How to Use Google's Image Usage Rights Tool

How to Use Google’s Image Usage Rights Tool
Google recently made it easier than ever to use  its image usage rights tool.  Below is step-by-step guide on how to use the tool. But, first things first, what are “usage rights” and why are they important?  Usage rights relates to how the owner of the image will allow you to use the image.  Image rights relate to fair use, which is defined by Wikipedia as a limitation and exception to the exclusive right granted by copyright law to the author of a creative work. In a nutshell, all this boils down to has the owner of the image given you permission to use it or not? 6 tips for how to use Google’s image usage rights tool Google Image Search Social Media

Step 1:  Start with your Google image search

Step 2: On the results page, look for the menu item called “search tools” Step 3: Click on the “usage rights” drop down menu Step 4: Choose the usage rights selection that works best for what you’ll use the image for Step 5: View the images in your results Step 6: Use extra caution by researching the   source  of the image. See more about image use precautions below. How does Google define image usage rights? 
  • Not filtered by license: This option includes all images found that relate to the keyword(s).
  • Labeled for reuse with modification: These images can be used and modified.
  • Labeled for reuse: These images can be used with no modifications.
  • Labeled for noncommercial use with modification: These images can be used for noncommercial purposes and be modified.
  • Labeled for noncommercial reuse: These images can be used for noncommercial purposes and with no modifications.
Read more about how Google determines which images are free to use, share or modify.
Proceed using Google image search with caution Google’s page, Find Content to Use, cautions:

Before reusing content that you’ve found, you should verify that its license is legitimate and check the exact terms of reuse stated in the license. For example, most licenses require that you give credit to the image creator when reusing an image. Google has no way of knowing whether the license is legitimate, so we aren’t making any representation that the content is actually or lawfully licensed.

Whenever possible, your best bet is to use images that you own.  Take photos or create your own graphics whenever possible. There are also stock image purchase sites that will allow you to use images that your purchase.

Misty Buck
Misty Buck
www.miss-ink.com

Misty Buck founded Miss Ink, LLC, a boutique social media and content marketing firm, in January 2008 in order to help businesses take the stress out of digital marketing. Her passion is fusing creativity and strategy to tell each client’s unique story. She is regularly invited to speak on social media best practices and provides social media consulting for individuals and companies to help guide them through marketing deficiencies.

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