Frequently Asked Questions
What do I need to know before I use Unsplash photos?
Quick summary of what to avoid when using Unsplash photos:
- ✘ people's faces are recognizable (unless you can get model release of those people)
✘ photos that show logos, trademarks, brands
✘ images that put people in a bad light
✘ photos of private property (e.g. private homes and buildings)
Is the Unsplash license the same as the CC0 license?
When it comes to using images that you did not take, create, or do not own, you should stay mindful of the laws and licensing types that guide images. Many image libraries are published under "CC0,” which means “no rights reserved." A CC0 license is also a way for photographers and artists to publish their work and give permission to the public to use their work for free. Curators who publish their works under CC0 and waive copyright of their works place them for public use. An image that has CC0 that carries this designation has “No Rights Reserved” and is free of copyright restrictions, and likely other restrictions (i.e., moral, publicity, and privacy rights). This is a very broad designation and it is clearly understood within the Creative Commons community that no work carries this designation unless it is explicitly marked as a CC0 work. As a result, anyone can use them, edit them, etc. without restriction of copyright law. Unsplash is similar to a CC0 license with one difference: the Unsplash license does not include the right to compile images from Unsplash and then use them to create a similar or competing service.While the Unsplash license give people a lot of freedom, keep these exceptions in mind before using an image:
- ‣ Are people’s faces identifiable? If they are, you will require their individual consent – and not just the consent of the artist or photographer who took the picture. Only use these photos if you are able to get model release from each person whose face is showing on the image.
‣ Does the photo show people in a negative way or can be interpreted in a negative way? If yes, then avoid using these photos. Otherwise, you will need to get model release from each person whose face is showing on the image.
‣ Does the picture show other products, trademarks, or logos? Refrain from using these types of photos because they may suggest that the other brand or product is endorsing your product or service.
‣ Do you see landmarks, buildings, homes, automobiles, etc. that are actually private property within the photos? If yes, avoid these pictures unless you can acquire the permission of the owner of the private property. Make sure that the photos you use do not show valuable information about other people's property like the address, license plate, etc.
The Unsplash license and the CC0 license have these in common:
- ‣ They are both sub-licensable (so you can use them)
‣ They are non-revocable, which means that you are able to use them forever.
‣ They allow users to use the photos for free.
‣ They allow you to modify and/or distribute, perform the photos for free.
‣ They allow users to use the images for personal and commercial purposes.
‣ They do not require attribution, although it would be nice.
Although you are not legally obligated to follow the list below, these are still good practice suggestions:
- ‣ You can use Unsplash photos for commercial use. However, try to edit or add to the photo creatively through image editing or other methods.
‣ Unsplash photos are non-revocable. However, if a photographer decides to remove his or her photo, it is good practice that you respect the photographer's wishes and refrain from using the photo.
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