Many think that stock photos are expensive. That may be true before, but the proliferation of microstock agencies has changed it. With millions of images in every stock site, you will find various kinds for very low prices. Some images are creepy. Some are borderline weird. And if you do not search thoroughly, you can end up with generic images. Thus, it is important that you know how to find and use cheap stock images correctly.

When used properly, cheap stock images can enhance your content, design or material. They can attract more visitors to your website or blog and increase your rate of conversion. In a word, they can be the solution to the image problem you might have with your content. Here are some do’s and don’ts in using stock images for your marketing strategies.

• Check the rights and licenses of the images. Read the rights and licenses of your images to avoid making a mistake. You can find all the information you need as well as further data on image release from your chosen stock photo agency. If there is something in the terms and conditions that you do not understand, contact the agency.
• Give credit where it is due. You do not have to do it all the time, but sometimes giving credit to the contributor is necessary. All the necessary information about this clause can be read on the terms and conditions. Why should you do it? It is not only a sign of politeness but a legal requirement as well.
• Choose images that fit your brand. With an endless amount of stock photos in market, it is easy to get overwhelmed. When choosing the right cheap stock images for your content, make sure they fit the style of your website and the concept of your message.
• Do not use generic images. Some stock photos are so generic that you can hear them screaming “stock photos”. These photos are over-posed and unnatural. You must stay away from them. You can also un-stock them by customizing the image with a certain crop or well-chosen filter, provided you have the license to make modifications.
• Consider candid shots. Candid shots are relatable. They more humanized compared to modeled shots. Many stock images have models staring directly to the camera with exaggerated expressions. Thus, they are less believable. On the other hand, candid shots look more natural.

There are many other tips on how to effectively use cheap stock images. They include the use of CTA images and high quality images. There are also images to avoid such as clichéd images and those that do not relate well to your message and style. If you are looking for the best images to enhance your content, visit a good stock photo agency.