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Copyright and Plagiarism: Images/Pictures

Information for authors, researchers, and faculty looking to publish scholarly works and join the scholarly communication community.

Creative Commons Search

Creative Commons Search is a search portal that offers convenient access to search services provided by other independent search services. From this one site you can link to Google Images, Flickr, Fotopedia, Wikimedia Commons and other media sites. Do not assume that all images found on the independent sites will fall under CC license.

Free Stock Photo Sites

Permission to Use Infographic Letter and Response

Images and Pictures

Images and pictures are copyright protected. Do not assume that an image or a picture that you find on the Internet is free to use. When searching the Internet for images, the item you find may or may not have the copyright symbol or copyright details visible to you. You may have to search the webpage for copyright information and instructions. You might ask permission of the artist to use the picture/image; however, you may not get an answer before you must submit your project. Don't forget to cite what you have permission to use. 

There are some images/pictures that are copyright free. If you are fortunate to find these images/pictures, follow the instructions for use. Key terms for locating copyright free images and pictures on the Internet include the following phrases: 

  1. public-domain
  2. creative-commons
  3. all-rights-granted
  4. copyright-free 

You must still check the picture/image and webpage carefully to ensure that the permission you are seeking is available. For example, you may be able to use it in a student project for class, but not post it to the Internet. Again, seek permission to use pictures/images. Don't forget to cite what you have permission to use. 

Consult the Permission Tab on this LibGuide.

Copyright-Fair Use-Creative Commons

Copyright Overview Infographic
Infographic courtesy of BAA/Fenway Library blog