Unsplash

Unsplash is a website that offers free high-resolution photographs contributed by a worldwide community of photographers. The service provides images for download and use in various projects, including commercial work, without charge and without requiring permission or attribution in most cases. The platform operates under the Unsplash license, which allows copying, modifying, distributing, and using the photos for free, including for commercial purposes, with two notable restrictions: you may not sell unaltered copies of a photo, and you may not compile Unsplash photos to create a service that competes with Unsplash. Users should be mindful of rights and releases for images featuring identifiable people or private property.

History and ownership developments are central to Unsplash’s story. It was created by Mikael Cho in 2013 as a side project within his design studio, initially launching as a minimalist platform for sharing freely obtainable photos. The site grew rapidly through community contributions and became a widely used resource for designers, marketers, and developers seeking visual content. In March 2021, Getty Images announced the acquisition of Unsplash and the service has continued to operate as a distinct brand within the Getty Images organization.

Content and ecosystem are hallmarks of Unsplash. The site hosts a large library of images across categories and maintains ongoing contributions from photographers worldwide. In addition to the web interface, Unsplash provides an API and developer tools that enable integration into apps and websites, helping to popularize free photography in digital workflows. The platform has influenced how free stock imagery is perceived and used in media and design.