Recently, one of my medspa clients received a very official-looking email accusing her of copyright infringement for using a stock photo on her website. The photo in question? Pulled straight from her Canva Pro account—something many of us do without a second thought.
The message demanded proof of a valid license or required her to “relicense” the image through a sketchy third-party stock website. It was intimidating, confusing, and designed to make a small business owner panic. Sound familiar?
If you’re using Canva images on your website, especially as a medspa or small business, here’s what you need to know to protect yourself—and your peace of mind.
What Does the Canva Pro License Actually Cover?
When you’re using Canva Pro, you’re paying for access to a library of licensed stock photos, videos, illustrations, templates, and design elements. Canva provides a Content License Agreement that outlines what you can and can’t do with their assets.
✔️ You Can:
- Use Canva photos and graphics in websites, blogs, and marketing materials
- Post them on social media, in ads, and in printed content
- Customize them with your own branding, overlays, and text
❌ You Can’t:
- Sell or redistribute Canva images as-is
- Use unedited stock images in large format (limit: 480,000 total pixels for unmodified images)
- Claim Canva photos as your original creation
Want the full details? Read Canva’s official license: Canva Content License Agreement
Got a Copyright Infringement Email? Here’s What to Do
The email my client received included a link to the image on her website, a stern legal tone, and a threat of legal action unless she purchased a “relicense.” The sender even referenced laws like the DMCA and Berne Convention to crank up the fear.
But here’s the thing: if you used a Canva stock photo legally, you’re likely in the clear.
Here’s how to handle a copyright scam email:
- Verify the photo source: Log into Canva and confirm it came from their media library.
- Document your design: Screenshot the Canva design and image metadata.
- Download the license: Keep a PDF or link to Canva’s Content License handy.
- Reply calmly: Let the sender know the image was licensed through Canva Pro.
If you’re unsure where the photo came from or don’t want the hassle? Just replace it. Canva’s library is huge—and safe.
💡 FAQs: Canva Image Usage & Licensing
Can I use Canva photos on my business website?
Yes—if you have a Canva Pro account, you can legally use Canva photos and design elements on your site, blog, social media, and print marketing under their commercial license.
What is the difference between Canva Free and Canva Pro licenses?
Canva Free offers access to a smaller media library with some limitations. Canva Pro includes a much broader commercial license and access to premium assets.
What should I do if I receive a copyright infringement email?
Stay calm and verify the source of the image. If it’s from Canva, take a screenshot, download their license, and respond confidently. If you’re not sure, it’s okay to replace the image.
Are Canva photos safe to use for medspa websites?
Yes, as long as the image is downloaded from Canva and used within their terms (ideally as part of a larger design), you’re covered under their commercial license.
Do I need to credit Canva when using their photos?
No. You’re not required to credit Canva when using licensed images under Canva Pro. Just don’t resell the photo or use it as-is without design integration.
Using Canva Pro photos should make your life easier, not more stressful. Most copyright infringement messages like these are scam emails targeting small businesses. If you’re following Canva’s rules, you have nothing to worry about.
Stay calm, trust your source, and keep your license handy.
