Whenever you use a stock image, it is crucial to understand the licencing terms associated with it. Otherwise, you could land yourself – or your client – in very hot water, legally speaking.

Unfortunately, like many legal documents, licencing agreements can be virtually indecipherable to the average reader. Making matters worse, the terms oftentimes vary from site to site. Just what is the difference between a regular and extended licence? What exactly constitutes “licencee work” and what does a “multiseat” licence mean?

Never fear! Here we’ve defined all of the key licencing terms for stock images you’ll need to know. Memorise these and you’ll be equipped to protect yourself and act professionally whenever using third party images.