Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Welcome to Retro Stock Photography! We’ve put together answers to the most common questions about our vintage photo archive, digital downloads and print options.

🔍 About Retro Stock Photography

What is Retro Stock Photography?

We’re a photography archive that was established by three generations of the same family. The collection includes thousands of original photographs from more than 30 different countries – all taken between the 1950s and 1990s.

We’re still in the process of getting everything processed and uploaded so it’ll probably be 2026 before the entire collection is available online.

Is this the same content I can find on other stock photo websites?

No, every image on Retro Stock Photography is exclusive to us. You won’t find AI-generated images or modern photos mislabelled as “vintage”. And you certainly won’t find the same old public domain content. All of our images were scanned directly from the original vintage negatives or slides, all of which are owned by us and stored in our archive.

What makes your collection different?

We like to focus on ordinary everyday scenes – things like city streets, cars, shopfronts, buildings public spaces, shopping, vacations etc. The types of subjects that were often taken for granted back then and rarely photographed. With the passage of time these “ordinary” scenes have now become quite extraordinary.

Our images have appeared in the Daily Mail, Evening Standard, and numerous other publications.

Are your images colour or black and white?

99% are in full colour, although we also have a handful of black and white shots.

🗂️ Searching and Browsing the Archive

How can I find specific types of images?

All of our photos have been tagged by location, era and theme, allowing for quick and easy searching. Or you can take a leisurely browse through our galleries or explore the tag cloud if you’re in the mood to discover something new.

Do you add new content regularly?

Yes. This is an ongoing project, and we’re uploading new photos every week.

💾 Digital Downloads

What do I receive when I purchase a digital image?

You’ll receive a JPG file which will be between 3000 and 4000 pixels on the longest side. You’ll see a download link immediately after checkout, and we’ll also send you an email with the same link. All downloads are watermark-free.

What license comes with a digital download?

Each purchase includes a royalty-free, non-exclusive, non-transferable license. You can use the image for commercial, editorial or personal projects. Full details on our license can be found on our Downloads page.

Are the images retouched or edited?

Our scans have been cleaned but retain the authentic film look, so minor imperfections may appear. These are part of the vintage charm and not digital errors.

Can I edit the downloaded image?

Absolutely. You are free to crop, adjust colours, overlay text, or make other changes to suit your creative needs.

Can I print the digital file myself?

Yes. You can make unlimited prints for personal or business use. But you can’t sell them.

What are the usage restrictions?
You cannot:

Resell or license the image in any form, whether physical or digital
Use it in logos, trademarks, or any branding material.
Use the image in offensive, unlawful, or defamatory ways.
Claim exclusive ownership of the image.

🖼️ Canvas Prints

What are canvas prints, and how are they made?

All of our images can also be purchased as canvas prints. The image is printed directly onto high-quality, textured canvas material, then stretched by hand over a ¾” (2cm) thick wooden frame. The edges are mirrored to extend the image around the sides, creating a clean, seamless look. They’re delivered ready to hang with a sawtooth bracket on the back.

Do you charge for shipping?

No — shipping is free to the following locations – United States, Canada, UK, European Union, Australia & New Zealand.

Detailed information can be found on our Canvas Prints page.

📬 Need Help or Have Questions?

Additional information on our downloads and canvas prints can be found on their relevant pages. But if you still have questions or need assistance with your order, feel free to contact us — we’re happy to help!