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How to Start Submitting Photos to Shutterstock

Are you an amateur photographer looking for ways to monetize your hobby? Shutterstock is a great platform to sell your photos and earn money. In this guide, we will show you how to sign up and start submitting your photos to Shutterstock.

Benefits of Selling Photos on Shutterstock

Shutterstock is a popular platform that allows photographers to sell their photos to a wide audience. It has over 1.6 million customers in over 150 countries, making it a great place to showcase and sell your work.

Some benefits of selling photos on Shutterstock include:

  • Earn Money: Shutterstock pays contributors a percentage of each sale, so you can earn money by selling your photos.

  • Exposure: Your photos will be available to a large audience, increasing your chances of getting noticed and potentially leading to more sales.

  • Flexibility: You can submit as many photos as you want, and there are no restrictions on the type of photos you can submit.

  • Ownership: You retain ownership of your photos even after they are sold on Shutterstock.


Getting Started on Shutterstock

Step 1: Sign up for an Account

To get started on Shutterstock, you will need to sign up for a contributor account. Go to the Shutterstock contributor page and click on the "Sign Up" button. Fill out the required information, including your name, email, and password.

Step 2: Upload Your Photos

Once you have signed up for an account, you can start uploading your photos to Shutterstock. Click on the "Upload Images" button and select the photos you want to submit. You can upload multiple photos at once, but each photo must be at least 4 megapixels and in JPEG format.

Step 3: Add Keywords and Categories

After you have uploaded your photos, you will need to add keywords and categories to help customers find your photos. Keywords should describe what is in the photo, including the subject matter, colors, and any relevant concepts.

Step 4: Submit Your Photos

Once you have added keywords and categories, you can submit your photos for review. Shutterstock will review your photos to ensure that they meet their quality standards. If your photos are accepted, they will be added to the Shutterstock marketplace.


Tips for Selling Photos on Shutterstock

Here are some tips to help you sell more photos on Shutterstock:

  • Quality Matters: Customers are looking for high-quality photos, so make sure your photos are sharp, well-composed, and properly exposed.

  • Be Selective: Don't upload every photo you take. Choose your best work and focus on quality over quantity.

  • Research Keywords: Do some research to find out what keywords customers are searching for. Use these keywords in your photo titles and descriptions to increase visibility.

  • Be Original: Don't copy other photographers' work. Create original photos that stand out and show off your unique style.

Conclusion

Selling photos on Shutterstock is a great way to earn money and get your work in front of a large audience. By following the steps outlined in this guide and implementing the tips provided, you can increase your chances of success on Shutterstock.

If you haven't already, sign up for a Shutterstock contributor account today and start monetizing your photography hobby!