5 Simples Steps To Make Money On Shutterstock (2024 Updated)

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Image Source Pexels

Dear readers, if you want make money on Shutterstock in your spare time then you're on right place, In this comprehensive guide, i'll take you through the process of becoming a Shutterstock contributor in five simple steps, with a personal touch to help you kickstart your journey as a visual content creator.

The best part of this business doesn't require high amount of investments,  At a minimum, you'll need access to a camera or smartphone capable of capturing high-resolution images or videos. 

If you're already equipped with suitable gear, the costs could be minimal, including any expenses related to model or property releases.

Understanding Shutterstock 

Shutterstock is one of the world's leading stock photography and videography platforms. It's a marketplace where content creators, like photographers and videographers can showcase their work and license it to potential buyers, including businesses, marketers, and creatives.

Contributors play a important role in this ecosystem, provide the platform with fresh, high-quality images and videos that cater to various themes, styles, and industries.

As a contributor, you have the opportunity to earn money by selling your photos and videos through Shutter Stock's platform, reaching a global audience and also the best Side hustle Online.

Shutter Stock handles the sales, licensing, and distribution of your content, making it accessible to a broad customer base, and it is also best side hustle for teenagers who wants to make money online in their spare time.

Also Read: 16 Profitable Best Online Business Ideas To Start As Teenager

5 Steps To Make Money On Shutterstock

In this 5 steps, you will learn:

1. Preparing Your Content
2. Setting Up Contributor Account
3. Submitting Your Work
4. Building Your Portfolio and Maximizing Sales 
5. Equipments 

1. Preparing Your Content 

Preparing your content is the first step to becoming a successful Shutterstock contributor. Here's how to get started:

Technical Quality

Before starting work on shutterstock make sure to have a high quality content. make sure that your equipment can capture sharp, well-exposed images and videos.

 

Technical excellence is essential, as Shutterstock maintains high standards for technical quality. you'll get reject if your content quality does not match with Shutterstock Content Requirements.

Subject Matter

Choose subjects you are passionate about, whether it's landscapes, portraits, travel, or lifestyle. Be sure to tell a story or convey a message through your content. Buyers often look for images and videos that can be used in various contexts.

Composition and Creativity

Focus on composition and creativity. Pay attention to the framing, lighting, and overall visual aesthetics of your content. Use your unique perspective and style to create images and videos that stand out.

Technical Requirements:

Familiarize yourself with Shutterstock's Technical requirements, which include image resolution, file formats, and color profiles. Make sure your work complies with these standards to avoid rejections during the review process.

2. Setting Up Your Contributor Account 

To start selling on Shutterstock, you'll need to create a Shutterstock contributor account for selling your images and videos. Here's how:

Account Registration: 

Visit the Shutterstock contributor portal and sign up using your email address. Be sure to provide accurate and honest information during registration.

Profile Details: 

Complete your contributor profile. This includes providing details about yourself, such as your full name and address. Ensure that the information is accurate, as you may be required to verify your identity later in the process.

Payment Information: 

Set up your payment information. Shutterstock offers various payment options, including PayPal and direct deposit. Choose the payment that is most suitable to you, you can also use Payoneer and Skrill for your payments.

Tax Information: 

If you are a U.S. taxpayer, you'll need to provide tax information for reporting earnings to the IRS. For international contributors, Shutterstock may request tax-related documentation based on your country's tax laws.

Verify Your Identity: 

Shutterstock may require identity verification, which typically involves submitting a government-issued ID and a selfie for comparison. This step is essential to maintain the integrity of the platform.

3. Submitting Your Work 

Now that your contributor account is set up, it's time to share your work with the world. Here's how to submit your photos and videos to Shutterstock:

Uploading Content

Log in to your contributor account and access the content submission page. Follow the guidelines for uploading your images and videos. Make sure your files meet Shutterstock's technical requirements, including resolution, format, and color profile.

Metadata and Keywords

For each piece of content, you'll need to provide metadata, including titles, descriptions, and keywords. This information is crucial for making your work discoverable. Choose descriptive and relevant keywords that accurately represent your content.

Model and Property Releases

If your content features recognizable people or private property,then you will get rejection of Model and Property Realease by shutterstock you must obtain model and property releases. This legal documentation grants you permission to sell the content commercially. 

