How to Use a Stock Video Website

How to Use Stock Video Websites: A Simple Guide

Hey there! Need awesome video for your project? Using stock video websites is a lifesaver. It's way cheaper and faster than filming yourself. Let me show you how.

1. Picking the Right Website

First, you need to find a good stock video website. Think of it like choosing a store – some are huge, others specialize in certain things.

• Size Matters: Some sites have tons of videos; others focus on specific styles. Think about what kind of video you need – nature scenes? Funny animations? Corporate stuff?
• Easy Searching: A good website has a great search. Look for filters – you should be able to find videos by keywords, resolution, and more. Bonus points if they have image search!
• Price Check: Most sites offer royalty-free licenses (you pay once, use forever). Some have subscriptions. Compare prices and make sure you understand exactly what you're getting.
• High-Quality Video: 4K video is becoming standard. Make sure the website offers it.
• Customer Service: A helpful support team is a huge plus. Check reviews before you sign up.

2. Finding the Perfect Video

Once you've picked a site, explore! Most have search bars. Try different words. Instead of just "city," try "urban landscape" or "city skyline." It makes a difference.

Use those filters! You can usually filter by:

• Keywords: Be specific!
• Resolution: Choose the quality you need.
• Aspect Ratio: This matters for how your video looks (16:9 is common).
• Video Length: Find something the right length for your project.
• License: Make sure it's okay to use in your project.
• Price: Set a budget and stick to it.

3. Understanding Licenses – It's Important!

Video licenses tell you how you can use the video. Most stock video is royalty-free – you pay once and can use it as much as you want. But… read the fine print!

• Forever Use: You can use it forever (usually!).
• Commercial Use: Okay to use in projects you're selling?
• Editorial Use: Okay for news or documentaries?
• Attribution: Do you have to give credit to the creator?
• Editing: Can you change the video?

4. Downloading and Using Your Video

Once you buy a video, download it. Most sites offer different formats. Choose one that works with your video editing software. Then, add it to your project! Remember those license terms.

5. Tips for Using Stock Video Like a Pro

• Plan Ahead: Don't just throw stock footage in randomly. Think about how it fits your story.
• Color Matching: Make sure the colors match your other footage.
• Smooth Transitions: Use good transitions to make it look professional.
• Add Music and Sound: These can really make your video pop.
• Copyright: Always follow the rules. Seriously.

Popular Stock Video Websites

There are tons of great websites. Here are a few:

• Shutterstock
• Envato Elements
• Artgrid
• Motion Array
• Pond5
• Adobe Stock

Try a few to see which one you like best!

The Bottom Line

Stock video is amazing! It makes creating videos so much easier. Find a website, search for what you need, understand the licenses, and you're good to go! Happy video making!