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Research Tools: Find Images

Research Tools

Find Images

Resources for FREE images and FREE image storage

Copyright FAQ

F.A.Q.

Using Images and Media in Research

Using media (images, audio, video) in papers and presentations adds a dynamic element to your research.  This guide helps you make decisions so you are using the content both legally and ethically.  Below are some frequently asked questions:

Q1.  I'm using an image in my paperDo I need to cite it?

1. You should cite images the same way you cite words from an article or book you read.  Use  EasyBib to help you create the citations. 

Q2.  watched a documentary and I'll be writing about it in my paper.  Do I need to cite it?

2. You should cite videos the same way you cite words from an article or book you read.  Use The Owl at Purdue to help you create the citations.  For more background on how to cite media, visit UC Berkeley's excellent site dedicated to the topic.

Q3.  I got an image off the Internet that I'm using in my paper.  That's legal, right?

3. If you're acquiring images or other media to use in papers or projects, make sure it's legal.  Fair Use cover uses of images within the confines of the classroom, but it's still wise to know the restrictions of the copyright on the image.  For risk-free image usage, try acquiring images with a Creative Commons license. 

Q4.  What is fair use and why do I have to worry about copyright?

4. Fair Use has been defined by U.S. courts for the following: criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, research and parodies.  Learn more about Fair Use hereLearn more about Copyright by taking the University of Texas' crash course here.