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Picsum Photos API

The Picsum Photos API provides developers with free and easy access to random or customizable placeholder images, ideal for prototypes and UI testing.

Developed by Picsum

View Source
99.98%Uptime
120msLatency
22kStars
No AuthAuth
NoCredit Card
RESTStyle
v2Version
API Endpoints

Reference for available routes, request structures, and live examples.

Get random placeholder images with specified dimensions

Full Endpoint URL
https://picsum.photos/{width}/{height}
Implementation Example
curl -X GET 'https://picsum.photos/{width}/{height}'
Request Payload
{
  "width": "800",
  "height": "600"
}
Expected Response
"Image binary data"
Version:v2
Limit:Unlimited
Real-World Applications
  • Rapid UI prototyping for web appsOptimized Capability
  • Placeholder images for SaaS dashboardsOptimized Capability
  • Automated testing of image display logicOptimized Capability
  • Design previews for client presentationsOptimized Capability
  • Generating sample visuals in CMS and eCommerce templatesOptimized Capability
Advantages
  • ✓ No authentication or signup required
  • ✓ Highly customizable image parameters
  • ✓ Fast and reliable CDN-backed delivery
  • ✓ Simple integration with any tech stack
Limitations
  • ✗ Not suitable for production photo content (placeholders only)
  • ✗ Limited to provided images; cannot upload custom content
  • ✗ Rate-limited at high request volumes
  • ✗ No advanced image editing/filtering features

FAQs

API Specifications

v2
Pricing Model
Free
Credit Card
Not Required
Response Formats
JSON, JPEG
Supported Languages
9 Languages
SDK Support
REST Only
Time to Hello World

Less than 1 minute

Rate Limit

1000 requests per minute

Free Tier Usage

Unlimited free usage for non-commercial and development purposes, subject to fair use policy and rate limits (1000 requests/minute).

Use Case: Best For

Developers needing quick, customizable placeholders for app or site development.

Not Recommended For

Projects requiring unique, licensed, or user-uploaded images.

Resources

Documentation Official Website Source Code Pricing Details Postman Collection
#placeholders#design#images

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