Unauthorised use of one photo cost $24,000

Have you ever copied a photograph from the internet without seeking permission from the owner?

An American photographer has recently pursued a travel agent operating in Melbourne for the unauthorised use of a picture of Hawaii. Mr Tylor takes photographs and licenses or sells them through photo stock libraries (e.g. Getty Images, Shutterstock etc). Ms Sevin published one of Mr Tylor’s photographs on her website to advertise travel to Hawaii. She is now liable to pay Mr Tylor $24,000 for copyright infringement and costs.

Many people believe they can grab a picture from a Google image search and use it as they see fit. Just because it’s on the internet, doesn’t mean it can be used without seeking and gaining permission or a licence - this conduct usually constitutes copyright infringement and the Courts are sending a strong message this is not acceptable.

“It would not be unreasonable to say that there are many people utilising images for which they have no licence, without realising the gravity of the situation… This case will be important because, through it, it will be made clear that this conduct cannot continue.”

Case: Tylor v Sevin [2014] FCCA 445

For more information about copyright laws contact:

Jeremy Weeks
Associate
Harwood Andrews
T: 03 9611 0159
E: jweeks@harwoodandrews.com.au