific procedures for using the image. For example, the terms may state that the image may only be used for noncommercial or educational purposes. Unfortunately, these terms often don't define noncommercial or educational purposes, so you'll need to make that call.
Protect Yourself: Using Google Images Legally
When hunting for images online, here are some key takeaways for using Google Images ethically and legally:
- Determining whether an image, photograph, or other content is protected by copyright may require some legwork, so start your research as soon as possible.
- Act on facts. Throw out the notion that an "old" photo is fair game or an image without a copyright symbol or notice can be used freely.
- If you're unsure if you have permission to use an image, investigate its copyright status.
Best Practices for Using Google Images Legally
1. Always Assume the Image is Protected by Copyright
Never use an image, illustration, or photograph without first investigating its copyright status. Not everyone realizes that online content is protected by copyright.
2. Linking is Safer than Copying and Pasting
When it comes to copyright, it's safer to link to a photo or other image than it is to copy and paste it onto your website or social media platform. Plus, it's best not to embed the link; instead, set out the URL. (Note: a 2018 U.S. court case raised the risk of embedding images.)
3. Use Your Own Photos and Images
When possible, use photos and other images that you've taken yourself. However, remember that unless you're employed and took the photos as part of your job, you own the copyright in your own photos. And don't forget to obtain a model release from any persons in your photographs to protect your privacy and publicity rights.
4. Use Creative Commons-Licensed Images
If possible, use images that have a Creative Commons (CC) license. Just be sure to read the license's terms and conditions to see what it allows and what it doesn't.
5. Use Images from Stock Photo Agencies
Purchasing images from stock photo agencies is a great option, but remember that you're not buying the original; you're paying for certain uses of it. Be sure to read the specific terms and conditions of each license.
6. Confirm Who Owns the Copyright in the Image
Always verify that the image's creator has the rights to grant you permission to use it. They may have assigned their rights to someone else, or they may have created the photograph or other image as part of their employment duties, so their employer owns the copyright in the image.
So, there you have it! Following these tips will help you use Google Images responsibly and avoid any pesky copyright issues. Happy searching! 🤗
- With the rise of technology in our lifestyle, it is essential to respect copyright law when using images found on Google.
- Even if an image appears in Google's search results, it may still be subject to copyright protection and require permission for use in the public domain.
