What is Pexels?
Pexels is a large library of stock photos and videos shared by photographers and filmmakers from around the world. Everything on the site can be downloaded and used for free, for personal or commercial projects, and you do not have to credit the creator, although a credit is appreciated.
You search by keyword or browse collections and categories such as nature, wallpapers and landscapes, then pick the size you want and download it. Photographers can upload their own work, join challenges and climb a leaderboard. Pexels also offers mobile apps and a free API for developers who want to build its images and videos into their own products.
Main Features
- Free photos and videos for personal and commercial use
- No attribution required
- Search by keyword plus curated collections and categories
- Several download sizes per image
- Mobile apps for iOS and Android
- Free Image and Video API for developers
How to Get Started with Pexels
- Go to pexels.com and type what you need into the search bar
- Switch between Photos and Videos and use the filters to narrow results
- Open an image or clip and choose a download size
- Use it in your project, and add a credit to the creator if you like
Pexels Pricing
Pexels is completely free. All photos and videos can be downloaded and used at no cost and there is no paid plan.
Who Should Use It?
- Bloggers and content writers who need header images
- Social media managers and marketers
- Designers building mockups and presentations
- Video editors looking for B-roll footage
- Developers who need images through an API
Pexels Alternatives
- Photopea: A free browser photo editor for touching up the images you download
- Google Fonts: A free library of web fonts to pair with your visuals
- Coolors: A quick colour palette generator for matching designs to your photos
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Pexels free?
Yes. Every photo and video on Pexels is free to download and use, including for commercial work, and there is no paid plan.
Do I need to credit the photographer?
No. Attribution is not required, but Pexels says giving credit is appreciated.
What am I not allowed to do with Pexels images?
You cannot sell unaltered copies, show identifiable people in an offensive way, imply endorsement, or redistribute the files on other stock or wallpaper platforms.