Wikipedia:Non-free content


A well-written use rationale must show how the use of this image meets the Non-free content criteria and should state:

  • What part of the copyrighted work is used and to what degree does it compete with the copyright holder's usage? For example, if the image is a photograph or logo, the entire work is likely being used. A screenshot that shows the most important discovery of a documentary or the ending of a movie, for example, though a very small portion of the work, may disproportionately compete with the copyright holder's use. In the case of a music sample, the length should be no longer than 10 percent of the song's original length or 30 seconds, whichever is shorter.
  • If it applies, has the resolution been reduced from the original? In the case of music samples, has the quality been reduced from the original?
  • What purpose does the image serve in the article? If applicable:
    • Is the image a logo, photograph, or box art for the main subject of the article?
    • Is the image being used as the primary means of visual identification of the subject or topic? (e.g., a corporate logo or the box art of a DVD)
    • Does it illustrate (show) the topic of the article? (e.g., a screen shot from a movie)
    • Is it used for comments on a particular topic? How?
  • To what degree is the image replaceable by a free content image?
    • If the image is a screenshot of a movie that is used for an article about the movie, or a corporate logo, there is obviously no such thing as a "free" version of it - all of the resources in the world could not produce one. If, on the other hand, the image is a photograph, the image is more easily replaced, even if Wikipedians may lack the resources to create a replacement.
  • Any other information necessary to assist others in deciding whether the use of this image qualifies for fair use.