Copyright starts with the creator
Anyone who takes an original photo or video usually has the copyright. Agreements can influence rights in the case of an assignment, employment or collaboration.
Fly and record lawfully
Before each flight, check current rules for category, location, airspace and permission. Subsequent publication does not make an unlawful flight permitted.
Privacy and recognizable persons
Assess whether people are recognizable and centrally depicted and whether publication poses a privacy risk. Great distance does not always preclude recognisability.
Buildings, sites and brands
Pay extra attention to confined areas, structures, safety-sensitive locations, trademarks and contractual restrictions.
Document your audit
Save relevant flight data, clearances and releases. In complex situations, seek specialized legal advice.
This article provides general information and is not legal advice.
Sources and further reading
Check current information
Technical options and rules can change. Always consult the current source when in doubt.
Frequently asked questions
Short and clear
Is a valid flight sufficient?
Not always. Privacy, copyright, portrait rights, site conditions and agreements with third parties may also be relevant.
Do I have to request permission for each building?
Not by definition. This depends on location, recording method, country, use and protected or private elements.
Who holds the copyright?
At DroneStock, this basically remains with the creator; the buyer receives a user license.
Know what you offer.
Please read the current creator terms and conditions before publication.
View the creator terms and conditionsContinue reading