reeway traffic.<\/h4>\n\t\t\tDownload Now<\/a>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\n\n\n

While b-roll can be used to provide additional context to a story, it\u2019s useful for tying two main footage clips together. It can also come in handy when there\u2019s an issue with your original footage or when making edits<\/a>. B-roll is great for adding more visual interest, ultimately making a video more engaging and interesting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Categories of B-Roll<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
One of the best part of stock footage is how diverse it is – you can find clips for all types of content and categories. In just the Storyblocks library, there are 19 different categories for footage, along with dozens of different micro-categories within those. From animals<\/a> to nature<\/a>, historical<\/a> to sports<\/a>, technology<\/a> to medical<\/a>, there\u2019s tons of stock footage for every single topic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Video Backgrounds<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Sometimes the project you\u2019re working on just needs a high-quality video background<\/a>. But if you don\u2019t have the skills, time, or equipment to film the video yourself, you can use stock footage instead. It\u2019s perfect for playing a specific clip on a loop and displaying it on the homepage of your website, for example. You may even use a video background as part of a presentation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\t\t
\n\t\t
<\/div>\n\t\t
\n\t\t\t
Footage<\/div>\n\t\t\t
River Flowing Through Dense Pine Forest in Mountain Landscape<\/h4>\n\t\t\t Download Now<\/a>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\n\n\n
3. Commercials and Ads<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
There are some instances where a commercial or an advertisement doesn\u2019t require original footage. In those cases, stock video footage can be used as a more affordable option. For instance, the commercial could include shots of friends gathered around a table having lunch or show someone walking down the street. Then, narration can be added over the video clips to promote a product or service.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\t\t
\n\t\t
<\/div>\n\t\t
\n\t\t\t
Footage<\/div>\n\t\t\t
Company of four multiethnic gen Z friends sharing delicious pepperoni pizza while having meal in modern restaurant<\/h4>\n\t\t\t Download Now<\/a>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\n\n\n
4. Short-Form Video Creation for Social Media<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Social media video<\/a> is an effective way to get your brand noticed online. However, many brands simply don\u2019t have the time or the budget necessary to create eye-catching videos to be shared on platforms like Instagram<\/a>. By purchasing pre-filmed stock footage, a video can be created with minimal effort.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As an example, you could purchase a single video clip and play it on a loop. Then, add narration or captions on the screen to create a video that can then be used for Instagram Reels or TikTok<\/a>. It could even be used for Instagram Stories or for creating social media ads.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
5. YouTube Videos<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Looking to shake up your YouTube videos<\/a>? Add some stock footage! You could create an entire video with stock clips you\u2019ve purchased and have them playing in the background while you narrate a story. It\u2019ll save you the time and hassle of having to film a bunch of shots on your own. You could also use a few clips in between scenes as b-roll to enhance the storytelling of the video.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\t\t
\n\n\t
\n\t\t \n\t\tExplore high-quality stock footage\t\t<\/a>\n\t<\/p>\n\n\t
\n\t\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t \n\t\tBrowse the Library\t\t<\/a>\n\t\n\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\n<\/aside>\n\n\n\n
What to look for in stock footage?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
With so many options available for stock footage these days, it can sometimes feel overwhelming trying to choose the right video clips for your project. To help you make the best decision possible, here are few things you need to look for before purchasing any stock video:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
1. Stock Footage License<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
As you begin browsing the available stock footage from a provider, you\u2019ll notice different licensing options. These are important to pay attention to because it tells you how a particular video clip can and can\u2019t be used. The most common licenses include Royalty-Free, Rights Managed, and Editorial Use. It’s important that your stock provider is reputable<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Typically, a Royalty-Free license<\/a> allows you to purchase and use stock footage in exchange for a one-time fee. This clip can then be used for unlimited amounts of time across multiple projects. There also aren\u2019t typically restrictions on how the clip is used. This offers the most flexibility because the purchased footage can be used many times, ensuring the investment pays for itself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
