| How
can I protect my digital art from online "art thieves"?
by Gita Hazemi
Unfortunately, it is impossible to prevent illegal
copying from the Web.
Posting images on the Web always leaves them open to possible
exploitation. However, there are several things you can
do to protect your art. Here are two commonly used protection
devices:
- Text or Graphic Watermarks on the digital image
Watermarks are transparent. They allow visitors to view
the image through the watermark. Any object printed over
a watermark is clearly visible. You may choose to add
this mark to your larger images. Perhaps you should avoid
adding watermarks to thumbnails as they may obstruct the
image. Art thieves will not want to copy and use your
images on their own sites with your personal watermark.
If someone purchases an image, you can send him or her
a clean copy without the watermark. Here’s an example
of a watermark:
- Digital Watermarks embed identifying information
in the image file
Digital Watermarks can be an identification number, artist
information, or any other data that makes your image unique.
Visitors can’t see the information on the Web, but
you can identify it using graphic program plug-ins or
decoding programs.
The bad news: Digital Watermarks don’t
keep thieves from using your images.
The good news: Digital Watermarks make
the images identifiable if they are stolen.
Watermarking software is available from many manufacturers.
Just type "digital watermarks" into your search
bar to learn more about this process.
Gita Hazemi is a partner at “W-3 Studio”,
a firm that designs, builds and maintains professional websites.
www.w3-studio.com
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