If you’ve ever browsed the internet for high-quality images without wanting to break the bank, you’re not alone. Shutterstock is a popular platform known for its vast library of stunning visuals, but most of their images come with a price tag. Luckily, there are ways to access free Shutterstock images in 2019, whether for personal projects, blog posts, or creative endeavors. In this guide, we’ll explore how to find and download these free images legally and easily, so you can elevate your content without worrying about licensing issues or costs.
Understanding Shutterstock’s Licensing and Usage Policies
Before you start downloading any images, it’s super important to understand Shutterstock‘s licensing and usage policies. Shutterstock offers different types of licenses, primarily Standard and Enhanced, each with its own rules about how you can use the images. The Standard License typically covers most common uses like websites, blogs, and social media, but has limitations on print runs and merchandise. The Enhanced License allows for broader uses, like large-scale printing or product packaging.
Now, when it comes to free images, Shutterstock sometimes offers free downloads as part of promotional campaigns or special offers. These free images are usually provided under specific licensing terms that you need to adhere to. It’s vital to:
- Check the license type associated with each free image to ensure your intended use is permitted.
- Respect attribution requirements if they apply; some free images may require you to credit the photographer or Shutterstock.
- Avoid unauthorized uses beyond what the license permits, such as reselling images or using them in sensitive contexts.
Understanding these policies helps you stay compliant and avoid legal issues down the line. Always read the terms associated with each free download, and if you’re unsure, Shutterstock‘s licensing page offers comprehensive details. Remember, while free images are a great resource, respecting licensing rules ensures that creators are fairly credited and that you’re using images ethically and legally.
3. Methods to Find Free Shutterstock Images in 2019
If you’re looking to snag free Shutterstock images in 2019, you’re in luck—there are several effective methods to do so. Shutterstock is known for its vast collection of high-quality images, but accessing them for free can be a bit tricky if you don’t know where to look. Let’s explore some handy approaches.
a. Keep an Eye on Shutterstock’s Free Trial and Promotions
Shutterstock often offers free trials or promotional downloads, especially for new users. These free trials usually include a set number of images you can download without paying. To take advantage of these:
- Sign up for their free trial on the official website.
- Check their promotional banners regularly for special offers.
- Be sure to read the terms so you know how many images you can download and for how long.
This method is straightforward but temporary, so it’s best for one-off projects or testing out their library.
b. Use Shutterstock’s Free Image Collections
Shutterstock does curate a collection of free images that anyone can access without a subscription. To find these:
- Visit the Shutterstock website.
- Navigate to the ‘Free Images’ section, usually linked in their menu or footer.
- Browse or search through the free images available.
These images are typically licensed for personal or commercial use, but always double-check the licensing details before you use them.
c. Search for Creative Commons or Public Domain Images
While Shutterstock primarily hosts paid images, some free images are also available under Creative Commons or Public Domain licenses. You can try searching specifically for these by adding keywords like ‘Creative Commons’ or ‘Public Domain’ in your search queries within Shutterstock or other platforms.
d. Use Browser Extensions and Tools
Some browser extensions claim to help find free Shutterstock images or similar content. Be cautious, and ensure you’re not violating Shutterstock’s terms of use. Always verify the licensing before downloading or using any image you find through these tools.
In summary, the key methods involve leveraging official free collections, taking advantage of promotional offers, and carefully searching for licensed free images. Remember, respecting copyright and licensing terms is crucial to avoid legal issues down the line.
4. Using Free Image Resources and Platforms
If you want to expand your options beyond Shutterstock’s own free offerings, there are plenty of reputable platforms dedicated to providing high-quality images for free. These sites are treasure troves for bloggers, marketers, designers, or anyone needing eye-catching visuals without the hefty price tag.
Popular Free Image Platforms You Should Know
| Platform | Highlights | License Type |
|---|---|---|
| Unsplash | Offers a huge collection of stunning, high-resolution photos contributed by photographers worldwide. | Creative Commons Zero (CC0) — free for commercial and personal use. |
| Pexels | Provides a wide variety of photos and videos, searchable by categories and colors. | CC0 License — no attribution required. |
| Pixabay | Includes photos, illustrations, vectors, and videos all under a free license. | CC0 License. |
| Burst by Shopify | Specializes in business-related images, perfect for entrepreneurs and startups. | Royalty-free, free for commercial use. |
Tips for Using Free Image Resources Safely
- Always check the license details—most platforms specify if attribution is needed.
- Avoid images that have restrictions on commercial use unless you have the rights.
- Give credit when required; it’s good practice and respectful to photographers.
