Are you looking for cheap stock photos for your website or blog? A lot of cheap stock photos are available over the internet. Some of them are good. Some are not. If you are trying to find images, then you need to make sure that they don’t suck. Luckily, we offer you some tips and advice on how to find stock photos that will help you establish your brand. Here are 4 of the common mistakes you need to avoid when looking for stock photos.
- Getting FREE photos because they are cheaper and easier.
That’s true. They are definitely easier and certainly cost nothing, but they are also scarce. It may take you awhile to find the photo that best complements your core message. Also, you will be neglecting the efforts of our artists and photographers. Keep in mind that every download from stock photo sites such as Shutterstock, iStock and Depositphotos generates a royalty for artists. They are not difficult to navigate as well. Even if you are just starting with your website, you can easily find the photos you need to fill your creative projects. Besides, good imagery is affordable and worth your money unlike other business expenses.
- Failing to acquire a permit in writing.
Free photos do not give you licenses to use these photos. This could have legal implications due to violation of copyright. When you get cheap stock photos from a reputable site, you are allowed to use the images as stated in the agreement. This agreement will protect both you and the contributor.
- Trusting websites with free for commercial use images.
Images that are labeled free for commercial use is all over the Internet. They are often mistaken for copyright images, but that is not true most of the time. Just because someone labeled it as free to use does not mean it is. On the other hand, cheap stock photos from stock agencies are reviewed for legal issues and quality standards.
- Assuming that the first page is what all there is.
In stock photo agencies, the most popular are often found on the first page. It is very common for customers to get the simplest image. That’s why they end up higher in the search order. However, if you dig a little deeper, you will find that there is a wider variety of cheap stock photos. I’m sure there is one to suit your creative needs.
With these 4 common mistakes to avoid when finding cheap stock photos, I hope that you finally realize the importance of getting them from a reputable stock photo website. Although they will cost your money, I assure you they are worth the investment. You wouldn’t want to face any legal problems, do you? So, support our artists and photographers. Pick cheap stock photos instead of free ones.