Art

Using Databases

There are important differences to consider when searching for images online instead of text. Most image databases rely on keywords to describe the content and context of the images but the images can be described using other types of information as well. Ask yourself:

• What is the subject of the image?
• When was the image created?
• Where was it created?
• Who is the creator? (ex: photographer, painter, illustrator, etc.)

Try using synonyms, singular/plural variations, and words from different languages as your keywords. You may need to specify if you are looking for a particular type of image (ex: engraving, drawing, photograph, cartoon, painting, etc.).

Using Search Engines

While it may be easy to find images online, it is hard to tell which images are free to use in your own work. Many search engines have filtering tools to help limit a search for images that have an open license or are in the public domain. When conducting an image search with a search engine, try these steps:

• Look for a "Tools" or "Filters" option and select it.
• Select a "Usage Rights" or "License" tab to see multiple options for image reuse licenses.
• Select the option that meets your needs (ex: Labeled for reuse, Free to modify share and use, or Public domain).