STOCK VIDEO - TOP Sites for Royalty Free Stock Footage!

Film & Animation

Introduction

Are you in need of high-quality stock footage for your videos but don't want to spend hours shooting your own b-roll? Look no further! In this article, we will explore the top sites for royalty-free stock footage, both free and paid options, and discuss the key differences between them. Get ready to take your videos to the next level with these recommendations!

Free Stock Video Sites

If you're on a budget or just starting out, free stock video sites are a great option. While there are many to choose from, here are our top three picks:

  1. Stock Footage for Free
  2. Pexels
  3. Pixabay

These sites offer a decent selection of free stock footage with straightforward licensing and no restrictions on usage. You won't have to worry about providing attribution to the content creator in most cases. However, keep in mind that the size of their libraries may be smaller compared to paid options, and the searching capabilities may not be as advanced.

While free options are good, paid stock video sites offer more extensive libraries and better-quality footage. Here are our top picks for paid options:

  1. Storyblocks (formerly VideoBlocks): With separate sections for video, audio, and images, Storyblocks offers a monthly or annual subscription for unlimited access to their library. They have plans starting at $ 8.25 per month, and you can choose between a basic plan or an unlimited plan.

  2. Artgrid: Artgrid focuses on high-quality, professional footage, ideal for filmmakers and content creators. They offer three pricing plans: Junior, Creator 4k, and Professional, starting at $ 25 per month. The higher plans include access to advanced codecs and RAW or log footage.

  3. Envato Elements: Envato Elements provides unlimited downloads of not only stock video clips but also graphics, templates, themes, photos, and more. Their subscription plan starts at $ 16.50 per month and gives you access to a wide range of resources.

  4. Shutterstock: Known for its extensive library, Shutterstock offers a different pricing model where you pay per clip. Their starting price for a single clip is $ 79, or you can purchase packs of five, ten, or twenty-five clips. While it may be more expensive than subscription-based options, Shutterstock often has a larger selection of clips.

When deciding which site to use, it's important to consider your specific needs and the type of footage you require. You may find that utilizing multiple sites increases your chances of finding the perfect clips for your videos.

FAQ

Q: What are the best free stock video sites?
A: Stock Footage for Free, Pexels, and Pixabay are our top recommendations for free stock video sites due to their user-friendly interfaces, simple licensing terms, and extensive collection of clips.

Q: Are paid stock video sites worth it?
A: Paid stock video sites offer larger libraries, better-quality footage, and more advanced search features. While they may require a financial investment, the convenience and enhanced content make them worthwhile, especially for professionals or those working on client projects.

Q: Can I use stock footage in my monetized videos?
A: The licensing terms for each stock video site may vary. It's essential to review the specific licensing details to ensure compliance. Many paid sites have more straightforward licensing that allows for commercial use, making them suitable for monetized videos.

Q: Are stock video sites suitable for documentary filmmakers?
A: Yes, stock video sites can be an excellent resource for documentary filmmakers. Subscription-based sites like Storyblocks, Artgrid, and Envato Elements offer a wide range of high-quality footage that can enhance your storytelling. Additionally, Shutterstock's extensive library can provide unique visuals for your documentary projects.

Q: Can I find specific clips on stock video sites?
A: While stock video sites strive to provide a diverse range of clips, it may be challenging to find very specific footage. However, paid sites often have more advanced search capabilities, allowing you to narrow down your search criteria and find clips that closely match your requirements.

Q: Can I use stock footage in broadcast productions?
A: To use stock footage in broadcast productions, it's crucial to ensure proper licensing. Paid stock video sites like Shutterstock typically offer licenses suitable for broadcast purposes. Make sure to review the licensing terms and select the appropriate license for your specific needs.

In conclusion, choosing the right stock video site for your needs depends on factors like budget, desired quality, search capabilities, and licensing requirements. Whether you opt for free options or invest in paid sites, these resources provide valuable assets to enhance your videos and tell your story visually. Happy filming!