Better Safe than Sorry!

When publishing texts and pictures on any platform it is better to be safe than sorry. Copyright, fair use, and public domain will be topics for upcoming C&M blogs. Watch for and participate in the blogs. Goal: promote the knowledge of all members in this critical area. Let’s start with copyright. 

Copyright 

• Check your national copyright laws before doing anything. 
• Look for the signs or CC markings. 
• PHOTOS:  
• Is it your own photo? Good! 
• Has it been taken in a public place? Ok!  
• In a private meeting e.g. a chapter meeting? Do you have the permission of all the persons in the picture?  
• Do you wish to use free photos? Okay!  But when using online sources, read the fine print. 
• Credit to the photographer and reference the source.  
• ALWAYS check the source of your photos and the copyrights! 
• MUSIC: Probably best to play directly from a link – not attached to your presentation or your publication if you have not asked for artist(s) permission. Always credit the artist(s) even if permission has been obtained. 
• TEXTS: This is complicated. Check the copyright and always mention the author, writer, poet, etc.  

Have you experienced a copyright situation that you believe others need to hear about? If so, give us the highlights.