Free Background Video: Find Copyright-Free Footage Here!

Are you in search of copyright free background video for your next project? Whether you're creating YouTube videos, marketing materials, or website content, using captivating visuals is crucial. However, navigating the world of copyright can be tricky. You need to be extra careful about using background videos without the right permissions, which can lead to serious legal problems. So, how do you get cool videos without breaking the bank or getting into trouble? The good news is, there are tons of places where you can find awesome copyright-free background videos. This article will explore the best resources for downloading and utilizing copyright-free background videos, ensuring your projects look professional and stay legally sound.

Understanding Copyright and Creative Commons Licenses

Before diving into where to find these royalty-free background videos, it’s important to understand the basics of copyright and Creative Commons licenses. Copyright is a legal right that grants the creator of original work exclusive rights for its use and distribution. This means you can't just grab any video you find online and use it without permission, unless you're ready to face legal consequences, like a cease and desist order, or worse.

Creative Commons (CC) licenses offer a flexible alternative to full copyright. They allow creators to grant certain permissions to the public while retaining ownership of their work. There are several types of CC licenses, each with different levels of permission:

• CC0 (Public Domain): This is the most permissive license. Creators waive all rights to their work, allowing anyone to use, modify, and distribute it for any purpose, even commercially, without attribution. Basically, it's like the video never had a copyright in the first place!
• CC BY (Attribution): This license lets you use, modify, and distribute the work, even commercially, as long as you give appropriate credit to the original creator. Giving credit is usually easy—just including their name or website in your video description or credits.
• CC BY-SA (Attribution-ShareAlike): Similar to CC BY, but if you modify the work, you must license your new creation under the same terms. It ensures that derivative works remain open and accessible.
• CC BY-NC (Attribution-NonCommercial): This license allows you to use, modify, and distribute the work for non-commercial purposes only, as long as you give credit to the creator. If you're making a video for a business, this isn't the license for you.
• CC BY-NC-SA (Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike): This combines the restrictions of CC BY-NC and CC BY-SA. You can only use the work for non-commercial purposes, and you must license any derivative works under the same terms.

Always check the specific license terms for each video you intend to use. Even if a video is labeled as "copyright free," understanding the license ensures you comply with the creator's requirements. Some sites have their own licensing agreements, so read them carefully. When in doubt, contact the website or the video creator for clarification. It's always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to copyright!

Top Websites for Copyright Free Background Videos

Now that you understand copyright and Creative Commons licenses, let's explore some of the best websites where you can find royalty free background video footage. These platforms offer a wide variety of high-quality videos that you can use in your projects without worrying about legal issues.

1. Pexels

Pexels is a fantastic resource for free background video. It offers a vast library of high-resolution photos and videos contributed by a global community of photographers and videographers. All content on Pexels is licensed under the Pexels License, which allows you to use the videos for free, even for commercial purposes, without attribution. You can modify, copy, and distribute the videos as you wish. Pexels is super easy to use. Just type what you're looking for into the search bar, like "abstract background" or "cityscape," and you'll get a bunch of options. You can filter your search by resolution, orientation, and even color to find exactly what you need. Pexels adds new videos all the time, so there's always something fresh to discover. Plus, because it's such a popular site, there are tons of videos to choose from, no matter what kind of project you're working on. Whether you need something for a YouTube intro, a website banner, or a social media ad, Pexels has got you covered!

2. Pixabay

Pixabay is another excellent platform for finding stock background video. Similar to Pexels, Pixabay offers a wide range of royalty-free images and videos. All content is released under the Pixabay License, which allows you to use the videos for free, even for commercial purposes, without attribution. This makes Pixabay an incredibly valuable resource for creators who need high-quality visuals without the hassle of complicated licensing agreements. The variety of videos available on Pixabay is impressive. You can find everything from nature scenes and animations to abstract designs and urban landscapes. The search function is user-friendly, allowing you to quickly find the perfect video for your project. Pixabay also has a large community of contributors, so the library is constantly growing with new and exciting content. One of the great things about Pixabay is that it also offers other types of media, like illustrations and music, so you can find all sorts of assets for your projects in one place. Whether you're a professional video editor or just starting out, Pixabay is a great resource to have in your toolkit.

