Finding photos for Easy Read
Easy read documents combine simple language with clear images to make information easier to understand.
Choosing the right images is an important part of creating an effective easy read document. Good images help explain information and make it easier to understand. However, not every stock photo is suitable for easy read.
Below are some of the best places to find photos for your easy read documents.
If you create easy read documents regularly, Photosymbols is the best image library available.
The photos have been developed specifically created with people with learning disabilities for easy read. The library includes thousands of images covering everyday situations, healthcare, employment, travel, relationships and much more.
Photosymbols is a paid service, but if you produce easy read documents regularly, it is well worth the investment. You must have a commercial license if you are creating easy reads for other people.
AI-generated images
AI image generators can be a useful way to create images when you cannot find a suitable stock photo. They are particularly helpful if you need a very specific image or a situation that would be difficult to photograph.
However, AI-generated images should always be checked carefully. They can contain mistakes or details that make them confusing. Keep images simple, avoid busy backgrounds and unnecessary objects, and make sure they clearly show the message you want to explain.
Adobe Stock has a great range of paid-for photos. You can pay for individual photos rather than purchasing a subscription. They have some of the best photos of people with disabilities.
These photos have not been created specifically for easy read, so choose simple images that clearly show the message you want to communicate.
Unsplash offers millions of free high-quality images that can be used for a wide range of topics. You can also search for images of people with disabilities.
These photos have not been created specifically for easy read, so choose simple images that clearly show the message you want to communicate.
Choosing the right images
No matter where your images come from, choosing the right one is important. Good easy read images should:
Clearly support the text
Be simple and uncluttered, with a plain background
Avoid unnecessary backgrounds or objects
Represent the people who may use your document
If you're unsure whether an image works, test it with people who may use the document. User testing is one of the best ways to make sure your easy read document is clear and easy to understand.
Need help creating an easy read document? We can help create accessible, easy read documents using high-quality images and user testing to make sure they work for the people who will use them. Get in touch.
