Wow - when this topic hit my screen courtesy of another author recently, I was gobsmacked. I mean, we of all people, are aware of the pain of someone indiscriminately using material that is our own work. This is our intellectual property and it takes a lot of blood, sweat and literal tears to create that work. And so yeah - we are mightily miffed if others don't respect that.
So, we get it. That's why this post rocked me. Because we know it, we think we're doing the right thing... We think we're being diligent and fair...
Roni Loren discovered otherwise.
Like Roni , I too have used pics from the net. I always, always try to use those that are in the public domain -i.e. free ones. And I also always try to credit the creator where I can (if that info's available.) And in fact, that's what this author did. She credited the photographer, complied with his request that she remove the photograph from her site - and still got sued and had to fork over a truckload of cash.
Thankfully, we authors are a caring bunch and she's posted her story here to warn the rest of us about the lurking dangers. As she points out - being ignorant isn't a defense. Especially in a court of law.
Other news on this front isn't anywhere near as helpful, but it will explain the images I've chosen to enhance this blog. They're mine - as in 'I own them', and were taken while I was away on a writing retreat to complete my latest novel. A precious friend, seeing that I was in a state of near panic, loaned me her penthouse unit, complete with private rooftop terrace featuring a hot tub, 5 balconies on the main level, and each of them with a spectacular water view. I was indeed blessed and the book is now done. These images are a couple of what I woke to each morning...
Happy reading and happy writing everyone!
And careful what piccies you post!!
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