Cost & Limits
Part of AI image and design tools
Checking licensing terms before using generated assets
Trace inputs, AI outputs and library elements before approving a generated asset for commercial use or client handover.
Before using a generated asset commercially, identify its inputs, components and applicable terms. Permission to use an AI output does not automatically clear an uploaded reference, library image, recognisable brand or client handover.
Trace the asset
Record the provider, plan, feature, model, generation date, inputs, added stock or template elements, and intended uses. Keep the prompt, downloaded file, terms and source information with the record. Add any elements introduced during later editing.
Ask four questions:
- Did the team have permission to upload or reference every input?
- What do the provider's terms allow for this output and intended commercial use?
- Does the design contain separately licensed content or a third party's identifiable work, brand or likeness?
- Do the terms permit the planned distribution, reuse and client handover?
Check the distinctions that matter
Adobe Firefly: Record the selected model and any applicable agreement. Check Adobe's terms for the feature you used.
Canva: Its AI Product Terms allow lawful use of generated outputs under those terms. Outputs incorporating licensed Canva content remain subject to the relevant content licence. Canva's library content categories, from most to least restrictive, are Education Content, Branded Content, Pro Content and Free Content; check each element's source information. Canva's AI Product Terms also note that outputs may not be unique, and other users may receive similar Outputs.
Ideogram: Its terms do not claim ownership of user outputs and do not restrict their use for the user's purposes, including commercial purposes. They also make the user responsible for ensuring content does not violate third-party rights, and note that output may not be unique.
Key Licensing Facts Across Providers
- Canva - Most Restrictive Content Type
- Education Content
- Canva - Least Restrictive Content Type
- Free Content
- Adobe - Generative Credits FAQ Source
- HelpX Adobe Creative Cloud
- Ideogram - Output Uniqueness Note
- Outputs may not be unique
- Canva - Commercial Use Guidance
- Check AI Product Terms for sale eligibility
Make an asset-level decision
Refer uncertain likenesses, logos, exclusivity promises or client-transfer terms to the person responsible for rights clearance. Recheck if the model, feature, component or intended use changes.