Review Process 

Your uploaded content will go through a review process, where Shutterstock's team assesses its quality and adherence to guidelines. Be patient during this stage, as not all submissions may be accepted on the first attempt. Reviewers will provide feedback to help you improve your content.

4. Building Your Portfolio and Maximizing Sales 

The journey doesn't end with uploading your work. To maximize your success on Shutterstock, consider the following strategies:

Diversify Your Portfolio 

Expand your portfolio by adding a variety of content. Different subjects, styles, and themes can attract a wider range of buyers. Think about what customers might need, from business concepts to everyday life.

Consistency and Quality

Maintain a consistent level of quality in your work. Buyers often return to contributors whose work they trust. Consistency in style, color, and composition can build your brand as a contributor.

Promote Your Work 

Use social media and personal websites to promote your Shutterstock portfolio. Share your journey, offer insights, and engage with your audience. Building a personal brand can make your work more recognizable and appealing to potential buyers.

5. Equipments

Image Source Pexels

The equipment you need for Shutterstock, or any stock photography and videography platform, depends on the type of content you intend to create and the quality standards of the platform. However, here's a general list of equipment that can be beneficial for photographers and videographers:

Camera: A high-quality camera is essential. For photographers, a DSLR or mirrorless camera with good resolution and image quality is recommended. For videographers, a camera capable of shooting in at least 1080p or 4K resolution is preferable.

Lenses: A selection of lenses can help you capture a variety of shots. For photographers, consider a versatile zoom lens and prime lenses for specific situations. Videographers may want lenses with smooth focusing capabilities.

Tripod: A stable tripod is crucial for keeping your shots steady, especially in low-light conditions.

Lighting Equipment: Good lighting can make a significant difference in the quality of your images and videos. Consider investing in softboxes, reflectors, and external flashes or continuous lights.

Microphone: If you're creating videos, a quality external microphone can greatly improve audio quality, which is essential for professional video content.

Computer and Editing Software: A capable computer and photo or video editing software are necessary for post-processing your content.

Storage: Invest in high-capacity and reliable memory cards for photography and external hard drives for video content. Redundant backups are essential to protect your work.

Release Forms: If your content features recognizable people or private property, you may need model and property release forms. Ensure you have these documents handy.

Transport and Protection: Cases or bags for your equipment will help you safely transport and protect your gear.

Additional Accessories: Depending on your niche and content, you may need additional accessories like filters, gimbals for video stabilization, or specific tools for macro or specialized photography.

Conclusion

As we conclude this guide on how to start selling on Shutterstock, remember that your journey is a blend of creativity, dedication, and entrepreneurship. Turning your passion for photography and videography into profits is not just a dream; it's a tangible goal. 

With the right equipment, compelling content, an authentic touch, and a willingness to learn and adapt, you can embark on a rewarding journey as a Shutterstock contributor. 

It's a platform where your art meets commerce, and where your personal touch can turn your creative vision into a sustainable source of income. So, pick up your camera, capture those moments, and start sharing your visual stories with the world. Your journey awaits!

What is Shutterstock, and how does it work?

Shutterstock is a popular stock photography and videography platform where creators can upload and sell their visual content to a global audience. Buyers can then purchase licenses to use this content for various purposes, such as marketing, design, and more.

Do I need professional photography or videography equipment to get started?

While professional equipment can certainly enhance the quality of your content, it's not a strict requirement. You can start with a decent camera or even a smartphone with a good camera. The key is to capture high-quality, well-composed images and videos.

What types of content are suitable for Shutterstock?

Shutterstock accepts a wide range of visual content, including photos, videos, illustrations, and vectors. The platform caters to various themes and styles, so your content can be diverse, from nature shots to business-related visuals.

How long does it take to start earning on Shutterstock?

Earnings on Shutterstock may not be immediate, as it depends on factors like the quality of your content, the demand for your niche, and your marketing efforts. Success can take time, so patience and persistence are key. Some contributors see income within a few months, while others may take longer.

How do I promote my Shutterstock portfolio and increase sales?

Promoting your work on social media, creating a personal website, blogging, and networking with other creators are effective ways to increase your visibility and attract more buyers. Consistency in adding new content can also help boost your sales.