How do I declare use of stock images?

How to declare stock images used in Contest entries

Anytime you use stock in a design, you should refer to our third party materials policy to ensure you are adhering to all rules regarding usage and licensing.

When submitting your design to a Contest where stock is allowed, follow these steps:

1. Select the option  “This design uses stock”

2. Copy the link to the actual image or material used and paste the full URL into the textbox labeled "Stock link".

NOTE: Please ensure you have copied the link to the actual image used and not just the link to the homepage or search function of the website where you found it. Failure to provide a link to the actual material itself may result in your design being removed from the Contest.

3. Add a description of the image under "Stock description". This is especially useful if you are declaring multiple stock images or materials.

4. Select the “requires purchase” option unless you are certain the image linked can be used for free without attribution, such as an image under a Creative Commons license.

NOTE: Stock images you have purchased for your own usage or stock that is listed as free with attribution must be declared as “requires purchase”. Refer to our third party materials policy for more information.

5. If you used multiple materials in your design, you can add another link by clicking on “Add another”. Make sure you are ticking the right boxes every time and including direct links to all the materials used.

How to declare stock images in Projects

If you use stock images in a 1-to-1 Project, you must let your client know via a message in the Activity tab. Make sure that you understand any costs and use restrictions, as it is your responsibility to share this information with your client and get their agreement. Refer to our third party materials policy for more information.

Other important info:

• You may use an existing font in your design if that font's license allows, but the text must be outlined in your design file and declared properly when submitting. See more info on using and declaring fonts.
• You may use third party material for presentation purposes, such as a background image, mockup, or temporary placeholder, as long as that material's licensing allows for use in this way. You must make it clear to the client that these images are for presentation purposes only and will not be included in the final design files. See more info on using background images.
• In a contest where use of AI is not allowed, you may not use stock images containing AI generated content, even if the client has allowed the use of stock.

Helpful links

• 30 free public domain image websites (use with care)
• A field guide to stock image licenses (and how to protect yourself)
• How to develop your eye for stock photography
• 3 common image licensing mistakes to avoid
• Your resource guide for third party imagery
• A how-to on finding, using and declaring stock
• 4 things you need to know about stock images