Working with Images and Graphics

High-quality graphics are crucial in today’s online world. In this lesson, learn where to find free image resources, how to edit graphics, and best practices for web optimization.

Best Photo Resources

• Apple Photos
• Google Photos
• Adobe Lightroom

Great Free Image Resources

Christian Images

• Open Life Church Resources
• Seeds Church on the Move
• Freely Photos
• NewSpring Network Resources
• CreationSwap (3 free files a month)

Other Sites

• Pixabay
• StockSnap.io
• Unsplash
• Gratisography
• Negative Space
• Freestocks
• Picography
• MMT Stock
• Skitterphoto
• Life of Pix
• Picjumbo
• IM Free
• NOS
• Refe
• Jay Mantri
• Epicantus

Recommended Image Editors

Windows / Mac

• GIMP: Free and open-source image editor (also for Linux).
• Adobe Photoshop: Professional-grade image editing.
• Adobe Illustrator: Vector editing.

Mac

• Pixelmator: Available on the App Store.
• Autodesk Graphic: Vector graphics editing (also for iPad).

Online

• Canva: User-friendly online editor.

Image Types and Advice

• JPEG (JPG): Great for web use but doesn’t support transparency.
• PNG: Best for smaller transparent graphics; avoid for large photos.
• SVG: Vector format with no resolution issues; secure usage with plugins like “Safe SVG”.
• Avoid TIFF or RAW formats for web use; export to JPEG instead.
• Optimize image sizes:
  • Full-page images: Max 1600px width.
  • Background images: High compression JPEGs.

Basic Image Editing Skills

• Understanding layers.
• Adding text.
• Cropping and editing.
• Combining layers.
• Erasing backgrounds.
• Creating transparent images.
• Working with vectors.

By mastering these resources and techniques, you’ll create stunning graphics that enhance your online presence while keeping performance optimized.