Image Licensing Explained: What Hairdressers Need to Know When Launching a Collection
What is Image Licensing?
Image licensing is essentially permission. It’s the agreement that outlines who can use the images, where they can be used and for how long.
It’s not the same as ownership which is the copyright and this always remains with the photographer. Instead, licensing is about granting specific rights for specific uses of the images.
How Much Does Licensing Cost?
Licencing can feel quite abstract and there isn’t a fixed or rate-card cost. The fee depends on the relative value of how the images will be used. For example, an image used in an advertising campaign has a much higher value than one used only on social media.
This is why photographers will often ask about intended usage before giving you a quote. It’s similar to how model usage works (I’ve written a separate blog here about usage fees and working with agencies).
Many professional photographers use the Association of Photographers’ usage calculator as a guide. You can try it out here.
Licences Are Not Transferable
Licences are granted to you (or your business) only. They can’t be passed on.
So, if a brand contacts you asking to use your collection images in their advertising campaign (which is exciting!), you can’t simply hand over the files. The brand will need to negotiate its own licence directly with the photographer.
Making Sense of Licensing – A Hairdresser’s Analogy
Licensing can feel abstract, so let’s bring it into the salon.
Imagine you’ve just coloured a client’s hair using your unique formula. The hair belongs to them, but the formula, the application, and the artistry are yours. They can enjoy the result, but they can’t walk away with your formula to recreate or sell it themselves.
That’s how it works with photography. The images from your collection remain the photographer’s creative work. Licensing sets the terms for how those images can be used - whether that’s for your salon promotion, PR in magazines, or commercial use by a brand.
Why Licensing Matters to You
Licensing ensures you’re using the images exactly as agreed. If you want to use them outside of your original licence, you must get written permission from the photographer, ideally with an updated licence covering the new usage.
Without this, you risk unexpected costs. If a photographer discovers the images are being used beyond the agreed terms, they’re entitled to invoice you — and this can be particularly painful if the images are already published, as fees can be increased.
Practical Tips for Hairdressers
Ask early: When requesting a quote, ask your photographer to include agreed usage details. After the shoot, make sure you receive a clear Licence to Use agreement.
Be clear on goals: Decide upfront whether the images are for salon promotion, PR, or if you’ll want to license them to brands.
Expect fees for brand use: If a brand wants your images for their advertising, there will almost always be an additional licensing fee. This is completely standard and ensures fair value for everyone involved.
Final Thoughts
Image licensing doesn’t have to be complicated or intimidating. Think of it as a professional safeguard, much like making sure your client knows how to care for their new colour. It protects the creative work you’ve invested in, while keeping expectations clear for everyone.
By understanding how licensing works, you can confidently manage how your collection is shared and celebrated while keeping control of the artistry that makes it uniquely yours.
You can contact me if you have any questions relating to image licensing.