Los Angeles, CA asked in Internet Law, Copyright and Intellectual Property for California

Q: Can I use any creative common BY images for my social media accounts?

2 Lawyer Answers
James R. Dickinson
James R. Dickinson
Answered
  • San Bernardino, CA
  • Licensed in California

A: Images in the public domain or those for which a license or permission is granted can be used without concern. [I litigate cases. Anything posted here must not be construed as legal advice, nor as grounds for forming an attorney-client relationship. You should seek an attorney for formal legal advice and representation.]

James L. Arrasmith
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Answered
  • Consumer Law Lawyer
  • Sacramento, CA
  • Licensed in California

A: Using Creative Commons (CC) BY images for your social media accounts can be a great way to enhance your content. However, it's important to understand the specific terms and conditions of the CC BY license and follow them accordingly. Here are some key points to consider:

CC BY License: The CC BY license allows you to use, share, and modify the licensed content (including images) for both commercial and non-commercial purposes. However, you must provide attribution to the original creator of the image. This means giving appropriate credit by clearly indicating the author's name or username, along with a link to the original source.

Attribution Requirements: When using CC BY images, it's crucial to ensure that you comply with the attribution requirements specified by the creator. Review the license details of each image to understand how attribution should be provided. Some creators may have specific instructions regarding the format or placement of the attribution.

Public Domain Dedication: It's important to note that not all CC BY images are in the public domain. The CC BY license allows creators to retain their copyright while granting certain permissions to users. Make sure to verify the licensing terms of each image before using it, as some images may have additional restrictions beyond attribution.

Image Sources: To find CC BY images for your social media accounts, consider using platforms that provide access to CC licensed content, such as Creative Commons search engines, stock photo websites, or repositories like Wikimedia Commons. These platforms often offer search filters specifically for CC BY content.

Best Practices: While using CC BY images, it's good practice to be respectful of the creators and their work. Whenever possible, provide more information than the minimum attribution requirements, such as a direct link to the original image or the creator's website. This shows appreciation for their work and can help promote their work to a wider audience.

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