How do I install the unsplash mcp server?

Use a recorded configuration for your client, replace example credential values and paths, and verify the documented runtime. Restart or reconnect the client, then inspect the available tools.

What credentials does it need?

It reads `UNSPLASH_ACCESS_KEY` from the environment. Store these in your client's env block or a secrets manager — never commit them to a repository — and grant the narrowest scope that still covers your use case.

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Unsplash MCP Server

Unsplash MCP server for easy stock image integration with Claude Code

Local serverstdioTypeScript

What is the Unsplash MCP Server?

Unsplash MCP server for easy stock image integration with Claude Code

What the server does

An easy-to-use MCP server that provides seamless access to Unsplash's stock photo API for Claude Code users. Perfect for developers who need high-quality stock images during website development.

🔍 Search Images: Find stock photos by keyword with filters
🎲 Random Images: Get random high-quality images
📋 Image Details: Retrieve complete metadata and attribution
🖼️ Optimized URLs: Generate properly sized image URLs for web use
🚀 Easy Installation: One command setup with Claude Code
⚡ Fast: Built with TypeScript and optimized for performance

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Compare MCP servers by category, or browse hosted MCP servers if you prefer an endpoint over a local process.

Maintainer setup documentation.

Recorded tools

Check the linked publisher documentation and your connected client's tool list. Names and availability can vary with the server version and account permissions.

Tool	What it does
search_images
get_random_image
get_image_details
get_image_url

How to install the Unsplash MCP Server

{
  "mcpServers": {
    "unsplash-1": {
      "command": "npx",
      "args": ["-y", "@violent-madman/unsplash-mcp"],
      "env": {
        "UNSPLASH_ACCESS_KEY": "your-value"
      }
    }
  }
}

Add to claude_desktop_config.json, then restart Claude Desktop.

Configuration

Variable	Description	Required
UNSPLASH_ACCESS_KEY	Credential the server authenticates with.	Yes

Example prompts to try

“Use Unsplash to search images.”
“Use Unsplash to get random image.”
“Use Unsplash to get image details.”

Frequently asked questions

Unsplash MCP server for easy stock image integration with Claude Code Confirm the tools offered by your installed version in the connected client. Tool availability and permissions depend on the server and account configuration.

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