With a Rights Managed license, you\u2019re usually granted a limited-time use of the purchased clip. This means the clip can only be used in one project and for a set period of time. In some cases, the clip can only be used in certain geographic areas as well. You\u2019ll likely be asked to disclose all of this information upon purchase.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Then there\u2019s the Editorial Use license. This particular license limits the types of projects the stock footage can be used in. For instance, content with an Editorial Use license is often used in documentaries or the news. It absolutely cannot be used for commercial purposes. There are also limitations on size, image placement, how long the footage can be used, and geographic distribution. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Some companies do not allow Editorial Use clips to be cropped or color corrected, but at Storyblocks we don\u2019t have these limitations. If you want to learn more about video licensing check out our more in-depth blog on stock content licensing<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A note on copyright-free stock footage<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
New or beginner video creators with small budgets or limited resources will often try to stick with \u201ccopyright-free stock footage,\u201d without realizing the limitations of those clips. You can learn about the details of the difference between royalty-free and copyright-free<\/a> in our dedicated article, but true copyright-free stock footage is rare. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
While work that is in the public domain, meaning that it can be used without needing to pay a royalty or get permission, is copyright-free, it\u2019s also very limited. Creative Commons 0 is another example of copyright-free license. If you\u2019re looking for stock footage that has no copyrights, be sure to check the license very carefully to ensure it\u2019s actually copyright-free before you use it to avoid any legal issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
2. Video Quality<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Another important thing to consider is the quality of the video footage because there\u2019s never just one option to choose from. And these days, viewers aren\u2019t going to settle for a poor-quality video. Neither should you. When you find a clip you like, look over the available options and choose the one that\u2019s best suited to your project. In many cases, you\u2019ll wind up paying more for the highest quality stock footage, so carefully consider if you really need 4K footage or if HD<\/a> will suffice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
$\"Screenshot$ <\/figure>\n\n\n\n
3. Choose the Right Stock Footage Provider<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
If you know you\u2019ll be using stock footage for many future projects, it\u2019ll be a wise investment to sign up for a subscription<\/a> with the provider of your choice. If you\u2019re planning to create a lot of video, then an unlimited stock video subscription is the most cost-effective option. This way, you\u2019ll save some money in the process vs buying individual clips. But what should you look for when comparing providers?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Check out their library of footage so you can be sure there are plenty of video clips you\u2019ll be able to use. Look at the licensing options so you\u2019ll know if their videos are suitable for what you\u2019ll be using them for. And of course, review their pricing plans so you can get a subscription within your budget.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
4. Consistency<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
And the final element to consider is whether or not the particular stock footage is consistent with the rest of the footage you\u2019ll be using. For instance, the quality should be the same, as well as the overall look and feel. You also want to ensure the video footage you choose makes sense for the message you\u2019re trying to portray. After all, a sad and dreary video doesn\u2019t work if you\u2019re sharing a positive message.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
So before you sign up for anything, search through their library to make sure you like what you\u2019re seeing. Search for the kinds of clips you plan to use in your videos, and browse the options. If they would be a perfect fit, then that provider is a good choice for your stock footage needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Where to buy stock footage?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nNext, you need to find a great place to buy stock footage. Luckily, there are tons of websites<\/a> that provide extensive libraries featuring a wide array of videos. Here are five options to check out:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Storyblocks<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
$\"Screenshot$ <\/figure>\n\n\n\n
When you sign up for Storyblocks<\/a>, you\u2019ll gain access to a 100% human-made stock library<\/a> that\u2019s packed with royalty-free, pre-licensed content. With unlimited downloads of over 8 million assets, including footage in 8K, 4K, and HD, you\u2019ll also have access to music, images, sound effects, and even customizable video templates.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Their content library is always growing and adapting to ensure it offers diverse, representative stock. A dedicated team curates the library, adding new content daily and removing old, outdated content so you always have the best selection to choose from. On top of that, they also have exclusive footage collections from talented filmmakers as a part of their diversity and inclusion initiative known as Re: Stock<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But even beyond stock, Storyblocks understands that assets are just one part of the entire production pipeline that goes into creating video. Which is why their subscriptions include tools to support every part of production, from their plugin<\/a> that brings their library right into Premiere and After Effects to their AI Toolkit<\/a>, which has tools to help you speed up your creative process like Voiceover<\/a>, Video Editor, and more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Storyblocks offers plans for individuals, small businesses and enterprise companies, with every plan giving you unlimited downloads and time-saving tools for one set price.