The internet is often the first option you consider when looking for quality images that you can use in your science presentations. Little known to people, you might easily cross the boundaries to dangerous territories that could sink you into infringement charges. This article is geared towards helping you avoid visual plagiarism and keeping you on the safe side of the law. We will give you tips on how to use images on science presentations and articles without getting yourself in trouble.
Indulge In Self-Creation Of Images
Instead of taking the easy route, which is downloading images of science with copyrights from whatever online platform available, you might need to rethink that step and use your images. It is best if you would take your photos either on your own or through a hired researcher. Original photos for your science presentations are not only unique but also legal. Also, if you hire a researcher to take photos, be sure to confirm that the source of photos is secure with no ownership rights protecting them.
Borrow Images
In case you find taking photos as somewhat tiresome and resource consuming, you would have to consider borrowing science stock images. Once you have identified the images you would like to use in your science reports, make efforts to trace the owner or the copyright holder. You could then ask them to allow you to use their pieces of work for your presentation, rightfully. If you cannot trace the image creator, it is advisable to go back to the drawing board and get another photo that has a rightful owner. It’s always right to play safely in these kinds of scenarios.
Utilize Public Domain Images
Images in “public domain” categories assure publishers that the science stock images are free from copyright boundaries and the public is free to utilize the images. For this option, you don’t need to trace for the image creator to ask for permission to use it. But how do you tell if an image can now be categorized under public domain? For instance, in the United States, an image can only be considered to be in the public domain seventy years after the image owner’s death. Nevertheless, be sure to tread carefully with most of these works being repossessed under new ownership, which means that the copyright duration can be extended.
Present The Image In The Form Of “Text”
If you feel that the image you want to use in your science representation will get you into copyright trouble, then you may want to consider not using the model at all. What does this mean? If it’s a tabled graph or pie chart, you can summarize the facts and findings, interpret the data, and use the information to table your thoughts. As long as you will not represent your information the same way you found it from the source, you are on the safe side of the law.
Use Images As You Found Them
Gaining permission from the image creator to use the image doesn’t mean that you have the rights to develop the photos and adjust to your desire and liking. You are not required to re-color, crop, edit, or modify the images to suit your desires. In case you need to make changes to the borrowed image, further permission is required as per the licensing terms and conditions.
Adhere To Image Creator’s Terms And Conditions
Depending on the image creator’s personality and professionalism, some will allow you to use their images freely while some will ask for a fee. Either of the decisions should be respected. Most professionals demand a fee for their services, and it is not any different with image creators. It is best to approach image owners with an open mind.
Following these tips will help you keep safe from getting on the wrong side of the law unknowingly or unintentionally. The law is clear. Are you looking for quality images for your science presentation? Well, explore the RightsPlatform growing library of 2 million images, figures, tables, charts, and graphs. You will find the perfect visual assets for your project or publication.
Anthropology, Natural Sciences, Medical, and Science Images and Assets 