Basic Types of Watermarks
In photography, we can distinguish between several basic types of watermarks:
- Textual, which include the photographer’s name or initials, website address
- Graphic, i.e. a logo or characteristic symbol
- Mixed, i.e. a combination of text and graphics
- Visible clearly and noticeably
- Subtle, not visible at first glance, integrated into the photo
The use of watermarks in digital photography serves several functions:
1. Copyright Protection
The primary function – the watermark is a visual statement of intellectual property. While it does not provide full legal protection, it can deter potential content thieves, make it easier to identify the original creator and make it more difficult for unauthorised use of the photo.
2. Building the Photographer’s Brand
Consistent use of watermarking can help increase the visibility of a photographer’s work, build a professional image and make it easier for potential clients to reach the photographer.
3. Building Visual Consistency
Watermarks help to maintain the visual consistency of a photo collection. They also contribute to easier management of the rights to use the images and tracking the spread of the photographs on the internet.
How Do I Add a Watermark?
There are countless methods for applying watermarks to photos. Here are some of the most popular techniques:
1. Overlaying in Graphics Software
Professional software, such as or GIMP, offers advanced capabilities for creating and overlaying watermarks:
- Transparency control
- Positioning at a chosen location (allows the mark to be integrated into the photo
- Special effects like adding shadows, glows or textures to the watermark. But we’d rather not 🥸
2. Automated Process
For those working with a large number of images, automation is key. There are several main options for making a mark in an automated way:
- Batch processing is the application of a watermark to multiple photos simultaneously
- Scripts and actions by creating your own repeatable marking processes
- Dedicated software that is specifically designed for watermark management
3. Watermarking in RAW Formats
Some RAW file processing software, such as Adobe Lightroom, allows:
- Non-invasive addition of a mark: Adding a watermark without modifying the original file
- Quick removal: Ability to quickly remove the mark if necessary
- Export in several variants: Create versions with and without the mark for different applications
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make my own watermark?
To make your own watermark, you can use graphics programmes like Photoshop, GIMP or Canva. Create a transparent image with text or a logo, save it in PNG format with transparency. Then superimpose this image over other images as a watermark.
How do I add a watermark on my phone?
You can add a watermark on your phone using photo editing apps such as Snapseed, Adobe Lightroom Mobile or WatermarkIt. Select a photo, add text or an image as a layer, adjust transparency and position, then save.
How do I see the watermark?
The watermark is usually visible directly on the image or document. For digital watermarks that are invisible, special software may be needed to detect them. Some watermarks become visible when the contrast or brightness of the image is changed.
How do I make a watermark in Word?
In Word, click the ‘Design’ tab, select ‘Watermark’. You can choose a ready-made design or create your own by clicking ‘Custom Watermark’. Enter text or select an image, adjust the settings and confirm.
How do I make a watermark on a PDF document?
To add a watermark to a PDF, use Adobe Acrobat or free online tools like Smallpdf or PDFescape.
Open the PDF, find the option to add a watermark, select the text or image, set the position and transparency, then save the document.
How do I copy a watermark in Word?
To copy a watermark in Word, open a document with a watermark.
Go to ‘Design’ > ‘Watermark’ > ‘Custom watermark’. Copy the watermark settings. In a new document, repeat these steps, pasting the copied settings.
How do I copy a watermark in Word?
In Word, open the source document with the watermark. Go to ‘Design’ > ‘Watermark’ > ‘Custom watermark’. Make a note of the settings. In the new document, repeat these steps, making the same settings.
Alternatively, copy the header section containing the watermark.
In which program do I add a watermark?
Watermarks can be added in various programmes. For photos, Photoshop, GIMP or Canva are recommended. For documents, use Microsoft Word or Adobe Acrobat.
For quick online editing, tools like Watermark.ws or Adobe Express will work well.
Good Watermarking – 3 Rules
Creating an effective watermark does not require a particularly thoughtful approach, but there are a few important rules.
1. Readability and Recognisability
Choose the right font for text marks. The mark should be visible against a variety of backgrounds and should be as simple as possible. Small signs with complex shapes can give the impression of being part of a photograph which can lead to misinterpretation.
2. Size and Position
Balance visibility with discretion. The sign should not dominate the photo. Try to adapt the position of the sign to the composition, taking into account the main theme of the photo.
3. Consistency With the Brand
Use the same watermark for all images. Use a mark that is consistent with the visual identity.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Watermarks
Advantages:
- Protection of intellectual property: Make unauthorised use of images more difficult
- Brand promotion: Increase recognition of the photographer’s work
- Easier identification: Making it easier for potential clients to reach the author
Disadvantages:
- Interference with aesthetics: Even a subtle watermark can affect the perception of a photograph
- Limited effectiveness: Advanced users can remove the watermark
- Potential annoyance to viewers: Some viewers may find watermarks intrusive
Alternatives to Traditional Watermarks
1. Invisible Watermarks
- Steganography: Hiding information in the image file structure
- Digital fingerprints: Unique, invisible markings for each copy of a photo
2. EXIF and IPTC Metadata
- Embedded information: Storage of copyright data in the file structure
- Easy to read: For those seeking copyright information
3. Blockchain and Tokenisation
- NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens): Blockchain-based digital certificates of ownership
- Decentralised registries: unalterable records of provenance and ownership of images
Product Photography and Image Theft
In product photography, image theft also occurs. We help our clients both at the level of creating the mark so that it is subtle and does not affect the perception of the photo. We also help when an image has already been stolen.
It is often enough to write to the person who used the photo so that its publication, a short while later, is withdrawn.
Will Watermarks Survive AI?
Isn’t a simple watermark currently too easy to remove by undesirables using AI? In fact, a generative fill is able to remove a watermark from a photo in seconds. So how do you protect your photos from theft?
It is encouraging to see that the internet is increasingly regulated when it comes to online abuse. If your competitors are stealing product photos, you can usually report them to the marketplace where they sell products. What if they are selling products using your images on their own online shop?
