Need a blog? If you want to set up a free blog check out WordPress.com or Blogger.com.
If you’re serious about blogging or intend to use your blog for business purposes, it is highly recommended that you buy a domain name and self host your blog.
Cheap domain names can be purchased through:
Custom Domains on Blogger
If your going to invest time (and possibly money) into your Blogger site, it looks more professional if your website is MySite.com rather than MySite.Blogspot.com! Instructions for using a custom domain name on Blogger can be found here: How to use a custom domain name on Blogger.
Self Hosted WordPress
My favorite blog platform is a self-hosted WordPress blog. With a self-hosted WordPress, the options are limitless and you can turn your blog into a fully functioning website.
If you use IXWebhosting, all the tools to install your new blog should be included in your package. If not, you’ll have to upload the program via FTP.
- Note that there is a huge difference between WordPress.com (as mentioned above) and WordPress.ORG.
- The .org is where you can find thousands of plug-ins, upgrades and the actual WordPress program.
- Read more about WordPress.org here: What Can You Use WordPress For?
IXWebHosting.Com: $3.95/mo – Superior Service with Excellent 24/7 Toll Free Support, Live Chat, and Email. Linux AND Windows packages!!!
Stock Photos
I’ve had clients ask “why can’t I just take images from Google?” I’ll tell you why, it’s illegal! Just as I wouldn’t want anyone taking my work and redistributing it, images found randomly on the web are OFF LIMITS. So what should you do if you need images or special graphics?
- Search for images with a creative commons license.
- Don’t be mislead to believe that stock photos are free or that you can do whatever you like with them.
- Free stock photos (under the appropriate license) can be used in custom graphics & website design.
- Good quality stock photos and graphics are SOLD and come with licenses.
Here are some places where you can begin your search:
- MorgueFile.com
- CreativeCommons.org (check licenses for individual images!)
Vectors
- VectorStock.com (use appropriate license)
- Vector Magic (make your own vector images online)

