For creative projects on websites, blogs, ads or posters, having access to high quality images is a must! Making engaging content can sometimes come with a low budget so this post will help you to make sure your projects stand out.
There are plenty of options for content creators to find high quality images that are perfect for any project. Now there’s no more excuses for pillaging Google Image Search, pinching from websites or from social media posts.
The problem with taking images from these sources is that you run the risk of image theft.
What is Image Theft?
When an image is taken without the permission of the copyright holder, this is Image Theft. Many believe that images taken from Google or ‘royalty free’ images are also copyright free and free to use by anyone.
Even in cases where images appear not to have a content creator listed, it is not safe to assume that any image is copyright free. In fact, the safest thing to do is to assume that all images require your permission unless it is explicitly stated that the image is free to use.
Don’t forget that you may be taking an image from a website that has stolen the image from elsewhere. You can look out for clues as to whether an image is stolen such as subtle watermarks or bad cropping.
You can also run a search on an image using a metadata viewer tool such as EFIX Data which will show any copyright information attached to the image.
If that all sounds like too much hard work, using some of these fantastic websites will save you a lot of time and effort. Here are some of the best options for content creators to use stunning stock images that have been shared by talented photographers all over the world.
These images can be used freely for commercial and non-commercial uses. To use these images, you do not need to gain the permission of or provide credit to the creator or host site (however it is still kind to do so!)
Photo by Johannes Plenio on Unsplash
1. UnSplash
Boasting over 3 million copyright free photographers, UnSplash is home to nearly 300,000 creators who generously give their images to the world for free.
UnSplash is a very community-minded space and a welcome place to be for individuals, professionals and companies alike. Its images are highly artistic and sure to satisfy even the most discerning content creators.
For keeping up to the minute, UnSplash’s current events category has a stunning collection of pictures relevant to the here and now.
Photo by Dazzle Jam on Pexels
2. Pexels
Using Pexels for copyright free images couldn’t be easier with its easy search function of photography and videos. In the ‘discover’ section, images are made into collections which are relevant to the time of year and current events. They make it simple to credit the photographer with an easy link to post discreetly with your image.
A particular strength of Pexels is their celebration of the diversity of people and the LGBTQ+ community.
Image by Brodie on Burst
3.Burst (by Shopify)
Burst is a great place to find stock images for the purpose of boosting your business.
On top of a great selection of images, you can also find a wealth of business support and ideas. They are geared up with everything you’ll need to successfully market your brand.
Their impressive selection of images are perfect for any industry and their accompanying guidance for selling many household items will set any small business off on the right track.
Image by Rainhard Wiesinger on Pixabay
4. Pixabay
Pixabay has an impressive offering of over 2.7 million free images. This also includes photos, illustrations, vectors, videos, music, sound effects and GIFs so it’s definitely worth a stop for content creators.
Pixabay has a huge selection while maintaining a small business feel. The team of 5 members provide a fantastic free resource.
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