by Christopher Chatterton

Created on: July 15, 2008

Places to find free stock photos:

Stock photographs to a graphic designer are what water is to a desert oasis; without stock photos, neither can survive. I speak from personal experience as my dad is a graphic designer and uses stock photos every single day, several times a day to create brochure advertisements for a local holiday company. So with this in mind I will share his wisdom with you that he has bestowed on me many times.

What are stock photos exactly?

Stock photographs are a collection of photographs on any given topic, usually several on a particular theme stored in an archive where people can access them and use them as they wish.
Usually there is a fee for this as most contributors use stock photography as a means to supplement their income, however they usually only receive small amounts for single photos so volume is important.

Photographs are categorised into particular themes, so when you search for 'aeroplanes' in the search box of a stock photo site, all pictures pertaining to that category will show up.

Why are there stock sites?

Again, stock photos can be used by businesses but also by the general public (on certain un-commercial sites), however the common factor is that the subscriber obtains permission or they are likely to face breach of copyright laws.

This is often the case with high-end stock photo sites such as www.stockphotography.co.uk and www.inimagine.com (where single photographs can cost as much $40 - $80), where the site clearly stipulates that any breach will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.

A serious business then this stock photography, but it needn't give you cause for concern. There are plenty of free stock photo sites that are highly reputable and reliable, and have high-quality images on abundant subjects. They are very useful for school or college students who need a picture for a project at short notice, graphic artists and even if you'd just like a certain picture to put on your desktop.

What are the terms and conditions of free stock photos?

Usually it depends on the particular site and so you will need to read the rules of each site carefully, but generally you will need to complete a simple registration form that is free of charge. This will include your name, address, e-mail address, telephone number and other miscellaneous information.
However, if you do not trust the site then do not leave your details with them as they could use them for fraudulent activities. If you can see a yellow padlock in your browser

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