Edit, cause I just came across a FAQ entry for that: Same rules apply for literature preview images.

FAQ #63: What sort of things can I use for Preview images?

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Just heads-up for anyone who isn't aware of it yet:

You're not allowed to submit copyrighted works, i.e. stuff you didn't make yourself, to dA.
Only exception are stock images and works where you got EXPLICIT permission from the artist.

It is not allowed to submit:
- Official screenshots of shows, movies or games, edited screenshots, works using screenshots (motivational posters)
- Official artwork, edited official artwork, even in wallpapers (only exception being desktop screenshots)
- Pictures of others who didn't give you their permission, pictures you 'found on google' that you like
- Edited pictures of others, Recolors of any kind, Traced works, Use of bases that were traced off some image by the creator
- much much more

That's a violation of dA's Terms of Service and pictures - if reorted - will get removed and might even get you banned. It's also a violation of copyright law, in case you didn't know.

No, giving credit isn't enough. You need the artist's permission.

"BUT OTHERS DO IT, TOO!" - Geez, yeah. Others also murder. Still illegal to do so.
If you see someone else doing that, feel free to notify them it's not allowed/report them.

Don't believe me?

Here's your way to the FAQ:

FAQ #2: Where can I find the official deviantART Copyright Policy?
FAQ #8: What are violations of the deviantART copyright policy?
FAQ #94: Can I use the works which I find on deviantART?


FAQ #63: What sort of things can I use for Preview images?
FAQ #157: Can I use things created by other people in my submissions?
FAQ #304: Do you remove copies and trace-over art?
FAQ #306: Does "Crediting" let me use whatever I want?
FAQ #578: What does deviantART consider to be a proper desktop screenshot?
FAQ #818: My wallpaper was removed, can you tell me why?


FAQ #193: How do I prove that I had permission to use someone's work?
FAQ #257: What sort of permission do I need to use someone else's work?



Permission granted to repost this in your own journal or link back here.

_{(You might need to fix the links to the FAQ.)}