To avoid legal repercussions, you can use the Creative Commons licenses filter on Google Image Search to find free-to-use images.
Important Notes:
Google no longer has a Labeled for reuse filter and instead offers the option to search by Creative Commons licenses or Commercial & other licenses. Learn more about Google image usage rights.
Creative Commons license images are usually free to use but require credit. They may also have limitations on how, or in what context, you can use them.
Related images that appear with the free image may not be free to use. Always double-check to make sure a related image is free.
View our article Alternatives to Google Images for other ways to find free photos.
Disclaimer
Although Google makes it easy to find images you can use, there are some risks involved. Even though there are images available to use for free, it is often better, in the long run, to take your own pictures or use pictures that you own the rights to.
Instructions
Navigate to Google Image Search
Enter your search criteria and click Enter on your keyboard or click the Magnifying Glass to initiate the search:
Click Tools at the top of the page:
Select Usage Rights and then Creative Commons Licenses:
Select one of the images:
Click License details under the image:
Note:
Always double-check any Related Images to see if they are free to use. You cannot assume they are free to use.
View the license for the image to ensure it is free to use and what limitations (if any) apply:
