What is the best course of action if you find copyright information on a photo you intend to use?

The best course of action when encountering copyright information on a photo you intend to use involves coordinating with legal counsel to review contract terms. Copyright law is complex, and unauthorized use of copyrighted materials can lead to serious legal consequences, including lawsuits and financial penalties. By consulting with legal experts, you ensure that you fully understand the implications of the copyright information and can make an informed decision about the use of the photo.

This approach also ensures that you are aware of any licensing agreements or terms associated with the photo. Legal counsel can clarify whether you need to seek permission or if there are specific terms of use that must be adhered to. This careful consideration protects both you and your organization from potential breaches of copyright law.

Other options may not adequately address the need for legal compliance. For instance, relying solely on verbal approval from a freelance photographer does not provide a solid legal defense, should the agreement be disputed later. Simply including copyright information without understanding the terms or obtaining permission does not ensure that the use is lawful. Furthermore, proceeding solely based on a supervisor’s approval can put the organization at risk if proper permissions have not been secured.