How to Download Shutterstock Images Without Watermarks in 2019?

Looking to access high-quality images for your projects? Shutterstock is one of the most popular platforms for stock photos, videos, and vectors. Whether you’re a designer, blogger, or business owner, understanding how to legitimately download images from Shutterstock can save you time and legal trouble. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of downloading images without watermarks in 2019, ensuring you get the content you need while respecting copyright rules. Let’s dive into what makes

Understanding Watermarks and Their Purpose

You might have noticed that many preview images on Shutterstock come with a watermark—those annoying but protective overlays that say “Sample” or display a faint logo. Watermarks serve as a security measure, preventing unauthorized use of images before purchase. They ensure that only users who buy a license can access the full, high-resolution version without any obstructions. Think of watermarks as a digital fingerprint—they mark the image as copyrighted and discourage theft or misuse.

When you browse Shutterstock, the watermarked versions give you a good idea of what the final image will look like, but they aren’t meant for your actual project. To use an image legally and professionally, you need to purchase a license, which grants you access to the original, watermark-free file. This process helps photographers and artists protect their work while allowing users to obtain high-quality images for commercial or personal use.

It’s important to understand that attempting to remove watermarks through unauthorized means is illegal and unethical. Not only can it lead to legal consequences, but it also undermines the hard work of content creators. The right way to get watermark-free images is by purchasing the appropriate license from Shutterstock, ensuring you’re compliant with copyright laws and supporting the creators behind the images you love.

3. Legal Ways to Obtain Shutterstock Images Without Watermarks

If you’ve ever tried to grab a Shutterstock image without a watermark, you probably noticed that the watermarked version is everywhere — on blogs, social media, and even printed materials. That’s because the watermarks are placed there intentionally to protect the artist’s work and prevent unauthorized use. So, how can you get high-quality, watermark-free images legally? The answer is simple: follow the right channels. Here are some legit ways to do it:

Purchase a License: The most straightforward way is to buy a license directly from Shutterstock. When you purchase an image, you get the high-resolution, watermark-free version that’s cleared for your intended use. This supports the creators and keeps everything above board.
Subscribe to Shutterstock: If you frequently need images, consider subscribing or buying a credit package. This gives you access to a wide range of images at a lower overall cost, with the peace of mind that you’re operating legally.
Use Shutterstock’s Free Trial: Shutterstock occasionally offers free trials or free images for new users. During the trial, you might be able to download images without watermarks, but be sure to check the terms to ensure you’re complying with their policies.
Look for Public Domain or Creative Commons Content: Sometimes, Shutterstock offers images that are licensed for free use, especially during promotions or special campaigns. Always verify the license type before using these images without watermarks.

Remember, attempting to remove watermarks or use unauthorized methods to access watermark-free images can lead to legal trouble, including fines or lawsuits. Respect the rights of content creators and always choose legal avenues to obtain images. This not only keeps you safe but also supports the artists and photographers who put their time and effort into creating stunning visuals.

4. Steps to Download Shutterstock Images Legally in 2019

If you want to ensure you’re downloading Shutterstock images legally, here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you get high-quality, watermark-free images in 2019:

Create a Shutterstock Account: Head over to the Shutterstock website and sign up for an account. It’s quick, easy, and free to get started.
Choose Your Payment Plan: Decide whether a subscription or a credit pack suits your needs best. Consider how many images you plan to download monthly or per project.
Browse and Select Images: Use the search bar to find images relevant to your project. When you find an image you like, click on it for more details.
Review Licensing Options: Check the licensing details to ensure it fits your intended use—whether for commercial or personal purposes.
Add to Cart and Purchase: Once satisfied, add the image to your cart. Proceed to checkout, and complete the payment process.
Download the Watermark-Free Image: After purchase, you’ll be able to download the high-resolution, watermark-free version directly from your Shutterstock account. Simply click the download button, and your image will be saved to your device.
Keep Records of Your License: It’s a good practice to save your purchase confirmation and license information. This can be helpful if you need to prove you have legal rights to use the image.

By following these steps, you ensure that your use of Shutterstock images is fully compliant with legal standards. It might seem simpler to try to find loopholes or use shady methods, but investing in legitimate downloads is worth it for peace of mind and supporting the creative community. Plus, with a proper license, you can confidently use your images across various projects without worrying about copyright issues.

