Why I Share Free Canberra Photos on Unsplash | Daniel Morton-Jones
It’s a passion. And sometimes, sharing that passion freely is the most rewarding part of the journey.
Free Photography: Why I Share My Canberra Photos on Unsplash
Free? What Do You Mean Free?
In the world of photography, "free" can sometimes feel like a dirty word. Many professionals frown upon giving away their work without compensation. As a local Canberra photographer, I understand the sentiment. Our work is often undervalued, especially in an era where nearly everyone has a high-quality camera on their phone and platforms like Instagram dominate the visual space. (Don’t get me wrong, I appreciate a good phone camera just as much as the next person.)
However, I've adopted a quote from YouTube photography sensation Peter McKinnon that resonates with me: "Photography is a gift."
Why I Give Away Some of My Photos
As a photographer who loves capturing the landscape and beauty of Canberra, I often find myself with images that I treasure. These are photos that I might sell as prints or license to businesses. But out of the hundreds of photos I take during a shoot, there are always a few hidden gems that I believe others would enjoy just as much as I do.
Canberra is often underappreciated for its beauty, and many of its most stunning sights are rarely seen. Through my lens, I aim to capture the essence of this city — the parts that are often overlooked. And sometimes, I offer those images for free.
Why Free? And Where Can You Find Them?
1) Free for All
As I mentioned earlier, I believe that photography is a gift, and sometimes a single image can have a big impact. Maybe someone is working on a school project about Canberra. Perhaps a marketing student needs the perfect photo for a media campaign. Or maybe, like my own grandfather, someone wants a photo reference for an oil painting.
There’s something special about discovering a beautiful image that perfectly suits your needs. Having used Unsplash extensively for creative inspiration, I love contributing to the platform and giving back to the community.
The numbers speak for themselves:
Over 7 million views collectively across my photos
More than 43,000 downloads
One of my images was even featured on the Unsplash home page
Many of my photos are used in local business promotions, often seen on Facebook
Most excitingly, some of the free images I've shared have led to paid photography gigs! By giving away photos, I’m able to share my work with a wider audience while also opening up new opportunities.
2) Where to Find My Free Canberra Photos
You can find my Canberra photos and many more by visiting my profile on Unsplash. Simply search for Daniel Morton-Jones or The Mortz Media. Whether you're looking for a new desktop wallpaper or a photo that fits your phone aesthetic, I’m sure you’ll find something you love.
Why Free Photography is a Valuable Gift to the Community
While many photographers hesitate to give away their work for free, I've found tremendous value in sharing some of my images at no cost. Whether it's providing inspiration, supporting creative projects, or simply showcasing the beauty of Canberra, I believe in the power of giving back.
By offering free photos, I’m able to connect with a community that appreciates my work, and in turn, I’ve gained valuable exposure and even new opportunities for paid gigs. Photography is not just a profession for me — it’s a passion. And sometimes, sharing that passion freely is the most rewarding part of the journey.
So, feel free to explore my photos on Unsplash, and who knows, you might find the perfect image to inspire your next project.