- Use search filters to find images that fit your project’s style and resolution needs.
Beyond these popular platforms, there are niche sites and community-driven repositories that might suit specific themes or aesthetics. Using a combination of Shutterstock’s free offerings and external free resources can give you a rich library of images without spending a dime.
By knowing where to look and how to search effectively, you’ll be able to find the perfect visuals for your projects in 2019 and beyond. Just remember to always respect licensing terms and give credit when it’s due. Happy browsing!
5. Tips for Downloading and Using Shutterstock Images Legally and Safely
Downloading images from Shutterstock can be a great way to enhance your projects, but it’s important to do so responsibly. Ensuring that you follow legal guidelines not only keeps you out of trouble but also respects the hard work of photographers and artists. Here are some handy tips to help you navigate the process safely and legally.
Understand the Licensing Options
Shutterstock offers different types of licenses—standard and enhanced. The standard license is suitable for most online projects, such as websites, blogs, and social media posts. However, if you plan to use images in merchandise, large print runs, or promotional materials, you might need an enhanced license. Always read the licensing terms carefully before downloading.
Use Only Authorized Downloads
Never resort to illegal methods of obtaining images, like pirated downloads or unauthorized sources. Stick to Shutterstock’s official platform to ensure legal compliance. This also guarantees the quality and safety of the images, reducing the risk of malware or low-quality files.
Keep Track of Your Downloads and Licenses
Maintaining records of your downloaded images and licenses can save you headaches later, especially if you get asked about your usage rights. Save confirmation emails or license certificates provided by Shutterstock as proof of legal use.
Avoid Overusing Free or Unlicensed Images
If you’re tempted to use images from free sources or unofficial websites, be cautious. Free images often have restrictions, or worse, may be copyrighted without proper attribution. When in doubt, opt for Shutterstock’s paid images or reputable free stock photo sites with clear licensing terms.
Be Mindful of Model and Property Releases
Some Shutterstock images feature recognizable people or private property. If you plan to use images for commercial purposes, verify whether the image has the necessary releases. This protects you from legal issues related to privacy or publicity rights.
6. Alternative Websites for Free Stock Images
If you’re looking for free stock images to complement your projects or if Shutterstock isn’t within your budget, there are plenty of reputable websites that offer high-quality photos at no cost. Here’s a quick overview of some popular options:
| Website | Highlights | License Type |
|---|---|---|
| Unsplash | Beautiful, high-resolution photos from photographers worldwide. No attribution required. | Royalty-free, free to use for commercial and personal projects. |
| Pixabay | Photos, illustrations, vectors, and videos. Wide variety of content. | Creative Commons CC0 license, free for commercial use. |
| Pexels | Curated collection of high-quality images and videos. User-friendly search. | Free for personal and commercial use. No attribution needed. |
| Gatisography | Quirky, artistic photos that add a unique touch to your projects. | Free for personal and commercial projects, no attribution required. |
| Foodiesfeed | Specialized in high-resolution food photos, perfect for culinary projects. | Free to use, attribution not required. |
Remember, even with free images, it’s good practice to check the license details on each website. While most are very permissive, some images might have specific restrictions or require attribution. Using these sites can be a fantastic way to access stunning visuals without spending a dime, especially when you’re just starting out or working on a tight budget.
Conclusion and Best Practices for Accessing Free Shutterstock Images
In summary, obtaining free Shutterstock images in 2019 requires understanding the available resources, respecting licensing agreements, and utilizing legitimate channels. While Shutterstock primarily offers paid images, there are several ways to access high-quality visuals without cost, such as through free trial offers, promotional campaigns, or by exploring their free image collection. It’s essential to ensure that you are compliant with Shutterstock’s terms of use to avoid copyright issues.
Here are some best practices to keep in mind:
- Use Official Sources: Always download images directly from Shutterstock’s website or authorized partners to ensure authenticity and legality.
- Leverage Free Trials and Promotions: Sign up for free trials or promotional offers that Shutterstock occasionally provides, which often include free downloads.
- Explore Free Collections: Shutterstock offers a collection of free images that can be used for personal and commercial projects, often requiring attribution.
- Read Licensing Terms Carefully: Understand the usage rights associated with each image to avoid legal complications.
- Use Reliable Tools and Plugins: Some third-party tools facilitate access to free images but verify their legitimacy to prevent copyright infringement.
By following these best practices, you can efficiently access quality Shutterstock images without infringing on copyrights, ensuring your projects are both visually appealing and legally compliant. Always prioritize ethical sourcing and respect the efforts of professional photographers and creators.
