The use of compelling and authentic images has been a successful way to engage the younger generation. Social media posts are recommended to include at least one photo to capture the audience attention. Studies show that Facebook posts with images are 40 times more likely to be shared than other types of content. However, conducting your own photo shoot can be a tedious, time-consuming and expensive task. Thankfully, you can directly purchase cheap stock photos to save time and money.
Cheap stock photos are a piece of intellectual property. That’s why we always recommend buying them rather than downloading them for free. Unlike free photos, they include the right license that allows you to use them in your creative projects. In the future, when you are faced with legal issues, cheap stock photos can protect your business investment and your reputation. On the other hand, free photos will greatly damage you and your business. You don’t want to be sued because you’re a cheapskate, do you?
Here are some tips you should keep in mind when using cheap stock photos:
- Almost all stock images have usage restrictions. Common restrictions are on the use of the images in pornography and endorsement of political and religious views, and products or brands. Make sure you read the fine print of the licensing agreement.
- If you’re using cheap stock photos with people, make sure the stock site has a model release on file. Although it is uncommon, some models sue the photographer and the end user for using their likeness in their projects. Not to worry though, most stock photo sites have a model release included with their stock collection.
- Use a reverse image search to see how the images have been used online. The same cheap stock photo may be used for competitive causes or other embarrassing or conflicting campaigns.
- Make sure the cheap stock photo matches your brand guidelines. There is little value in using an image that is not relevant to your subject.
- Hiring a photographer and conducting your own photoshoot can be expensive and time consuming. You will have to spend time and money to complete it. You may even have to secure permits. If you are on a tight budget and time, this may not be a good idea. Instead, purchase cheap stock photos from these sites.
- Manage your digital assets effectively. Keep they organized and archives so you can easily access them when you need them. This is especially helpful if you are working with a team so you’ll know which images were used, where and when.
Should you got to the rout of free sites, scrutinize the license itself. Make sure that model releases have been secure. This can be a moderately difficult task and you will have to spend time ensuring that the images are A-OK for use. So, purchase cheap stock photos instead.