Visual content plays a pivotal role in capturing the attention of website visitors and conveying messages effectively. Images are the page element users see even before any text is read. So including high quality, appealing images on your website's homepage should be a top priority.
Fortunately, there are numerous online resources available for finding high-quality yet inexpensive royalty-free images.
Using image libraries included in online photo editing tools
Although Canva and CapCut are known as software applications, each has extensive library collections of free and paid stock images.
The added benefit of their image collections is that you then can use their built-in photo editing tools to crop, rotate, apply filters, adjust brightness, remove backgrounds, overlay text and more.
Canva image library
Canva is a graphic design platform. It owns the stock libraries Pexels and Pixabay. Their free plan gives you access to over 1 million images and graphics and their Pro plan gives access to over 100 million premium stock images, videos and graphics.
Canva's photo editing tool is a robust and user-friendly feature integrated into the broader Canva design platform. You begin by selecting a design type or opting to create a custom sized canvas. The design area will then launch. A search bar lets you easily peruse its extensive stock image library for the perfect photo.
After selecting your image, drag it into the canvas and begin editing it or you can directly download it.
Canva simplifies the process of turning ordinary photos into visually compelling and engaging works of art.
CapCut image library
CapCut has evolved beyond its primary focus as a free video editing application to be an effective tool for photo editing as well. CapCut gives you access to thousands of free images.
You just need to sign up to access this free tool.
The design area launches after you select to create an image. With a user interface very similar to Canva, CapCut lets you crop, rotate and add text or stickers to photos. A search bar lets you explore its image library. When ready, you can download your image as a JPEG or PNG.
Exploring free image stock libraries
The strategic use of impactful images can deliver a visual punch to any website where first impressions matter. An eye catching website banner image can influence whether a visitor scrolls or bounces away. The stock libraries of Unsplash and Pexels are invaluable resources for finding the perfect website visuals.
Unsplash
Unsplash is an online treasure trove of high-quality, royalty-free images. With a vast and diverse collection contributed by a global community of photographers, Unsplash offers images spanning various themes and subjects. Users can freely download and use these photos for personal and commercial purposes without worrying about licensing fees or attribution requirements.
While most images are free to download, some are behind a paywall.
Pexels
Access to the Pexels image library is also available without signing up to Canva.
Pexels boasts a vast and ever-growing library of diverse images and videos. It stands out for its user-friendly interface and wide range of high-resolution, royalty-free content. It's an invaluable resource for those in need of professional visuals. You also have the option to create your own collection of liked images.
In conclusion
The importance of images in website design cannot be overstated. Images are visual storytellers that play a crucial role in conveying your brand message and improve engagement by fostering an emotional connection with visitors.
