The Ruling on Selling Images and Pictures

Question :

Is it permissible for a Muslim to make his living from selling images?

Answer:

It is not allowed for a Muslim to sell images or trade in them. This is because authentic Hadiths confirm the prohibition of pictures of beings that have a soul, and constructing any type of images of them, or allowing them. There is no doubt that trade in such items contributes to making them and having them placed in homes and other. places. Since they are unlawful, then the profits made from their sale and production is also unlawful. It is not allowed for a Muslim to live from such means, neither for his food, his clothing or anything. If he has anything that resulted from that, then he must discard it and repent to Allâh Almighty so that perhaps He will forgive him. For Allâh Almighty said:
"And verily, I am indeed Forgiving to him who repents, believes and does righteous good deeds, and then remains constant in doing them."

We have previously issued a Fatwa regarding the prohibition of pictures and images of anything that has a soul, whether it was made as a sculpture, or with a writing instrument, or a camera.

May Allah send peace and blessings upon Muhammad, his family, and his Companions.

Source:
The Permanent Committee
Fatawa Islamiyah, Vol. 8 Pages 388-389