Blog posts with images attached get more views and shares – this is a truism that we cannot escape. But getting access to usable images legally, i.e. without infringing on anyone’s copyright, is where the problem comes in. $199, $249, $499 these are some of the prices for monthly subscriptions from Shutterstock and iStock (by Getty Images).
Objectively speaking, these prices are not ridiculously expensive but many of us just cannot afford to spend this much on pictures (especially when we are just starting out). But, neither can we just violate the law by plucking and using the images we like from Google either. So what should we do?
- First, do an internet search of for the various sites that offer free images. Here is a list from OpenForum, although it does not include my favorite free site Freedigitalphotos.net.
- Second, understand the different types of licenses available for photos.
- Third, remember that if “a photographer chooses to place his work in the public domain, there is no license or cost to use it.” This is where sites like Tumblr becomes your friend. There are millions of amazing photos there that were simply added to the "public domain". I would recommend, however, that you always provide credit for the images that you choose to use.
- Fourth, if you are creatively gifted and have access to a camera and photo editing tools, why not create your own images?
Don't worry, you don’t have to try to memorize all the points I listed above. Here is a killer infographic, courtesy of Kristin Piombino, that outlines just about everything you need to know about legally getting, creating and using visually stunning images for your blog and social media posts.
