Hello people, I'm new to software development but already started a project. I was wondering where and if I can find media such as sounds, pictures, etc. for my application. I am not afraid of editing my own multimedia but would like to save myself some time if I can download it or copy it for free. I think this is a topic other developers will find useful. I don't know trademark laws and what I can or cannot copy for my own use and for selling the product. If it is on the internet is it free to use and/or to sell? If I alter an image even a little is it considered to be a different image? I doubt I can change the color of the AT&T logo and sell it in my app.

Thank you in advance

If you are still looking one place to go for free sound bytes for sound effects and background noises for games would be soundbible.com. There is a huge database of various sounds you can use. I use them all the time from there for my games.

Thanks gameprogrammer for the reply! I am always looking for free material for my development. I found a few websites with free material under 'public domain' category but even they can be tricky. If I find anything definite, I will return and add to my post to share the information.

Try http://search.creativecommons.org/ for Creative Commons-licensed material. Note that the terms of the licenses differ as to whether you are allowed to create derivative works (alter the material), include it in commercial products, and whether you might be required to provide attribution.