How to Use Stock Photos on Your Website (And Where to Find Them)

When it comes to creating a visually stunning website, high-quality imagery plays a crucial role. Whether you're an interior designer showcasing your portfolio, a home goods brand curating an online store, or a decorator building a brand presence, the right stock photos can elevate your website’s design and professionalism.

But choosing the best website stock photos isn't just about aesthetics—it’s about strategy. The right images enhance your brand, create an engaging user experience, and help establish credibility with potential clients. In this guide, we’ll explore the importance of selecting high-quality stock photography for your website, the different types of visual content you can incorporate, and the best places to find stock photos, videos, and design assets that align with your brand.

If you're looking for expert tips on stock photography for interior designers or website design for small businesses, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive in and discover how to make the most of stock imagery on your site!

Let’s be honest—first impressions matter, especially online. When someone lands on your website, the visuals are the first thing they notice. A cluttered, pixelated, or generic-looking website can send potential clients running before they even read a word. But not everyone has the time (or budget) to hire a professional photographer for custom images. That’s where high-quality stock photography comes in.

Stock photos can transform your website, making it look polished, professional, and on-brand—if you use them the right way. But there’s an art to choosing the right visuals, and not all stock photos are created equal. In this guide, we’ll break down how to use stock photos effectively on your website, what types of content you need, and where to find the best stock photography and videos to elevate your brand.

Why High-Quality Stock Photography Matters

Imagine walking into a beautifully designed interior space—the colors, textures, and lighting all work together to create a welcoming, cohesive vibe. Your website should do the same! A website with high-quality visuals instantly builds trust, enhances your brand, and keeps visitors engaged.

Here’s what great stock photography can do for your website:

✅ Make a strong first impression – Visitors judge your website in seconds. The right images set the tone and showcase your professionalism.

✅ Enhance your brand identity – Your website visuals should align with your aesthetic, whether it’s modern and minimal or cozy and eclectic.

✅ Boost engagement – People are naturally drawn to visuals. A well-placed image or video keeps visitors on your site longer.

✅ Increase conversions – A polished, professional-looking website helps convert visitors into customers or clients.

Bottom line? Low-quality, overused, or irrelevant stock photos can do more harm than good. But with a little strategy, you can find stock images that feel authentic and complement your brand.

What Kind of Content Should You Include on Your Website?

A well-designed website isn’t just about pretty pictures—it’s about balance. Here are the key types of visuals to consider:

1. Photos

• Lifestyle imagery – Show real people interacting with your products or services to create a relatable experience.

• Interiors & design shots – Perfect for interior designers and home goods brands to showcase aesthetics and inspiration.

• Flat lays & textures – Great for backgrounds, mood boards, and adding depth to your site’s design.

2. Videos

• Hero section videos – A short, looping background video can instantly grab attention.

• Behind-the-scenes clips – Show your process, workspace, or product in action.

• Testimonial videos – Let satisfied clients share their experiences.

3. Your Own Work

Whenever possible, incorporate original content—your portfolio, project photos, or custom brand images. Stock photos should complement your unique content, not replace it.

Kaboompics

How to Choose the Right Stock Photos for Your Website

Not all stock images are created equal. Here’s how to make sure your visuals fit your brand:

✔ Stay on-brand – Choose images that align with your colors, mood, and aesthetic. If your brand is all about warmth and natural tones, avoid cool, corporate-style images.

✔ Avoid clichés – Skip the overly posed, cheesy stock photos (you know the ones—people shaking hands in a boardroom). Instead, look for natural, candid imagery.

✔ Consider diversity – Your audience should see themselves in your visuals. Look for inclusive and representative imagery.

✔ Check licensing – Some stock photos require attribution or have usage restrictions. Always check the fine print!

Where to Find the Best Stock Photography & Videos

Now that you know what to look for, here are some of the best stock photo resources:

Free Stock Photo Sites

💡 Kaboompics – A large collection of free stock photos.

💡 Pexels – Great for both photos and free stock videos.

💡 Unsplash – High-quality, modern images with a natural feel.

💡 Pixabay – A large library of free images, illustrations, and videos.

Paid Stock Photo Sites (Worth It for Unique, High-Quality Images)

💰 Shutterstock – A vast collection of professional stock photos.

💰 Adobe Stock – High-end images, great for creative professionals.

💰 Stocksy – Curated, artistic, and less "stock-photo-looking."

💰 Death to Stock – A subscription-based service with creative, modern visuals.

Photo by Clay Banks on Unsplash

Stock photography is a powerful tool when used correctly. The right images can elevate your website, strengthen your brand, and keep visitors engaged. But remember—stock photos should enhance your unique content, not replace it!

Now, over to you! What’s been your biggest struggle when choosing stock photos for your website? Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear your thoughts!