How to Cite an Image in Bluebook (legal)
In Bluebook an image is cited by its creator, a title or description, the source or repository that holds it, and a URL with a date parenthetical when it is online, often introduced as a photo or figure so the reader knows the medium.
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How to cite an image in Bluebook step by step
- Creator. Give the photographer or artist as the author if named; otherwise begin with the title or a description.
- Title or describe. Provide the image title in italics, or a bracketed description when the work is untitled.
- Medium signal. Signal that the source is a photo or figure so the reader understands what is cited.
- Repository. Name the archive, museum, or website holding the image as the source.
- URL and date. For an online image, give the direct URL and a last visited or posting date parenthetical.
Bluebook image citation format
Bluebook treats an image as an internet or archival source, citing creator, title or description, repository, URL, and a date parenthetical. The worked example shows the online image form.
Common image citation variations
How do I cite a photograph with no named photographer in Bluebook?
Begin with a description of the image, then name the holding archive or website as the source, and give the URL with a date parenthetical.
How do I cite an image hosted on a government website in Bluebook?
Treat it as an internet source, giving the title or description, the issuing body or site, the direct URL, and the appropriate date parenthetical.
How do I cite a figure reproduced from a court filing in Bluebook?
Cite the underlying document the figure came from using the rule for that document type, then point to the figure or exhibit number as the pinpoint.
How do I cite a museum artwork viewed online in Bluebook?
Give the artist and italicized title, the holding museum, and the direct URL to the work with a last visited date parenthetical.
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Image citation FAQ
Does an image always have an author in Bluebook?
No. When no creator is named, you begin with a title or a bracketed description and rely on the repository as the source.
Do I need a URL for an image in Bluebook?
For an online image, yes, with a date parenthetical; an image seen in person is cited by its repository and location.