Photo Attribution is simply giving the original author, videographer or photographer of the content credit for their work. In most cases, if you created a photo, video or any other type of work, then you are the copyright owner worldwide. In some cases, your employer may be the owner of the copyright.
It’s important to know that most content on the Internet is protected by copyright law. If you are unsure about whether or something is copyrighted, it is best to assume that it is. If you are in doubt, don’t publish online until you have all the details and permissions for the particular content. This content can be photos, videos, music and other creative works.
Photo attribution can be thought of as similar to citing information in a research paper. It is illegal and unfair to take another person’s work and try to pass it off as your own. Legal fees and copyright laws are taken seriously and leave you financially in debt.
“Copyright is a legal right created by the law of a country that grants the creator of an original work exclusive rights for its use and distribution. This is usually only for a limited time. The exclusive rights are not absolute but limited by limitations and exceptions to copyright law, including fair use.” (See this statement at Wikipedia.)
To properly attribute a photo:
This photo is by Mickey O’neil from unsplash.com, licensed under Creative Commons.
Below is a YouTube video that states more information about properly attribute. .
The video is by Davis Bilyeu from YouTube.com, licensed under Creative Commons.