With the popularity of social platforms like Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest, many people may assume that pictures, videos and other online content are free for the taking. After all, social networking is all about sharing, isn’t it?However, nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, there are numerous legal implications, especially with regard to ownership and infringement.

The starting point of the law is that photos, like any other content, are protected by copyright. In a nutshell, copyright means that you have the right to stop someone else from copying your work. So, if you’ve taken a photo, you own it, and no one can copy it without your permission. This is an automatic right, and you don’t need a contract or a registration to copyright something.

Fair Use, however, can be a tricky, gray area, and a fine line to walk. Generally, Fair Use allows the public to use copyrighted images without permission. So, if you copy another person’s original work, including photography, you must pass the “basic” Fair Use test.

Keep in mind that Fair Use allows you to use another person’s work for the purpose of education, commentary, reporting or criticism. This means that you can use copyrighted material without a license only for certain purposes. For example, you can’t simply grab a copyrighted photo and then use it on a social media site just because you think it’s eye-catching. However, it probably would be considered Fair Use if you included the photo in a post that commented on and analyzed the photographer’s work.

So, if you’re using an image to comment on (or criticize) the topic in the photo, it’s fair to post it to a social media site. If you’re using the photo for financial gain, or to grow your business’ engagement or likes, however, it’s not okay.

Ultimately, the best way to use an online photo, especially if you don’t already have a photo you have taken, is to simply reach out to the photographer and ask permission. At the end of the day, it’s about basic respect in the marketplace. Be sure to use the same courtesy and respect for material found on the web that you would want someone to use with you. If it belongs to someone else, always ask permission first.

There is no exact equation of what constitutes Fair Use, but here are some basic guidelines that, when considered together, can help when making the decision:

The bottom line: If you aren’t sure who owns the copyright, or if a specific image is copyrighted, then just don’t use it. There are plenty of images that can be bought or obtained for free. In fact, numerous free and paid stock photography services are available online. In addition, many of Wikipedia’s photos have been approved for use. Through Google Image search, users also can find publicly reusable photos.In the last few years, social media has become part of the fabric of our culture and is very likely here to stay. So, whether you are pinning, posting, tweeting or liking, there’s no need to shy away from this growing visual phenomenon—just be sure to do the research before posting that image.

Serban Enache is the CEO and co-owner of Dreamstime.com, LLC. With over 15 years of experience in design and new media, Serban has proven to be a skilled executive, successfully blending creative and executive abilities. Serban handles the business development strategy for Dreamstime, and is deeply involved in the everyday operations of the website community. He is a skilled visionary who believes in disrupting the business norms to explore new options.