Freelance Writing

Often times, we get caught in a bind, needing a quick tip, article, etc., for our writing. Many times, we might find somthing simiiar on another web site, in a book, or magazine, that fits right in with what we need. So what do you do?

The proper thing to do would be to write the magazine, book, or web site in question, and ask permission to use that block of writing or the entire article or page. Give your reason for wanting to use their writing, and then wait, for them to respond, hopefully giving your permission to use it. Sometimes, they will charge a fee, and at other times, they will simply want you to list the source that the content came from. Either way, you need permission.

Taking things without the proper protocol is called plagarism. Whether it's a photo, an article, a line, a poem, or simply a few lines out of a book, it's still stealing. By stealing another person's work, the term in writing is called plagarism, and you can and most times will get sued by doing so.

Plagarism makes for a bad name in the writing business. Be honest. If you need writing, then write it, or pay someone else to write it. If you need photos, then grab a camera, and start shooting. If you don't have a camera, then purchase one, or purchase the photos. The next best thing, would be to ask for permission before using things that do not belong to you. There are web sites available, that sell photos, as well as writing, with all rights of ownership. Look them up in your browser, or ask someone else for those web sites.

Don't get caught stealing, since it gives you a horrible reputation as a writer, and can literally ruin your career as as writer.