Introduction
If you’re new to the world of stock photography, you might be feeling a little overwhelmed. There are so many stock sites out there, each with its own pricing, licensing, and submission requirements. But fear not! In this article, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know to get started with stock photography in 2023.
What Are Stock Sites?
Stock sites are online platforms where photographers and videographers can upload their work and license it to other users. These users might be designers, bloggers, or businesses looking for high-quality images to use in their projects. As a contributor, you’ll earn a commission each time someone licenses one of your images.
Why Use Stock Sites?
There are several reasons why you might want to use stock sites as a photographer. Firstly, it’s a great way to earn passive income from your existing portfolio. Secondly, it can be a good way to gain exposure for your work and build your reputation as a photographer. Finally, it’s an opportunity to challenge yourself creatively and produce work that’s tailored to specific briefs and markets.
Types of Stock Sites
There are two main types of stock sites: microstock and macrostock. Microstock sites, such as Shutterstock and iStock, offer a large volume of images at a low price point. Macrostock sites, such as Getty Images and Alamy, offer a smaller selection of high-quality images at a higher price point. There are also niche sites that specialize in particular types of imagery, such as food photography or travel photography.
Choosing a Stock Site
When choosing a stock site, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, you’ll want to look at the commission rate offered by each site. Secondly, you’ll want to consider the licensing options available and whether they suit your needs as a photographer. Finally, you’ll want to look at the submission requirements and whether they’re feasible for you to meet.
Top Stock Sites for Beginners
Here are some of the top stock sites for beginners to consider in 2023:
1. Shutterstock
Shutterstock is one of the largest microstock sites, offering over 300 million images and videos. They offer competitive commission rates and a simple submission process. Shutterstock is a good option for photographers who want to sell a high volume of images.
2. Adobe Stock
Adobe Stock is a relatively new player in the stock photography market, but it’s already gained a strong reputation. It offers a seamless integration with Adobe’s Creative Suite, making it a good option for designers and photographers who use Adobe software regularly.
3. Alamy
Alamy is a macrostock site that offers a higher commission rate than many of its competitors. It’s known for its high-quality imagery and editorial focus. Alamy is a good option for photographers who want to sell fewer images at a higher price point.
4. EyeEm
EyeEm is a niche stock site that specializes in authentic, documentary-style imagery. It has a strong community focus, with regular challenges and events. EyeEm is a good option for photographers who want to build their reputation as documentary photographers.
Tips for Success on Stock Sites
If you want to succeed on stock sites, there are several things you can do to increase your chances of making sales:
1. Focus on Quality
Quality is key when it comes to stock photography. Make sure your images are well-lit, well-composed, and technically sound.
2. Be Consistent
Consistency is important when building a portfolio on stock sites. Try to stick to a particular style or theme to make your portfolio more cohesive.
3. Research Trends and Markets
Researching trends and markets can help you produce images that are in high demand. Look at popular search terms and consider what types of images would be useful to designers and businesses.
4. Be Patient
Stock photography is a long game. It can take time to build up a portfolio and start making regular sales. Be patient and keep working at it.
Conclusion
Stock photography can be a rewarding way to earn passive income and gain exposure for your work. By choosing the right stock site, focusing on quality, and being patient, you can increase your chances of success in this competitive market. So why not give it a try? Who knows, you might just discover a new passion for stock photography.
