5 Ways to Protect Your Photographs From Theft and Unauthorized Downloads

I love taking photographs of anything that feels unique and carries a positive vibe. Many times, I suddenly stop and capture a moment exactly as it feels. That is what inspired me to start this website, a small space where I share photographs I have captured on my trips and experiences. I have done some basic things to protect my photos from theft and prevent them from being downloaded. 

I started following a few simple tips, using some useful plugins, and taking a few necessary steps to protect my work.

Here are 5 practical ways to protect your photographs online.

First and foremost, I added the privacy policy “© Sansu Abraham Photography“.

1. Add a Watermark

A watermark is among the easiest ways to safeguard your pictures. There are numerous methods through which you can put a watermark on your pictures. One can use Canva; it is quite simple.

But I used an extension known as Watermark, which did everything for me. A visible watermark is less likely to be stolen due to the extra effort required in its removal.

2. Disable Right-Click Saving & Image Dragging

Again, I have made use of WP Content Protection in order to protect my content and pictures from any unwanted use. It will. When you have WordPress installed on your website, there are many plugins that you can use and disable save-as 

  • keyboard shortcuts
  • right click protection,
  • drag and drop downloading,

Now for disabling image dragging:

 CSS Example:
<>CSS
pointer-events: none;

3. Use Lower-Resolution Preview Images (*although I didn’t choose to do this)

Upload:
lower-quality preview images, instead of high-resolution photos.
 
Example:
Website preview image size: 1600px
Original photo file size: high resolution
 
It’s crucial when selling photography.
 

4. Copyright Notice

 Write something similar to:  Copyright © Sansu Abraham Photography — All rights reserved. Use and reproduction of images are not allowed. 
 
It should go on the: 
footer,
product pages,
image captions.
 

 5. DMCA Protection Badge

Also use: DMCA Protection Badge
This helps if someone copies your work online.
 
I embedded the DMCA code into my website.
 
 

A few extra tips for you that are worth implementing.

Screenshot Deterrents

Not a complete solution, but:
  • watermarks,
  • reduced resolution,
  • overlay,
  • will discourage any abuse.

Market via Image-Friendly Sites

If you download or print images, you might consider:
 
  • SmugMug
  • Pixieset
  • Zenfolio
 
for better integrated image security.
 
 

Good luck with your photography journey. Let no fear stop you from pursuing your beautiful journey.