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Shutterstock<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The Shutterstock library features over 400 million images, videos, and music tracks for download. They offer different subscriptions which are designed to prevent you from paying for more than what you need. If you\u2019re just looking for videos, they offer either individual purchase options or subscription plans. Learn the key differences between Storyblocks and Shutterstock<\/a> in our comparison article.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Gettyimages<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Getty Images offers both creative and editorial stock footage, depending on what will best suit your next project. Their creative footage offers a wide array of options, whereas the editorial content often features celebrities or other public figures. Getty also works with partners such as BBC, Universal, and Paramount. Their plans, referred to as UltraPacks, give you access to royalty-free images and videos. They don\u2019t currently offer any subscription or unlimited download options for footage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Dareful<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Scroll through the Dareful library and you\u2019ll find hundreds of open-source, royalty-free stock video footage in 4K. There\u2019s everything from aerial shots, seasons and holidays, and more. Everything in their library is free to download. Just be sure to review all licensing information for a full understanding of how the video clips can be used.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Pexels<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Pexels offers tons of royalty-free images and videos that have been shared by the creators within their community. There are nature and landscape videos<\/a>, clips of people walking or working, and everything in between. All videos are free to download – just be sure to carefully read the license for each one to make sure it covers your project\u2019s use case.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Stock footage FAQ<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
You\u2019ve got questions, we\u2019ve got answers! To ensure you\u2019re able to confidently move forward in using it, let\u2019s address some of the most commonly asked questions people have.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What is a stock video?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
A stock video is any kind of clip that\u2019s been made available for purchase or download with a license that outlines the terms of use. Stock video includes stock footage, but can also include things like stock motion backgrounds, templates, and other forms of video.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Is stock footage safe to use?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Absolutely, there\u2019s nothing wrong with using stock footage as long as you\u2019re abiding by the rules of the license attributed to it. Be sure to read through the license carefully so you don\u2019t mistakenly use the footage in a way that\u2019s forbidden or could lead to copyright issues. This way, you\u2019ll stay out of trouble.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Is stock footage free to use?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
There are some websites where you can get stock footage for free, however, it\u2019s usually a limited library. Normally, you\u2019ll have to pay a one-time fee for the footage you\u2019d like to purchase or sign up for a subscription with your chosen provider in order to access a more extensive library of footage. If you come across a free stock footage site, be sure to carefully read the terms of use for the license it comes with.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
How to buy stock footage?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Once you\u2019ve found a stock video you\u2019d like to purchase, you\u2019ll usually have the option to pay a one-time fee. This is ideal if you don\u2019t frequently need video clips, as they can be purchased as needed. Otherwise, you may want to consider signing up for a subscription with a provider if you\u2019ll be needing stock video often.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Where can I sell my stock footage?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
If you\u2019re a videographer wanting to make some extra money, you can sell your footage to different providers. Be sure to review any requirements the provider has for their contributors. Then, you can apply to see if you\u2019re accepted. If you are, you\u2019ll be able to start uploading videos. If interested, you can learn about becoming a Storyblocks contributor<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Wrapping up<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
So, what is stock footage? It\u2019s a powerful way to up-level the online content you create with the help of high-quality video clips. Once you\u2019ve chosen a stock footage provider, it\u2019ll be easy for you to find videos that meet your standards and complement your projects. Not only that, but your content will look professional and like you spent thousands, but really it\u2019ll never break the bank.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When you sign up with Storyblocks, you\u2019ll gain access to over eight million royalty-free, human-made assets, from video footage to templates, music, and photos. And with unlimited downloads, you\u2019ll be able to download new video footage whenever you need it. Our library is always growing, so you have new content to choose from that best fits your projects. On top of our stock library, you\u2019ll also get access to time-saving tools like our Adobe Creative Cloud plugin<\/a>, AI Toolkit<\/a>, Maker, and more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Explore our available plans<\/em><\/strong><\/a> and get started today.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