3. Videvo

Videvo offers a mix of free stock video footage and premium clips. While some videos require attribution, many are available under the Videvo Standard License, which allows you to use them for free, even commercially, without attribution. It’s important to carefully review the license terms for each video before using it. The site’s interface is straightforward, making it easy to browse and search for the perfect clip. Videvo's collection includes a wide range of categories, from nature and wildlife to business and technology, providing options for various project needs. Videvo also stands out by offering motion graphics and after effects templates, providing added value for video editors and content creators. The platform also allows users to upload their own content, contributing to a diverse and growing library. Videvo is a solid choice for those seeking variety in their video options, as it balances both free and premium resources to cater to different budget and project requirements. So, if you're looking for a platform that offers both free and paid options, Videvo is definitely worth checking out.

4. Coverr

Coverr specializes in providing free stock video for website backgrounds and other creative projects. The videos on Coverr are high-quality and easy to download, and they can be used for commercial and non-commercial purposes without attribution. Coverr is particularly useful for website designers and developers who need visually appealing backgrounds to enhance their sites. The site's clean and simple design makes it easy to find the perfect video for your needs. Coverr also curates collections of videos based on themes, such as "business," "nature," and "abstract," making it even easier to discover relevant content. The platform is updated regularly with new videos, ensuring that you always have fresh options to choose from. Coverr's focus on website backgrounds means that the videos are often optimized for looping and seamless playback, making them ideal for creating engaging and professional-looking websites. If you're looking to add some visual flair to your website, Coverr is a great place to start.

5. Pond5 Public Domain Project

Pond5 is a well-known stock media marketplace, and their Public Domain Project offers a collection of public domain video footage that is free to use. This project includes historical footage, archival material, and other videos that are no longer subject to copyright restrictions. Pond5’s Public Domain Project is a treasure trove for filmmakers, historians, and anyone interested in using historical footage in their projects. The videos in this collection are often unique and hard to find elsewhere, making it a valuable resource for adding authenticity and depth to your work. While the collection is not as extensive as some of the other sites on this list, the quality and historical significance of the footage make it a standout option. Pond5’s user-friendly interface also makes it easy to search and browse the collection. If you're looking for something a bit different, Pond5’s Public Domain Project is worth exploring.

Tips for Using Copyright Free Background Videos

Even when using free stock background video, here are some tips to keep in mind to ensure you're using them effectively and legally:

• Always Verify the License: Before using any video, double-check the license terms. Make sure you understand what you are and aren’t allowed to do with the footage. Read the fine print and don't assume that all videos on a site have the same license. Knowing the license details helps you avoid copyright infringement and ensures you're following the creator's terms.
• Give Attribution When Required: If the license requires attribution, make sure you give proper credit to the creator. Include their name or website in your video description or credits. Attribution is not just a legal requirement; it's also a way to show respect for the creator's work. Follow the specific attribution guidelines provided by the licensor to ensure you're giving credit correctly.
• Modify and Enhance Videos: Don't be afraid to edit and enhance the videos to fit your project. Add effects, color correction, or music to make them your own. Modifying the videos can also help them stand out and prevent them from looking generic. Experiment with different editing techniques to create a unique and visually appealing final product. Just make sure that the license allows for modification, especially for the CC BY-SA license, which may affect your final product.
• Use High-Quality Videos: Choose videos that are high-resolution and visually appealing. Avoid using low-quality videos that may detract from the overall look and feel of your project. High-quality videos can make a big difference in the final result and can help create a professional and polished look. Look for videos that are at least 1080p resolution for best results.
• Consider the Context: Make sure the video you choose is appropriate for the context of your project. The video should complement your message and enhance the overall viewing experience. Think about the tone, mood, and style of your project and choose videos that fit those elements. A video that is out of place can be distracting and can detract from the effectiveness of your message.

Conclusion

Finding stock video backgrounds doesn't have to be a headache. By using the resources and tips outlined in this article, you can find high-quality, copyright-free background videos for your projects without worrying about legal issues. Always remember to verify the license, give attribution when required, and use the videos in a way that enhances your content. With the right visuals, you can create engaging and professional-looking videos that capture your audience's attention. So go ahead, explore these resources, and start creating amazing videos today! There are many resources for background video free of charge, you only need to explore what's out there.