Researching historical photos for history articles and projects can sometimes be difficult. It may take a great deal of research to find appropriate photos and obtain the right to use them for a project. Fortunately, there are a number of sources for historical photos which can ease the search process.
Library Photo Catalogs
Search library photo catalogs to find options for projects. Library photo catalogs contain many historical photos on a variety of subjects. Neighborhood libraries have a large number of local photos. University libraries have extensive catalogs in a wide range of subjects that include specialty subject matters. Consider out-of-state libraries to find certain historical photos.
Ask reference librarians for help in locating photos. Local libraries can usually obtain photos from other libraries outside of their catalog.
Expect to pay a small fee to obtain a copy of the photo.
U.S. Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Catalog
Visit the U.S. Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Online Catalog for a large selection of historical pictures on hundreds of subjects. The website contains about 75 percent of the Prints and Photograph Divison's photos. The website allows photo downloads for prices ranging from $25 to $120.
The U.S. Library of Congress does not own the rights to all the photos in collection. With every photo purchase, rights information is provided. Some historical photos may be in public domain, allowing the photo to be used for any purpose. If the U.S. Library of Congress owns the rights to a photo, the buyer can request permission from the library to use a photo for a commercial project. If not, the buyer must contact the copyright owners to seek permission for commercial use.
City Department of Records Photos
Look for historical city photos at city record departments. Many city record departments have photos of neighborhoods, buildings and landmarks. Call city record departments to place an order for a print or electronic copy. Some departments require a written request. Copies of historical photos are available at prices generally ranging from $35 to $100.
Historical Society Photos
Contact historical societies dealing in the project subject matter. Historical societies may allow free use of certain photos for educational and personal use. Fees for electronic copies of photos are usually reasonable.
Find historical societies listings in the phone book and on the Internet. A number of historical societies have websites. Some websites that specialize in historical subjects have listings of related historical societies.
Museum Photo Collections
Research museum photo collections. Look for specialty museums and museums with collections dealing in the project subject. Some museum websites allow online photo orders. Others will require a phone call or email to set up a photo order. Museum photo prices tend to be more expensive than library or city record department photos.
Smithsonian Photographic Services
The Smithsonian Institution's Photographic Services runs a website, Smithsonian Images. The website sells an extensive photo collection available for online purchase. Prices range from $25 to $200. A written request for permission to use a photo for commercial purposes is required.
Personal Photo Collections
Look for personal collections of historical photos. Historical societies may have lists of personal collections. Work directly with the collector to purchase a photo and obtain permission. Some collectors may provide free copies of photos, depending on the project.
Online Historical Photo Sources
Search for online historical photo sources. Certain commercial websites sell historical photos and some specialize in a topic. However, it is good idea to search for photos from non-profit organizations such as libraries and historical societies first. Many photos are overpriced.
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