You can't take an image from Facebook and post it on your blog or include it in your book or presentation unless you have permission or that use falls within an exception such as fair use.
But, you may think, others are downloading and sharing Facebook photos all the time so how can it be illegal? Although this may be a common occurrence, it's illegal.
You can't download and use images you find on Facebook without the permission of the photographer (or other copyright owner). If this applies to you, see our article Legally Using Images in Libraries. Libraries, archives and museums are large users of images in exhibitions, displays and public materials, and of course on their websites and social media. Using Images in Libraries, Archives and Museums See more information on using copyright materials in the classroom. In an academic setting, the application of fair use to using images in course materials, especially one-time/one-semester use of an image in a university course, may be considered fair use. Learning material is often enhanced with images. When do you have to be concerned, copyright-wise, about using images in course materials and learning management systems? Course Materials and Learning Management Systems such as Blackboard If the image is part of a particular posting or page in a blog, you need to apply the fair use factors and determine on a case-by-case basis whether your use requires permission.
They have the exclusive right to exercise their rights such as:
The full range of rights attaches to owners of copyright in these works. So illustrations, photographs, charts and the like are all protected by copyright. Section 101, Copyright Law of the United States Two-dimensional and three-dimensional works of fine, graphic, and applied art, photographs, prints and art reproductions, maps, globes, charts, diagrams, models, and technical drawings, including architectural plans. Copyright Act defines images as “pictorial, graphic, and sculptural works” and defines these works to include: Let’s look at some of the specifics surrounding this general rule. As a universal rule, most images are protected by copyright laws around the world and you need permission to use an image as-is or to adapt it. More and more we're using images to enhance text-based documents, annual reports, websites and on social media.
Also see our Legally Using Images eTutorial. To determine whether you're legally using images, consider these two things:īelow are tips and information on specific circumstances in which you may be using images.