5. Tips for Using Shutterstock Images Without Watermarks Safely

So, you’ve found the perfect Shutterstock image and want to use it without the pesky watermark. That’s great! But it’s super important to do so responsibly to avoid any legal issues or copyright problems. Here are some practical tips to help you stay safe:

Always purchase the correct license: Shutterstock offers different licensing options—Standard and Enhanced. Make sure you select the right one for your project. If you plan to use the image commercially or in high-resolution formats, opting for an appropriate license is key.
Download directly from Shutterstock: The safest way to get a clean, watermarked-free image is through your Shutterstock account. This way, you’re ensuring the image’s authenticity and legal clearance.
Keep your receipts and licenses organized: Once you’ve purchased a license, save all related documentation. These can serve as proof of legal use if any questions arise later.
Respect the licensing terms: Read and understand the usage restrictions attached to your license. Some images may have limitations on how they can be used, especially for commercial purposes.
Use authorized third-party services cautiously: If you’re considering third-party sites that claim to offer Shutterstock images without watermarks, be very cautious. Many may be illegal, unsafe, or infringe on copyrights. Always prefer official channels.
Consider subscription or credit packs: Shutterstock offers flexible plans—subscriptions or pay-per-image credits—that make it easier and more affordable to access images legally.

By following these tips, you can confidently use Shutterstock images without watermarks while respecting copyright laws. It’s all about playing it safe, legal, and ethical—plus, it saves you from potential headaches down the line!

6. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Downloading Shutterstock Images

Even seasoned users can make mistakes when downloading images from Shutterstock. Knowing what to watch out for can save you time, money, and possible legal trouble. Here are some common pitfalls—and how to steer clear of them:

Using unlicensed images: Never use images you’ve found online outside of Shutterstock unless you are absolutely sure they are licensed for your intended use. Downloading images from unauthorized sources can land you in hot water.
Ignoring licensing restrictions: Not all images are created equal. Some licenses come with limitations—like how you can use the image, the size, or the distribution. Ignoring these can lead to violations.
Downloading from unofficial or third-party sites: There are many websites claiming to offer Shutterstock images without watermarks, but most are illegal or unsafe. Always stick to Shutterstock’s official platform.
Not saving proof of purchase: Always keep your license receipts and download confirmation emails. They are your legal proof if you ever need to demonstrate proper authorization.
Using images without editing or resizing properly: After download, ensure you resize or edit images appropriately for your project. Using low-resolution images or not cropping correctly can diminish quality or violate licensing terms.
Overlooking image quality and resolution: Download images that meet your project’s resolution needs. Using low-res images for print or high-res images for web is essential for maintaining professionalism.

Remember, the key is to stay informed and vigilant. Downloading images responsibly not only keeps you legally safe but also respects the hard work of photographers and artists. So, always double-check your licenses, use official sources, and avoid shortcuts that could cause trouble later!

Conclusion and Best Practices for Shutterstock Image Usage

Using Shutterstock images responsibly and legally is essential to ensure your projects remain compliant and professional. Always remember that watermarked images are for preview purposes only and should not be used in final products without proper licensing. To avoid copyright issues, it’s best to purchase the appropriate license for each image you intend to use.

Here are some best practices to follow:

Always obtain a valid license: Purchase images directly from Shutterstock or authorized distributors to access high-quality, watermark-free versions.
Use images within license limits: Pay attention to licensing restrictions such as usage rights, distribution limits, and geographic restrictions.
Keep proof of licensing: Save receipts and license certificates in case of future verification or disputes.
Avoid unauthorized sources: Downloading images from unofficial sites or through illegal means can lead to legal repercussions and damage your reputation.
Respect attribution requirements: Some licenses may require attribution; always adhere to the specified terms.

In addition, consider creating a clear workflow for image selection and licensing, ensuring all team members understand the importance of legal compliance. By following these guidelines, you can confidently use Shutterstock images to enhance your content while avoiding legal complications and maintaining ethical standards. Remember, investing in licensed images not only protects you legally but also supports the creators behind the visuals you love.