Instead of sharing pictures via text, email, or on social media, share them in person when you meet up with friends and family. Show them the pictures on your phone or printed out, but do not give them a copy that they can save and post later. If you want to share on of your child’s accomplishments on social media, opt for a text-only post rather than posting a picture. Set any photos you do share to private on all of your social media accounts.
Let the individual know what you would like them to do with the photo. You can ask them to simply keep it private, or request that they delete the picture completely. If the individual is hesitant about your terms, calmly and clearly outline your reasoning for why you trying to protect your child’s privacy.
Let them know, “I’ve clearly outlined my terms and my wishes surrounding my child’s likeness. If you do not take this image down, I will put in a formal request to have the image removed and have your account blocked or suspended. "
Tagging your image, including adding hashtags, makes it easier for others to search and find pictures of your child that they can then repost or use as they see fit. If you are posting the photos to a blog or personal website, you may also consider watermarking them to discourage others from using them. [3] X Research source
In some cases, these places might already have a form drawn up that you can sign to suspend their right to use your child’s likeness. In other cases, you may have to draw up a letter on your own. Call the institution to ask about their specific policy. Some places will sneak these policies into broader waivers or even student handbooks. Read them carefully before you sign anything.
As soon as your child gets able to use the Internet and post anything, including their photos, teach them how to stay safe online. Go through your child’s friends or followers and unfollow or unfriend anyone your child does not know in person. Let your child know that you will be checking on who follows them, and explain your reasons for removing strangers from their account. If you notice them getting tagged in other people’s photos, talk to them openly and honestly about the risks of having others post their photo online. Let them know that it is okay to ask for a photo to be deleted or to stay private.
Kindly let others know that you do not give them permission to photograph your child your home. If you notice a visitor taking pictures, let them know, “We’d prefer guests do no photograph our family in our home. ” When you are visiting someone else’s house, ask them, “Are you restricting photographs in your home?” If they are not, express your preference that your child not be photographed.
Social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram all have policies set in place to report a photo that you feel violates your family or your child’s privacy. [7] X Research source Facebook also has easily-submitted online forms for photos of individuals under the age of 18 that you feel violate the child’s privacy. [8] X Research source
Contact the individual and let them know, “I acknowledge that you have the right to post this photo but I request that my child’s likeness be removed from it. ”
If someone has claimed your child as their own, do not try to reach out to them or reason with them. Block their access to all of your personal media and immediately contact an attorney.
