Inspiration Station: Public Domain Photos

Here’s a topic that some of you should find interesting: photographs in the public domain.

Now before you get all excited, let me explain that public domain photographs are not necessarily free to use commercially with no strings attached. Some sources require an “image by” credit. See “Credit Where Credit Is Due” by Doreen Erhardt for more helpful information on that topic.

Other sources assert that while the photograph(s) are in the public domain as far as they know, due diligence is required on your part to ensure you aren’t violating anyone’s copyright. Still other sources place restrictions on usage. Be sure to check Terms of Use on each individual site. Finally, be aware that while many U.S. government sites, such as NASA and the Library of Congress, host public domain photographs, the photos may not be used to imply their endorsement of any product or service.

And as always, if a photograph shows a recognizable human face, a building or structure, or a company logo, publicity and privacy rights may still be an issue no matter when the photograph was taken. In addition, it’s highly probable in the case of photographed people that a model release does not exist.

Bottom line? Public domain doesn’t necessarily mean free. Do your homework first, avoid lawsuits later. Got it? Let’s be careful out there.

Now that I’ve got you on your toes, I’ll share a site with you that will pretty much get you on your way.

Public Domain Sherpa
A very large list of links to various sites hosting public domain photographs. The author has helpfully provided a brief description of each site as well as known restrictions on use, but you should still check the TOU on each individual site.

USA.gov
Links to photo archives for many U.S. government agencies. A few of the websites listed are retired, but the majority are still live.  I love to browse through the collections.

New York Public Library Picture Collection On-Line
Just what it says. I get a lot of inspiration from just looking at beautiful pictures, and I’m sure you do too.

Library of Virginia On-Line Photo Collection
Lots of interesting history here, much fun to browse.

If anybody else has anything to add to the topic, please do.