Stock Photography Help and Advice

[Jones151]

Hi, I'm Erica and am new to the forum

I'm in the process of starting my own web design business but am concerned about what photographs I should be using for my clients (and for my own website). I want to avoid any copyright issues so I can only see 2 options:

1) Take the photos myself (this isn't really a great option as my photography skills are lacking, but I'll do it if there are no alternatives)

2) Am I right in thinking there are Stock Photography (free?) websites where I can sign up and use their images for my website/clients websites?

As I don't really have anyone who knows this industry, I'm hoping people here can give me some advice.

Thanks

 

[ronaldroe]

There are both pay and free options. Shutterstock is a good pay site. For free stock photography, start with Creative Commons or Wiki Commons, but pay attention to the licenses.

 

[Jones151]

There are both pay and free options. Shutterstock is a good pay site. For free stock photography, start with Creative Commons or Wiki Commons, but pay attention to the licenses.

Thanks for the info. Because I'm still new to this, can you (if it isn't too much of a hassle) tell me how you know what license each image is?? Is this info provided when you sign up with Shutterstock?

Also, what services do you yourself use and what would you recommend for being the most user friendly?

Thanks again.

 

[ronaldroe]

With Shutterstock, you either buy credits, or pay a recurring fee, and you can use the images for just about anything. With CC or WikiCommons, the license is on the page for the image. I use CC and Wiki mostly, or I take my own photos.