Free Commercial Image Sources: A Step-by-Step Guide

Did you know that some of the world’s most iconic advertisements use stock images for commercial use? For example, AlamapBBDO, a Brazilian ad agency, used stock photos from Getty Images to create their Endless Possibilities campaign in 2016. The advertising campaign combined photos of random people’s faces to recreate portraits of famous people such as the Dalai Lama and Pope Francis.

Most creative agencies prefer altering stock images in most of their work. This is because it allows them to create campaigns for different companies much faster at affordable costs. Keep reading to find out how to get free images for commercial use in your next project.

Part 1: Download images in loyalty-free sites

Several sites offer free images for commercial use as part of their services. In addition, you do not need to register an account to download the images. The sites typically rely on user contributions and content teams to ensure their databases are fresh and maintain consistent quality. Furthermore, all creative assets they offer fall under the creative commons zero license or a variation of it. Here are some of the sites that offer you images for commercial use for free.

1. Pexels

Pexels.com is a free-to-use provider of high-resolution photos and videos for aspiring creators. The German-based website was started in 2014 by two brothers and has been under the Canva umbrella since 2018.

Currently, the website hosts over 3.2 million images and videos from over 250,000 active contributors. In addition, all the material you find in its library is under the Pexels license, which slightly varies from the creative commons zero license model. Some of the restrictions it enforces include:

You can only use pexels images for commercial use after making alterations to the original image. For example, you can use part of an image to create a collage for your commercial branding.
Furthermore, you cannot use any of the website’s content to promote political ideologies and explicit content, especially if the images contain identifiable subjects.

Pexels is available through the following channels:

Your web browser by typing the URL pexels.com.
The Android and iOS app.
A plugin for other content creation software such as Google Slides and MS Office.
An extension on your Chrome browser.
You can also access the database using the official Canva app.

2. Unsplash

Another website that offers free images for commercial use is Unsplash, a subsidiary of Getty Images since 2021. The website is a favorite among creators boasting over 16 billion photo impressions monthly. In addition, the database consists of over 3.48 million photos from more than 265,000 unique contributors, all under the Unsplash license.

The Unsplash license restricts the sale of its creative assets without incorporating new creative elements, including using them in print media and physical goods such as mugs and caps.

You can access Unsplash from your web browser or request API integration for your application from the site’s owners. In addition, the site also hosts photo walks across different cities, where Unsplash guides show you the best photo locations around the city and the best camera techniques for your work. Some cities to host the event include Boston, Montreal, Tokyo, and Toronto.

3. Freerange

Freerange Stock is an online resource for photos, illustrations, and textures you can download and use for commercial and non-commercial purposes. Since 2007, the site has continued to provide high-quality images to its community of over 800,000 registered users.

Unlike the previous examples, all content on Freerange falls under the website’s Equalicense. It grants you broad commercial rights of its stock images while allowing the contributors to retain control of their copyright, image resale, and distribution. As such, you cannot use the images for bulk distribution or print-on-demand works.

Freerange Stock maintains its steady supply of images for commercial use via the following methods:

It has an in-house team of professional photographers who upload images across the different categories on the website.
Freerange Stock also purchases image rights or directly commissions photos from independent creators.
You can also contribute to the website’s library by voluntarily submitting your work to the platform. Kindly note that you will need a verified account to enable this function.
The website also works directly with photographers through a licensing and distribution model, providing them extra exposure on the site.
Finally, Freerange stock aggregates public domain images from other sources, including similar sites and government institutions. It does so by acknowledging the image owner and sometimes lists the image source when the owner is unknown.

Freerange Stock is accessible through your web browser or as an API integration on your app.

4. Vecteezy

Vecteezy is an extensive online library of free stock images for commercial use. Some of the site’s highlight features include the following:

A best-in-class search engine that incorporates multiple filters to ensure your results are extremely accurate. For example, you can sort images by color, style, number of people, and age of the subjects, something other free stock websites do not provide.
All images, videos, and vector illustrations are free for personal and commercial uses. It does so through a property sign and release model with its extensive network of contributors, which protects users from any legal liabilities.
Finally, it employs a content team that manually reviews each photo submission to ensure consistent quality standards for its offerings.

In addition, you can also purchase design resource bundles by subscribing to its Vecteezy pro for as little as $9 monthly. Some of the resources available include the Ultimate Text Effects Layer Styles Bundle for Photoshop, which costs $39 stand-alone or $4.50 when you subscribe to pro.

Part 2: Buy from stock providers

Another way to get images for commercial use is by buying them from stock providers. Some of the benefits of buying images from stock providers include:

You get a wide selection of unique photos from top-tier photographers. Stock providers always seek collaborations with the industry’s finest to edge out the competition.
You receive exemplary customer service with your purchase. Selecting the right image can be confusing for amateur creators. As such, stock image providers have customer support channels to help you throughout your creative process.
Stock images reduce your delivery times significantly. Buying images from a stock provider eliminates the need to invest in photography equipment and the time you need for post-production. As such, you can deliver projects in a fast and cost-effective way.

