If someone online uses one of your artwork images without your prior permission, but they do properly credit you....is that a problem?

Is it very different for a blogger to use your image without permission (with proper credit) than it is for Google to index those images in their "image search" product?

Some artists allow people to use their images for "non-commercial" use only. But think about this:  Google is indexing images for commercial use.  For that matter, Google even takes all your text content without your permission and runs ads against that content in their search results....making billions in the process.  I rarely hear anyone complain about that.  Exposure is a good thing.

I realize you can remove your images and text from Google's index, but I don't think most artists would want to do that.  Most artists who contact us ask how to get more exposure in Google's index. 

The web economy is built on links, so anytime someone wants to "pay" you with a link, let them.....perhaps you should even help them.

One problematic scenario would be the use of your image next to content that you found objectionable.  Another problem would be if the "offending" site didn't credit or link back to you.  Lastly, you should definitely enforce your rights if someone is selling products that feature your image.

However, the vast majority of the time, the person using the image is not producing objectionable content and wants to compliment and help you by posting your image with a link.

So why do some artists consider it "copyright infringement" when anyone but Google does it?

A sensible approach would be to have a statement on your website explaining that anyone may use your images on their website provided that they provide you with proper credit and that they link back to you.  Even better:  you provide an example of how you require that information to appear.  Also, add a disclaimer saying you reserve the right to demand that they remove your image if their content is objectionable to you, and that by using your image they agree to your terms.  You can easily monitor when your images are used by setting up a Google Alert.

Having your art appear on other websites will help you to change the world.

After all, how can you change the world if nobody sees your art?


Sincerely,

Clint Watson
Software Craftsman and Art Fanatic