Real World Compositing with Adobe Photoshop CS4

Licensing and Restrictions

Misconceptions abound about using stock images in derivative works. Since compositing is often about creating derivative artwork (see the sidebar “Derivative Works and the Internet”), it’s appropriate to spend some time on this subject. The laws can be tough to interpret, so again, we strongly recommend you consult a qualified attorney who specializes in copyright law before making any decisions that you are not 100 percent sure about. This is particularly true if you intend to sell or distribute your composite images.

Works of art typically fall under the category of “intellectual property,” and the copyright laws governing this property can vary from country to country. The United States agreed in 1989 to become part ...