Images are an important part of your program. They can enhance understanding, boost recall, and support different types of learners. Graphics, images, and artwork used for APWA presentations and programs must be original, royalty-free, in the public domain, or copyrighted with permission for use. This guide will help you select images that can be used for your session.
List of Common Image Licenses
Understanding common image licensing is essential to ensure the appropriate and legal use of visual content. A list of common image licenses is provided below, outlining the permitted uses associated with each type.
- Public Domain—Image that is not subject to copyright and can be used for any purpose without permission or attribution.
- Creative Commons (CC) Licenses—CC licenses give you varying degrees of permission based on specific licenses applied.
- CC by: Requires attribution but can be modified or used for any purpose.
- CC by NC: Requires attribution and only for non-commercial purposes.
- CC by-SA: Requires attribution, allows modification, and redistribution.
- CC0-: No copyright, free to use without attribution.
- Royalty Free (RF)—Images that must be purchased but can be used on an ongoing basis without royalty fees once purchased.
- Rights Managed (RM)—Grants specific usage rights for an image, including the territories, the intended use, the number of copies, and the duration of use. Typically negotiated on a case-by-case basis.
Where to Find Images for Your Session
Using an image that you have created or own the rights to is a reliable and safe option; however, that is not always possible. If you need to find an image, remember that the availability of an image online does not indicate it is free to use. You must understand the associated image license or specifically request permission to use the image. A list of free resources can be found in this guide. Additionally, Google has a search feature for images with CC licenses.
Obtaining Permission to Use an Image
If you have an image you would like to use and you are unsure of the copyright license, you must contact the copyright owner. When contacting the owner, include details about:
- The work’s title, author, and/or publication information
- The purpose of your project and how you want to use the work
- The part of the work you would like to use
- Which rights you are requesting
- How you want to credit the work
- Include a written request that has full bibliographic information, verification of copyright ownership, your return address, affiliation, telephone number, and the date.
Using Google to Search for Images
- On the Google search page, select “Images” in the top right corner.
- Search for the type of image that you are looking for and select “Tools.”
- Under “Usage Rights” Select Creative Commons License. Be sure to review any additional information on the website regarding the image to determine the specific CC licenses.
Resources for Free Images
The resources below all have some free images for use. They may have additional options that require payment.
- Upsplash-CC0 License
- Flikr Search-CC0
- Pexels
- Pixabay
- Freepik
- Public Domain Pictures
- Wikimedia Creative Commons
Proficiency Levels
Introductory
Focuses on a general or broad overview of the topic, awareness of basic factual recall. Limited experience of the subject matter is necessary to understand content areas.
Applied
Focuses on practical implementation of technical steps or strategies, some prior knowledge and experience of the topic is necessary.
Advanced
Mastery of basic concepts associated with an area has been obtained. Focuses on understanding nuances, advanced concepts, and intricacies with implementation within knowledge area. Strong understanding of how the concept impacts other factors or areas of operations.
Program Types
APWA Guides
APWA Guides provide guidance to public works professionals on a specific a topic.
CLL
Click, Listen & Learn (CLL) are interactive educational webinars. Each program is led by top experts in the field who share new ideas, methods, and technologies in a fast-paced two-hour time frame. These programs are available free to APWA members. CLL programs are eligible for continuing education units (CEUs).
Primer
Primers are used to educate policymakers about public works roles and responsibilities in public rights of way, the impact of federal workforce development policies on the industry and workforce, and the importance of resilient infrastructure.
PWX
PWX session recordings cover a wide variety of topics, including integrating modes of transportation, traffic and transit, construction management, emergency management, engineering and technology, fleet and facilities, management, parks and grounds, snow and ice control, and stormwater/flood control, as well as solid waste, roads and bridges and water/wastewater. PWX sessions are eligible for continuing education units (CEUs).
Reporter Articles
APWA Reporter articles are written by public works practitioners on subjects such as solid waste management, water resources, municipal engineering, transportation, equipment services, buildings and grounds, snow removal, and other public works-related topics.
Snow
The Snow Conference session recordings feature public works professionals sharing the latest best practices in managing winter/snow operations more successfully, taking advantage of emerging technologies, understanding and preparing for the challenges ahead, and providing better service to their communities. Snow sessions are eligible for continuing education units (CEUs).
Tech Boxes
A tech box is a PDF take-away that provides information in lists, steps, or defined areas specifically focused on trending technologies.
Toolbox
Toolboxes are curated guides offering valuable tips on a variety of public works-related topics.