Can I use this image from Google in my rendering? (photo manipulation)

[mills-illustration]

I'm sure this has probably been asked many times before, but I am confused on this issue. I have seen some people and companies (well known) post tutorials where they use images found on Google in their renderings. This may be things like trees, people, landscapes, etc. They are manipulated in Photoshop to some extent or another, but are still just taken from Google searches, and no search of permission is suggested.

 

What are the rules on this? I am from Canada and I am sure that copyright laws here prevent someone from taking any image from the net and "playing" with it, regardless of how much, even if it is almost indistinguishable from the original, and using it in a render. I know the safest thing is to take my own photos and use them. However there are many sites out there that offer free images and textures to use in renderings and video games. I am sure they are not all legit. Are we subject to purchasing packages of entourage just to be safe?

 

The other issue is in regards to photographing people in public to use in a rendering. Is this allowed, as I took the photo in a public place, I own the rights to the photo, and I am not using the persons image in an unfavorable manner.

 

I am really confused on this issue and would love some clarification.

 

Thanks:confused: