Media/Press Image Usage

[Paul-FCC]

Hi All. I am working on a car website, and want to have example images of as many cars as possible. The plan is to post my own images, but as I dont have access to shoot every car I'd like, I am looking to use some placeholder images until I can find examples to shoot myself (some of these are extremely rare!). I am finding myself confused with usage rights for images within the various press-packs released by manufacturers. I get the impression I can use these as they are promotional material? Do I need to investigate all of the T&Cs regarding usages, or do I fall under the 'Media' category for this sort of thing?

I dont mean to sound naive about image rights, its more a question about generic usage. I only spend a few hours per week working on this as a hobby, and if its going to be prohibitive from a time perspective, then I guess I need to find another approach.

Thanks in advance!

 

[Box Brownie]

My surmise would be that though car manufacturers have images available for "media usage" their aim is to promote sales of the vehicles. So as you are not a newspaper or recognised journal I doubt you would be viewed as using for media purposes.

Having said that you might find they/some would permit the use you are planning but need to ask permission???

I await others of more experience in such matters to post their insight on the subject.

PS sorry where are my manners, just realised this is your first posting.........welcome to TP