Core License Fields
Commercial UseCore Fields
Whether a license permits using content to make money, promote a business, or support paid work. Covers ads, client projects, products, and anything generating revenue. “Limited” usually means personal or small-scale use only.
In practice: Always verify what “limited” means — it varies widely by platform.
Attribution RequiredCore Fields
Whether you must credit the creator or platform when using their content. Some licenses require a specific format (e.g. "Photo by X on Unsplash"). Others encourage it but don’t require it.
In practice: Even when optional, crediting builds goodwill and is considered best practice.
Editing AllowedCore Fields
Whether you can modify, crop, recolour, or otherwise alter the asset. Most licenses permit editing; some restrict it for editorial or integrity reasons. Also referred to as "Edit & Remix."
Client Work AllowedCore Fields
Whether you can use the asset in work created for a paying client. This is distinct from your own commercial use — some licenses allow one but not the other.
In practice: If you’re a freelancer or agency, always check this field specifically.
Redistribution AllowedCore Fields
Whether you can pass the asset on to others, include it in a deliverable, or embed it in something you sell or share. Most standard licenses do not allow redistribution of the raw asset.
Print UseCore Fields
Whether the license covers physical printed materials — posters, merchandise, packaging, books. Some platforms restrict print to certain tiers or require an extended license.
Digital UseCore Fields
Whether the license covers digital outputs: websites, apps, social media, presentations. This is the most common permitted use and is included in almost all standard licenses.
Exclusive RightsCore Fields
Whether you are the only person permitted to use that specific asset after licensing it. True exclusivity is rare and expensive — most stock licenses are non-exclusive, meaning the same asset can be licensed by many people simultaneously.
IndemnificationCore Fields
Whether the platform will legally defend you if a third party claims the content infringes their intellectual property. Only a small number of platforms offer this — Adobe Firefly on paid plans is the primary example.
In practice: For advertising, client work, or high-visibility commercial use, indemnification significantly reduces your legal risk.
License Survives CancellationCore Fields
Whether content used or downloaded under a paid subscription remains legally licensed after you cancel. Most platforms say yes — but verify before cancelling any subscription you have used for commercial projects.
Refund PolicyCore Fields
Whether the platform offers refunds for subscriptions or individual purchases, and under what conditions. Relevant when evaluating risk before committing to an annual plan.
Download AllowedCore Fields
Whether the license permits saving a local copy of the asset. Relevant mainly for API-served content or platforms that only permit embedded use.
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Explore Further
Browse platform-specific licensing details in the LicenseOrg Guide. See how these terms apply in practice: Midjourney, Adobe Firefly, Grok. Compare platforms side by side on the Compare page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between royalty-free and copyright-free?
Royalty-free means no per-use fees — you pay once and use freely. Copyright-free means the work is in the public domain or the creator has waived rights. Most stock images are royalty-free but still protected by copyright.
Do I always need a model release to use photos of people commercially?
Yes, for advertising and promotional use. Editorial use (news, commentary, education) typically does not require one. When in doubt, use only images marked as having a model release.
What does "limited commercial use" typically mean?
It varies by platform, but usually means personal projects or small-scale use — not advertising, client work, or anything generating significant revenue. Always read the platform's specific definition.
Can I use royalty-free music on YouTube without getting a Content ID claim?
Not automatically. Having a valid license does not prevent a Content ID claim — you need the platform to whitelist your account or provide documentation to dispute the claim.
What is the safest AI image tool for commercial use?
Adobe Firefly on a paid plan is currently the only major AI image tool offering IP indemnification, making it the lowest legal risk for commercial projects.