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Shutterstock stands out as a leading stock photo agency known for simplicity, elegance, and a user-friendly experience. Since inception, it has been part of the elite “Big 6” in the industry, primarily serving designers and corporate clients with extensive image needs. Its groundbreaking subscription model provides a steady flow of royalty-free pictures at competitive prices—a concept now emulated by major agencies worldwide. Initially focused on bulk buyers, the marketplace later broadened its reach to users with smaller demands through flexible on-demand packages that offer affordability without large purchases. Additionally, the service expanded to include stock footage, audio files, and a comprehensive graphic design platform

PROS:

Multiple subscription options for small and large image needs

Insanely large library (450+ million images)

Commercial-ready style

CONS:

No single-image purchase 

Homogeneous library (no artsy nor niche photos) 

No exclusive content

That’s our evaluation of Shutterstock’s best and worst features, but our review goes much more in-depth than that, so read ahead!

For those short on time, here’s what to know about this stock media outlet:

Inventor of the stock photo subscription model.

Lowest per-image rate: $0.22 each with a subscription.

One of the largest stock image catalogs, featuring 450+ million high-resolution images.

Sells royalty-free licenses for commercial use.

Accepts most credit cards worldwide, and PayPal in the US and Canada only.

State-of-the-art search engine with AI image recognition and reverse image search.

Bonus features include the Creative Flow design platform.

This company offers a complete solution for creatives seeking affordable, high-quality stock photos. Read on for a comprehensive overview of Shutterstock and how it works. Here, you can find the company's most relevant statistics

This brand is a leader in stock media, defined by quality, quantity, and variety. With over 450 million images available, every theme and style is just a click away. The photos exhibit technical excellence and strong commercial appeal—ideal for enhancing any design instantly. A thorough review process ensures each image meets high standards. Perfect for businesses and creatives with marketing or advertising needs, Shutterstock's library provides abundant options.

Each image is protected by copyright. Purchasing from this marketplace grants a license to use these assets, not ownership. Creative rights remain with the original artist, ensuring their work stays uniquely theirs.

Photos and illustrations are available in three sizes for download:

Small (S) – Approx. 500 x 300 px; shortest download time, ideal for digital use.

Medium (M) – Approx. 1000 x 600 px; suitable for small prints and digital use.

Large (L) – Approx. 5000 x 3000 px (or higher); original file from the contributor, suitable for large prints and digital use.

Custom: For specific sizes, use the Image Editor to adjust dimensions of any image and JPEG versions of vector files.

Key Tip: Image size does not affect download pack or subscription prices. Whether you choose Small or Large, the cost remains the same. Maximize storage and design options by opting for the largest size available at no extra charge. 

Three types of images are available: photos, vectors, and illustrations. Photos and illustrations are in JPEG format, while vector files are in EPS. Use the Image Editor for additional formats, including:

PNG – A lossless compression format, ideal for digital use. It efficiently stores simple graphics in compact sizes without sacrificing quality.

PDF – The best format for unchangeable files, easy to share and print.

TIFF – The preferred format for preserving photographic detail with lossless compression, ensuring images remain vivid and true.

Vector PDF – Offers unmatched clarity, scaling seamlessly without blur or loss of detail.

In this agency, you can buy images via subscriptions or image packs. 

Pro Tip: Use our exclusive coupon codes to save up to 25% in your purchase!

SUBSCRIPTION PROS:

Lower per-image rates 

Constant availability of downloads

Automated process 

Cancel anytime

SUBSCRIPTION CONS:

Periodic fees

Auto-renewal is on by default 

Cancellation fees may apply depending on when you cancel 

Shutterstock offers a variety of subscription plans to fit every need, with four volume options and three flexible time extensions. This setup lets you secure the best deals by investing upfront and managing your budget effectively, which is why Shutterstock's plans are truly unmatched.

IMAGE PACK PROS:

One-time pay

One year to use your downloads 

Easy to manage 

No long-term commitment

IMAGE PACK CONS:

Higher per-image rates

Small volume of downloads 

Download only still imagery (video packs and audio tracks on demand are sold separately)

The service offers reasonably priced but somewhat restrictive pay-as-you-go options. You can't purchase a single image—the minimum is two, and oddly enough, buying ten pics for a month costs the same as purchasing just two on demand. While these packs might suit some needs, there are more flexible alternatives for on-demand stock photos.

Enhanced License Packs

The previous prices apply to Standard licenses. An Enhanced license with extra usage rights is available at a higher cost and only on demand. These are the prices for Enhanced licenses:

For more information, check our complete breakdown of Shutterstock pricing.

Wondering how to purchase visuals from Shutterstock? It's simple and convenient! Just visit , where you can pay securely using major credit cards like Visa, American Express, or MasterCard. Excitingly, they now also accept PayPal for users in the U.S. and Canada, with plans to expand this option globally soon.

Shutterstock offers Royalty-Free licenses, allowing one-time payment for unlimited use without extra fees. While multiple users can license the same image simultaneously, this approach provides a cost-effective way to access high-quality visuals.

The Standard license, included with every file, permits use of the image in any number of personal and commercial projects worldwide, across virtually all digital and print mediums, for as long as desired. These photos are suitable for websites, social media, digital platforms, applications, billboards, banners, adverts, templates, and more.

Some restrictions apply regarding the number of copies or total project budget, which can be addressed with an Enhanced license. This license includes all Standard rights but removes limitations on number of reproductions and budget size, plus allows use of the image in resellable products for profit.

