Why You Should Consider Watermarking Your Photos

18 August 2024

In the digital age, countless images are shared across various platforms; it's impossible to keep track of it all! With the click of a button, your photographs can travel the world. While this accessibility is exciting, it also presents challenges. Protecting your original work and ensuring proper credit is essential. That's where watermarks come in. Read on to explore what a photography watermark is, why it's crucial for photographers, and how to implement one to safeguard your creative output effectively.


What is a watermark in Photography?

Have you ever looked at a photograph on the internet and seen a small graphic or signature overlayed, which looks like it has been added post-capture? That's a watermark! A watermark may include a photographer’s or business name, or even a small logo. A good watermark doesn’t detract from the impact of the photography, but it makes it abundantly clear who the image was created by and who it belongs to. More on this below!

Why do I need one?

It is worth watermarking photos for several reasons. Firstly, it provides copyright protection of your work and deters others from sharing your work without permission, and without giving credit. This is not only essential for financial reasons and protecting your photography business but out of principle; you don’t want other people to take credit for something you have toiled hard to create!

  • Brand Recognition: Consistent watermarks help establish a photographer's brand identity and increase visibility.
  • Image Attribution: Watermarks ensure credit is given to the photographer when images are shared online.   
  • Licensing and Sales: Watermarks can include contact information, making it easy for potential clients or buyers to get in touch. Photographers sometimes use watermarks to prevent people from using sample images to make prints, with the watermark being removed once the image is purchased.
  • Deterrence: The presence of a watermark can discourage people from using an image without permission. 
  • Image Integrity: Watermarks can help maintain the image's quality by preventing unauthorised modifications.

Photography watermark ideas

So you've decided it will be worthwhile safeguarding your photographic work but are curious, how do you make a good watermark? Here are some tips to consider when creating a watermark for your photography practice.

A well-crafted watermark can protect your images without detracting from their visual appeal. Here are the key considerations for when you are designing your watermark.

 

  • Design - Keep your watermark clean and simple. It should be stylish and recognisable but not draw too much attention away from your image. A logo can have a strong impact, while your business name or initials are a great way of signing your work; a combination of the two is the perfect combo.
  • Placement - It’s not advisable to place your watermark across the centre of the image, where it will detract from the power of your work. The best spot for your watermark is generally in the top or bottom corners. You should also consider shifting this depending on whether your image is portrait or landscape orientation.
  • Size - A watermark doesn’t need to be big. It should be noticeable but it doesn’t have to be the first thing a person sees when viewing your work.
  • Consider colour and style - The colour of your watermark should compliment your work and not draw attention away from it. For example, a bright and colourful watermark might work for some photographs, but would be too jarring if you capture moody black and white portraits. Remember, discretion is key.
  • Be consistent - Once you have settled on your design and placement, be consistent and maintain it throughout your work. It is like a signature after all. To help you with this step, make the addition of your watermark a step in your photography workflow, and if possible automate the step for convenience and to save any continuity issues.

 


Start Safeguarding your images

Using our above tips you can take the first step to protect your images today. A watermark is relatively simple to make, either in Photoshop and similar editing programs, or using online photography watermark makers, which are often free to use!

Our photography blog is a great place to find excellent photography hints and tips, from product reviews to help you choose the right gear to guides to the types of photography you should try your hand at. Be sure to stop by regularly to stay informed.


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