Where to find FREE stock imagery that is actually good (and not 💩)?
Let’s be honest. Finding decent stock images is weirdly hard.
Between the overly staged handshakes, fake-smiling women laughing at salad, and generic tech bros pointing at whiteboards, a lot of it is… bad. Like, really bad.
But good stock imagery? It exists.
And when you use it well, it can bring personality, warmth and clarity to your website. Especially if you don’t have brand photography yet (or if you just really don’t want your face on every page, which is fair).
Stock images help set the tone. They give visual breathing space.
And when chosen intentionally, they can make your site feel more “put together” without being cheesy or try-hard.
So, here are my go-to websites for finding high-quality, not-hideous stock images.
Oh, and did I mention: all of these are free!
📸 My Favourite (Actually Good) Stock Image Sites
Dupe Photos stock imagery
Dupe Photos
Perfect if you love a cool, editorial vibe.
Dupe curates stylish, personality-filled photography featuring diverse creators and brands. Think less cheesy, corporate stock, more creative small biz energy.
One of my immediate go-tos for stock photography.
Kaboom Pics Stock Imagery
Kaboom Pics
High-quality, aesthetic images.
Think interiors, lifestyle, flat lays and soft tones. Fab for wellness, creatives, or anyone who wants their site to feel curated but not clinical.
Again another of my absolute favourite high-quality and FREE stock imagery websites.
Startup Stock Imagery
Startup Stock Photos
As the name suggests, this one’s made for start-ups and service-based businesses.
It leans techy and minimal, great for modern brands who want “office” vibes without looking too stuffy.
Perfect for business and corporate websites.
Pexels Stock Imagery
Pexels
A massive library of high-quality free images (and video too).
The search function is excellent, and you’ll find everything from moody editorial shots to clean workspace scenes.
Really beautiful photography and in my top 3 fave stock imagery websites.
Barn Images Stock Imagery
Barn Images
Minimalist and modern.
Great if you like nature, travel, or a more airy, authentic feel. Bonus points: the photography never feels overly processed or fake.
N.B. Barn Images does include some AI imagery which are clearly stated before download.
Magdalene Images Stock Photos
Magdeleine
Curated daily and very aesthetic.
Includes black & white and colour-filtered options. If you want your site to feel atmospheric and arty, this one’s for you.
Unsplash Stock Imagery
Unsplash
Everyone’s OG stock image friend.
It’s mainstream, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing - it’s popular for a reason! Great for backgrounds, textures, and soft lifestyle shots.
Again this is a go-to fave stock photography website of mine.
Styled Stock Imagery
Styled Stock
A dream for feminine brands, coaches, and creative service providers. You’ll find curated lifestyle images in soft tones, tech flat lays, and workspace scenes that aren’t boring.
Styled Stock offer a free download of 50 stock images for women entrepreneurs, and otherwise operates a membership.
Foodies Feed Stock Imagery (includes AI)
Foodies Feed
If your business involves food or drinks, this one’s a goldmine.
Lots of mouthwatering food pics, but a word of warning: the website seems to be almost entirely AI generated now.
StockSnap.io Stock Photos
StockSnap
A large collection of free images with a decent search function.
Great for finding general lifestyle and business imagery, although some are a little dated looking now.
Pixabay Stock Photos
Pixabay
Also includes illustrations and vector graphics. Great if you’re looking for a more playful or branded look beyond photography.
Lots of categories and very user-friendly.
Negative Space Stock Photos
Negative Space
Clean, professional-looking imagery that leans a bit more “tech/business.”
Great if you need something polished but not painfully stocky.
Again some photography looks a bit dated now but there’s some gems.
Gratisography stock images
Gratisography
Super quirky, weird, and offbeat stock imagery.
Ideal if your brand has a cheeky, creative twist and you want to avoid anything that feels too safe or predictable.
Does include AI imagery which isn’t clearly labelled so take care if you’re looking to avoid computer generated imagery.
Final Tip: Keep it Consistent
Stock imagery can be a total life-saver for your site.
But mix too many clashing styles and it starts to feel chaotic fast.
Try picking 1–2 image libraries that align with your brand vibe and stick with them across your pages for a more cohesive look.
And remember — a little personality goes a long way.
Does your website need more personality?
That’s what I’m here for.
My Squarespace Design Days are perfect if you want a site that feels like you.
Even if you don’t have a single photo of yourself you actually like (yet).
Let’s chat: Get in touch via my enquiries form.
