Top 16 Websites to Sell Photos Online and Earn
Introduction
Digital photography has seen a tremendous surge in popularity lately. With almost everyone owning a smartphone, sharing photos has become a common activity. But did you know you can also earn money by selling your photos? Yes, you heard it right! In this blog post, we will discuss the top 16 websites where you can sell your photos and earn money. So, let’s get started!
1. Shutterstock
Overview: Shutterstock is one of the world’s largest and most popular stock photo websites. Earnings: Photographers earn commissions ranging from 15% to 40%.
- High traffic platform, which means your photos will be seen by a large audience, potentially increasing your earnings.
- Global reach allows you to reach customers worldwide.
- Due to the competitive market, you need to maintain high-quality photos to stand out.
- Approval process can be strict; not all photos are approved.
2. Adobe Stock
Overview: Integrated with Adobe Creative Cloud, making it easy for designers to purchase photos. Earnings: 33% commission.
- Integration with popular software enables Adobe users to directly use your photos.
- Competitive commission rates that can boost your earnings.
- Requires high-quality and unique photos due to tough competition.
- Approval process may also be stringent.
3. Getty Images
Overview: Renowned for high-quality and exclusive images.
Earnings: 20% to 45% commission.
- High pricing potential for photos, allowing you to earn significantly per image.
- Great reputation in the industry.
- Approval process is rigorous; not all submissions are accepted.
- Emphasizes high standards in quality and exclusivity.
4. iStock by Getty Images
Overview: A Getty Images subsidiary focusing on affordable stock photos.
Earnings: 15% to 45% commission.
- Large customer base ensures high visibility for your photos.
- More flexible than Getty Images, making it easier to get started.
- Commission rates are lower compared to Getty Images.
- Requires maintaining high quality due to competition.
5. Alamy
Overview: Offers a vast collection of stock images and allows non-exclusive contributors.
Earnings: 40% to 50% commission.
- Higher commission rates offer potential for greater earnings.
- Non-exclusive agreement allows you to sell your photos on other platforms.
- Lower traffic compared to some competitors; fewer views may occur.
- Requires self-marketing efforts.
6. 500px
Overview: A photography community that also functions as a marketplace.
Earnings: 60% commission for exclusive photos, 30% for non-exclusive.
- High commission rates provide a greater opportunity to earn.
- Community support allows for feedback from other photographers.
- Emphasizes high-quality images; encourages improving photography skills.
- Approval process may be strict.
7. Dreamstime
Overview: A popular stock photo site with a large user base.
Earnings: 25% to 50% commission.
- Provides good exposure, ensuring visibility for your photos.
- Flexible licensing options enhance your sales potential.
- Competitive market demands high-quality and unique photos.
- Initial earnings for new contributors may be lower.
8. Bigstock
Overview: Known for its ease of use and extensive photo collection.
Earnings: Flat rate per download.
- Simple submission process makes it easy to get started.
- User-friendly interface ensures a smooth experience.
- Lower earnings per photo compared to some competitors.
- Lower traffic levels mean fewer views for your photos.
9. Stocksy
Overview: A cooperative agency focusing on high-quality, exclusive photos.
Earnings: 50% to 75% commission.
- High commission rates offer substantial earning potential.
- Emphasizes quality; places significant importance on photo standards.
- Approval process is stringent; not all photographers are accepted.
- Strict quality control ensures only high-quality photos are approved.
10. Can Stock Photo
Overview: A straightforward platform for selling stock photos.
Earnings: 40% commission.
- Easy-to-use interface with a straightforward submission process.
- Quick approval process ensures photos are uploaded promptly.
- Potential earnings may be lower compared to other platforms.
- Limited marketing support requires self-promotion efforts.
11. PhotoShelter
Overview: A platform allowing photographers to create their own websites and sell photos directly.
Earnings: Photographers retain 90% of the sale price.
- Full control over pricing allows you to set your own rates.
- Direct sales potential offers higher earnings.
- Requires self-marketing efforts to promote your website.
- Subscription fee may apply for using the platform.
12. Zenfolio
Overview: Another platform enabling photographers to create portfolio websites and sell photos. Earnings: Photographers set their own prices.
- High level of control allows for managing photos and pricing.
- Customizable website design enhances personalization.
- Subscription fee may be required.
- Self-promotion efforts are necessary to attract buyers.
13. SmugMug
Overview: Portfolio websites with ecommerce capabilities
. Earnings: Photographers keep 85% of the profit.
- Comprehensive control over managing photos.
- Personalizable features for website customization.
- Subscription fee may apply.
- Requires self-marketing to drive traffic to your site.
14. Foap
Overview: A mobile app enabling photographers to sell photos directly from their phones. Earnings: 50% commission.
- User-friendly app facilitates direct photo uploads.
- Mobile accessibility allows selling photos from anywhere.
- Lower earnings per sale compared to some competitors.
- Competitive market requires high-quality and unique photos.
15. EyeEm
Overview: Combines a photography community with a marketplace.
Earnings: 50% commission.
- Community support allows for feedback from fellow photographers.
- Easy submission process for uploading photos.
- Competitive market necessitates high-quality photos.
- Potential earnings may be lower compared to other platforms.
16. Twenty20
Overview: Focuses on authentic, real-world images appealing to brands and advertisers.
Earnings: 40% commission.
- Emphasis on authentic photos enhances market appeal.
- Mobile-friendly platform supports easy photo uploads.
- Lower traffic compared to larger platforms.
- Competitive market demands high-quality and unique photos.
Conclusion
By selling your photos on these platforms, you can earn substantial income. Each platform has its unique features and challenges, so choosing one that aligns with your needs and skills is crucial. Produce high-quality and distinctive photos, invest in marketing efforts, and watch your earnings grow. Happy selling!
