Can I edit a photo I found online and publish the edited version?
UKM
Last Update a year ago
Editing a photograph constitutes an infringement of the author’s exclusive right of adaptation. It may also violate the author’s moral right to the integrity of the work.
However, editing and publishing a photograph is permitted if the license under which the photograph is published expressly allows such modifications.
As a general rule, editing a photograph is not permitted. Nevertheless, certain exceptions apply when the photograph has already been made public:
Editing is permitted for private purposes, provided that the edited version is not made available to the public.
Editing is allowed when the adaptation is made for the purpose of caricature, parody, or pastiche (e.g. creating a meme that includes a copyrighted photograph).
Editing is allowed if it is necessary to achieve the purpose of a legally permitted use (e.g. educational or research purposes).
Editing may also be allowed if it is made in connection with a permitted use and the author’s objection would be contrary to the principles of fairness and good faith.