1. Stock Footage as B-Roll<\/h3>\n\n\n\nB-roll<\/a> is one of the most common ways people use stock video. In fact, you\u2019ve seen it in probably every TV show you\u2019ve ever watched. It\u2019s those supplemental video clips<\/a> that are secondary to the main footage (also known as A-roll). For example, cutaways to various surroundings, like the street outside of an apartment building or an aerial view to give a better idea of the location where the story takes place.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\t\t
\n\t\t
<\/div>\n\t\t
\n\t\t\t
Footage<\/div>\n\t\t\t
Cinematic urban aerial timelapse of downtown Los Angeles skyline with freeway traffic.<\/h4>\n\t\t\t Download Now<\/a>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\n\n\n
While b-roll can be used to provide additional context to a story, it\u2019s useful for tying two main footage clips together. It can also come in handy when there\u2019s an issue with your original footage or when making edits<\/a>. B-roll is great for adding more visual interest, ultimately making a video more engaging and interesting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Categories of B-Roll<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
One of the best part of stock footage is how diverse it is – you can find clips for all types of content and categories. In just the Storyblocks library, there are 19 different categories for footage, along with dozens of different micro-categories within those. From animals<\/a> to nature<\/a>, historical<\/a> to sports<\/a>, technology<\/a> to medical<\/a>, there\u2019s tons of stock footage for every single topic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
2. Video Backgrounds<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Sometimes the project you\u2019re working on just needs a high-quality video background<\/a>. But if you don\u2019t have the skills, time, or equipment to film the video yourself, you can use stock footage instead. It\u2019s perfect for playing a specific clip on a loop and displaying it on the homepage of your website, for example. You may even use a video background as part of a presentation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\t\t
\n\t\t
<\/div>\n\t\t
\n\t\t\t
Footage<\/div>\n\t\t\t
River Flowing Through Dense Pine Forest in Mountain Landscape<\/h4>\n\t\t\t Download Now<\/a>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\n\n\n
3. Commercials and Ads<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
There are some instances where a commercial or an advertisement doesn\u2019t require original footage. In those cases, stock video footage can be used as a more affordable option. For instance, the commercial could include shots of friends gathered around a table having lunch or show someone walking down the street. Then, narration can be added over the video clips to promote a product or service.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\t\t
\n\t\t
<\/div>\n\t\t
\n\t\t\t
Footage<\/div>\n\t\t\t
Company of four multiethnic gen Z friends sharing delicious pepperoni pizza while having meal in modern restaurant<\/h4>\n\t\t\t Download Now<\/a>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\n\n\n
4. Short-Form Video Creation for Social Media<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Social media video<\/a> is an effective way to get your brand noticed online. However, many brands simply don\u2019t have the time or the budget necessary to create eye-catching videos to be shared on platforms like Instagram<\/a>. By purchasing pre-filmed stock footage, a video can be created with minimal effort.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As an example, you could purchase a single video clip and play it on a loop. Then, add narration or captions on the screen to create a video that can then be used for Instagram Reels or TikTok<\/a>. It could even be used for Instagram Stories or for creating social media ads.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
5. YouTube Videos<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Looking to shake up your YouTube videos<\/a>? Add some stock footage! You could create an entire video with stock clips you\u2019ve purchased and have them playing in the background while you narrate a story. It\u2019ll save you the time and hassle of having to film a bunch of shots on your own. You could also use a few clips in between scenes as b-roll to enhance the storytelling of the video.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\t\t
\n\n\t
\n\t\t \n\t\tExplore high-quality stock footage\t\t<\/a>\n\t<\/p>\n\n\t
\n\t\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t \n\t\tBrowse the Library\t\t<\/a>\n\t\n\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\n<\/aside>\n\n\n\n
What to look for in stock footage?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
With so many options available for stock footage these days, it can sometimes feel overwhelming trying to choose the right video clips for your project. To help you make the best decision possible, here are few things you need to look for before purchasing any stock video:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
1. Stock Footage License<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
As you begin browsing the available stock footage from a provider, you\u2019ll notice different licensing options. These are important to pay attention to because it tells you how a particular video clip can and can\u2019t be used. The most common licenses include Royalty-Free, Rights Managed, and Editorial Use. It’s important that your stock provider is reputable<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Typically, a Royalty-Free license<\/a> allows you to purchase and use stock footage in exchange for a one-time fee. This clip can then be used for unlimited amounts of time across multiple projects. There also aren\u2019t typically restrictions on how the clip is used. This offers the most flexibility because the purchased footage can be used many times, ensuring the investment pays for itself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
