People in Halloween Costumes

Hello,

I've already scoured the handbook, but I'd also like advice from all you experts. Is there any concern of images of people in cartoon character costumes (or any other costumes)?

 

Thank you 😃

By @ImaRetiredTeacher

Cartoon characters are copyrighted and can't be used. If you put a linen cloth over your head and cut out your eyes, there's no problem. Even if someone presents themselves in their grandfather's suit with make-up on their face, that's not a concern either.

Hi! When creating or uploading photos of people in costumes for Adobe Stock (or any other stock site), there are several important aspects related to copyrights and image rights that you need to consider:

1. Model Release:

   • If the photos feature recognizable faces, you need a signed model release, regardless of whether they are in costume or not. This is necessary to protect individuals' rights to their likeness.

2. Copyright on Costumes:

   • If the people in the photos are wearing costumes based on recognizable characters (e.g., from cartoons, movies, comics, etc.), there could be issues with copyright infringement. Costumes that are exact replicas or very similar to copyrighted characters can be problematic for commercial use.
   • For editorial use photos, the requirements might be less stringent, but such photos are typically not accepted for commercial licensing on stock sites.

3. General Recommendations:

   • Avoid using recognizable brands and characters without appropriate licenses.
   • It’s preferable to use original costumes that are not associated with well-known characters or brands.
   • When in doubt, it's always best to consult with a legal advisor specializing in copyright law or contact Adobe Stock support directly for specific guidance.