Public domain images for commercial use: Where to find them

High-quality visuals are essential for grabbing attention and making a lasting impression, especially if you want to grow your ecommerce store or enhance creative projects. Thankfully, public domain images offer a treasure trove of free pictures for personal and commercial use.

But where do you find these gems? In this guide, we'll explore the best resources for sourcing top-notch, copyright-free images. Whether you're a creator, artist, or entrepreneur, these sites will help you save time and money while enriching your visual content.

Ready to dive into the world of public-domain images and discover your new go-to sources? Let's go!

• Public domain images are a cost-effective way to find free images that are of high quality for commercial use without copyright concerns.

• Using a public domain image can significantly elevate the appeal of commercial products, providing unique and diverse visual content.

• Top websites like Pixabay, Unsplash, Pexels, and Wikimedia Commons offer vast libraries of royalty-free images in the public domain.

• Specialized sites such as Public Domain Vectors and Flickr: The Commons cater to niche image needs.

• Gelato’s design maker allows access to millions of photographs, enhancing product listings with professional-quality images.

Public domain images are visual content that is free from copyright restrictions, either because their copyright has expired, they have been released under a Creative Commons Zero (CC0) license, or they were never subject to copyright. This allows anyone to use, modify, and distribute these images freely for both personal and commercial purposes.

Wondering where to start looking for public-domain clip art and photographs to find the right visual content for your commercial projects? Check out these top 13 sites that provide access to stunning public domain images: 

1. Pixabay

As a community-driven platform, Pixabay boasts a vast collection of 45 million+ photos, videos, illustrations, and vectors, all available under the CC0 license. 

Here's a look at the platform features:

• Extensive collection: With over a million images, you will likely find the perfect visual for your needs.

• Easy to navigate: User-friendly filters allow you to sort by category, orientation, color, and more.

• High-quality content: All images are reviewed before being added to the collection, ensuring professional-grade material.

• No attribution required: Because the images are under the CC0 license, you can use them without crediting the creator.

• Free-to-use images: Downloading and using images from Pixabay won't cost you a dime, making it a budget-friendly option.

2. Unsplash

Founded with the mission to empower creativity by sharing beautiful visuals, Unsplash has become a go-to source for unique and artistic photos. 

Here's a look at what it offers:

• Vast collection: Unsplash offers a massive library of images across various categories, including nature, technology, people, and more.

• High-resolution images: The images on Unsplash are known for their excellent quality and high resolution, making them suitable for both digital and print projects.

• Easy search option: The platform's intuitive search functionality and well-organized categories help you find the perfect image quickly and efficiently.

• Crediting not required: While crediting photographers is always appreciated, it’s not mandatory, giving you flexibility in how you use the selected images.

3. Pexels

This platform is known for its diverse and extensive library of photos and videos contributed by a community of talented photographers. 

Here's why creators use this platform:

• Free for commercial use: All images and videos on Pexels can be used for any purpose, including commercial projects, without the need for attribution.

• High-quality visuals: The platform prides itself on curating only the best images, ensuring high-resolution and top-quality visuals.

• Extensive library: With hundreds of thousands of images and videos, Pexels covers various topics and styles.

• User-friendly interface: An easy-to-navigate website and search function make it simple to find the perfect image.

4. Public Domain Pictures

With a wide array of categories, this site makes finding the perfect image for your project quick and easy. 

Here's a look at what it offers:

• Extensive categories: From nature to technology, various categories make it simple to find what you need.

• Easy navigation: The user-friendly interface lets you search and filter images quickly.

• High-quality images: The site features high-resolution images suitable for any project.

• Free access: All images are available for free, offering a cost-effective resource for creators and businesses alike.

• Community contributions: Photographers and artists contribute to the collection, ensuring a diverse range of visuals.

5. Public Domain Vectors

The site hosts a vast collection of vector images free of copyright restrictions, ensuring that you can use them without any legal ramifications. 

Here's a look at what it offers:

• Wide selection: Public Domain Vectors offers a diverse array of vector graphics suitable for various applications, from simple icons to intricate illustrations.

• Easy navigation: The user-friendly interface allows for quick and efficient searches, helping you find exactly what you need.

• Download options: You can download images in multiple formats, including SVG, AI, and EPS, catering to different design software requirements.

• Attribution-free usage: All vectors are free to use without crediting the creator, making them commercially convenient.

6. Wikimedia Commons

Wikimedia Commons is an invaluable resource for anyone looking for high-quality public domain images for both personal and commercial projects. 

Here's a look at what it offers:

• Massive collection: With millions of files available, Wikimedia Commons offers an extensive range of images to suit any project.

• Quality and variety: The platform hosts everything from historical photographs to modern vector images, ensuring you find the perfect visual.

• User-friendly interface: The search functionality allows filters for media type, license, and more.

• Community-driven platform: Volunteers contribute and maintain content, ensuring a diverse and continuously growing library.

7. Flickr: The Commons

Launched in 2008 in partnership with the Library of Congress, this platform showcases hidden gems from public photography archives worldwide. 

Here's what it offers:

• Historical significance: Find photographs from historical events to provide a unique perspective on the past through your projects.

• Collaborative effort: Contributions come from prestigious institutions, ensuring high-quality and authentic images.

• Easy attribution details: While most images are public, Flickr provides detailed information for proper crediting when needed.

