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Copyright

Just because it is on the Internet doesn't mean it is free to use.

Getting Permission

Asking for permission to use a copyrighted work can be a complex, intricate process.  Here are some of the steps:

  1. Establish what type of permission you need: public performance license, synchronization license or another type of authorization.
  2. Find out who the copyright owner(s) are.
  3. Contact them with a specific request.
  4. Document what permission you requested and what permission you received.

Keep in mind that what you are getting from the copyright owner may not be a perpetual license, but a license to use a work in a particular situation, possibly for a limited amount of time.  Should you wish to repeat this use, or change the conditions under which you will use the work, you may need to request permission again.

The copyright owner is entirely within their rights to ask you for a fee or to say no.  These fees may or may not be negotiable.  

Videos on Getting Copyright Permission

Copyright on the Internet from the U. S. Copyright Office. https://youtu.be/F_8hKfVgwzg?si=KxTTgn-C-Yidu2ch

How to Legally Use a Copyrighted Photo, Visme. 2023. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ShCyD9TYhLY