On Adobe Stock, “Editorial only” means that an asset is not suitable for commercial use, such as advertising or product packaging. These assets are intended for use in editorial content, such as news articles, blog posts, and social media posts.

Why Are Some Assets Marked as “Editorial Only”?

There are a few reasons why some assets are marked as “Editorial only”:

• Brand Usage: Some assets may feature logos or other identifying marks of well-known brands. Using these assets for commercial purposes could infringe on those brands’ intellectual property rights.
• License Restrictions: Some assets may be licensed under specific terms that restrict their use for commercial purposes.
• Artistic Intent: Some assets may be created by artists who do not want their work used for commercial purposes.

What Kinds of Assets Are Marked as “Editorial Only”?

Any type of asset can be marked as “Editorial only,” but some common examples include:

• Photographs of people: Adobe Stock requires that photographers obtain model releases from people in their photos before they can be licensed for commercial use. Editorial photos typically do not require model releases, but they should still be used in a respectful and non-exploitative way.
• Photos of recognizable landmarks: Photos of well-known landmarks, such as the Eiffel Tower or the Statue of Liberty, are often marked as “Editorial only” to prevent their misuse for commercial purposes.
• Photos of controversial or sensitive subject matter: Photos of protests, natural disasters, or other sensitive topics may be marked as “Editorial only” to avoid causing offense or misrepresenting the subject matter.

How Can I Tell if an Asset Is “Editorial Only”?

When you search for assets on Adobe Stock, you can filter your results to show only “Editorial” assets. You can also see if an asset is “Editorial only” by hovering over its thumbnail or by reading the asset information page.

Can I Use “Editorial Only” Assets for Free?

The vast majority of assets on Adobe Stock are available for free with a Creative Cloud subscription. However, “Editorial only” assets are always subject to a royalty-free license, which means you will need to purchase a subscription or credits to use them.

If I Use an “Editorial Only” Asset for Commercial Use, What Are the Consequences?

If you use an “Editorial only” asset for commercial use without the proper license, you could be sued for copyright infringement. You could also face other legal consequences, such as being ordered to remove the asset from your publication or website.

In Conclusion

It is important to read the license information for any asset you download from Adobe Stock to ensure that you are using it in accordance with its terms. If you are unsure whether an asset is suitable for your purposes, it is always best to err on the side of caution and purchase a license from Adobe Stock.