Can I produce and sell a t-shirt with my opinion of someone on it without their permission? Also, if I wanted to use a picture of them, where is a good source to find/buy one I can use?
Re: Using a name or photo without getting permission.
The short version is no, due to personality rights and (by the sound of what you intend) libel laws.
For more information, consult a legal professional (one who specialises in intellectual property law) or read up via Google (can't believe everything you read on the internet, but it's a good way to start educating yourself on the topic without costing money).
Re: Using a name or photo without getting permission.
As usual...Lewis is correct...your proposal is a sure way to enrich attorneys...the ones the other person will get and the ones you will need..be sure to amass a good bank account to payroll this operation...in other words don't do it
Re: Using a name or photo without getting permission.
I posted the questions below a couple days ago.
"Can I produce and sell a t-shirt with my opinion of someone on it without their permission? Also, if I wanted to use a picture of them, where is a good source to find/buy one I can use?"
To Solmu and charles95405, thank you for taking the time to respond.
The problem is I am still confused about the subject. I have seen on many occasions t-shirts that have a negative statement or comment on them about a person ( celebrity, politician, etc). Has the t-shirt maker gotten permission from that individual to produce the t-shirt? Are there guidelines to what can and can't be put on a t-shirt without permission or risk of being sued? Thanks.
Re: Using a name or photo without getting permission.
Just because you see something, doesn't mean it's legal. If you wander around a city, you'll likely see a number of different crimes being openly committed every day.
As far as politicians go though, the rules do tend to lighten up there. Especially in the US - free speech trumps the right to publicity. Copyright still needs to be considered, but you can use a politician's image without their permission if you have the right to use the image itself.
Re: Using a name or photo without getting permission.
I have to agree with everyone above. It could lead to a lot of trouble. When you do see things like that printed on shirts it's more than likely because the printer has adopted the philosophy that it's easier to say whoops sorry about that then to ask permission. Unfortunately it could be very costly on your part if it backfires. I would avoid it.
This is a discussion about Using a name or photo without getting permission. that was posted in the General T-Shirt Selling Discussion section of the forums.
Using a name or photo without getting permission. 
