| Hi f1shirtlady,
We're reaching out to let you know about an upcoming change to Flickr's free accounts. What's changing:
Starting May 15, 2025, Flickr will restrict the downloading of original and large (larger than 1024px) sizes of photos owned by free accounts. If you use a free account, this update applies to both your own content and to content shared by other free members. In addition, videos stored on free accounts will no longer be downloadable once the change takes effect. Why we're making this change:
We're addressing the misuse of free accounts as cloud storage for original files—a practice that violates our Terms of Service and negatively impacts the performance and experience for Pro members. By limiting access to original and large-size downloads from free accounts, we can help preserve the integrity of the platform and continue delivering high-quality service to our Pro community. What's not changing:
- Your original files will still be stored on Flickr
- Medium and smaller sizes will remain available for download
- This restriction won't apply to Creative Commons licensed photos (unless they're private)
- Flickr Commons members are exempt from this change and will retain access to all download sizes.
Want to keep access to original-size downloads?
Upgrade to Flickr Pro before May 15 and you will maintain uninterrupted access to original and large size downloads. As a Pro member, you'll also enjoy unlimited storage, ad-free browsing, and advanced stats. You can access and download all of your content and associated data, including original files, at any time by submitting a request through the Flickr Data section of your account settings page. We understand this update may impact how you use Flickr, but it's a necessary step to keep our platform healthy, fair, and aligned with our community guidelines. If you have any questions, please reach out to our help desk. Keep creating,
- The Flickr Team | 
