How to Get Free Images

Even when it's not required, it's courteous to give the photographer credit.

Images can be used on a blog or website as part of the layout or to illustrate a certain concept. It may be tempting to snag the perfect picture from another site, but using images without permission is illegal. Fortunately, many photographers allow their photos to be used in exchange for credit. Find images for personal and commercial use online in free stock photo libraries and on sites that make images available under a Creative Commons license.

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• Internet connection

Instructions

1. Browse the free stock photo library on the Stock.Xchng website. This site contains thousands of high-quality photos available for both personal and commercial use. Registration is required.

2. Check out MorgueFile. Despite the slightly morbid name, MorgueFile offers thousands of free photos that cover a wide variety of subjects. The license agreement is generous, allowing you to use and edit the images for commercial purposes. The site doesn't require registration, and you're not obligated to credit the photographer.

3. Search Flickr for images available under the Creative Commons license. This is useful to find photos, but be careful because not all Creative Commons licenses bestow the same permissions. Make sure you check the specific license for the images that you want to use; this information will be linked on the photo page under the "Additional Information" heading.

Tips & Warnings

• Always read the image license carefully when using a stock photo site or a Creative Commons image.

References

• Stock.Xchng: Image License
• MorgueFile: Free License

Resources

• Stock.Xchng: Homepage
• MorgueFile: Homepage
• Flickr: Creative Commons