wayne on August 15, 2008
Every now and then you might want to create an image or two for your blog. Perhaps you want a regular, no frills image, other times you might want to create a custom image. Maybe you just want some fluffed up text for the header of your blog. Here are some of the services I have found and some that I use to generate an image.
Free Image Resources
- www.free125cards.com - This is a new service I found that allows you to create a 125x125 pixel image. you can customize the background and add some text to the image as well. I've made my Entrecard image using this service.
- www.sxc.hu - The Stock.xchnge allows you to upload images, as well as allowing users to download and use images. Some images will cost money, but there are plenty of freebies on here as well. Be sure to check for any licensing requirements on this site!
- cooltext.com - Sometimes you just want to create a text image. CoolText.com provides a nice way to create some fluffy text, perfect for fluffing up that area you were thinking about.
- www.reflectionmaker.com - Maybe you already have an image and want to spruce it up a little. Using this site, you can add a nice reflection to your image.
- offtype.net - Feeling spry? Try your hand at creating your own image. This tool allows you to start with a blank slate and create your own image from scratch. This is a pretty raw application, and there are not a ton of features. Still, I don't want to discriminate against a good tool.
- www.gettyimages.com - Royalty free Getty Images. Need I say more?
- freelargephotos.com - More free images!
Those are just a few that I swing by from time to time. Most of the images I use here are screen-shots of some web site or application so I don't know the complete run down on each of these.
One thing to remember, make sure that you give credit where credit is due. Some of the images will carry a set of rights on how you should give credit, while others won't. Just be sure to read the sites terms and conditions on using their 'intellectual property'.
Are there any services not on this list that you use? Share them with us and you'll get a big nod of approval from many people. (Ok, maybe only a handful, but it will still feel just as good, I promise)
Update: Here are two of the 125 cards I made with their service...what do you think?