Despite the above positive, here are some challenges that buying stock images may present:

Not all stock image providers will have the creative assets you need.
Image overuse is likely since every creator will rush for the most popular contributor.

Below are some of the stock image providers you should consider.

1. iStock

iStockphoto.com is an online database of creative resources, including royalty-free photos, videos, audio, illustrations, and clip art you can use in your creations. The website is a Getty Images subsidiary based in Calgary, Canada. In addition, contributors earn royalties depending on how often users download their content.

2. Alamy.com

Alamy.com is a British-owned stock image provider with contributions from photographers and agencies in 173 countries. It compensates its contributors by offering higher than average payouts every time users download their creations. Some popular brands to use Alamy’s services include M&C Saatchi, Microsoft, and The Economist.

Part 3: Shot a Photo by yourself or create one with editing tools

Alternatively, you can get images for commercial use by shooting them yourself or creating them with editing tools such as Figma and Wondershare’s Filmstock. Here are some benefits of using this method:

You get exactly what you want, provided you have the required skills and equipment. Sometimes, getting the right image for your commercial purpose can be challenging. As such, shooting an original photo may be the only option.
You have full ownership of the image.

Unlike obtaining images from stock photography websites, you are free to use the image in whatever capacity you please without any restrictions. For example, sites such as Unsplash do not allow you to use their images in political statements, a restriction you can bypass when using your own creations.

However, you should also consider the following factors when using this method.

It requires a substantial investment

Getting high-quality images for commercial purposes requires specialist equipment. For example, the Panasonic LUMIX GH6 camera, which has 4K resolution capability, costs $2,197 on Amazon. This makes it extremely expensive for amateur creators.

There is a steep learning curve

Becoming a professional photographer takes time and effort. Unless you are creating as a hobby, it will be a while before you can start generating income from your creations.

Part 4: FAQs

1. Do you need a contributor account to get images for commercial use?

Not necessarily. Stock image sites like pexels.com allow you to download images from their website without creating an account. You will only need one if you want to showcase your work on the platform.

2. Can you use your smartphone to get images for commercial use?

Yes. Most stock image providers have device-specific apps that allow you to access their databases from your mobile device. For example, UnsplashPhotoPicker allows you access to the Unsplash library from your Android device.

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What Is an XML File and How to Export XML in Final Cut Pro X?

What is an XML File and How to Export XML in Final Cut Pro X?

Shanoon Cox

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

The XML files have multiple usages and contain the tags and texts as their main components. The purpose of the XML file is to format the data to aid in optimal storage and transfer process. The XML file consists of tags and texts. This tag contains the main elements of the file, and the text carries readable information.

Unlike HTML, the Extensible Markup Language describes the data content in a readable format without any complex codes. It is easy to understand and displays a clear illustration of the purpose. You can find the applications of XML in web publishing, to perform web tasks, and common uses like data storage, transfers.

Most users opt for XML due to its compatible features, readability, and personalization options. In this article, you will learn how to import and export XML files in the Final Cut Pro application. Use the below guidelines to carry out the desired process successfully. It is high time to get ready for an informative takeoff. Fasten your seats for the enlightening journey on the XML file at the Final cut pro X program.

[Part1: What is the XML file in Final cut pro X? ](#what is XML)

[Part2: Why exporting XML in final cut pro instead?](#export XML)

[Part3: How to import and export XML files in Final cut pro X?](#how to do it)

Part4: What editors can import and export XML files?

Part 1: What is the XML file in Final cut pro X?

XML, or Extensible Markup Language, can be imported and exported in Final Cut Pro. The best way to transfer the Final cut pro X files to any other third-party application is to use the XML format. Many programs do not recognize the file format of Final cut pro X documents. To convert it as a readable file, transfer the output in the form of XML type.

Most users may refine or edit the Final cut pro X files further to achieve their desired outcomes. To overcome the file compatibility issues, you must adopt the XML file pattern.

The sole purpose of the XML file is to avoid the complexity in transferring the data files like libraries, media, projects from the Final cut pro X app to another application. It minimizes the difficulties in handling the export procedure of the edited media files.

Despite ample methodologies in the digital space, XML is the simplest way to overcome unnecessary compatibility issues. You can convert the output files to a flexible format for a better transfer process. All forms of metadata, documents transfers occur using the XML file.

The handling comforts aid the usage of XML in the Final Cut Pro X ambiance. Quick processing is feasible with this file format and you can export them based on your needs. The simple texts with faster transfer persuade the editors to opt for this format. This Markup language is easy to understand, and you need not require any technical skills to understand the XML content.

The tags and texts reveal the standard operation of that file. You can work on the XML fine in your comforts unlike the other file types in the digital space. The Final Cut Pro X editors use the XML file to import and export the media file’s components, libraries, events for further processing. The XML serves as a comfortable file type to edit on the FINAL CUT PRO X platform.

