Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome to You've Been Spied.

Do I have to register to upload pictures?
Yes. If you've already registered and accepted the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy on seattlepi.com, you can use the same login here. Otherwise, you must register, agree to the Terms of Use and the Privacy Policy. Click to get started.

If I upload my pictures here, does the seattlepi.com become the owner of those pictures?
No. You retain the copyright of all photos you own and upload here. But by uploading items to seattlepi.com and You've Been Spied, you grant us full rights to use them in perpetuity.

Are there limits on file sizes or file types?
Each photo must be less than 5 MB in size. You've Been Spied supports JPEGs (.jpg). Other file types will not be accepted.

Can users access my high-quality original photo?
No. But they can download and use the version posted here.

Can I upload pictures I didn’t take? Can I post pictures I took at a private party?
Please review the Terms of Use. By agreeing to the Terms of Use you agree to upload only images that you own or have gotten the permission to upload. You also agree not to violate anyone’s privacy, and to get any necessary permissions before posting photos here. You are the publisher of anything you upload to this service, and are legally responsible for the content you post here.

Will you pay for my pictures?
No.

Will you use my pictures in the paper?
A few pictures that are published here may be published in the paper. By agreeing to the Terms of Use, you grant us permission to use your photos in the paper and in other ways.

Why aren't my pictures showing up?
Photos are screened for nudity, profanity and obscenity before they publish, so your photos will not appear instantly. We will also try not to post duplicative pictures.

What should I do if I see a picture that violates the rules of the Terms of Use?
Click the "request review" link found under the photo or write to us at newmedia@seattlepi.com.

What should I do if I see a picture that violates Copyright laws?
If you believe in good faith that a copyrighted work has been copied in a way that constitutes copyright infringement, please notify our Copyright Agent. For more information, see our Terms of Use.

How do I make a complaint or compliment, or suggest a new category or functionality?
Message us at newmedia@seattlepi.com .

Click here, here, here and here for tips on taking better pictures.