Photograph and image use policy (excluding charts)

This website uses a variety of photos and images. Here’s what you need to know if you’d like to use them.

  1. Creative Commons Images

    • Many of the photos here are shared under Creative Commons licenses.

    • If an image shows a photographer’s name (or sometimes a website address and date) but no ‘copyright’ notice or © symbol, you can assume it is available under a Creative Commons license.

    • At the very least, you may use these images for non-commercial purposes as long as you:

      • Give proper credit to the photographer (name shown on the photo).

      • Do not alter the image.

    • Some images may allow commercial use or editing, depending on the specific Creative Commons license.

  2. Public Domain or Other Licenses

    • Some images may be in the public domain (for example, because copyright has expired) or covered by other licenses that allow commercial use or modifications.

  3. Images with Only a Website Address

    • If a photo shows only a website address instead of a photographer’s name, please check that website directly to confirm whether and how the image can be used.

  4. Copyright-Protected Images

    • If an image is clearly marked “copyright” or shows the © symbol, it is fully protected.

    • These images may not be copied, linked, published, or reused in any way – they are for personal viewing only.


⚠️ Disclaimer: This policy is provided for general guidance only. It does not replace legal advice. If you are unsure about the use of a particular image, you should consult the photographer, rights holder, or a qualified legal professional.

This article was originally published on 13 March 2009