Fixing Unsplash Images That Won't Load
TL;DR:
- Check if Unsplash itself is down using their status page
- Verify your internet connection is stable and fast enough
- Review your API usage limits if you're hitting them frequently
- Keep backup images ready for when external services fail
- Test image loading across different browsers and devices
When Unsplash images refuse to load on your website, it's usually one of three culprits: the service is down, your connection is struggling, or you've hit API limits. Here's how to work through each possibility and get your images back online.
Check Unsplash's Status First
Before diving into technical fixes, visit Unsplash's status page to see if they're experiencing problems on their end. If there's scheduled maintenance or an outage, you'll see it listed there with estimated resolution times.
This saves you from troubleshooting connection issues that aren't actually yours to fix. When Unsplash is down, your only option is to wait or switch to backup images.
Test Your Internet Connection
Slow or unstable internet can prevent images from loading properly, especially larger high-resolution files from Unsplash. Run a speed test and check if other websites are loading normally.
If your connection seems fine but images still won't load, try accessing Unsplash directly in your browser. Can you browse and download images normally? If not, the issue might be with your ISP's connection to Unsplash's servers.
Understanding API Limits
If you're using Unsplash through their API (common with website builders and plugins), you might be hitting rate limits. Unsplash restricts how many requests you can make per hour to prevent abuse.
Free accounts get 50 requests per hour, which can disappear quickly if your site loads multiple Unsplash images or you're testing different options. Check your API usage in your Unsplash developer dashboard.
When you hit the limit, you'll need to wait for it to reset or upgrade to a paid plan for higher limits. Some website builders cache Unsplash images to avoid repeated API calls, which helps prevent this issue.
Browser and Device Testing
Sometimes the problem isn't with Unsplash but with how your browser handles the images. Clear your browser cache and try loading the page again. Test in different browsers to see if it's browser-specific.
Mobile devices might show different behaviour than desktop, especially on slower connections. Images might load partially or not at all if the connection times out.
Backup Strategies
Don't rely entirely on external image services. Download and store copies of essential images locally, especially for key elements like hero images or logos. This ensures your site stays functional even when third-party services have problems.
Consider using multiple image sources so you're not completely dependent on Unsplash. Other free services like Pexels or Pixabay can serve as alternatives when needed.
FAQs
How long do Unsplash API limits last?
Rate limits reset every hour. If you hit the 50-request limit at 2pm, you'll get a fresh 50 requests at 3pm.
Can I increase my Unsplash API limits without paying?
No, free accounts are capped at 50 requests per hour. You'll need to upgrade to get higher limits or use images more strategically.
Why do some Unsplash images load while others don't?
This often indicates connection issues or API problems. Images already cached by your browser will load fine, while new ones fail to download.
Should I download Unsplash images instead of linking to them?
For important images, yes. Downloaded images load faster and aren't affected by Unsplash's downtime, but you'll need to manage storage space and licensing compliance.
Jargon Buster
API (Application Programming Interface) – A way for your website to automatically request and receive images from Unsplash without manual downloading.
Rate Limiting – Restrictions on how many requests you can make to a service within a specific time period.
Caching – Storing copies of images locally (in your browser or on your server) so they don't need to be downloaded repeatedly.
Wrap-up
Most Unsplash loading issues come down to connectivity, API limits, or service downtime. Check the obvious stuff first – is Unsplash working and is your internet stable? Then look at API usage if you're using automated integrations.
The key is having backup plans. External services will occasionally fail, so keep copies of essential images and know alternative sources. This way, temporary Unsplash issues won't break your website or stop your design work.
Ready to build more reliable image workflows? Join Pixelhaze Academy for in-depth guides on web design best practices.