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Embedding a Getty Images Photo on Your Website or Blog

By
Real Estate Agent with RE/MAX Distinctive / LIC in VA

 There seems to be some confusion on Getty Images new embed policy, as well as what qualifies a blog to be considered commercial. I visited the Help link on Getty Images website looking for clarification.

 Here is what I found. " QUESTION: " Is there a fee for embedding a Getty Images photo on a website, social media site or blog?"

ANSWER: " No. You can embed a Getty Images photo on a website, social media site or blog for free and without having to buy a license, as long as the photo is not used for commercial purposes ( meaning in an advertisement or in any way intended to sell a product, raise money, or promote or endorse something.)"

 So I ask myself:(1). Are any of my real estate blogs ( including my AR blog) intended to sell a product?

 Answer: Yes. Homes and land are products that I'm trying to sell using my blog(s).

(2). Am I using my blogs to raise money? If generating income is considered raising money, then my answer is Yes.

(3). Are my real estate blogs being used to "promote or endorse something?" I'm promoting myself, my listings, my broker, my services. I'm also endorsing "Remax" and could be endorsing any products or services that I mention in my blog like electronic signatures, title companies, home warranty companies, lenders, etc" So I have to answer " Yes' to this one as well.

 I would say I would have a hard time convincing any judge that my blogs are not being used for commercial purposes.

Of course, other agents might have different answers and interpretations than I do.

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Jeff Pearl / Lic in VA

Remax Distinctive - McLean VA

703-727-4876

Homes / Land / Farms / Historic

www.jeffpearlhomes.com

Equal Housing

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Lenn Harley
Lenn Harley, Homefinders.com, MD & VA Homes and Real Estate - Leesburg, VA
Real Estate Broker - Virginia & Maryland

I just don't know why there's a question.  As always, readers have the habit of "selective reading".  The read what supports their view and ignore the rest.

Mar 15, 2014 04:51 AM
Jeff Pearl
RE/MAX Distinctive / LIC in VA - Lovettsville, VA
Full Service Full Time Realtor

#1- Hi Lenn, I don't have a question, but others seemed to not be sure. I won't use Getty Images for anything.

 

Mar 15, 2014 08:00 AM
Silvia Dukes PA, Broker Associate, CRS, CIPS, SRES
Tropic Shores Realty - Ich spreche Deutsch! - Spring Hill, FL
Florida Waterfront and Country Club Living

Jeff, I agree with you and having said that, if in doubt, it's always better to be safe than sorry.  

Mar 15, 2014 10:24 AM
Jeff Pearl
RE/MAX Distinctive / LIC in VA - Lovettsville, VA
Full Service Full Time Realtor

#3- Hi Silvia, Thanks! yes, always best to use your own photos.

Mar 15, 2014 10:25 PM
Roy Kelley
Retired - Gaithersburg, MD

The Getty wording also includes the offering of services. Unless ActiveRain negotiates a deal with Getty, the use of their images is probably too risky unless you are licensed. 

I follow a conservative approach by using my own photographs in blogs.

Mar 16, 2014 01:09 AM
Jeff Pearl
RE/MAX Distinctive / LIC in VA - Lovettsville, VA
Full Service Full Time Realtor

#5- Hi Roy, Yeah, i think that " Getty wording' might get some people in trouble if they don't read it carefully. Not worth the risk of getting fined. Thanks.

Mar 16, 2014 02:15 AM