As a black woman, a couple of years into my business, I decided that I wanted to stop hiding behind classic white-washed stock images or generic flat lays. I stopped being afraid that I wouldn’t get clients because of the color of my skin. That’s just one of those things that we worry about.

When I started really showing up on social media and blogging, finding black people or people of color in stock images was very difficult. It was sometimes impossible.

I’m happy to report that it’s not the case anymore. Free sites like Unsplash and Pexels are doing better when it comes to including people of color. But, here’s a list of black-owned businesses you should support that provide diverse stock images.

1. CreateHer Stock

   I have had a membership with this website for YEARS! At the time, I didn’t have any branding images and just needed to at least find flat lays, lifestyle, or candid images with black hands. Neosha Gardner has provided beautiful images for black women for more than 6 years now. Go check her out! It’s worth the monthly subscription!
   
   It’s so important that stock image websites have pictures and/or mockups available with people of all shades to make sure that all people feel seen and catered to.

2. Honey Social

   It’s the newest stock image service I use. But it’s so much more than stock. In addition to new images each month, Jendayi Jackson provides a strategy guide or resource to help you plan your content or move your business forward. You can also expect training or templates as periodic bonuses.

   And now that they’ve added stock video for vertical video platforms, you NEED this subscription. With social media platforms, like Instagram, starting to favor vertical video formats, they’re starting a Reels challenge soon to get you started. On top of the service, Honey Social provides, you will also become part of a great community. Sign up for Honey Social today!

3. ColorJoy Stock

   This collection of diverse stock imagery is a must for creative entrepreneurs. It’s a lifestyle and business stock photo membership that makes sure you can connect with your diverse community. There’s nothing more thrilling than finding stock images that feature black hands as well as white hands.

4. TONL

   This company offers a very culturally diverse collection of high-quality stock images. Several images not only show people of color in everyday situations or in high fashion editorial style, but also other cultures internationally. The founders of Nigerian and Ghanaian descent say that “Photography and storytelling can help humanize and hopefully diminish the stereotypes and prejudice against black and brown people.” I love that. As a people of color, we’re tired of the white-washed image of us being perpetuated through imagery. TONL is dedicated to displaying images of diverse people and their stories from around the world.

In this day and age, we must be more authentic and inclusive in reaching ‘our people’ online. I’m happy that I can use stock imagery that reflects me and my community. Check out these stock websites for amazing collections that feature people of color for your website, social media, and lead magnets.