How To Find Awesome Images For Digital or Print

Regardless of the type of event you’re planning, you’re most likely going to need to source gorgeous images for anything you need to print or design, from the invitations to the custom designed cake. Finding awesome images can be a creative and rewarding process if you know where to look. In this blog post, we'll guide you through the steps to discover stunning images for your display needs.

Don't be afraid to get creative!

Start with Stock Photo Websites:
Stock photo websites like Shutterstock, Adobe Stock, and Getty Images offer vast libraries of professionally shot images. While some require payment, many also provide free images or trials. Use relevant keywords to narrow down your search and find images that align with your project's theme.

Explore Creative Commons Images:
Platforms like Flickr and Wikimedia Commons host a wealth of images under various Creative Commons licenses. These images can often be used for free, but make sure to review the specific license terms for each image to comply with attribution or non-commercial requirements.

Consider Royalty-Free Image Libraries:
Some websites offer royalty-free image collections that allow you to pay a one-time fee for unlimited use. Websites like Pexels, Unsplash, and Pixabay are excellent resources for high-quality, free-to-use images.

Collaborate with Photographers:
If you have specific image requirements or want a unique touch, consider collaborating with photographers. Reach out to local photographers or use platforms like Instagram to find talented individuals who may be open to working with you on a project.

Utilize Graphic Design Software:
Graphic design software like Adobe Photoshop and Canva often include built-in image libraries and design elements that can be customized to suit your needs. These tools are perfect for creating custom graphics and designs.

Crowdsourced Photography:
Crowdsourced photography platforms like EyeEm and Foap allow you to request photos tailored to your project. You can brief photographers on your vision, and they can submit images for your consideration.

Public Domain Resources:
For historical or vintage-themed projects, explore public domain archives such as the Library of Congress or Europeana. These resources offer a treasure trove of images, documents, and artwork that are free to use.

Use Image Search Engines:
Google Images and Bing Image Search allow you to filter images by usage rights, making it easier to find images that you can use without violating copyright.

Create Your Own Images:
Sometimes the best way to get the perfect image is to create it yourself. Invest in photography equipment or use your smartphone to capture unique shots that fit your project perfectly. Some people have even better luck utilizing AI image generators to get unique, copyright-free images. 

Ensure Proper Attribution and Licensing:
Regardless of where you source your images, always double-check the licensing and attribution requirements. Properly crediting the image source or artist is essential to stay compliant with copyright regulations.

Finding awesome images for your event is an essential part of creating visually appealing and impactful content, especially when it comes to your custom event backdrop. With the wide range of resources available, from stock photo websites to public domain archives and crowdsourced photography platforms, you have a wealth of options to choose from. Remember to respect licensing agreements, attribute images when necessary, and ensure that the images you select align with your project's vision and message. Happy image hunting!