Thanks for coming back and explaining. Your concerns are admirable, and I appreciate your explanation that you didn’t intent to sound threatening. It’s true that most readers won’t have the same background understanding of those of us who work in the industry, but it’s also difficult to try to explain those concepts in every post where I use or talk about thumbnails.

Thanks again for your comments.

-Lee

First, the agreements of the microstock agencies prohibit use of the original (un-watermarked) files and the watermarked previews. They do not prohibit use of the thumbnails, and many even encourage it when used to promote their services.

Second, there are “Fair Use” laws which mean using portions of content in a reasonable manner is not in breach of copyright laws. There are multiple precedents which cite the use of thumbnail images as falling within Fair Use.

Third, my use here is editorial. I’m not using the thumbnails on a product, an ad or to promote a service, so my use is not commercial.

Fourth, the agencies are all very happy for me to use their thumbnails in this context. I know them all personally, and work with them very closely. I know for a fact that they prefer that I use the thumbnail and include them in posts like this rather than just leave them out.

Fifth, and I really want you to take notice of this one: I own the copyright of this image!!! I even said that in the content of the post. How can I run a risk of a lawsuit using my own images?

So thanks for your comment, but I suggest you educate yourself further before making such threatening statements. You clearly have a long way to go before fully understanding this topic.

-Lee