Photos include a few unremovable restrictions that are easy to follow. You cannot resell them as-is (but they are suitable for client projects and products with an Enhanced license). The sensitive use clause prohibits negative depictions of models, artists, or agencies. For more insights, refer to our expert guide on Shutterstock licenses.

Note that Shutterstock's assets are not exclusive; anyone can download and use them at any time. They also provide footage with flexible licensing options—standard or enhanced—to meet your needs.

Important: To legally use these images, ensure you have a valid license in your name. Download the image directly from their website using the designated button—this is the only lawful method. Any other means of obtaining these photos is illegal and risks serious copyright infringement issues. Always secure proper licensing to avoid trouble!

This vast image collection thrives on the creativity of photographers and visual artists worldwide, known as contributors, who submit their work to be sold on the agency's website. These talented individuals earn a percentage every time their work is purchased on the platform. Curious about joining them? Wondering if it's worth it or how much you can make? Our reviews confirm that this outlet is both reputable and lucrative, offering ample opportunities due to its extensive buyer network. For detailed insights into submission guidelines, royalty rates, and potential earnings, read the full Shutterstock Contributor review.

We've explored Shutterstock's primary service, but what truly sets this agency apart is the wealth of resources it offers to busy creatives. This tech-savvy company consistently enhances its offerings with cutting-edge technology. Take a look:

Discover the agency's complete graphic design platform, now powered by the ultimate AI technology. This free and intuitive service integrates into the content libraries to transform your image editing experience, enabling you to craft stunning visuals effortlessly. It includes an AI image generator, AI image editing features, and even a virtual design assistant. Explore its latest enhancements today!

Unleash creativity on the go with the Shutterstock App, available for iOS and Android. Effortlessly explore, search, share, and download stunning shots right from your mobile device.

Experience cutting-edge searching technology on this website. Unleash the power of reverse image search, intuitive keyword suggestions, and precise filters that pinpoint exactly what you need. Powered by state-of-the-art computer vision technology, discover similar visuals effortlessly within these vast collections.

Shutterstock Premier is the ultimate premium service crafted for enterprise and business clients. Experience bespoke solutions that elevate your marketing strategies. Dive into what Premier can offer you today!

Shutterstock Editorial is a dynamic collection of exclusive content that captures the pulse of current events and public interest. From striking photographs to captivating videos and evocative music, this editorial media is perfect for illustrative purposes under an Editorial license—strictly non-commercial use. Available on-demand or through subscription plans, explore more about these compelling offerings today!

There are two ways to get free files from Shutterstock. Each week, snag a complimentary photo, illustration, video clip, and music track right from their homepage. Then, subscribe to their newsletter for instant access to exclusive freebies like themed content bundles packed with unwatermarked assets and templates—all under a royalty-free license perfect for professional projects. Discover even more legal ways to obtain stunning Shutterstock visuals without watermarks! 

Is Shutterstock a reliable platform for selling and purchasing stock photos?

Absolutely! This firm is a beacon of trust and professionalism in the stock photo industry. As experts, we confidently vouch for its legitimacy.

Is Shutterstock free to use?

You can explore the site's vast collections and even sign up for free, enjoying tools like the image editor at no cost. However, to use their high-quality images, videos, or music tracks in your projects, you'll need to purchase them as they are Royalty-Free but not free of charge. The only legal way to snag some freebies is through their weekly offerings mentioned earlier.

Does Shutterstock have a free trial?

Currently, this company doesn't offer a free trial.

How much does an image on Shutterstock cost?

A subscription lets you snag snaps for as low as $0.22, while image packs offer them between $9.16 and $9.80 each.

Can I buy just one image on Shutterstock?

Unfortunately, the platform doesn't allow single-image purchases. The smallest package available is for two images.

Can I use Shutterstock images for commercial use?

Certainly! At the heart of this agency's mission is providing top-notch, royalty-free media ready for commercial use. Their vast collection, excluding the clearly marked Editorial section, ensures creators have easy access to hassle-free content.

This agency began over 20 years ago and has consistently remained at the top of the market. Here’s a quick overview:

In 2003, photographer and programmer Jon Oringer launched Shutterstock in New York City, where it remains headquartered. This innovative model provided access to royalty-free images through a simple monthly subscription, allowing unlimited downloads for one flat fee.

From a modest assortment of Oringer's photos, Shutterstock has exploded into a global powerhouse. Boasting over 450 million images and backed by nearly 1 million contributors worldwide, its revolutionary subscription model reshaped the industry. An innovation that sparked countless imitators, it remains indispensable for companies everywhere.

Initially, Shutterstock did not offer an on-demand purchase option but quickly attracted users by launching prepaid image packs—an enticing feature still available today. With a global clientele of 2 million active users, subscriptions remain the agency's flagship offering.

The company dazzles with an extensive array of stock footage and music, offering tailored subscriptions and flexible on-demand options to suit every creative vision. Editorial content shines with its own specialized licenses and pricing plans, ensuring unique access for all storytelling needs.

This firm blazes a trail in technology, constantly pushing the envelope with its website's state-of-the-art features. Their AI-driven image recognition and Creative Flow design platform, packed with powerful tools like an image generator, place them at the pinnacle of innovation for creatives.

Shutterstock is the go-to stock photo site for industry giants like Google, Marvel, BuzzFeed, and AMC. In 2012, it made waves as the first of its kind to launch on the New York Stock Exchange.

Shutterstock excels in stock photo subscriptions. Boasting a vast image library and flexible plans that fit any budget, it offers unparalleled value. With versatile licensing options and a suite of creative tools, it's the go-to choice for anyone seeking high-quality images with ease and efficiency.