“My Experience with Unauthorized Use of My Images: Why Protecting Artisans Matters”
Introduction
As many of you know, every product that comes out of my workshop is a labor of love. Each piece is carefully handcrafted, with countless hours poured into every detail. Recently, I encountered an issue that made me reflect on the importance of protecting the work and rights of artisans like myself.
The Incident
A few days ago, I discovered that a website that sells very low quality leather goods had taken photos from my website – obviously without my permission – and used them to make people believe that their products are truly handcrafted and made in Italy. This included not only images of my products but also a personal photo of me working in my workshop. To see my hard work and my image used without consent was not just frustrating; it was deeply upsetting.
Why This Matters
This experience is a stark reminder of the challenges faced by small businesses and independent artisans. When someone takes our work without permission, they are not just using a photo; they are undermining the value of craftsmanship and the personal dedication that goes into every piece.
Artisans and small business owners rely on the integrity of their work and their ability to control how it is shared and represented. Unauthorized use of images can lead to a loss of trust, damage to reputation, and financial harm. It is essential that we, as a community, stand up for the rights of creators and ensure that our work is respected and protected.
What We Can Do
As customers and supporters of small businesses, you can help by being vigilant and conscious of where you shop and the products you buy. Choose to support artisans who take pride in their work, and be wary of websites or sellers that may not be using authentic or properly credited images.
For fellow artisans and small business owners, I encourage you to take steps to protect your work. Watermark your images, monitor the web for unauthorized use, and don’t hesitate to take action if you discover that your work is being misused.
Conclusion
While this experience has been challenging, it has also reinforced my commitment to my craft and my community. I am grateful for the support of customers like you who value authentic, handmade products. Together, we can continue to foster a culture that respects and celebrates the work of artisans.
Thank you for standing with me and for supporting genuine craftsmanship!
– Riccardo Mancini
the real and only 😉