How to prevent unauthorized reproduction of images | What you can do with watermarks, reductions, and publishing samples and their limitations

Once an image is published on the Internet, it is not technically possible to completely prevent it from being saved, reprinted, or reposted. That's why, rather than looking for a "way to completely prevent it," it's important to make it easy to understand the source of the image, adjust the scope of disclosure, and create a situation where it's easy to explain that it's your work when you run into trouble.

Priority points are slightly different for illustrations, photographs, and product images, but watermarks, logos, publication sizes, sample covers, and storage of original data are all useful.

What you can do to prevent unauthorized reproduction

1. Leave the author name and shop name on the image

Add author name, social media ID, shop name, logo, URL, etc. as a watermark. This also makes it easier to identify the source of an image when it is distributed alone.

2. Prepare the publication size instead of the actual size

For social media and portfolios, use a public copy that has been reduced to a size that suits your needs. It is easier to manage high-resolution original data by storing it separately and giving it only to those who need it.

3. Hide unpublished and sold parts as samples

Manga punch lines, differences in illustrations, high-resolution parts for sale, parts of product images, etc. can be made public by covering them with solid paint, masking tape, black ink, warning tape, etc.

4. Keep original data and publication history

If you leave the unedited file, layer information, data in progress, date and time of publication, and URL, it will be easier to explain the history of the work.

Ideas for each illustration, photo, and product image

• Illustration/Manga: Combine author name, social media ID, NoAI notation, tile watermark, and sample cover
• Photo: Hide your face and license plate, check EXIF and GPS location
• Product image: Keep the logo subtle on the first image showing the product, and separate explanations and warnings into separate images.

In order to prevent unauthorized reproduction, stronger watermarks are not always better. It is realistic to create a state in which the source of the work or product can be identified without compromising its appeal.

Process of preparing images for publication with MistSeal

1. Save the original data separately

2. Open the copy for publication

3. Add author name, logo, URL, NoAI notation, etc. as necessary

4. Cover undisclosed parts and personal information

5. Export in a size and format that suits the destination

6. Check the information and metadata in the image and post it

Frequently asked questions

Can I prevent unauthorized reproduction by adding a watermark?

It cannot be completely prevented. A watermark is an aid that indicates the author or publisher and is used as a check against unauthorized use. Combine this with methods such as using a public size, hiding unpublished parts, and storing the original data.

Should I include tile watermarks on product images as well?

Not every product image needs a strong tile watermark. It is easy to use a discreet logo for the first image that shows the product, and a tile watermark for announcement images and sample images that are likely to be reprinted.