All those great pictures and graphics on your website…where did they come from? When we are working with a new client, one item we need to address before we start updating a website are the photos and artwork. Where did they come from, do you have the picture rights? You may, or may not be surprised by the number of people that say they don’t know, or just “saved them off Google”! If this is you…please read on…you could be opening yourself to future legal issues and copyright infringement fines.
Why It Doesn’t Help Your Website
Before we get into the legal part of using pictures without permission, first lets look at why its not a good practice from an SEO stand point. Google is constantly looking for ways to provide the best results as possible for every search. It is in your best interest to take your own pictures or hire someone to take pictures for your website. Original pictures will usually score higher. You will need to make sure your pictures are properly labeled so that they show up in Google image results. This doesn’t mean that you can’t use professional pictures, but if you do, make sure you purchase and keep the license on file should you be questioned about ownership.
What Are The Risks?
If someone were to steal something that belonged to you, then turn around and make money off your property, I don’t think you would be happy. Think about it, this is exactly what happens if you take pictures off a Google search, or another website and use them on your website without permission. We have seen clients pay out thousands of dollars PER IMAGE for copyright infringement. If your website doesn’t get much traffic, you are still at risk, it just might be a while before they catch up to you. But this article isn’t to scare you, but to make you aware. There are ways to protect yourself now before you get hit with legal papers.
What Should I Do?
Talk with your webmaster or agency and ask them about your website and images they use. You can purchase the rights to pictures on any number of image sites like www.gettyimages.com. However, if they are using pictures without permission, you could question what else are they cutting corners on. Now would be a good time to schedule a meeting with Red 3 Media to discuss how to integrate professional, original and traffic building pictures on your website and marketing efforts. Remember the success of our business is built on the success of our clients.
Red 3 Media
Red 3 Media is recognized as an industry leader in online advertising including mobile advertising, SEO, branding and Pay Per Click. With over 20 years of real world experience our comprehensive digital marketing solutions bring measurable results to our clients. So if you are frustrated with managing your advertising in house, or your current advertising company is not performing to your expectations, reach out to us. Contact us online or by phone at (877) 509-RED3.
