Image Use & Copyright

🧭 How the Licensing Process Works

This page explains how images from the Zenzo Nkobi photographic archive may be accessed, used, and credited.
It is intended for researchers, educators, publishers, cultural institutions, and other users who wish to work with material from the archive.

The aim of the Zenzo Nkobi Heritage Archive is to support ethical access, scholarly research, and responsible use of historical images, while ensuring that copyright and archival responsibilities are respected.

Relationship with the South African History Archive (SAHA)

The South African History Archive (SAHA) is the custodian of an extensive collection of Zenzo Nkobi’s photographic negatives, including material associated with the project ZAPU through Zenzo Nkobi’s Lens.

For images held by SAHA:

  • Archival access and reproduction services are managed directly by SAHA

  • Reproduction and handling fees charged by SAHA apply independently

  • Low-resolution reference copies are available through SAHA’s platforms

The Zenzo Nkobi Heritage Archive does not supply SAHA-held images directly, but supports users by providing copyright clearance and guidance where applicable.

This cooperative approach ensures clarity, transparency, and proper archival practice.

Where the Images Are Held

The photographic legacy of Zenzo Nkobi is preserved across different archival holdings.

Access procedures depend on where the specific images are held.
This page provides guidance on how to determine the correct pathway.

When Permission Is Required

Written permission is required for the use of archive images in most public contexts, including:

  • publication (print or digital)

  • exhibitions and displays

  • films, documentaries, or broadcasts

  • websites, social media, or online platforms

  • commercial or promotional use

Permission ensures that images are used responsibly, correctly credited, and in line with archival and copyright standards.

Credit Line Requirement

All approved uses must include the following credit line:

© Courtesy of Zenzo Nkobi Heritage and the South African History Archive

Credit lines must appear clearly wherever the image is reproduced or displayed.

How to Request Permission

To request permission to use images from the archive:

  • Identify where the image is held (SAHA or family archive)

  • Submit an image use request via the designated request form

  • Review the applicable licensing fee using the fee calculator

  • Await written confirmation before publishing or reproducing images

  • For SAHA-held images, complete reproduction arrangements directly with SAHA

This process helps ensure clarity and avoids delays or misunderstandings.

Educational & Research Use (Non-Commercial)

The Zenzo Nkobi Heritage Archive actively supports educational and academic research.

The following uses are generally permitted at no cost, subject to written confirmation and proper crediting:

  • academic research and theses

  • dissertations and scholarly publications

  • classroom teaching and learning materials

  • conference papers and lectures

  • non-commercial institutional research

Users are still required to notify the archive and receive written confirmation before publication or public use.

Editorial, Publishing & Commercial Use

For editorial, publishing, and commercial contexts, standard copyright licensing fees apply.
These fees relate only to copyright clearance and are separate from any reproduction fees charged by SAHA.

Standard Licensing Fees (per image):

Editorial & Journalistic Use (Non-Profit)

  • Print or online article: €30

  • Documentary or non-commercial film: €50

  • Museum or cultural exhibition: €60

  • NGO or advocacy campaign (limited duration): €25

Commercial & Publishing Use

  • Book or magazine (up to 5,000 copies): €100

  • Book or magazine (5,000+ copies or international rights): €150

  • Film, TV or streaming (up to 3 years): €200

  • Advertising, product use, or cover image: €250

  • Corporate website or media use (12 months): €150

  • Exhibition catalogue or poster: €120

Fees may be adjusted depending on print run, duration, distribution, or bundled image use.

ZC Nkobi Licencing Fees PDF

Donations & Preservation

The Zenzo Nkobi Heritage Archive is committed to long-term preservation and access.

While many educational uses are supported at no cost, voluntary donations are welcomed to help fund:

  • archival preservation and digitisation

  • printing and exhibition preparation

  • research support and educational outreach

Donations contribute directly to sustaining the archive for future generations.

To ensure the respectful and transparent use of materials from the Zenzo Nkobi Heritage Archive, all image requests follow a simple three-step process.

Step 1 – Submit your request

Complete the online form and provide as much detail as possible about your intended use — including publication title, print run, and image reference (SAHA Call ID and Image Identifier).

💡 You may wish to check our

🔗   Licence Fee Calculator before submitting to estimate the applicable usage fee.

Step 2 – Review and Licence Letter

Your request will be reviewed by the Zenzo Nkobi Heritage Archive. Once approved, you will receive a Licence Agreement Letter confirming:

  • the approved use of each image,

  • the total licence fee, and

  • payment instructions (via bank transfer or PayPal).

This letter serves as your official permission to reproduce the images.

Step 3 – Processing through SAHA

After receiving the Licence Agreement, you may contact the South African History Archive (SAHA) to obtain high-resolution files.

Access the Archive (for reference):

Zenzo Nkobi Photographic Collection at SAHA. You can also download inventory listing of the archive here: AL3265 The Zenzo Nkobi Photograph Collection Inventory

Low-resolution copies can be requested by sending an email to Archives and Special Collections: archives.library@wits.ac.za with the copyright clearance by the Zenzo Nkobi Heritage Archive.

SAHA apply separate reproduction or scanning fees according to their own schedule:  🔗  SAHA Reproduction Fees →