Computer graphics based on vectors are ideal for logos, icons, and website backgrounds. Vector graphics are some of the most fundamental tools in web design and a search on Google or Bing will reveal a bounty of resources for downloading graphics. But user rights for these images often vary, and only in the rarest of cases can they be downloaded and used for private purposes without restrictions. We’ve put together some of the best addresses for free image downloads and have answered some basic questions about user rights.
As is also the case when using photos or other images, rights of use for graphics must always be used in accordance with their licences. Free licences that offer users a wide scope of user rights provide convenient alternatives, sparing you the hassle of legal troubleshooting.
Free licences are supplied by the organisation, Creative Commons. Graphics and images published on this portal can be used by anyone, and there is no need to ask for the copyright owners’ permission.
Certain user conditions are linked with the seven total CC licences. Pictures or graphics published under creative commons licences are freely accessible and can be used by anyone. Barring one exception, the producers of the original content must always be credited. Some CC licences allow commercial use of material but prohibit users from changing the content in any way.
The CC0 licence grants users complete freedom in what they do with files. In contrast to other licenses, users are not required to cite the original creator of the content, although doing so is recommended.
Creative Commons is by far the most well-known type of free licence. Many other free graphics are licensed in a different, yet comparably user-friendly form. Some providers also oversee their own free licences. Questions on how such graphics can be used are normally found on the provider’s website. Usage is often free, provided that the creator is properly credited.
Platforms like Freepik or Free Vectors offer two models for using their graphics databases: a free version that doesn’t require registration as well as one with registration and a monthly payment scheme. The free versions also give users access to the sites’ portfolios. Without an account and a payment plan, however, users are required to include a link to the databases, should the graphic find its way onto their own website.
Freepik and Free Vectors are by no means your only options for downloading free vector graphics that don’t require licences. Many other sites also have collections available with similar conditions as mentioned above. Here’s an overview of their features and overall terms of use.
The sites listed below offer a range of different free-of-charge vector graphics. Licences do tend to vary among these options, so make sure that you understand and follow the various terms of use for individual graphics.
Web designers on the lookout for free graphics have an enormous selection to choose from. As long as you adhere to the terms of use of each respective license agreement (violation of these conditions is known to result in cease and desist orders or fines), you can make use of these resources without having to worry.
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You don’t have to look too far when searching for free stock photos and images on the internet. But just because images are free, doesn’t automatically mean that they’re all completely unrestricted for use. This is where special licences come into play. We’ll guide you through an overview of the best sources for licence-free images available online.
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