Overview
This summary outlines key legal considerations for using images, music, and video clips online, including copyright protections, methods for obtaining permission, and alternatives for lawful use.
Copyright Basics
- Online creative works are usually protected by copyright and require the owner's permission for most uses.
- Posting disclaimers or crediting the creator does not prevent copyright infringement.
- There is no implied license simply because content is shared on the internet.
Obtaining Permission
- You can seek permission directly from the copyright owner, especially if their info is available.
- If ownership is unclear, contact the website hosting the content to identify the owner.
- The Copyright Office offers searchable records for additional ownership verification.
Royalty-Free and Public Collections
- Photo agencies like AP Images and Getty Images offer large collections of royalty-free images.
- The Library of Congress hosts many digitized items, but copyright status must be researched for each item.
- Carol Highsmith’s photo collection on the Library of Congress website is available without copyright restrictions.
Exceptions and Alternatives
- Some uses are protected under the Fair Use exception, but only a federal judge can confirm fair use status.
- Works whose copyright has expired are in the public domain and free to use.
- Public licenses, such as Creative Commons, allow free use under specified terms (e.g., author credit, non-commercial use).
Copyright Duration
- Copyright typically lasts for the author's lifetime plus seventy years.
- For works made for hire, duration is 95 years from publication or 120 years from creation, whichever is shorter.
Best Practices for Using Others' Works
- Always verify that content labeled as "free" is actually free to use as intended.
- Comply with any license terms when using publicly licensed works.
- Consult copyright.gov or official circulars for further information on copyright, fair use, and the public domain.