With a Rights Managed license, you\u2019re usually granted a limited-time use of the purchased clip. This means the clip can only be used in one project and for a set period of time. In some cases, the clip can only be used in certain geographic areas as well. You\u2019ll likely be asked to disclose all of this information upon purchase.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Then there\u2019s the Editorial Use license. This particular license limits the types of projects the stock footage can be used in. For instance, content with an Editorial Use license is often used in documentaries or the news. It absolutely cannot be used for commercial purposes. There are also limitations on size, image placement, how long the footage can be used, and geographic distribution. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Some companies do not allow Editorial Use clips to be cropped or color corrected, but at Storyblocks we don\u2019t have these limitations. If you want to learn more about video licensing check out our more in-depth blog on stock content licensing<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A note on copyright-free stock footage<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
New or beginner video creators with small budgets or limited resources will often try to stick with \u201ccopyright-free stock footage,\u201d without realizing the limitations of those clips. You can learn about the details of the difference between royalty-free and copyright-free<\/a> in our dedicated article, but true copyright-free stock footage is rare. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
While work that is in the public domain, meaning that it can be used without needing to pay a royalty or get permission, is copyright-free, it\u2019s also very limited. Creative Commons 0 is another example of copyright-free license. If you\u2019re looking for stock footage that has no copyrights, be sure to check the license very carefully to ensure it\u2019s actually copyright-free before you use it to avoid any legal issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
2. Video Quality<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Another important thing to consider is the quality of the video footage because there\u2019s never just one option to choose from. And these days, viewers aren\u2019t going to settle for a poor-quality video. Neither should you. When you find a clip you like, look over the available options and choose the one that\u2019s best suited to your project. In many cases, you\u2019ll wind up paying more for the highest quality stock footage, so carefully consider if you really need 4K footage or if HD<\/a> will suffice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What to look for in stock footage?<\/b><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
With so many options available for stock footage these days, it can sometimes feel overwhelming trying to choose the right video clips for your project. To help you make the best decision possible, here are few things you need to look for before purchasing any stock video:<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
1. Stock Footage License<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
As you begin browsing the available stock footage from a provider, you\u2019ll notice different licensing options. These are important to pay attention to because it tells you how a particular video clip can and can\u2019t be used. The most common licenses include Royalty-Free, Rights Managed, and Editorial Use. <\/span>Its important your stock provider is repu<\/a>t<\/a>able<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Typically, a <\/span>Royalty-Free license<\/span><\/a> allows you to purchase and use stock footage in exchange for a one-time fee. This clip can then be used for unlimited amounts of time across multiple projects. There also aren\u2019t typically restrictions on how the clip is used. This offers the most flexibility because the purchased footage can be used many times, ensuring the investment pays for itself.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
With a Rights Managed license, you\u2019re usually granted a limited-time use of the purchased clip. This means the clip can only be used in one project and for a set period of time. In some cases, the clip can only be used in certain geographic areas as well. You\u2019ll likely be asked to disclose all of this information upon purchase.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Finally, there\u2019s the Editorial Use license. This particular license limits the types of projects the stock footage can be used in. For instance, content with an Editorial Use license is often used in documentaries or the news. It absolutely cannot be used for commercial purposes.<\/span> There are also limitations on size, image placement, how long the footage can be used, and geographic distribution. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Some companies do not allow Editorial Use clips to be cropped or color corrected, but at Storyblocks we don\u2019t have these limitations. If you want to learn more about video licensing check out our more in-depth blog on stock content licensing<\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
2. Video Quality<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Another important thing to consider is the quality of the video footage because there\u2019s never just one option to choose from. And these days, viewers aren\u2019t going to settle for a poor-quality video. Neither should you. When you find a clip you like, look over the available options and choose the one that\u2019s best suited to your project. In many cases, you\u2019ll wind up paying more for the highest quality stock footage, so carefully consider if you really need 4K footage or if HD<\/a> will suffice.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n
