The Most Popular Stock Photo Websites in the World

Stock photography has become an essential part of online content creation, marketing, and digital design. Whether you're a professional photographer or a creative in need of quality images, stock photo platforms are indispensable. In this in-depth guide, we explore the most popular stock photo websites in the world, what they offer, how they work, and how you can sell or purchase images effectively through them.

1. Shutterstock

Founded in 2003, Shutterstock is arguably the most well-known stock photography website globally. It boasts over 400 million images, videos, and music tracks in its library. Shutterstock caters to individual creators, businesses, and large enterprises.

Key Features:

• Extensive image library updated daily
• Subscription and on-demand purchase options
• Contributor platform with detailed analytics
• Global reach and multilingual support

How to Sell:

Photographers can sign up as contributors and earn money every time their content is downloaded. Earnings vary based on contributor level and licensing type.

2. Adobe Stock

Adobe Stock is integrated into the Adobe Creative Cloud suite, making it a favorite among designers and artists. Its seamless integration with Photoshop, Illustrator, and other tools makes licensing images incredibly convenient.

3. Getty Images / iStock

Getty Images is a premium stock photo site, known for its exclusive, high-quality content. iStock, its subsidiary, offers more budget-friendly options. Both platforms have different tiers of licensing and image quality.

4. Alamy

With over 300 million images, Alamy prides itself on a diverse collection and a fair payment model for contributors. It is particularly popular among editorial and news photographers.

5. 500px

500px started as a photography community and evolved into a marketplace. It's especially known for artistic and high-quality imagery and offers licensing through 500px Marketplace.

6. Dreamstime

Dreamstime offers a massive library and is favored for its flexible licensing and contributor incentives. It includes free sections and seasonal photo contests.

7. Depositphotos

This fast-growing platform offers affordable plans and serves a global customer base. It is known for frequent promotions and accessible pricing.

8. Envato Elements (Photos from Twenty20)

Although Envato Elements is more focused on design assets, it has grown to include a substantial library of stock images through Twenty20. Its unlimited download model attracts content creators.

9. Stocksy

Stocksy is a cooperative, meaning contributors are part-owners. It focuses on authentic and artistic imagery, setting itself apart with a curated and high-end feel.

10. Canva (Photo Marketplace)

Canva’s growing image library supports its drag-and-drop design platform. Photos can be licensed individually or through subscriptions.

Tips for Choosing the Right Platform

• Consider your target audience (e.g., designers vs marketers)
• Review commission rates and payout thresholds
• Examiner contributor tools and analytics
• Look into platform policies and rights management

Conclusion

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to selling or buying stock photography. Each of the platforms listed above offers unique features, pricing models, and audience reach. As a buyer, consider your budget and licensing needs. As a photographer, test multiple platforms to determine which ones yield the best results for your niche and style.

With consistent uploads, high-quality imagery, and smart keywording, stock photography can become a rewarding and sustainable source of income.