Using someone else's image

from WinCustomize Forums
What better place to ask such a question but right here in the forums.

I have a boot skin that I downloaded quite a long time ago and would like to use the image as a base for a new boot skin. I don't think it's right to simply use the image without first asking permission so I tried to find the person via the site. I was able to find their original boot skin but cannot find any way to be able to contact the user.

Where do I go from here? What options do I have? Should I just abandon the idea of using their image as my base?
1,544 views 8 replies
Reply #1 from WinCustomize Forums Top
If you cannot get permission you cannot use the image.  (:(

Reply #2 from WinCustomize Forums Top
Using, even modifying an image strictly for personal usage is fine. Keywords, and stress, on personal usage only. No uploading, no sharing, no claiming it as yours.

You need permission only when you're wanting to distribute the work (such as upload here), or a derivative thereof.

But, as Zubaz said, if you're wanting to create the Bootskin for the purpose/s of uploading and/or sharing with others you absolutely need the artist's permissions.

**queues Jafo to find link on permissions and what proper permission looks like**
Multiplicity - Control multiple PCs using one keyboard and mouse
Reply #3 from WinCustomize Forums Top

Where do I go from here? What options do I have? Should I just abandon the idea of using their image as my base?
End of quote

Your first step would be to post a request in the comments on that bootskin.

Next option is to search other skinning sites for the same person....if he's not active here he may be elsewhere, etc.

If you don't get any response at all then you'll be stuck.  You'll be able to make the boot for your own use.....but will not be able to upload it anywhere publicly [or transmit/distribute privately].

One of the frustrations every skinner gets to know [eventually] is that NEXT GREAT WORK that gathers dust for the lack of permission....everyone has one [or three] somewhere....;)

Reply #4 from WinCustomize Forums Top
Post the original boot skin here in the forums and maybe the person who made the image will see and respond to it and give that permission.
It may work it may not. ;p 
Reply #5 from WinCustomize Forums Top
Jafo
you type to fast. Lol
Reply #6 from WinCustomize Forums Top
Thank you all for the information, I really appreciate it.

I'll try a comment on the original boot skin and see what turns up. It's not really a big deal if I can't get the permission (I'll just go a different route) but doing things right is important.
Reply #7 from WinCustomize Forums Top

but doing things right is important.
End of quote

Sure is....guarantees a long, happy relationship within the skinning community.....though looking at your UserID number....you've been here quite a while already...;)

Reply #8 from WinCustomize Forums Top
though looking at your UserID number....you've been here quite a while already...
End of quote


Indeed I have. I don't do much skinning myself though. I don't have much "artistic" talent. Perhaps that's one of the reasons I think it's so important to give credit where it's due.