How do we do it? How do we protect our art when user based content is a real live concept exploding all over the web? Consumers can now post their own creations all over the internet from Facebook photos to products on Cafepress. They can create cards to send to friends or share digital stamps with others. With new websites popping up all the time that encourage users to upload their own art to make something new, how are we supposed to keep up and make sure our art isn’t used without permission?
Be proactive
Any time you come across your art being used without permission, react immediately. Send a letter/email letting the user know they do not have permission to use the art. Be polite but be quick about it. If the image is used on a public website (e.g. facebook, flickr, etc.) make sure to look for the site’s user agreement or copyright information so you can read on their process for reporting copyright infringement notice procedures. File a complaint as soon as possible.
Document your work
Keep a log of all your work. Register your individual pieces with the approproate copyright office/s. If you publish your art online through third party sites, make sure you also have your own site or blog that hosts your images so you have a resource to point to if a company wants proof you own an image.
Never leave your art unsigned
If you have art to view anywhere, other than in your livingroom, sign your art. There could be instances that someone may take an image and remove your signature, but chances are much less the art will be used with an intentional removal of the signature. If you can’t find every instance of your art that is used without permission, at least your name will be on it.
Create awareness
As often as you can, tell non-artists that art isn’t free for the taking.
Make sure to share your art talent with everyone you can so you build a fan base who will recognize your art – and often times tell you when your art is being used in a new place.
Again, Teach. No reason to be rude or defensive every time someone ignorantly mentions using images from Google or pictures from a book. Seriously – not everyone really understands that “just because you see it, doesn’t mean it’s yours to use“. Invite your blog or website visitors to let you know if they spot an infringing use of your art and thank them for their support.
Now go spread the word and make sure people know YOU are an artist!
