using copyrighted images online

How to Use Copyrighted Images for Free

The internet is filled with “free” images.

And it’s always tempting to just download any photo you like from Google Images and use it.

But please, never infringe image copyrights or use random images from Google!

As a digital artists I have created over 20K images myself, and I hate when people steal content without crediting.

However there is a new fascinating approach to obtaining copyrighted images for your projects without actually violating any copyright laws.

It’s called AI image replication.

In essence you simply create new images that are inspired by copyrighted ones, while staying well within the bounds of legality.

And with AI tools like Pincel, it’s literally a 1 click task.

Let’s dive into how this process works and why it’s perfectly legal.

example of AI generated photos
Examples of AI generated images royalty free and no model release required, because these people don’t exist.

Create Your Own Photos Using AI Instead

The Pincel AI Photo Replicator is like having a personal photographer or limitless stock photo library at your disposal – it can instantly mimic and reproduce any photo you need.

Forget about free or premium stock photo sites and create 100% unique content for your every project.

Here’s a simplified breakdown of the process:

Upload Your Source Image:

Begin by selecting an image that has caught your eye. This could be an artwork, a photograph, or any other visually appealing piece.

Load the photo into Pincel AI Image Replicator.

NB: The image will only act as a reference, and won’t be used directly.

Add Your Text Prompt:

This is where your creative input comes into play. You can add a text prompt to guide the AI in creating an image that aligns with your vision.

For instance, if you’ve selected a stunning landscape photo as your source, you could prompt the AI to create “stunning landscape” and then add your own touch of style to it.

AI Will Generate a Similar Image:

The magic then happens as Pincel AI’s Photo Replicator gets to work. It doesn’t copy the original image pixel by pixel; instead, it uses your text prompt to understand your intent and generate a new image inspired by the source image.

The outcome is an entirely new and unique piece of art, not a direct duplicate.

Why This Process is Legal

You might be wondering: “Isn’t this just a fancy way to use copyrighted images without permission?”

Not quite. Here’s why it’s legal:

Turn concepts, ideas or drawings into photorealistic images.

Inspiration, Not Duplication:

The key difference is that you’re using the copyrighted image as a source of inspiration, not as a direct copy. The AI’s output is an original creation that merely draws upon the source image’s elements, much like how a painter might be inspired by a famous painting but creates an entirely unique artwork.

No Copyright Violation:

Since the AI generates a new image, there’s no copyright infringement involved. You’re not distributing, selling, or using the original copyrighted image in any way that would violate copyright law.

Fair Use Principles:

Many countries have fair use or fair dealing principles in their copyright laws. When you create something new and transformative, as you do with the Pincel AI Photo Replicator, it often falls within these fair use provisions, further reinforcing the legality of the process.

Replicate and mimic existing stock photos to create similar images with any kind of alterations you need.

Reasons to Ditch Classic Stock Photos:

Cost Savings: One of the most apparent reasons is to save money on licensing fees, especially for individuals or small businesses with limited budgets.

Limited Resources: Some individuals or organizations may not have the resources to hire a professional photographer or designer, making free alternatives appealing.

Creative Inspiration: Copyrighted images can serve as a wellspring of inspiration for your own creative projects, helping you brainstorm ideas.

Quick Content Creation: When pressed for time, using existing images as a base can expedite content creation for websites, social media, or presentations.

Comparison or Reference: Using copyrighted images can be beneficial for educational purposes or critiques, allowing you to compare your work with established examples.

Turn quick ideas into instant and inspirational visuals using Pincel AI Photo Editor.

10 Benefits of Creating Your Own Images:

Legal and Ethical: Creating your images through AI tools like the Pincel AI Photo Replicator ensures that you’re not infringing on copyright, which can lead to legal issues.

Originality: Generated images are entirely unique and distinct from the source, allowing you to maintain the authenticity of your work.

You can also use Pincel to change details on existing photos to make them more unique.

Customization: You have full control over the outcome by providing specific text prompts to the AI. This enables you to tailor the generated images to your exact needs and preferences.

Avoid Plagiarism: When you generate your images, you avoid the risk of inadvertently using someone else’s work, which could lead to accusations of plagiarism.

Diverse Outcomes: By tweaking the text prompt, you can explore a wide range of creative possibilities. This flexibility ensures that you’re not limited to a single style or concept.

Artistic Expression: Generating your images allows you to add your artistic touch, making them a true reflection of your creative vision.

Learning Experience: Experimenting with AI tools can be a valuable learning experience, helping you develop your design skills and understanding of AI technology.

No Licensing Hassles: You won’t need to worry about licensing agreements, permissions, or potential legal complications, making your creative process smoother.

No real people: All people in the AI generated photos are fictional and don’t require a model release.

Save time and cost: Creating your own content offers a royalty-free (meaning you never have to pay for the usage ) way to use images. Typical stock photo sites charge about 5-9USD per image. For the same price you already get unlimited amount of AI generated images.

Just the way you need it – modify existing images and replace or add objects.

No more copyright concerns

All the images you generate with AI:

  • instantly belong to you;
  • have unlimited commercial license;
  • are royalty-free;
  • and 100% unique.

It’s a completely no-brainer way to harness the power of AI to create captivating images that don’t infringe on copyrights.

way for marketers, designers, and content creators to explore their creativity while respecting intellectual property rights.

Word of advice:

Remember, it’s crucial to use the Pincel AI Photo Replicator responsibly and ethically. Respect the work and art of real creators, and use the tool as a means to expand your creative horizons, not as a shortcut to avoid licensing at all.

If you find a real image or artwork you actually want to use, then by any means support the author and buy it!

FAQ – AI Photos

Is it legal to use copyrighted images for AI Photo Replication?

Yes, it’s legal because the AI generates new images inspired by the copyrighted ones, rather than directly copying them. You’re using the original as a reference, not as the final product.

Turn vector illustrations into real photos using Pincel

How does the Pincel AI Photo Replicator work?

It works by allowing you to upload a source image and add a text prompt to guide the AI. The AI then generates a new image based on your prompt and the source image’s inspiration.

Can I customize the generated images to suit my needs?

Absolutely! You have full control over the outcome by providing specific text prompts. This customization ensures the generated images align with your vision.

Are there any limitations to using the Pincel AI Photo Replicator?

While it’s a powerful tool, it’s essential to remember that the generated images are AI-generated and may not always perfectly replicate your vision. Additionally, it should be used responsibly and ethically.

add text prompt

Can I use the generated images for commercial purposes?

Yes you can use the generated images for commercial purposes. You can freely modify, resell or sub-license them as your own.


Martim Ramos

Founder @ Pincel – Warrior of creative expression, armed with a paintbrush. After using Photoshop for 20 years, I grew tired of its complexity and believe image editing should be easy as a brush stroke. Passionate about sharing my knowledge through blogging.