IEEE Referencing Guide: Images

Inserting Images

When you insert an image or figure, which has been created by someone else, into your own work; you need to give acknowledgement to the creator in the form of a caption underneath the image or figure. The caption should usually include a label, an attribution, and a copyright statement.

• Add a label such as Image or Figure numbered in order of appearance in your text.  Do not use the image/figure number from the original source.

This is necessary in academic writing so you can easily refer to an image or figure in your text. It is not necessary for other types of works such as presentations.

• Add an Attribution, this will include title, creator, and source. Format the attribution according to the conditions of reproduction specified in the source you got the image/figure from.

Often you’ll find that online sources will provide an attribution you can copy. 

Where you have inserted an image/figure from a book or journal article, this will include the details of the book or article. 

Images/figures in the Public Domain or with a CC0 dedication do not legally require an attribution, but it is good practice that you do so.

If you have altered an image/figure, you must make this clear in your caption by stating "Amended from".

When referencing an image found via Google you need to make sure that the information included in your reference relates to the original website that your search has found. Click on the image within the results to get to the original website and take your reference information from there. Take care to use credible sources with good quality information.

You also need to reference the image/figure by adding an entry in your Reference list or Bibliography:

• If you use an image from a source (e.g. a book, ebook, journal article) you should reference the source, not the image.
• If you use a standalone image (e.g. from Flickr) then you should reference the image.
• You don't need to include a citation and reference for any images or figures that you have created yourself. Everything in your work is assumed to be your own work unless you state otherwise.

Example

In-text citation

Full reference for the Reference List