If you're using self hosted WordPress, my only recommendation, there is a plugin to install Zemanta on your Add New Post page for easy use. Before you click away, if you're not using WordPress, there is also an addon for Firefox that will let you use Zemanta for other blogging platforms. So, read on.
Zemanta sits on the right side of the screen and monitors the text you're typing into your post. So, the first tip is to finish all your text before you try to use Zemanta. The more text it has to analyze, the more relevant the images and links that are suggested will be. Write the post, then take a look at the Zemanta box.
At the top, you'll find image thumbnails. Mousing over each of them will yield a description and image licensing, if known. They won't all necessarily be licensed for you to use them in your blog, but many will be, saying something like "Attribution," and/or "Share Alike." Others will be public domain and some will simply be unknown. I've had no problem finding what I needed with a license that allowed me to use it.
Clicking on the image inserts it into your post. It's that simple. You can resize it once in the post, and you'll have added a little color to your blog. I don't over use these images, and usually will only grab one if it really fits the topic in the post well. But, if I don't have an image that works, and I have hundreds, Zemanta works for me.
Next, just under the images, there is a list of short descriptions and links to content Zemanta suggests that seems to be related to your post text. Clicking on these inserts them at the bottom of your post as related links. There is a small icon on each in Zemanta's box that allows you to see the site page before you decide to use it. If the source isn't one you know, it's a good idea to take a quick look to be sure it's somewhere you want your visitors to go.
Zemanta saves me hours every month, but there is another bonus as well. Many WordPress blogs, if they see that you've linked to one of their posts with a Zemanta link, will place it as a trackback in the comments section. This results in a link back to your post automatically. I watch my stats, particularly where my visitors arrive from, and I see Zemanta links frequently.
