Using car images on web site

[AngryDog]

Hi,

I am having a new website designed.

Does anyone know the legal standing on using images of cars on a website for business use?

Thank you.

 

[cmcp]

Make sure you have permission to use the photos, this could mean you own them or have some kind of licence to use them.

 

[OldWelshGuy]

ALso have to be mindful of the possibility to damage of brand. E.g. BMW forced the filmmakers to change a scene that showed a BMW being stolen, as that particular model could never been stolen in that manner. BMW claimed damage of brand.

 

[HFE Signs]

Generally website images belong to the person who owns the site you take them from, so be very careful. You need written permission to use any images other than royalty free. I would suggest either take your own photos or source your images from a site like bigstockphoto.com where you can pay for the images.

 

[jshgardiner]

If those images are yours, you made them, or bought them, I see no problem.

 

[OliviaSSLGuru]

Best would be to buy some images. It won't cost you much, depending on from whom you buy.

 

[obscure]

Photographs are protected by copyright. You need permission of the copyright owner to use their image.

Generally website images belong to the person who owns the site you take them from, so be very careful. You need written permission to use any images other than royalty free. I would suggest either take your own photos or source your images from a site like bigstockphoto.com where you can pay for the images.

Actually you need written permission to use royalty free images too. Most stock photos available on the internet come with a license agreement that states how you can use them. Many don't permit commercial use or limit it severely. It is important to carefully check the license before using a photograph, even if you paid for it.

 

[OldWelshGuy]

Also as stated, the use of cars is likely to be brand protected (although fair use could cover it).

What exactly are you using the images for? I know it is a daft question

If you are promoting the brand and not passing off, then the manufacturer might well supply you with images. or call a local dealer.

 

[JElder]

Check out the PR sites and releases for the brands - many of them make images available for use, as it helps promote the cars.

 

[VeryMark]

Either take your own picture of the car or get a pic from a stock photo library with the right licence - I use Bigstock.

You can then use that image for any legitimate purpose - e.g. you can't use it to give the impression you are endorsed by the manufacturer.

You need to be careful also in any case where the actual image of the car is a registered trade mark - for example, the shape of the classic Mini and the classic Morgan are both registered trade marks.