I have a question about images to be posted in the Wiki section.

Let's say I want to write a post about solder wick and I want to include an image. Now I can could go to a Weller website and snag a photo of a roll of solder wick and use that. Would this be bad?

I could also grab a roll of wick I have on hand and shoot a photo of it. What if in the photo I shoot, the company name is also shown, would that be bad too?

I am just not sure on the usage of images, whats the general rule? I know there is the open source thing, but still I would hate to do a no no...

I think that taking the picture from another website would be iffy. If you take the picture yourself, you own the copyright to that image. I don't know whether pixelating or blurring the name and logo of the maker in the image (if it appears) would be a good idea but it I don't think it would hurt.

Then again, some manufacturers would be happy to see their products on a site like this. If in doubt, ask them--and get it in writing if they agree to let you use their images.


Torben

When I started my geology website, I needed topo maps to use with the site so I called a particular company and told them what I was working on. After a few discussions I was led to think that there would be no problem using their maps as long as I followed a few guidelines, and filled out their contract which I did.

I ended up purchasing their mapping program, and created my site and all was good... Ring...ring, I answer the phone, "Umm we have a problem with you using this particular map as it is our major technology, please remove it."

Arghh, after I went to such lengths to stay legal I still ended up in trouble, and a worthless map program to boot. I ended up having to buy USGS maps which are almost free. BTW, the only map my orig SW vendor was mad about was their one custom map, the rest were in fact USGS maps as well. lol

So I tend to be careful with image use...

If you can take a picture of it do so. That totally avoids the problem. Sketchup is good for other things.

If your writing is influenced by others list them as references.

Keep the site original and legal.

Originally Posted by 3v0

If you can take a picture of it do so. That totally avoids the problem. Sketchup is good for other things.

If your writing is influenced by others list them as references.

Keep the site original and legal.

I agree with you completely. I have had enough professors beat that concept into my brain. I in fact assist at the paper writing center at my school (I get a few credits out of the deal), and follow what my professors have taught, and I now scold students who plagiarize

I just want to be clear on image usage, as there seems to be somewhat a grey area.