Image rejected due to "Intellectual Property Refusal"- Looking for feedback

[pauljriley]

Hi everyone,

I recently submitted a photo I took, thinking it might be something others would like enough to use themselves.

I would appreciate it if you could help me understand what exactly might be wrong with the image and what I can improve for future submissions.

This is the rejection message I received:
> "During our review, we found that it contains elements that appear to be protected by intellectual property (IP) laws, so we can't accept it into our collection."

I've attached the image below for your reference.

Any constructive critique or suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

Thank you so much for your attention and participation.

Best regards,

Paul Riley

[pauljriley]

Is this a result of having the barber's sign visible in the photo? Is the takeaway that I should avoid corporate signs in my photos?

[daniellei4510]

"Is the takeaway that I should avoid corporate signs in my photos?"

Always. They can also be removed prior to submission in many cases.

[RALPH_L]

Your rejection is based on the visible shop names, partial readable signs, and the stickers on the shop pole. These are all protected. 

[pauljriley]

So avoid taking photos that contain signs and logos, like high streets, city centres, etc. Focus on abstract, or resort to AI. Guess that challenge will make me a more creative photographer.

[RALPH_L]

You do not have to avoid them. Just beaware that everything must be edited out.