Stock Photos

[matt heinzel]

Does anyone have a good resource for stock images? I am totally at a loss when it comes to content. I haven't started my own business, but I am gathering resources.

[Darren Null]

http://www.sxc.hu/index.phtml
Free.

[matt heinzel]

Do they give you the right to reproduce the photo? If I engrave them is that covered?

[Darren Null]

Yep. IIRC some of the images have an "ask first" or "tell me you're using my image" provisos, but engraving is covered by implication in the contract:

You may use the Image
In digital format on websites, multimedia presentations, broadcast film and video, cell phones.
In printed promotional materials, magazines, newspapers, books, brochures, flyers, CD/DVD covers, etc.
Along with your corporate identity on business cards, letterhead, etc.
To decorate your home, your office or any public place.
You may not use the Image
For pornographic, unlawful or other immoral purposes, for spreading hate or discrimination, or to defame or victimise other people, sociteties, cultures.
To endorse products and services if it depicts a person.
In a way that can give a bad name to SXC or the person(s) depicted on the Image.
As part of a trademark, service mark or logo.
SELLING AND REDISTRIBUTION OF THE IMAGE (INDIVIDUALLY OR ALONG WITH OTHER IMAGES) IS STRICTLY FORBIDDEN! DO NOT SHARE THE IMAGE WITH OTHERS!
Always ask permission from the photographer if you want to use the Image
In website templates that You intend to sell or distribute.
For creating printed reproductions that You intend to sell.
On "print on demand" items such as t-shirts, postcards, mouse pads, mugs (e.g. on sites like Cafepress), or on any similar mass produced item that would contain the Image in a dominant way.

Basically, if there's a person in the photo you need a model release before you do anything public with it. It's all just good manners, really. Search for the photo you need, check the permissions, ask nicely & burn.

You did say stock images, so I automatically thought photos. For burning images, I should think that you may well spend a lot of time on this site too:
http://etc.usf.edu/clipart/

[matt heinzel]

Great thanks for great tip!