Introduction
Multimedia content makes e-learning courses lively and vivid—but it also comes with legal pitfalls. This is because images, graphics, and videos are usually subject to copyright. In this article, you will learn how to use media in digital training courses in a legally compliant manner and what you need to bear in mind when doing so.
Why copyright is so important
- Media from the internet is not automatically free to use
- Copyright holders can issue warnings and license claims in the event of infringements
- Infringements can have legal and financial consequences, especially in companies
- Internally used courses are also subject to copyright law
Legally compliant media use is not an add-on—it is a must.
– Dr. Jana Keller, specialist lawyer for media law
What am I allowed to use – and what am I not allowed to use?
| Media type | Can it be used? | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Your own photos | Yes | If people are recognizable: consent required |
| Stock photos | With license | Check license type: commercial? Editing allowed? |
| Images from Google | Usually not allowed | Often protected by copyright |
| Creative Commons (CC) | Partially | Observe conditions (e.g., attribution) |
| Screenshots from software | Only with permission | Check the manufacturer’s terms and conditions |
| Embed YouTube videos | Yes, but do not download | Only embedded videos via YouTube player permitted |
What Lessonator supports
Lessonator was developed to enable barrier-free courses:
- Upload your own images, videos, and icons
- Use of free, legally compliant media libraries possible
- Option to specify alternative texts for accessibility
- Compatibility with your company’s own media guidelines
Tips for legally compliant use
- Only use content for which you clearly own or have licensed the rights
- Document the source and license terms (e.g., in a table)
- Use CC licenses with clear labeling (e.g., “CC BY 4.0”)
- Integrate external videos only via the embed function, not via download.
- For Creative Commons content, correctly indicate the author and license type.
Conclusion
Images and videos greatly enhance your courses—but only if you use them responsibly and in a legally compliant manner. Lessonator supports you in integrating your own or license-free media in a clean manner—for compelling courses without legal risk.