The Ultimate Guide to Finding Free Stock Photos for Your Small Business

Finding quality, free stock photos for your small business can be a daunting task. I remember spending an absurd amount of time last week, three whole hours, browsing through images of people pointing at blank whiteboards. That's not even something people do in real life, is it?!

After running my marketing business for a few years, I've picked up on some invaluable tricks that can save you a tangle of headaches. Let me share them with you and make your life a bit easier.

Exploring the Best Free Stock Photo Sites

Unsplash

Unsplash is a massive gold mine for those stunning, naturally styled photos. You know the ones that don't look like clichés straight out of a magazine or a bland marketing website? Unsplash offers exactly this. So, if you're searching for something with a more organic feel, Unsplash is where you should start. (That, or if you just love nature shots!)

Pexels

Pexels is the go-to site for businesses that need realistic, natural-looking imagery. It's perfect for business snapshots, office settings, or any scenario that requires a bit of authenticity. Plus, it’s completely free, and who doesn't like that?

Canvas Free Photos

Canvas Free Photos are a fantastic choice if you’re already utilizing design tools like Canva. These images integrate seamlessly into your work, and the collection is incredibly diverse, making it easier to find something that fits your brand's aesthetic perfectly.

The Problem with Free Stock Photos

One of the downsides of finding the perfect free photo is that it might already be sitting on five or six other websites in your industry. Yes, it can be really awkward to see the same image everywhere. That’s why I began to explore more into paid options.

A Game-Changer: Depositphotos

Depositphotos offered a solution to this problem. Their photos are simply unmatched. They may be more expensive, but the quality and uniqueness make every dollar worth it. Unlike the run-of-the-mill free photos, Depositphotos provide images that are distinctive and can help you stand out.

Starting with Free, Keeping an Eye on Paid

I'm not trying to tell you to shell out money right away. Start with the free stuff; it’s completely fine! Just keep a paid subscription in mind for those times when you need something really specific or unique. Trust me, you’ll be glad you did.

Pro Tip: Bookmark Your Favorites

One of the hardest lessons I learned the hard way is to bookmark your favorite photos as you go. This is convenient for when you need to use a photo quickly, such as before a big launch. Don’t wait until the last minute and find yourself in a frantic search for that perfect image.

Remember, the goal is to find imagery that enhances your brand, not detracts from it. Skip those cringey photos of businesspeople high-fiving in the office. Nobody wants to see that anymore, and it’s not in line with modern business aesthetics.