Frequently Asked Questions

Retro Stock Photography is a specialist vintage photo archive established over ten years ago. The collection contains thousands of original photographs taken between the 1950s and 1990s, covering more than 30 countries. We have been offering digital downloads online for over five years, providing collectors, designers, and print enthusiasts with easy access to high-resolution vintage images. The full archive is still being scanned and catalogued, and is expected to be fully available by late 2026.

Is this the same content found on other stock photo websites?

No. Every image on Retro Stock Photography is completely exclusive to us. We do not sell AI-generated content, modern photographs mislabelled as “vintage,” or recycled public-domain material. All images are scanned directly from original negatives or slides that we own and preserve in our archive.

What makes your collection different?

Our focus is on everyday life and visible change. We specialise in city streets, cars, shopfronts, buildings, public spaces, shopping, holidays and ordinary moments — scenes that were rarely photographed at the time, yet today provide a vivid and often surprising window into the past.

We are deliberately selective and favour quality over quantity, choosing images with strong historical context rather than assembling large volumes of similar material. We prioritise photographs that show how places were used and how they have changed. You won’t find endless views of mountains or static landmarks that look much the same today. When well-known buildings appear, it is usually because something in the scene firmly dates them — period traffic, signage or everyday activity.

Images from our archive have appeared in major publications including the Daily Mail and the Evening Standard, and several are held by the Museum of London.

Are your images colour or black and white?

Most of the archive is in genuine colour, with a smaller selection of black-and-white photographs. We do not colourise or artificially enhance images — all colour photography is original.

How can I find specific types of images?

Each photo is carefully tagged by location, era and subject, making it easy to search the archive. You can browse by country, decade, or theme to quickly find relevant vintage stock images.

Do you add new content regularly?

Yes. This is an ongoing archival project, and new high-resolution scans are added regularly.

How much are your downloads?

All royalty-free digital downloads are priced at $20 USD. For customers outside the United States, prices are automatically converted into local currency. Because exchange rates fluctuate, the final amount may vary slightly from day to day.

Do you offer bulk discounts?

Yes. When you purchase five or more downloads in a single transaction, you automatically receive a 15% discount on your entire order.

What do I receive when I purchase a digital download?

You’ll receive a high-resolution JPG file, typically between 3000 and 4000 pixels on the longest side. Your download link appears immediately after checkout and is also sent by email. All images are supplied without watermarks.

What licence comes with a digital download?

Each purchase includes a royalty-free, non-exclusive, non-transferable licence. Images may be used for commercial, editorial, or personal projects. Full licensing details are available on our Downloads & License page.

Are the images retouched or edited?

Images are lightly cleaned to remove dust and minor imperfections, but we never alter the original content or apply heavy retouching. Our aim is to preserve an honest, natural appearance that remains true to the original photograph. You are free to edit your purchased image as needed for your own project.

Do you offer refunds?

Due to the digital nature of our products, we are unable to offer refunds or exchanges. We encourage customers to review images carefully before purchasing. These are genuine vintage photographs and may show minor imperfections consistent with their age.

Can I make physical prints from the digital file?

Yes. You may create physical prints for personal use or as gifts. Simply download the file instantly and print it yourself or use your preferred print service. The high-resolution files are suitable for wall art and gifts. Physical prints may not be resold.

Our images are especially popular for location-based wall art in pubs, hotels, cafés, barbers, offices, B&Bs, and holiday lets.

What are the usage restrictions?

• Do not resell or sublicense the image in any form
• Do not use the image in logos, trademarks, or branding
• Do not use the image in offensive, unlawful, or defamatory contexts
• Do not claim exclusive ownership of the image

Need help?

If you have any questions about licensing, downloads, or an order, please get in touch — we’re always happy to help.