Obtain Images Legally

A lot of times in writing for the Internet either your personal blog or business writing, you find yourself needing to illustrate with an appropriate image. Just take a look at this stunning photograph of the Australian Outback which I used to prove my point simply because I found it compelling.

Professional writers always make sure they are legally authorized to use the images they select. They don't just cruise the Internet, right clicking on everything they see then storing the stolen images on their computer.

Legal Use

Stolen images? That's right. Unless you have permission to use an image, then you've stolen it. That's what copyright is all about. The person who created the image owns the rights to it.

There's no need to fret though if you know how to go about obtaining legally authorized art for your illustration purposes, and the artistic creators want you to use their work IF you credit them with it.

Obtaining Art

1. Take your own photographs. They're yours, and you can embed a copyright on them if you wish.

2. Ask permission from someone when you find an image on their site that you like.

3. Purchase images from any of the hundreds of Stock Photo websites that offer images as low as free if you just follow the artist/photographer's terms of service follow the $1.00 to subscription plans that offer you unlimited usage.

Stock Photo Sites

iStockPhoto

BigStockPhoto

StockXChange where I found the photo above, Roadside Assistance Required.

ShutterStock

Cutcaster

PhotoBucket

These are just a few of the many sites where you can obtain images. Registration is usually free. Be sure and read the terms of services and follow them. I like to credit the artist/photographer by embedding a credit line in the image. If possible, I also send an email to the person who created the image to thank him/her for allowing you to use it. I've met some really nice people from all over the world in doing this.

Takeaway Truth

People engaged in the arts get paid very little and are often taken advantage of by those who take their work without offering any compensation or even the most basic expression of thanks. Don't be guilty of doing this. Obtain your art legally.