clumps of white bird feathers sprinkled with black sand

10 Free Backgrounds to Improve Your Quote Overlays [with inspirational quotes]

Do you like sharing poignant or inspirational quotes online? Do you relish in the opportunity to discuss those perspective-shifting quotes with your friends?

Regardless of the words that move you, if you’re using inspirational quotes to create content, you’ll need a background that makes a statement! Not sure where to start? Keep scrolling! In this post, you’ll find 10 free stock backgrounds that will help your quote overlays stand out from the crowd.

Looking for quotes to share, too? Don’t fret! We’ve included quotes under each image – that’s 10 inspirational quotes for your future posts! 

1. Close Up of a Thorn

close up of a thorn against a yellow and blue background.

This close up image of a thorn in silhouette, by Alen, pairs well with quotes about the challenges of life. Looking to make a powerful statement? Add this quote by Martin Luther King, Jr. that states;

The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.

2. Macro Dandelion Texture

macro shot of a soft dandelion

This greenish-yellow macro shot of a dandelion by Nick can be used with quotes that evoke a positive vibe. Want to share the optimism? Use this short and simple message by John Lewis that says,

Be hopeful. Be optimistic. Never lose that sense of hope.

3. Abstract Yellow Light Streak

abstract, yellow light swirls against a dark background

Looking to inspire your audience? Make a bold statement when you add a quote to this abstract, light-streaked image by Kamilla Rams. We recommend this gem by Maya Angelou that proclaims,

My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style.

4. Sepia Bokeh Texture

bokeh lights against a sepia brown background

Something about this sepia-toned image of bokeh, by Nick, conjures up feelings of a time gone by. Feeling nostalgic? Use this bokeh texture with a sentimental quote by Alek Wek that states,

The most beautiful things are not associated with money; they are memories and moments. If you don’t celebrate those, they can pass you by.

5. Cloud Stream

abstract long exposure of water stream with blue and white tones

This long-exposure shot of a water stream, by Nicolas Raymond, is so dreamy that it lends itself to endless possibilities. We recommend a quote that is equally dreamy – like this powerful quote by Yoko Ono that declares,

A dream you dream alone is only a dream. A dream you dream together is reality.

6. White Feathers Texture

clumps of white bird feathers sprinkled with black sand

Capture the fleeting nature of life with this image of white feathers by Bjorgvin. Looking for a timeless quote? We recommend this poignant prose by Langston Hughes that warns,

Hold fast to dreams; for if dreams die, life is a broken-winged bird that cannot fly.

7. Pale Concrete Surface

pale clean gray concrete surface

If you’re looking for a neutral background that has a little oomph – look no further than this pale concrete surface texture by Ivan. With its neutral gray tone, this image can be used with a variety of quotes and fonts. Embrace the flexibility of this image by adding this powerful statement by Alice Walker that reads,

For in the end, freedom is a personal and lonely battle; and one faces down fears of today so that those of tomorrow might be engaged.

8. Brightly-Colored Stained Glass

stained and colored glass with vibrant purple and orange hues

Stop your followers mid-scroll with this colorful shot of stained glass by Rudy Bagozzi. Want to inspire critical thinking amongst your audience? We recommend adding a powerful statement – like this quote by Audre Lorde that declares,

It is not our differences that divide us. It is our inability to accept, and celebrate those differences.

9. Trailing Highway Traffic Lights

Talk about your life’s journey with this long-exposure shot of trailing car lights by Krzysztof Bubel. Dynamic images, like this one, don’t require lengthy quotes to make a point. Try using a simple quote by Chinese philosopher, Confucius – like this one that states,

Wherever you go, go with all your heart.

10. Spiral Milky Way

spiral milky in a starry night sky

This shot of the starry milky way is sure to stun viewers. Want to evoke a sense of wonder? Pair this picture with an inspiring quote by Stephen Hawking that says,

Look up at the stars and not down at your feet. Try to make sense of what you see, and wonder about what makes the universe exist. Be curious.