Articles

Copyright in Images: How to Transfer Rights and Avoid Infringements

Why proper rights transfer matters

Copyright in images belongs to the author from the moment of creation. For legal use in business, advertising, or publications, rights must be properly transferred. Otherwise, the author may prohibit use or claim compensation. Stricter formalization rules apply.

Main methods of transfer

Assignment agreement. Full transfer of economic rights. The new owner can freely use and distribute the image.
License agreement. The author grants rights under specific conditions. Licenses may be exclusive or non-exclusive.
Commissioned work agreement. For ordered works, rights may pass to the client upon creation.

Key contract terms

• written form and party details;
• clear description of transferred rights;
• use conditions, duration, territory, remuneration;
• modification rights (allowed/forbidden);
• delivery-acceptance act.

Risks and how to avoid them

• use without rights leads to lawsuits and fines;
• verbal agreements don’t protect parties;
• lack of documentation complicates proof;
• standard contracts are needed with contractors.

Practical tips

• always sign a contract, even for one-time projects;
• verify rights holder when purchasing images;
• keep documents, originals, invoices, correspondence;
• use lawyers for well-drafted contracts.

Conclusion

Proper transfer of image rights ensures legal security and prevents risks. Formalized contracts are mandatory for legal image use.