This is a three part series from a designer’s point of view as it relates to artwork questions, processes and overall curiosities.
They say, “A Picture is Worth a Thousand Words” but is that picture really worth a $3,000 fine?
One of the most common questions I hear in the design world is “Can you use this image I found on Google?” The answer is no. Just because an image is on the internet, it doesn’t mean the image is free to use. You still need the correct license to use it. There is a difference between an 
image being online and an image being public domain.
Copyright infringement can result in lawsuits and costly legal fees.
New technology now enables copyright owners to easily identify unlicensed imagery and act to protect their rights. One of the safest and best options is to purchase stock photos where you can find a wide variety of photos for your specific needs.
Stock images break down into two types, royalty-free and rights-managed. Royalty-free images, you get nearly unlimited use. Rights-managed images, your right to use the image is typically restricted, with limitations placed on things such as duration of use, geographic region, industry, etc., as established by your license agreement.
Keep an eye out for the next two most common questions in the coming weeks!
