Avoid Using Creative Commons Images
My first question: how do you really know that someone owns the rights to an image you believe to be available under Creative Commons licensing? The short answer, you don’t know. My advice is stop seeing Creative Commons photography in Flickr as a cheap way to source commerical project images.
I’ve run into this issue several times, and one time from a large multinational – directive from management, use Creative Commons photography instead of stock. I mean WTF is that decision about? What is the price of web quality stock anyway?
First, ignorance is no excuse when the original owner tracks your sorry arse down as the web designer – all roads lead to your office. Second, if you touch Creative Commons work commercially be prepared to prove you took every step to discover whether this photograph belonged to the Flickr account owner and that they owned the rights. Third, if they are the owner and they do allow this image used then READ THE CONDITIONS because Creative Commons licensing doesn’t mean free as in beer and they do retain copyright. Fourth, for the tiny sum you may save getting a photo of any quality on Flickr that suits your project you will never be 100% sure of it’s pedigree or potential business damage. Don’t take risks.
Advice. Buy a high quality camera, or hire a high quality photographer. If you’re not willing to invest in your product why would any customer want to give you money – are you worth it? If you have to use stock photography, use high quality reputable services and read the terms and conditions carefully. Consider the impact that common stock photos can have when they appear on other websites, thus watering down your brand. If you don’t believe in yourself why would anyone believe in you in return?
Your images aren’t just window dressing – invest and nurture an appreciation for them. Don’t risk litigation EVER. Doing Creative Commons on commercial projects can break you, so why risk it? That’s the way amateurs do their work, you’re better than that. Believe in yourself.
