Shutterstock vs. iStock

Attribute	Shutterstock	iStock
Pricing	Varies based on image size and license type	Varies based on image size and license type
Image Quality	High resolution images	High resolution images
Image Variety	Millions of images	Millions of images
Licensing Options	Royalty-free and rights-managed	Royalty-free and rights-managed
Subscription Plans	Available	Available

Overview

Shutterstock and iStock are two of the most popular stock photography websites in the industry. Both platforms offer a wide range of high-quality images, videos, and music for users to purchase and use in their projects. While they serve a similar purpose, there are some key differences between the two that may influence which platform is the best choice for your needs.

Pricing

One of the biggest differences between Shutterstock and iStock is their pricing models. Shutterstock offers subscription plans that allow users to download a certain number of images per month for a flat fee. On the other hand, iStock offers a credit-based system where users purchase credits to download images, with prices varying depending on the image size and quality. This can make iStock a more cost-effective option for users who only need a few images occasionally, while Shutterstock may be better for users who require a large volume of images on a regular basis.

Image Quality

Both Shutterstock and iStock are known for their high-quality images, but there are some differences in the types of images available on each platform. Shutterstock tends to have a larger library of images, with a focus on more commercial and mainstream content. iStock, on the other hand, is known for its curated collection of premium images, with a focus on artistic and unique content. Depending on the style and tone you are looking for in your project, one platform may be more suitable than the other.

Licensing

When it comes to licensing, both Shutterstock and iStock offer royalty-free licenses for their images, which allows users to use the images in a wide range of projects without having to pay additional fees. However, there are some differences in the licensing terms between the two platforms. Shutterstock's licenses are more straightforward and easy to understand, while iStock offers more flexibility with their licensing options, allowing users to choose between standard and extended licenses depending on their needs.

User Experience

The user experience on Shutterstock and iStock can vary depending on personal preferences. Shutterstock's website is known for its clean and user-friendly interface, making it easy for users to search for and download images quickly. iStock, on the other hand, has a more visually appealing website with a focus on showcasing the artwork of their contributors. Some users may prefer the simplicity of Shutterstock, while others may appreciate the artistic flair of iStock.

Contributor Community

Both Shutterstock and iStock have large contributor communities that provide a wide range of content for users to choose from. However, there are some differences in how contributors are treated on each platform. Shutterstock is known for its strict quality control standards, which can make it more difficult for new contributors to get their work accepted. iStock, on the other hand, has a more open submission process, allowing a wider range of contributors to showcase their work on the platform. This can result in a more diverse selection of images on iStock compared to Shutterstock.

Conclusion

In conclusion, both Shutterstock and iStock are reputable stock photography websites that offer high-quality images for users to purchase and use in their projects. The choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preferences and specific project needs. If you require a large volume of images on a regular basis, Shutterstock's subscription plans may be the best option for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for premium and artistic content with more flexible licensing options, iStock may be the better choice. Regardless of which platform you choose, both Shutterstock and iStock are reliable sources for finding the perfect images for your projects.