How to Use Copyrighted Images on Party Invitations
You're creating your own party invitations and you find an image or photo that you simply adore. You want to use the image on your invitation, but you know that laws prohibit you from using copyrighted photos without permission from the owner. You need to know how to use a copyrighted image so you can create your invitation.
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Instructions
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Find the image owner contact information. The caption or photo credit of the image in a print publication or an online article should contain the contact information for the owner. Contact information may include the name, website, email address or phone number.
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Contact the owner of the image and explain that you would like to use the copyrighted image as part of your party invitation. The owner may ask you questions as to how many invitations you are printing and who is receiving the invitation.
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Get permission in writing. When the owner gives you permission to use the copyrighted picture, get it in writing. It doesn't have to be a formal written contract, but type up a permission form that lists the image you'll be using, how you'll be using it and any other details discussed by you and the owner (amount you're allowed to print, if any royalty fee is being paid for usage, who will receive the invitations). Both of you should sign the agreement, which can be handled in an email or by fax.
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Give credit to the owner. Most image owners require credit for the photo. Place a caption or credit in small print in the bottom corner of the image, or print credit on the back of the invitation.
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Tips & Warnings
A copyrighted image is anything that is not public domain. Just because an image is on the Internet does not mean it's free to use. As soon as someone takes a photo, it is considered copyrighted by them.
The consequences for using someone else's intellectual property can be lawsuits, fines and, in severe cases, prison.
