Selling Photos with Brand Logos: Is it Legal?

You might be wondering if you can sell images with brand logos in them if you’re a photographer or graphic designer. The answer is not simple because it depends on a number of variables, including the photo’s context, the intended usage, and the brand’s intellectual property rights.

In general, it is illegal to use a brand logo in a picture without the brand owner’s consent. This is so because trademark law, which gives the owner the only right to use, license, and enforce their mark, protects logos. You could be held responsible for trademark infringement if you use a brand logo in a way that suggests endorsement, association, or sponsorship by the company.

There are a few exceptions to this rule, though. For instance, if you capture a street scene or public event and a company logo may be seen in the distance or as part of a bigger composition, you might be able to recoup your investment as long as the logo is not the primary subject of the picture. The doctrine of incidental use, which permits the use of trademarks in non-trademark contexts, is known as this.

Same rules apply when selling paintings of logos. You may be violating the rights of the trademark owner if you make a painting using a brand logo in a way that implies sponsorship or affiliation with the brand. However, you might be able to assert fair use under copyright law if you produce a painting that parodies, comments on, or criticizes the trademark.

It’s critical to comprehend the components of art that produce a powerful and captivating image if you’re interested in producing illustrations or drawings for commercial use. Line, shape, form, texture, value, color, and space are a few of them. Developing graphics that convey a message or tell a story can be made easier by learning how to use these aspects successfully.

Beginners should start with straightforward forms and straightforward compositions while drawing images. To add depth and contrast, you can experiment with various techniques including hatching, shading, and stippling. To further develop your abilities, it’s critical to consistently practice and ask for comments from others.

In conclusion, it is important to carefully analyze the intellectual property rights at stake when selling images or paintings of brand logos because doing so can be a legal minefield. Despite the fact that there might be some exceptions for incidental or fair use, it’s crucial to avoid utilizing logos in a way that implies sponsorship or ties to the company. To strengthen your talents and produce attractive illustrations, it is crucial to learn the principles of aesthetics and practice frequently.