Recycled Images

Recycling images – even if well-intentioned – creates serious issues with copyright, consistency, and client trust. Every shoot must produce unique, original images captured specifically for that project.

What Counts as Recycled Images?

• Submitting old photos from a previous shoot (even if it was for the same venue).
• Using competitor-owned images – if you previously shot a venue for another partner or competitor, those photos cannot be submitted to SmartShoot.
• Reusing photos from a personal archive or another project, even if the venue requests it.
• Providing stock images or photos scraped from the internet.
• Using AI generated or modified images.
• Submitting the same image multiple times – for example, if a restaurant serves three different fried rice dishes, you cannot use the same photo for all three. If the venue wants to reuse a photo, they must handle that on their end.
• Uploading venue-provided images – All photos must be captured by you during the scheduled shoot.

Why This Matters

• Copyright Breach – If a previous partner or client owns the copyright to an image, submitting that image to another partner is illegal and could result in legal action.
• Fraud – Submitting recycled, internet-sourced, or unrelated images as your original work is fraud.
• Client Consistency – Each project has specific requirements and style guidelines that recycled images may not meet.

Keep Your Camera Date Settings Accurate

Make sure your camera’s date and time settings are correct before every shoot. We only accept RAW files – jpg files are not allowed.

Note: Inconsistent or manipulated Exif data can be flagged for investigation.

Consequences of Breaches

Using recycled images can lead to removal from the platform and potential legal action. Submitting recycled or fraudulent images is a serious offence that can’t be overlooked.

Best Practices

• Always shoot fresh content, even if you’ve photographed the venue before or are booked with another provider for a different platform.
• If a venue asks you to use old photos, politely explain that SmartShoot requires new, original content for every project.
• Double-check that your camera settings (date, time, and RAW format) are correct before starting each shoot – we only accept RAW files – jpg files are not allowed.
• If the venue is hesitant to provide what’s needed for the shoot, reach out to SmartShoot for guidance and postpone the shoot if required. Do not substitute images from other projects or sources.

Reminder

Recycled images are strictly prohibited and will result in removal from the platform. Every project requires fresh, original content – no exceptions.