Using Unsplash's Mobile App for Web Design
TL;DR:
- Clean interface makes browsing thousands of photos straightforward
- Search by keyword or browse curated collections
- Download images directly to your phone in different sizes
- All photos are free for commercial use without attribution required
- Works on both iPhone and Android devices
- Perfect for quick mockups and client presentations on the go
The Unsplash mobile app gives web designers instant access to over 3 million high-quality photos. It's particularly useful when you need placeholder images for wireframes or want to show clients visual direction during meetings.
Getting Started with the App
Download the app from your device's app store and you're ready to go. No account needed for basic downloading, though creating one lets you save collections and follow photographers you like.
The home screen shows trending photos and curated collections. The search function sits at the top, and you can filter results by orientation, colour, or category.
Finding Images That Work
The search algorithm works well with specific terms. Instead of searching "business", try "team meeting" or "office workspace". The app also suggests related searches as you type.
Collections are worth exploring too. They're curated sets around themes like "minimal interiors" or "startup life". These often have a consistent style that works well across multiple pages of a site.
Downloading in the Right Size
When you find an image you want, tap it to see the full view. The download button gives you size options:
- Small (400px wide) – good for thumbnails
- Medium (1080px wide) – works for most web use
- Large (full resolution) – when you need maximum quality
The app automatically saves downloads to your camera roll. From there, you can share directly to design tools like Figma or upload to your site.
Using Images Responsibly
All Unsplash photos come under their licence, which allows commercial use without attribution. That said, crediting photographers is good practice when possible.
The app shows photographer details on each image. Some have their own style that might work well for ongoing projects.
Quick Tips for Web Designers
Keep a collection of go-to images for common scenarios like hero sections, team photos, or product shots. The app lets you create private collections for different clients or project types.
When presenting concepts to clients, having quality images ready makes your mockups look more professional than grey placeholder boxes.
The search history feature helps you find that perfect image you saw yesterday but forgot to download.
FAQs
Do I need to credit photographers when using these images?
No, attribution isn't required under Unsplash's licence, but it's appreciated by photographers.
Can I edit the photos I download?
Yes, you can crop, filter, and modify images as needed for your projects.
Is there a limit to how many images I can download?
No download limits. The app is completely free to use.
Will the images work for print projects too?
Yes, though check the resolution meets your print requirements. Larger downloads usually work better for print.
Jargon Buster
Attribution – Crediting the original creator of an image or work
Curated collections – Groups of photos selected by editors or users around specific themes
Resolution – The dimensions of an image, measured in pixels
Commercial use – Using images for business purposes or projects that generate income
Wrap-up
The Unsplash app turns your phone into a portable image library. It's especially handy for web designers who need quick access to quality photos during client meetings or when working away from their main computer. The search works well, downloads are fast, and everything's free to use commercially.
Join Pixelhaze Academy to learn more techniques for sourcing and optimising images in your web design workflow.