Court Rules Copying Photos Found on Internet is Fair Use

I read the link. The title of this thread is a bit misleading - it makes it sound like all photos on the internet are up for grabs. This ruling dealt with one specific photo and the judge gave specific reasons why it was considered fair use in this particular instance. However, this ruling could potentially be used to in other cases and thus further reduce photographer rights. I will say, however, in defense of the people who used the photo, that they willingly took it down after the photographer notified them with a cease and desist letter. Even though they willingly cooperated with the photographer, he chose to sue them anyway.

I disagree with the ruling. Advertising for a commercial event is certainly commercial use. This is a case where judges use their digression rather than follow the letter of the law, and it results in confusion.
It does seem rather silly, given the facts of the case for a lawsuit, and the high costs involved. It probably cost each party at least $20,000.