Stock footage refers to pre-made videos that can be used in a variety of ways, such as in films, online videos, advertisements, and TV shows. They are an incredibly valuable resource for content creators since they save a lot of time and effort in creating original footage. This beginner’s guide covers the basics of finding and using free stock footage online.
Step 1: Establish Your Needs
Before you start searching for free stock footage, make sure you know what you’re looking for. What type of footage do you need? What kind of resolution and quality are you after? What is the format you need it in, such as MP4, AVI or MOV?
Once you establish your needs, it’s time to start searching for free stock footage sites.
Step 2: Choose a Website
Several websites offer free stock footage, including Pexels, Pixabay, Videvo, and Coverr, to name a few. You can browse these websites to find the footage you’re looking for, and once you locate it, you can download it for free.
Step 3: Choose Your Footage
Once you have chosen your website, it’s time to start browsing for footage. You can use the search bar to find specific footage. Some sites offer categories that you can browse to find what you want.
Step 4: Download Your Footage
Once you find the footage you want to use, you will need to download it. Most websites offer various formats and resolutions, so make sure to choose the one that is best suited for your needs.
Step 5: Check the License
Before you start using the footage, be sure to check the license to ensure you can use it legally. Most sites offer licenses that allow you to use the footage for free, but with restrictions. Make sure you read and understand the license of the footage you intend to use.
Step 6: Edit the Footage
Once you’ve downloaded your footage, it’s time to use it in your project. Depending on your needs, you may need to edit the footage to fit your project. Some basic editing tools like iMovie or Windows Movie Maker will usually do the job just fine.
Step 7: Attribution
While most free stock footage sites allow you to use their footage for free, some may require attribution. This means you’ll need to give credit to the creator of the footage in your project. You can do this by including a credit line at the end of your project or citing the creator in your YouTube video description.
Final Thoughts
Free stock footage is an excellent resource for content creators, and luckily there is plenty of it available online. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be able to find and use the right footage for your project. Remember to always check the license of the footage you use to ensure you’re using it legally.