(Updated October 2024)
If you create web pages, blog posts or share on social media, chances are you’re using images to complement your content. And if not, let me just say—you definitely should!
Images make a world of difference in grabbing attention and making your message pop.
Here are some tips if you'd like a little help with this...
Sure, it would be great if we all had the time, skills and tools to take our own photos and customise them for whatever we'd like to use them for. But most of us don't have those resources available..
So... where do you get those images from?
Some people head straight to Google or grab them from other websites and while it’s seems like an easy solution, you could be unknowingly breaking the law. Yep, many of those images are protected by copyright and just because they’re online doesn’t mean they’re free for you to use.
So, what’s the solution? How do you find images that you’re actually allowed to use?
Let’s dive into a few options:
Use Your Own Images
If you’re snapping your own pics and you’re okay with them being shared on the internet, this is always a safe way to go.
Source from Online Image Libraries
There are plenty of online image directories where you can legally access images. But here’s the thing—there are a few different types of directories, and it’s good to know what to expect from each.
- Paid Membership Libraries
Some sites charge a membership fee, which then gives you access to a whole library of images you can use at no extra cost. - Free Membership with Paid Licenses
Other sites offer free memberships but charge a small fee to license the images. Fees can vary based on things like image size or usage type. - Completely Free Sites
These are my favorite! Some sites let you access and use images with no membership and no cost at all. - Attribution-Based Libraries
Some sites are free but request that you link back to the photographer’s page or the image library in exchange for using their images.
One other thing it's important to check is this...
Check the License Terms
No matter where you’re getting your images from, it’s important to check the site's license terms.
Some allow free or low-cost use for personal or website projects. But if you’re planning to use the image for something like t-shirts, posters or products for sale, there may be additional fees or royalties involved.
My Go-To Online Graphic Sites
Here are a few of my favourite sites to source images for business use:
- Pixabay
- Canva (many are free, some are paid)
- Elevae Visuals (one of my absolute favourites!)
- PicJumbo
- Pexels
- Unsplash
- Free Images
- Dreamstime
- Public Domain Pictures
- Getty Images
- Shutterstock
- iStock
This is just a small selection—there are dozens more out there, so you’ve got plenty of options to explore.
(Quick heads up: Some of these links may be affiliate links, which means I might earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them—at no extra cost to you. I truly appreciate your support, and it helps me keep bringing valuable content your way!)
Pro Tip: Know Your Usage Rights
Yes, I know I've mentioned this already but it's so important it bears repeating...
Always, always read the terms of use or licensing info before using an image. Make sure you’re allowed to use it in the way you intend, especially if it’s for commercial purposes.
Remember, when you come across an image site you love, go ahead and bookmark it so you can easily return to it whenever you need that perfect shot.
Happy creating!
