Numerous websites provide access to free stock photos, royalty-free images, and videos created by talented photographers and videographers worldwide. Here are some of the most popular platforms:
Unsplash: Boasting over 1 million high-resolution images and videos, Unsplash features stunning visuals contributed by photographers globally.
Pexels: With a library of over 1 million free stock photos and videos, Pexels offers content licensed under the Creative Commons Zero (CC0) license, making it easy to use for any purpose.
Pixabay: This platform provides access to more than 1.8 million free stock photos, illustrations, and videos, all available under the CC0 license for unrestricted use.
StockSnap: Known for its high-resolution images and videos, StockSnap’s collection is shared by photographers and also falls under the CC0 license.
Death to the Stock Photo: A unique service that delivers free stock photos and videos directly to your inbox monthly, catering specifically to creative professionals.
Freepik: Offering a vast collection of free vector art, graphics, icons, photos, and PSD files, Freepik is ideal for both personal and commercial projects.
Burst by Shopify
Burst is a free stock photo platform by Shopify that is explicitly designed for entrepreneurs and e-commerce businesses. It offers a unique collection of product-focused images.
Key Features:
- E-Commerce Focus: Ideal for product photography and business-related visuals.
- No Attribution Required: Free for commercial use.
- Business Ideas: Includes guides and tips for entrepreneurs.
Videezy
Videezy is a top platform for free stock videos and motion graphics. It offers a mix of free and premium content, with the free section being robust enough for most users.
These platforms provide a diverse range of visuals, ensuring you can find the perfect asset for your project. Best of all, they are free to use, and attribution is not required. However, always review the licensing terms before using any image or video in commercial work, as some may have specific usage restrictions.
Key Features:
- High-Quality Videos: 4K and HD videos available.
- Free and Premium Options: Access both free and paid resources.
- Easy Download: Simple download process with no sign-up required for free content.
Cover
Coverr specializes in free stock videos, particularly for website backgrounds. Its collection is perfect for adding a dynamic touch to your web design.
Key Features:
- Website-Focused: Ideal for homepage and background videos.
- No Attribution Required: Free for personal and commercial use.
- Weekly Updates: New videos are added every week.
Reshot
Reshot offers a unique collection of handpicked, non-stocky images. Its focus is on authentic, real-life visuals that stand out from generic stock photos.
Key Features:
- Authentic Imagery: Avoids the cliché stock photo look.
- Free for Commercial Use: No attribution required.
- Curated Collections: Handpicked images for a more personal touch.
Freepik
Freepik is a versatile platform offering free stock photos, vectors, and PSD files. While it has a premium option, its free section is extensive and highly useful.
Key Features:
- Diverse Resources: Photos, vectors, and PSD files.
- Attribution Required: Free users must credit the author.
- Extensive Library: Millions of resources to choose from.
Canva Free Photos
Canva, a popular design tool, also offers a free photo library. While primarily a design platform, its free photo section is a hidden gem for content creators.
Key Features:
- Integrated with Canva: Easily use photos in your designs.
- No Attribution Required: Free for personal and commercial use.
- Simple Interface: User-friendly and easy to navigate.
Use Free Stock Photos, Royalty-Free Images, and Videos?’
Before diving into the best platforms, let’s understand why these resources are essential:
- Cost-Effective: Free stock photos and videos save you money while maintaining quality.
- Time-Saving: Instead of creating visuals from scratch, you can access ready-to-use resources.
- Legal Safety: Royalty-free licenses ensure you can use the content without worrying about copyright issues.
- Versatility: From blogs to social media, these resources cater to a wide range of content needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are free stock photos and royalty-free images?
Free stock photos and royalty-free images are high-quality visuals that can be downloaded and used for personal or commercial projects without paying licensing fees. “Royalty-free” means you don’t have to pay royalties each time you use the image, but you may need to check the specific license terms for attribution requirements.
Are free stock photos and videos really free?
Yes, the platforms listed in this article offer free stock photos, images, and videos. However, some platforms may also have premium content available for purchase. Always check the licensing terms to ensure the resource is free for your intended use.
Can I use free stock photos and videos for commercial purposes?
Most free stock photo and video platforms allow commercial use, but it’s essential to review the license terms. Some platforms may require attribution (crediting the creator), while others do not. Always double-check to avoid legal issues.
Do I need to credit the photographer or creator?
It depends on the platform and the specific license. For example, Unsplash and Pexels do not require attribution, but platforms like Freepik may need it for free users. When in doubt, giving credit is a good practice and shows appreciation for the creator’s work.
What is the difference between free stock photos and paid stock photos?
Free stock photos are available at no cost, while paid stock photos typically require a purchase or subscription. Paid stock photos often come with higher quality, exclusive content, and more flexible licensing terms. However, free stock photos are an excellent option for those on a budget.
Conclusion
Free stock photos, royalty-free images, and videos are invaluable resources for content creators. Platforms like Unsplash, Pexels, and Pixabay offer high-quality visuals that can enhance your projects without costing a dime. By leveraging these tools, you can create professional, engaging content that resonates with your audience.
