If you're creating a digital publication, you'll need compelling images for your content sections. Contrary to common belief, you can't use your favorite photo from Google Images (it will get flagged and removed). Instagram used to have good visuals, but most of them are copyrighted. However, here on this page, you'll find free images you can download (in JPG or PNG format) plus some additional sites where you can find royalty-free photography.
PDF publications often use images (also known as headers or hero images) to set the tone for the content and to create a cohesive visual identity for the publication. The imagery can help to establish the mood and style of the publication and can also help readers to recognize and remember the publication.
Yes, the images listed on this page are royalty-free and free of charge. You can download either the JPG and PNG files, and add the visuals to your online publication while you design your layouts.
Keep it relevant – too many PDFs have generic stock photos that play no role in supporting the content. Keep images purposeful and connected to your message.
Match the resolution to your output – you don't want your images to be too much larger than necessary for your PDF. In fact, I prefer my digital publications images to be optimized for file size. Be sure to compress them appropriately if you're creating digital distributions.
Idea: don't use photos. Use custom graphics – you might not even need traditional stock photography. Some PDFs will have simple illustrations or icons. It could be a simple line drawing, an abstract shape, or custom icons. Make it distinctive; something that people associate with your publication.
Unfortunately, no. Any commercial photography is under copyright and can't be used in your publication. Getty Images, in particular, has been scanning all digital publications and is pursuing legal action against those that contain watermarked or copyrighted imagery.
Unsplash – this site curates high-quality free photography that content creators and brands can use for their publication headers.
Pexels – when you create an account, you'll get access to thousands of free images. There's a lot of variety in the photos that contributors upload. I ended up bookmarking several photographers because the quality is so excellent.
Pixabay – I honestly can't believe they're providing these images for free. They want to be the go-to source for free visual content. They currently have over 2 million images you can download. There's quite a variety, and you don't even need to create an account to access them. (Although, you should consider supporting their mission)
StockVault – this platform offers both free and premium content but provides some of their high-quality images at no cost. All you need to do is credit them in your publication.
Burst by Shopify – this Canadian company recently said they were "happy to provide quality images for free, with the only condition that users respect the license terms."
Shutterstock – Purchase complete usage rights to premium photography and illustrations.
Adobe Stock – Integrated with Creative Cloud for seamless design workflow.
Getty Images – Professional-grade photography for commercial use.
Don't add images just for decoration. Every visual element should support your content or help break up text sections meaningfully.
If you use multiple images in one PDF publication, ensure they have a similar feel, color palette, or editing style. This creates visual cohesion throughout your publication.
PDF publication need to balance image quality with file size. Compress images appropriately to ensure your PDF loads quickly and doesn't consume excessive bandwidth.
Business PDFs might need professional, clean imagery. Creative PDFs can use more artistic or abstract visuals. Match your image choices to your readers' expectations.
Develop consistent layouts for how images appear in your digital publications. This could include standard sizes, positioning, or text overlay styles.
Even "free" images often come with specific requirements. Some may require attribution, others may restrict commercial use.
Document where each image came from and what license it uses. This protects you if questions arise later about usage rights.
Even royalty-free images shouldn't include recognizable brands, logos, or trademarked items unless specifically cleared for use.
Images featuring people may require model releases for commercial use, even if the photo itself is royalty-free.
Simple graphics, charts, or photographs you take yourself give you complete control and ensure uniqueness.
Custom or licensed illustrations can make your PDF stand out from the typical stock photo approach.
Company logos, brand colors, and custom graphics can reduce reliance on external imagery while strengthening brand recognition.
Local photographers might provide custom images in exchange for PDF content promotion or cross-marketing opportunities.
Keep individual images under 1MB for digital distribution. Use compression tools to reduce file sizes without significantly impacting visual quality.
Create bookmark or folder collection to bookmark different types of content: headers, section dividers, backgrounds, icons, etc.
Establish minimum resolution and style requirements for images you add to your library.
Visual content significantly impacts how readers engage with your digital PDF. Quality images can increase readability, break up text-heavy sections, and create a more professional appearance.
Content and images aside, having a great browsing experience also improves your audience’s engagement with your PDF content. If you are looking for ways to have complete control over how your PDF publications are presented and distributed, do consider trying out Titlegram.
If your PDF is ready to go live, it is important to use a professional PDF hosting or publishing services (Read whats the difference here) as they often give you more control over your PDF experience, not to mention a better credibility via the likes of branded URL / domain.