Multimedia (Images, Video and Audio)

This guide includes images, audio & music, video, and copyright information.

U.S. Law has been interpreted by the courts to permit educational use of multimedia without needing permission; this is Fair Use. The TEACH Act extends Fair Use to distance learning environments. When images are used for commercial purposes or for publication then image users need to receive approval from image creators/owners before use in order to avoid copyright law violation. Always cite your source, but keep in mind that acknowledging the source of the copyrighted material does not substitute for obtaining permission.

Carefully read the verbiage at the origin of the image, video or audio clip. Often users rights and responsibilities are clearly defined there, as are the means for asking permission for use of desired multimedia. Look for the terms "copyright" or "usage".

From the U.S. Copyright Office:
"One of the rights accorded to the owner of copyright is the right to reproduce or to authorize others to reproduce the work in copies or phonorecords. This right is subject to certain limitations found in sections 107 through 118 of the copyright law (title 17, U. S. Code). One of the more important limitations is the doctrine of “fair use.”