Whether an AI image can be used commercially depends on the model license, the LoRA license, the training data legality, and whether real people or brands appear. This article walks through each.
Major model licenses
| Model | License |
|---|---|
| Midjourney paid | Includes commercial use rights |
| Midjourney free / trial | Personal use only |
| SDXL Base | CreativeML Open RAIL++M, commercial allowed |
| SDXL LoRAs | Per-LoRA license — check each |
| Flux Dev | Non-commercial; Pro license required |
| Flux Schnell | Apache 2.0, free for commercial |
| Flux Pro | Paid API, pay-per-call |
| Sora / Runway / Pika | Paid subscriptions include commercial — see plan tiers |
4 risk areas
1 · Training data disputes
Some LoRAs use unlicensed artist work. Check the LoRA's source notes before commercial use.
2 · Real-person resemblance
Even AI-generated faces that resemble a public figure can raise publicity-rights issues.
3 · Brand logos / trademarks
Generated images with real logos (even modified) can infringe trademarks.
4 · Copyright ownership
Many jurisdictions hold that AI-generated content does not qualify for copyright. Others can freely copy your image.
Practical guidance
- For commercial work, prefer paid Midjourney / Flux Schnell / SDXL Base
- Use LoRAs marked "commercial use allowed"
- Avoid generating images of real public figures or real brands
- For high-stakes commercial assets, consult an IP attorney