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Finding free stock photos that don’t require some kind of complicated attribution can be a challenge. But if you have a blog or content-driven website, it is a challenge that must be faced.

Allow us to recommend six sites with a good mix of farm, nature, rural, and Kansas photography:

  1. The Gallery at Homestead on the Range
    Our growing collection of free stock photos features images in the categories of field, pasture, furry farmhands, garden, nature trail, and Kansas. Whenever possible, we have tried to provide specific information on such details as wildlife species and farm animal breed. Please see our stock photo terms of use before downloading.
  2. Wikimedia Commons
    A must if you have a research-heavy site. While there are plenty of public domain images at the Wikimedia Commons, be aware that many of the photos do have various restrictions such as attribution. Check the license before downloading. Include the phrase public domain in your image search to whittle down your options up front.
  3. Pippalunacy
    Beautiful public domain photography heavy on rural, natural, and seasonal themes. Pay attention! You might spot a few photos there that you’ve seen before at our site! (Note: This site does not appear to exist any longer. Fortunately, some of the images have been archived at the link provided.)
  4. America’s Byways
    Whether your interest leans toward Amish country, Coronado, Route 66, Paul Bunyan, or the Rocky Mountains, you will find some nice photos at this site from the U.S. Department of Transportation. Be sure to check the license of each individual photo before downloading, and don’t miss the Flint Hills and Wetlands & Wildlife scenic byways.
  5. USDA ARS Image Gallery
    Photo topics include animals, crops, food, insects, natural resources, plants, and more. While all of the photos are in the public domain unless noted otherwise, the USDA ARS does request a simple credit line.
  6. Internet Archive
    Need an older image? Public domain books are a great source for images of everything from historic figures to heritage livestock breeds. As always, check the license before you snip—books that you borrow digitally are probably under copyright!

Please note that all of these sites have terms of use that must be followed to download the images. It is your responsibility to make sure you are following the rules!

Published by hsotr

Four-time author Michelle Lindsey owns and operates Homestead on the Range, an independent publisher dedicated to helping Kansans and others around flyover country achieve an abundant country lifestyle. She is a serious history enthusiast, specializing in Kansas, agriculture, and the American West. When not pursuing hobbies ranging from music to gardening to birdwatching, she can usually be found researching or writing about her many interests.