$\"Screenshot$ <\/figure>\n\n\n\n
3. Choose the Right Stock Footage Provider<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
If you know you\u2019ll be using stock footage for many future projects, it\u2019ll be a wise investment to sign up for a subscription<\/a> with the provider of your choice. If you\u2019re planning to create a lot of video, then an unlimited stock video subscription is the most cost-effective option. This way, you\u2019ll save some money in the process vs buying individual clips. But what should you look for when comparing providers?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Check out their library of footage so you can be sure there are plenty of video clips you\u2019ll be able to use. Look at the licensing options so you\u2019ll know if their videos are suitable for what you\u2019ll be using them for. And of course, review their pricing plans so you can get a subscription within your budget.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
4. Consistency<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
And the final element to consider is whether or not the particular stock footage is consistent with the rest of the footage you\u2019ll be using. For instance, the quality should be the same, as well as the overall look and feel. You also want to ensure the video footage you choose makes sense for the message you\u2019re trying to portray. After all, a sad and dreary video doesn\u2019t work if you\u2019re sharing a positive message.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
So before you sign up for anything, search through their library to make sure you like what you\u2019re seeing. Search for the kinds of clips you plan to use in your videos, and browse the options. If they would be a perfect fit, then that provider is a good choice for your stock footage needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Where to buy stock footage?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nNext, you need to find a great place to buy stock footage. Luckily, there are tons of websites<\/a> that provide extensive libraries featuring a wide array of videos. Here are five options to check out:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Storyblocks<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
$\"Screenshot$ <\/figure>\n\n\n\n
When you sign up for Storyblocks<\/a>, you\u2019ll gain access to a 100% human-made stock library<\/a> that\u2019s packed with royalty-free, pre-licensed content. With unlimited downloads of over 7 million assets, including footage in 8K, 4K, and HD, you\u2019ll also have access to music, images, sound effects, and even customizable video templates. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Their content library is always growing and adapting to ensure it offers diverse, representative stock. A dedicated team curates the library, adding new content daily and removing old, outdated content so you always have the best selection to choose from. On top of that, they also have exclusive footage collections from talented filmmakers as a part of their diversity and inclusion initiative known as Re: Stock<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But even beyond stock, Storyblocks understands that assets are just one part of the entire production pipeline that goes into creating video. Which is why their subscriptions include tools to support every part of production, from their plugin<\/a> that brings their library right into Premiere and After Effects to their AI Toolkit<\/a>, which has tools to help you speed up your creative process like Voiceover<\/a>, Video Editor, and more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Storyblocks offers plans for individuals, small businesses and enterprise companies, with every plan giving you unlimited downloads and time-saving tools for one set price.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Shutterstock<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The Shutterstock library features over 400 million images, videos, and music tracks for download. They offer different subscriptions which are designed to prevent you from paying for more than what you need. If you\u2019re just looking for videos, they offer either individual purchase options or subscription plans. Learn the key differences between Storyblocks and Shutterstock<\/a> in our comparison article.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Gettyimages<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Getty Images offers both creative and editorial stock footage, depending on what will best suit your next project. Their creative footage offers a wide array of options, whereas the editorial content often features celebrities or other public figures. Getty also works with partners such as BBC, Universal, and Paramount. Their plans, referred to as UltraPacks, give you access to royalty-free images and videos. They don\u2019t currently offer any subscription or unlimited download options for footage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Dareful<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Scroll through the Dareful library and you\u2019ll find hundreds of open-source, royalty-free stock video footage in 4K. There\u2019s everything from aerial shots, seasons and holidays, and more. Everything in their library is free to download. Just be sure to review all licensing information for a full understanding of how the video clips can be used.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Pexels<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Pexels offers tons of royalty-free images and videos that have been shared by the creators within their community. There are nature and landscape videos<\/a>, clips of people walking or working, and everything in between. All videos are free to download – just be sure to carefully read the license for each one to make sure it covers your project\u2019s use case.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Stock footage FAQ<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
