Using Unsplash Photos in Projects You Sell
TL;DR:
- You can't resell Unsplash photos as standalone stock images
- You can use them as part of larger creative projects you sell (like website designs or posters)
- No photographer credit required for commercial use, but it's nice to include
- You're free to modify Unsplash images for your projects
- The photo shouldn't be the main thing you're selling – it needs to be part of something bigger
When you're building websites or creating designs for clients, Unsplash photos can save you time and money. But there are rules about how you can use them, especially when money changes hands.
The golden rule is simple: you can't take an Unsplash photo and sell it as a stock image. That's not allowed. But you can absolutely use these photos as part of bigger creative projects that you sell.
What You Can Do
If you're designing a website for a client, you can use Unsplash photos throughout the site. Same goes for creating posters, brochures, or any design work where the photo supports your overall creative vision.
The key is that the Unsplash photo isn't the main product. Your design skills, layout choices, and creative direction are what clients pay for. The photo is just one element in a larger piece of work.
You can modify these photos however you need. Crop them, adjust colours, add overlays, or blend them with other elements. These changes are completely fine and often necessary to make the photo work with your design.
Where the Lines Get Blurry
Some situations aren't as clear-cut. If you're creating a template that heavily features one Unsplash photo with minimal design work, that starts to feel more like reselling the photo itself.
Use your judgement. Ask yourself: am I adding genuine creative value, or am I just repackaging someone else's work? If it's the latter, you're probably pushing the boundaries too far.
Credit and Attribution
You don't have to credit photographers when using Unsplash photos commercially. The licence doesn't require it. But many designers choose to include a small credit line anyway, especially on websites where there's space for it.
It's good practice and costs you nothing. Plus, photographers appreciate the recognition for work they've made freely available.
FAQs
Can I sell Unsplash photos as stock images?
No. You can't download Unsplash photos and resell them on stock photography sites or as individual images. Use them as part of larger creative projects instead.
Do I need photographer credit for commercial projects?
It's not required, but it's considerate. If you have space and it doesn't interfere with your design, a small credit line is a nice touch.
Can I modify Unsplash photos?
Yes, you can crop, adjust colours, add text, or make any other modifications you need for your project.
What counts as a "larger creative project"?
Website designs, marketing materials, posters, book covers, or any design work where you're adding creative value beyond just the photo itself.
Can I use Unsplash photos in client work?
Absolutely. This is one of the most common uses. Just make sure clients understand the photos come from Unsplash if they ask about usage rights later.
Jargon Buster
Unsplash – A platform offering free photos for personal and commercial use under specific terms
Commercial use – Using something in business activities, including selling products or services that include the item
Stock images – Photos sold individually for use in various projects, usually through paid licensing
Attribution – Giving credit to the original creator of work you're using
Wrap-up
Unsplash photos work brilliantly for web design projects and other creative work you sell to clients. The rules are straightforward once you understand them: don't resell the photos themselves, but feel free to use them as part of bigger creative projects.
Most web designers use Unsplash photos regularly without any issues. As long as you're adding genuine creative value and not just repackaging someone else's photography, you'll be fine.
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