Anime images/copyright questions

[theanimeguy]

I have an anime website and I want each show to have an image but I'm not sure if I need permission to use an image or not, if its fair use or not, or weather or not I can post it without permission and just cite the owner. Perhaps its perfectly fine to post without permission but I am not sure. Any help will be greatly appreciated. Also what is CAA's responsibility reguarding the images in the reviews section?

[Fish and Chips]

Technically, unless I have been misinformed, all images of any kind should be subject to copyright. Yes, including the screencaps you took yourself or the magazine ad you found scanned to make your nifty little avatar or signature or the concept art to head your article on Why Cowboy Bebop is the Greatest Anime. However, most companies that I'm aware of don't pursue legal action against reproduction of single images, for whatever reason. I also believe American copyright policy has a clause for "Fair use," which allows non-rights holders to use images for reference, commentary, promotion, critique, and parody purposes.

Please note though, I am not an expert on American copyright legality, so don't take this at face value, do a little research yourself.

It would also probably depend on the image you're considering. Can I get some details?