Part 2: Why exporting XML in final cut pro instead?

You must be wondering, why do you need to export the XML file from the Final Cut Pro X environment? What are benefits do you achieve in transferring this XML content from this ambiance? Here comes the solutions for your queries in detail for better understanding.

For further editing

As you all know that, the foremost purpose of Final Cut Pro X is to edit, store and transfer the media files based on the requirement. In case, if you want to make a unique edit on the processed videos, then you must transfer the edited clips to the desired applications.

In this scenario, you require a reliable file format to carry the meta details of the edited videos. There is a need to export the XML file to the FINAL CUT PRO X platform. To make further edits, you must transfer the entire project to the editing tools without any data loss.

For teamworking

If you are working in groups, make your edits to be visible to your teammates. It requires a quick share of your projects from Final Cut Pro X to any other platform. To serve this purpose, export the XML files. XML file format assists in faster shares and lossless transfer to any required ambiance.

In addition, Filmora is even easier for team-working, click to see how .

To transfer projects, clips, and libraries to other APP or devices

The XML file carries the metadata elements of the projects. It contains crucial components like libraries, clips. Moreover, the XML format helps to overcome compatibility issues. You can transfer them to any application or device and disclose them in no time.

It acts as a standard file type to handle many digital spaces flawlessly. If there is a need for the edited XML files in Final Cut Pro X, immediately transfer them to the necessary apps or devices for further processing.

Part 3: How to import and export XML files in Final cut pro X?

The next question that arises quickly after surfing the above content is how to import and export the XML files in the Final Cut Pro X tool for further editing purposes.

In this section, you will discover efficient steps to carry out the transfer process flawlessly. It ensures lossless transfer and the XML files moves at a rapid rate to the desired ambiance from the Final Cut Pro X tool.

To import the XML file in the Final Cut Pro X program, follow the below guidelines.

Step 1: Open the Final cut pro X app on your device, then tap the File Menu at the top bar of the screen. From the dropdown list choose ‘Import -> XML’ option.

Step 2: Surf the folders in your device and select the desired XML file that requires the import action. Hit the ‘Import’ button to load the XML file into the Final Cut Pro X platform.

Another method to import the XML file into the Final Cut Pro X ambiance is that you can drag the XML files directly into the working environment of this program.

Next, you can learn how to export the XML files from the Final Cut Pro X tool for further edit and processing activities.

Step 1: Open the Final Cut Pro X program, choose the libraries or events that require the export process. Then, tap ‘File -> Export XML’. Type in the name for this XML file and choose the desired folder in your system for quick access.

Step 2: Enable the Metadata view pop-up to witness the data in the structured format. Select the XML version and press the ‘Save’ button to complete the export process.

The XML file is available in your system, and you can use it at any application for further processing.

Both the import and export process in Final Cut Pro X is simple, and you can try them without any issues. Few clicks are enough to complete the procedure flawlessly.

Part 4: What editors can import and export XML files?

There are surplus video editors available in the digital market to work with XML files to acquire the enhanced version of the clips. iMovie and Lumafusion programs can imports and exports the XML files to make depth edits as per the needs.

The iMovie application encourages the editors to import the XML files into its working timeline quickly. Simple drag and drop actions are enough to complete the import procedure. Insert the XML file in the timeline and make the necessary edits like trim, crop according to your requirement.

The Lumafusion is a renowned program that edits videos optimally on the iOS platform. You can import the XML files into this environment in no time. Press the ‘File -> Import’ option and navigate the folders to include the XML file into this video editor timeline. Using the built-in features of this app, make the perfect edits to suit your needs without any compromises.

Conclusion

Thus, you had an insightful discussion on the XML files and their associated import and export procedures in the Final Cut Pro X program. Use the above content to work with the XML files effectively.

The stepwise guidelines will aid you to tap the perfect controls for successful insertion and the transfer of the XML data. The glimpses of the video editing tools help you to understand that you can import the XML data for further edits.

This article had given you enlightening facts about XML and its importance during the transfer and storage process. Connect with this article to discover the role of XML in organizing the vital data and its associated imports and exports in the Final cut pro X program.

Shanoon Cox

Shanoon Cox is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Shanoon Cox

Shanoon Cox

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

[Part1: What is the XML file in Final cut pro X? ](#what is XML)

[Part2: Why exporting XML in final cut pro instead?](#export XML)

[Part3: How to import and export XML files in Final cut pro X?](#how to do it)

Part4: What editors can import and export XML files?

Part 1: What is the XML file in Final cut pro X?

Most users may refine or edit the Final cut pro X files further to achieve their desired outcomes. To overcome the file compatibility issues, you must adopt the XML file pattern.

Part 2: Why exporting XML in final cut pro instead?

For further editing

For teamworking

In addition, Filmora is even easier for team-working, click to see how .

To transfer projects, clips, and libraries to other APP or devices