Questions answered in this file

If a family gives me a photo, can I publish it?

Possibly, but the photographer usually owns the copyright. Confirm who took it and whether the family can grant permission.

Are government records free to reuse?

Works by U.S. federal employees are generally not copyrighted, but state and local works vary, and files may contain third-party material.

Does giving credit mean I can use an image?

No. Credit is good practice but does not replace permission or a sound fair use basis.

What does fair use depend on?

The purpose of the use, the nature of the work, how much is used and the effect on the market for the original.

Can I reuse news photographs from old coverage?

Usually only with permission or a strong fair use basis; many publishers offer licensing for archived images.