You\u2019ve got questions, we\u2019ve got answers! To ensure you\u2019re able to confidently move forward in using it, let\u2019s address some of the most commonly asked questions people have.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What is a stock video?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
A stock video is any kind of clip that\u2019s been made available for purchase or download with a license that outlines the terms of use. Stock video includes stock footage, but can also include things like stock motion backgrounds, templates, and other forms of video.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Is stock footage safe to use?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Absolutely, there\u2019s nothing wrong with using stock footage as long as you\u2019re abiding by the rules of the license attributed to it. Be sure to read through the license carefully so you don\u2019t mistakenly use the footage in a way that\u2019s forbidden or could lead to copyright issues. This way, you\u2019ll stay out of trouble.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Is stock footage free to use?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
There are some websites where you can get stock footage for free, however, it\u2019s usually a limited library. Normally, you\u2019ll have to pay a one-time fee for the footage you\u2019d like to purchase or sign up for a subscription with your chosen provider in order to access a more extensive library of footage. If you come across a free stock footage site, be sure to carefully read the terms of use for the license it comes with.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
How to buy stock footage?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Once you\u2019ve found a stock video you\u2019d like to purchase, you\u2019ll usually have the option to pay a one-time fee. This is ideal if you don\u2019t frequently need video clips, as they can be purchased as needed. Otherwise, you may want to consider signing up for a subscription with a provider if you\u2019ll be needing stock video often.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Where can I sell my stock footage?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
If you\u2019re a videographer wanting to make some extra money, you can sell your footage to different providers. Be sure to review any requirements the provider has for their contributors. Then, you can apply to see if you\u2019re accepted. If you are, you\u2019ll be able to start uploading videos. If interested, you can learn about becoming a Storyblocks contributor<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Wrapping up<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
So, what is stock footage? It\u2019s a powerful way to up-level the online content you create with the help of high-quality video clips. Once you\u2019ve chosen a stock footage provider, it\u2019ll be easy for you to find videos that meet your standards and complement your projects. Not only that, but your content will look professional and like you spent thousands, but really it\u2019ll never break the bank.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When you sign up with Storyblocks, you\u2019ll gain access to over eight million royalty-free, human-made assets, from video footage to templates, music, and photos. And with unlimited downloads, you\u2019ll be able to download new video footage whenever you need it. Our library is always growing, so you have new content to choose from that best fits your projects. On top of our stock library, you\u2019ll also get access to time-saving tools like our Adobe Creative Cloud plugin<\/a>, AI Toolkit<\/a>, Maker, and more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Explore our available plans<\/em><\/strong><\/a> and get started today.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
There\u2019s no denying that it costs quite a bit of time and money to create high-quality video content You\u2019ll need equipment such as a camera, microphone, and lighting. Then, there\u2019s the time commitment involved from brainstorming ideas to filming and editing the content. It\u2019s a lot to manage!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":109,"featured_media":671,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"content-type":"","inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"topic":[14],"class_list":["post-666","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","topic-video-editing"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.storyblocks.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/666","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.storyblocks.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.storyblocks.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.storyblocks.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/109"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.storyblocks.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=666"}],"version-history":[{"count":14,"href":"https:\/\/www.storyblocks.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/666\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":35953,"href":"https:\/\/www.storyblocks.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/666\/revisions\/35953"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.storyblocks.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/671"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.storyblocks.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=666"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"topic","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.storyblocks.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/topic?post=666"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}