Get an Unsplash API Key for Web Projects
Getting an Unsplash API key opens up access to thousands of high-quality images for your web design projects. The process is free and takes just a few minutes to complete.
TL;DR:
- Sign up at the Unsplash Developer portal to get your API key
- The application is free and usually approved within 24-48 hours
- You can use the API for both personal and commercial web projects
- Rate limits apply but are generous enough for most websites
- Perfect for adding dynamic background images or galleries to your sites
Getting Your API Key
Head to the Unsplash Developer portal and create an account if you don't already have one. You'll use the same login details as the main Unsplash site if you're already a user.
Once you're logged in, click "New Application" to start the process. You'll need to fill out a short form explaining what you plan to use the images for. Be specific about your project – whether it's a portfolio site, client work, or a web app.
The form asks for your application name, description, and intended use. Don't worry about being too formal here. Something like "Background images for web design projects" works fine.
After submitting, you'll usually get approval within 24-48 hours. The API key arrives by email, along with your rate limits and usage guidelines.
Using the API in Web Projects
Your API key works with simple HTTP requests, making it easy to pull images into any web project. You can search for specific types of images, grab random photos, or even get images by colour or orientation.
Most developers use the API to add dynamic backgrounds, create image galleries, or populate placeholder content during development. The images come in multiple sizes, so you can pick the resolution that works best for your design.
Remember to credit the photographers when you use their images – it's part of Unsplash's terms and the right thing to do.
FAQs
How many requests can I make with the API?
Free accounts get 50 requests per hour. If you need more, you can apply for higher limits or consider their paid options.
Do I need to pay for commercial use?
No, the API is free even for commercial projects. Just follow their attribution requirements.
Can I cache the images on my server?
You can cache images for performance, but check the current terms for any restrictions on long-term storage.
What happens if my application gets rejected?
Rejections are rare, but usually happen if the use case isn't clear. Reapply with more detail about your project.
Jargon Buster
API Key – A unique code that identifies your application to Unsplash's servers
Rate Limiting – Restrictions on how many requests you can make per hour
Attribution – Crediting the photographer when you use their image
Endpoint – The web address you send requests to for different functions
Wrap-up
An Unsplash API key gives you programmatic access to one of the web's best image libraries. It's particularly useful for web designers who need high-quality images without the hassle of stock photo licensing. The setup takes minutes, and you'll have thousands of professional images at your fingertips.
Join Pixelhaze Academy to learn more about integrating APIs and external services into your web design workflow.