Legal Question in Intellectual Property in Texas
image use
I am starting a new magazine. Do I need to contact each and every company whose product image I include in a spread or layout (i.e Estee Lauder blush, Aldo shoes, Target wastebaskets, etc)? If I purchase the product, can I photograph it for the magazine, or do I still need permission for use?
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: image use
Not surprisingly, that question is not as simple as it seems. It depends on a number of factors, how it's used, how identifiable the image is, even the apparent motivation for use of the product image, etc. I strongly urge you to get with competent trademark counsel on this issue.
Re: image use
You would need a copyright (and maybe also trademark) license for each product. You should contact a competent intellectual property attorney to help you negotiate the license.