Can I use that image on my website?

17th June 2015

When you’re looking for images to use on your website it’s important to know what you can and can’t do. If you use an image without permission you’re potentially breaking copyright laws and leaving yourself open to legal action.

So what are you options when trying to find high quality images for use on your website?

Hire a professional

Your best option is to hire a professional photographer to shoot the images for you. This way you’ll end up with nicely composed and properly lit photographs.

Shoot it yourself

If you don’t have the budget for a professional you could always try to shoot the images yourself. A small digital camera or a smartphone can produce good results if you get the composition and lighting right.

Shooting your own images means you won’t have to worry about rights. You’ll also get images that give a better representation of your business.

Use stock photography

Your other option is to use royalty free image websites like iStock or Shutterstock. These sites contain thousands of searchable, high quality images that you can license for use on your site. Be careful because there are still rights issues you need to be aware of.

Stock images usually fall into two categories:

Royalty free images

These are images you can use an unlimited number of times and for a range of applications. Just remember to stick to the terms of the license.

Rights managed images

These are images you can only use for a particular application or period of time. You might also have to pay a separate fee each time you use the image for a different purpose.

Check the license before you buy an image so you know exactly what you can use it for.

Let’s work together on a design project

I love to work with businesses who have a positive impact on the world and see the value of great design. If you need some help with a web design or branding project I’d love to hear from you.

Get in touch