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Copying Graphics - What is Fair Use?
it0 asks: "I'm writing a web application and since I can't create good graphics, I'll be ripping them from other places on the web. The decent thing to do would be to ask permission, and at least specify where you got the graphic, however I don't see this happening much on other websites. Here's an example: I copied a trashcan icon that seems to be used by everyone and nobody seems to specify its original source. What about wallpapers? I've see a lot of models without references? I've also seen a lot of images that imitate the Windows GUI, and I've yet to notice anyone getting sued! For those interested, here is more information on the subject."
I think he was alluding to the fact that it's not always easy to finger out who exactly the copyright holder is on some of these images. Like the trashcan image that he mentions.... how does one go about finding out who actually created and owns the rights to that image?
Place sig here.
If you rip off my graphics.... then can I rip off your code? after all, it's the same thing, they're both just bits...
Why not hook up with an art student who would design the graphics in exchange for a screen credit? or contact schools, as a teacher could use your app as a class project.
The only problem with antihotlink stuff is generally it goes too far, and stops things like bookmarks, wget, or reload from working (because then there is no Referer). Instead of requiring that Referer matches the proper site, antihotlink stuff should just ensure that Referer does not match any site besides the proper one (because it may not match a site at all!)
(On a side note, things like frames and shockwave are evil for similar reasons... navigation and bookmarking difficulties. what ever happened to a consistent interface? isn't that what we strive for?)
--TheOrangeSquid Is it any wonder things seem so awry? We swim in a sea of confusion and don't have to think to survive
Please, for your own sake, if you cannot create the art yourself, find somebody. Taking art from other site is not only against the law (in most cases), but it's just plain lazy. What happens when someone recognizes the images? Will you be proud of the fact that someone else's stuff is on your site? Will you give the original artist credit?
This isn't like having an illegally obtained MP3 on your hard drive. Your web site will be out there for everyone to see! Take it from somebody who knows what it's like to be ridiculed for being lazy with his web site. Make your own stuff. You will be happier in the long run that your site is 100% yours. You can show it off with pride.
Wish I could, all I got is my stupid golf blog. I just used a standard template. You think I'm proud of it? No. I am not. But once I get my art made and my site totally re-done, then it'll be something I can use to pick up chicks!
Mr. Bond, they have a saying in Chicago: Once is happenstance. Twice is coincidence. The third time is enemy action.