How to attribute?

Published Jun 14, 2023

How to attribute?
How to attribute?

Mastering Image Attribution: Your Guide to Properly Crediting Creative Works

Discover the art of proper image attribution in our comprehensive article. Gain insights into the importance of respecting creators’ work and staying legally and ethically compliant. Whether you’re sourcing background photos for websites, blogs, products, videos, or more, our guide will help you navigate the attribution process with confidence.

Key Takeaways:

Learn the TASL method for correct Creative Commons image attribution: Title, Author, Source, and License.
Understand how to attribute modified images and handle cases where the owner is unknown.
Follow specific license guidelines for non-Creative Commons images.
Unlock the knowledge to attribute images in various contexts, including blog posts, videos, social media posts, apps, and printed products.

Demystifying Copyright: A Guide to Understanding Usage Rights

Before diving into image attribution, it’s crucial to grasp the concepts of copyright and fair use laws. Copyright safeguards original works, including photos, from unauthorized usage or duplication. However, limited usage may qualify as “fair use” in cases of education, commentary, or critique. While fairness depends on specific circumstances, it’s advisable to avoid risks associated with unpermitted use of copyrighted materials.

Alternatives to Copyright: Creative Commons and Public Domain

Explore the alternatives to copyrighted materials through Creative Commons licenses and Public Domain resources. Creative Commons licenses enable creators to share their work while retaining certain rights. Each license type has its own guidelines. Public Domain materials, on the other hand, lack copyright protection and can be used freely without attribution.

Proper Attribution of Creative Commons Images

When attributing images sourced from videos, apps, blogs, and other platforms, adhering to proper practices is essential. This informs viewers and aids search engines in identifying attributed materials. The TASL method, comprising Title, Author, Source, and License, is commonly employed for attribution. Consider using the following format:

  • T – Title: The image or content’s title or description.
  • A – Author: The creator’s name or organization behind the image or content.
  • S – Source: The location where the image or content was discovered, such as a website link or publication. Hyperlinking the title and author ensures a cleaner attribution.
  • L – License: The specific license type under which the image or content falls, such as Creative Commons or public domain.

Attributing Creative Commons Images with Unknown Creators

When the original creator of a Creative Commons image is unknown, it remains crucial to provide attribution to the best of your ability. In such cases, ensure to attribute the image by including the source link and specifying the applicable license. Additionally, go the extra mile by including details like the title or description to honor the anonymous creator behind that remarkable work!

Attribution for Images Outside of Creative Commons Coverage

Even when using images not covered by Creative Commons, it is essential to provide accurate attribution. Follow the guidelines outlined by the specific license or agreement governing the image’s usage. This may involve including the creator’s name, image source, and any other relevant information. Carefully review the image’s terms of use and diligently follow the attribution guidelines as closely as possible.

Attributing Images Across Multiple Platforms

Using images effectively across various platforms necessitates proper credit to the original creators. As a general rule, attribution details should encompass the creator’s name, the work’s title, the image source (including any links), and license information if applicable. Ensure you give due credit while leveraging the power of images to create engaging content.