Patent ID: 8510855

Claim:
An image distribution apparatus comprising: an image receiving unit configured to receive an image from an image transmission apparatus where the image is shot in response to an operation by a user, the image having location information added thereto which is indicative of a location where the image transmission apparatus existed when the image was shot; a storage unit configured to store the image; a setting unit configured to set a geographical place relevant to the user; a determination unit configured to determine whether or not a location indicated by the location information added to the image received from the image transmission apparatus is within a predetermined area including the set geographical place relevant to the user; and a distribution control unit configured to permit distribution of the image via a network if it is determined that the location indicated by the location information is within the predetermined area, and inhibit the distribution of the image if it is determined that the location indicated by the location information is not within the predetermined area, wherein the image distribution apparatus comprises a processor executing a program stored in a memory to implement at least a part of function of at least one of said units.