Watermarks on images: what they are and how to create them

There are several ways to protect copyright, and new ones appear every time. The Internet gives us, as users, the opportunity to receive arrays of online data. Creators of unique content protect their creations using special identification marks. Watermark is a well-known and popular way to indicate the official owner.

Creating, deleting and using identification symbols is not a problem. At the same time, a lot of information remains unknown to most users. A short review will help you understand what a watermark is and how to use it.

Features and functions of watermarks

Special watermarks are used to protect images and other results of work. They are even placed on banknotes so that no one can illegally copy them. The main (video, infographic, file) and marking element seem inseparable, but there are several “pitfalls” here:

1. This is not necessary. A watermark is only necessary in cases where the author wants to limit the number of people who can use the photo. If you do not want to own the file personally, do not apply a watermark
2. The sign is placed online. Considering that a watermark is an accessible copyright protection, you can apply a logo or slogan online. In addition, designers use photo editing applications to indicate their design.
3. The sign is not visible everywhere. The identification element on the banknote is used to emphasize authenticity, and here it is noticeable. Other authors apply the selected symbol so that it is visible only in full-screen mode.

The main function of the sign is clear, but there are other reasons to use copyright elements. A watermark on a picture is:

• an element of forming a brand reputation;
• an important part of the corporate identity;
• an optimization method.

Such a logo on the content attracts the attention of customers. Thanks to the confirmed copyright, there is an impression of careful preparation for the work. The good news is that you do not have to spend a lot of time on application.

How to create your own watermark

Developing a stamp for pictures is not a problem. Use any example that matches your expectations and the style of the company. Common options are logos and slogans. Considering that branding plays an important role in promotion, the idea of using popular options is good.

To create a stamp, choose between special photo editors and online tools. In the first case, you need to gain skills in working with the application. With the help of introductory lessons and videos, you can choose the algorithm that meets your preferences.

Online tools are no less useful assistants. The range of offers is quite wide, and there will be no difficulties with use. To put watermarks on a photo, follow simple recommendations:

1. Choose a high-quality image. The selected picture should attract attention with its quality. Low-quality photos are rarely of interest, and this should be taken into account. In addition, a high-quality background will complicate the removal of the stamp.
2. Determine the place where the sign will be noticeable. When choosing an area to place a watermark on a photo, keep in mind that the sign is applied above or below important elements. This is the part of branding that will be remembered by users and potential customers. The size, angle and transparency are selected using the intuitive interface of the tool.
3. Adjust the transparency of the stamp. To do this, use images with the PNG extension. You don’t have to create a transparent layer, because it is included in the standard “set”.

To apply a watermark to this and other photos in one area, open several files at once in one editor.

Is it possible to remove a watermark

It is quite easy to assess the possibility of removing the mark. Make sure that the stamp is made in one color palette, and its disappearance will not affect the quality of the image. Also consider what a watermark is on a video and whether it can be removed without leaving any noticeable traces.

A logo that is applied over important elements in a photo is difficult to remove. Much depends on your experience using editing software and the features of the image. One of the options for quick copying is considered to be blurring the logo. In this case, it is impossible to read the author’s name, but the presence of a watermark is noticeable.

The site that will be the source should be chosen with caution. Photo banks allow copying files, and you will avoid illegal use. The marking is present on most images, and all users understand what a watermark looks like.