• Advanced search filters: Use keywords, tags, and other filters to find what you need quickly.

8. LibreShot

Created by Czech photographer Martin Vorel, the site features a diverse collection of free photos for personal and commercial purposes. 

Here's a look at what it offers:

• Wide variety of images: LibreShot boasts an abundance of subjects, from landscapes to technology, making it a versatile resource for any project.

• Easy navigation: With its user-friendly interface, users can effortlessly browse through categories or use the search function to find exactly what they need.

• Attribution-free usage: All photos on LibreShot are available under the CC0 license, meaning you can use them freely without worrying about credits.

• High-resolution visuals: Ensure your project looks professional with its high-resolution photos.

9. StockSnap.io

This site continuously updates its vast stock photo library, ensuring that you have access to fresh, eye-catching visuals. 

Here's a look at what it offers:

• Intuitive search functionality: StockSnap.io boasts an excellent search feature, making it easy to find exactly what you need.

• Trending images: The site highlights trends, showing you what’s popular in real time.

• Variety of categories: You can browse through numerous categories to find images that best fit your needs, from business and technology to nature and fashion.

• Free downloads: Download as many images as needed without fees or a subscription.

10. Rawpixel

This website aims to provide the best stock photos, ensuring that every image is well-curated and ready for your commercial projects. 

Here's a look at what it offers:

• Wide variety: You’ll find everything from vintage illustrations to modern photography, all under public domain or CC0 licenses.

• Search filters: Easily navigate through categories, colors, and styles to quickly find the perfect image for your project.

• High-resolution images: Enjoy access to downloads in high-quality resolutions, ensuring your prints and digital products look professional.

• Free and premium: While many images are free, Rawpixel also offers a premium subscription for exclusive content and additional features.

11. New Old Stock

If you're a historical and vintage photo aficionado, New Old Stock has visuals you can't miss. The site curates old photographs from public archives. 

Here's why you might like this platform:

• Vintage appeal: Perfect for adding a classic or nostalgic touch to your projects.

• Easy access: The website is user-friendly, allowing you to browse and download images with ease.

• Diverse categories: From portraits to landscapes, the variety of themes ensures you'll find whatever you’re looking for.

• Authenticity: All images are sourced from public archives, ensuring they are genuinely in the public domain.

12. Life of Pix

The Life of Pix platform is free for personal and commercial use and prides itself on ensuring that every image is of premium quality. 

Here's a look at what it offers:

• Regular updates: New photos are added weekly, giving you fresh visuals for your projects.

• Photographer profiles: Get to know the artists behind the images and follow your favorites for more inspiration.

• Unlimited downloads: Enjoy unrestricted access to download as many images as you need without any limitations.

• Varied categories: From landscapes to urban scenes, the diverse categories help you find exactly what you're looking for.

13. Picography

The public domain images on this site are perfect for commercial use, allowing you to enhance your projects without worrying about copyright issues. 

Here's a look at what it offers:

• Various categories: From nature to technology, Picography offers diverse categories to suit your needs.

• Attribution-free usage: Use the images freely without crediting the photographer.

• Easy-to-navigate interface: Find exactly what you're looking for quickly and efficiently with the user-friendly interface. 

• Frequent updates: New photos are added regularly, ensuring a fresh selection each time you visit.

If the websites above don't suffice, there are several alternative sources for finding public domain images and free stock photos: 

• Google Search: Utilize Google’s “Image Search” tool. After entering your desired keywords, click on “Tools,” then navigate to the “Usage Rights” dropdown and select “Labeled for reuse.” This filter will help you find images that are available for commercial use without copyright restrictions.

• Public Domain Archives: Websites like Public Domain Archive offer a treasure trove of high-quality images that are free to use. They categorize images into various themes, making it easier for you to find what you need.

• Creative Commons Search: Platforms like Creative Commons have their own search engines focusing on images available under Creative Commons licenses. These include visuals that creators have voluntarily offered for public use.

• Everystockphoto: This is a free stock photo search engine that aggregates public domain image licenses from reputable sources like Flickr, NASA, and Wikimedia. It allows for a smooth and centralized search experience.

But what if you need a simpler solution to enhance your product listings with professional visuals? 

This is where Gelato comes into play. Gelato’s design maker provides you access to millions of photographs and images, simplifying the creative process. 

Here’s why it’s so powerful for creators, small businesses, and entrepreneurs: 

• Broad selection: Tap into a vast library of images, ensuring you find the perfect visual for any project.

• User-friendly interface: Gelato’s design maker is intuitive, making it easy for you to add, modify, and incorporate images into your designs.

• High-quality output: With Gelato, you can be assured that the images will be printed in high resolution on various products, from hoodies to tote bags to wall art.

Ready to start sourcing high-quality images for your next creative project? Try Gelato's print on demand solutions for the best quality prints!

Transform the wealth of public domain images into stunning custom products like t-shirts, mugs, wall art, phone cases, tote bags, and more. Gelato’s platform simplifies the process, providing high-quality prints and extensive design tools to bring your vision to life.

So, whether you’re an artist looking to monetize your art or a creator keen on making your online store visually compelling, Gelato's services are tailored to meet your needs.

Join Gelato today and choose a subscription plan that suits your needs. It's easier than ever to start creating unique, market-ready designs. 

Sign up for Gelato today!