Not every image on the internet is fair game. Here’s a quick guide on what’s okay to use:
1. Your Own Photos
The best option! Original photos make your website unique and personal. Plus, no legal worries—win-win! Take a look at this article ‘Why Stock Photography Might Not Be Enough‘ to find out why using your own images is best!
2. Royalty-Free Images
Websites like Unsplash, Pexels, and Pixabay offer great high-quality images you can use for free.
3. Licensed Stock Photos
Want premium-quality images? Sites like Shutterstock and Adobe Stock let you buy the perfect pic.
4. Creative Commons (CC) Images
Some images are free but require credit to the creator. Check the terms before using!
5. Public Domain Images
These are free for everyone—no credit needed! Try Public Domain Archive or Wikimedia Commons.
6. AI-Generated Images
Want something custom? Tools like DALL·E and MidJourney create unique images, but check if there are any restrictions.
7. Using Other People’s Logos or Photos
If you’ve worked with a company and want to use their logo or photos, get written permission first! Many brands have strict rules about logo use, so check their policies.
How to Use Images Like a Pro
Having the right images is only half the battle—here’s how to use them well:
1. Optimize for Speed
Huge image files = slow website. Compress them with TinyPNG or Smush to keep things running smoothly.
2. Use High-Quality Images
Blurry or pixelated pics scream “unprofessional.” Stick to high-resolution images that look sharp.
3. Keep It Consistent
Pick a style and color scheme that matches your brand so everything feels cohesive – which is why it’s taking us forever to finish our rebrand haha!
4. Add Alt Text
This helps with SEO and makes your site accessible for visually impaired users. Win-win!
5. Don’t Steal Images
Just because it’s on Google doesn’t mean it’s free to use. Always check the usage rights.
6. Use Images That Match Your Message
If you run a fitness blog, don’t just grab random stock images—use pictures that actually fit your content!
7. Make It Mobile-Friendly
Your images should look great on phones, tablets, and desktops. Test across devices to be sure.
8. Use Images to Guide Action
Want visitors to sign up or buy now? Use images to draw their attention to buttons and important sections.
Final Thoughts
Using the right images the right way can transform your website! Choose legal, high-quality pictures, optimize them for performance, and make sure they fit your brand. Done right, images can boost engagement, improve conversions, and make your site shine!
Need help picking or optimizing images? Let’s chat!