The answer to this question is a bit more complex than simply a “yes” or “no”. In many cases, writers are looking for suitable (and free) images and photos for their book. This often strengthens the story and adds significant value to what you want to convey in your book. But how do you obtain the right visual material without running into problems? There are various ways to do this!
Images or no images
It is, of course, a free choice whether or not to include images in your book. Texts are read much faster and better when combined with images. Nowadays, there are countless ways to easily obtain good images. So you don’t have to worry about having to take an extensive photography course first! Our advice? Always use images!
The difference between free and royalty-free
A quick Google search and you’ve already found a cool image that fits your story. However, you can’t just use it! Using images that are not royalty-free can cause you a huge amount of hassle and turn into a very costly affair. The fact that these images are free to download does not automatically mean they are royalty-free. Still found an image on Google that you would like to use? Then you will have to start a search for the photographer to ask if you can use it!
How do you obtain royalty-free images?
People often use intermediaries that offer “stock photos.” One of the best-known websites for this type of image is Shutterstock. The downside of these images is that you have to pay for them, you are not allowed to use them for all purposes, and they often create a somewhat “fake” feeling.
There is an alternative to these types of websites where you can download millions of images for free that often have a less cliché look. We have listed a number of these sites for you below. Feel free to browse through them and you will see that there is plenty available!
When using images, always double-check whether attribution is required. Some photographers make this mandatory, while others prefer it but do not consider it a must. Simply naming the copyright holder is often sufficient and shows respect towards that person :)!
Disadvantages
Using free royalty-free images also has a number of disadvantages. For instance, you might encounter the image you carefully selected at another company. Of course, anyone can download these images and use them wherever they want.
Additionally, you might easily settle for a photo that doesn’t align 100% with your text. Taking your own photo always remains more personal and makes you unique. A good alternative is to download an image from one of the websites mentioned above and then edit it with, for example, a nice quote or something similar.