If you’re a videographer or content creator looking to turn your footage into a steady income stream, Shutterstock is a fantastic platform to consider. It’s one of the largest stock media marketplaces, giving your videos the potential to reach millions of buyers worldwide. Submitting your footage might seem a bit daunting at first, but once you understand the process, it’s quite straightforward. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the essentials—from preparing your videos properly to uploading them with confidence. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your submission process, this post will help you navigate Shutterstock’s requirements and increase your chances of making sales.
Preparing Your Footage for Upload
Before you hit that upload button, it’s crucial to get your footage ready. Proper preparation not only improves the chances of your videos being approved but also ensures they look professional and appealing to buyers. Here are some key steps to prepare your footage for submission:
1. Check the Technical Specifications
- Resolution: Shutterstock prefers HD (1920×1080) or 4K (3840×2160) resolution. Higher resolution footage can be more appealing.
- Frame Rate: Use standard frame rates like 24, 25, or 30 fps. Avoid unusual frame rates unless necessary.
- Format: Upload in common formats such as MOV or MP4. MP4 with H.264 codec is most widely accepted.
- File Size: Keep your files under 2GB for easier uploads, but higher quality files are always better.
2. Ensure High Video Quality
Shutterstock prioritizes high-quality footage. Make sure your videos are sharp, well-exposed, and free of compression artifacts. Avoid shaky footage—use stabilization tools if needed—and check for proper focus throughout.
3. Edit for Content and Style
Trim unnecessary parts and ensure your footage flows smoothly. Remove any distracting elements, such as watermarks or logos, unless they are part of the scene and add to the content. Consider color grading to enhance visual appeal, but keep it natural unless a specific artistic effect is intended.
4. Add Metadata and Keywords
Descriptive metadata helps buyers find your footage. Prepare relevant keywords, titles, and descriptions that accurately reflect the content. Think about what someone searching for that type of footage would type in. Use specific terms and avoid spammy keywords to improve discoverability.
5. Review Shutterstock’s Content Guidelines
Make sure your footage complies with Shutterstock’s policies. Avoid copyrighted material, logos, or identifiable people without releases if needed. If your footage includes people, animals, or private property, ensure you have the appropriate releases or permissions.
By taking these steps, you’ll set yourself up for a smooth submission process and give your footage the best chance to be accepted and sold. Remember, quality and relevance are key—so invest time in prepping your videos properly. Happy shooting and editing!
3. Creating a Shutterstock Contributor Account
So, you’ve decided to share your amazing footage with the world—and hopefully earn some cash along the way. The first step is creating a Shutterstock contributor account. Don’t worry, it’s pretty straightforward, but there are a few things to keep in mind to make the process smooth and successful.
First, head over to the Shutterstock Contributor registration page. You’ll need to fill out some basic information like your name, email address, and create a password. Make sure to use an email address you check regularly because Shutterstock will send you important updates and notifications there.
Next, you’ll be asked to agree to the contributor terms and conditions. It’s always a good idea to read through these so you understand the rights you’re granting and the platform’s policies. Once you accept, Shutterstock might ask for additional details such as your country of residence and tax information. This is especially important if you plan to earn significant income—setting up your tax info early can save you headaches later.
After the registration form, Shutterstock will want to verify your identity. This could involve submitting a government-issued ID. They do this to prevent fraud and ensure that all contributors are legitimate. Take your time to upload clear, legible images of your ID—blurry or incomplete submissions might delay approval.
Finally, Shutterstock will review your application, which can take anywhere from a few hours to a couple of days. Once approved, you’ll receive an email confirming your status as a contributor. From that point on, you’re officially part of the Shutterstock community, ready to upload your footage and start earning.
Tip: Make your profile stand out! Upload a friendly profile picture, add a bio about your background or interests, and include links to your social media if you want to build your personal brand. A complete profile can help potential buyers find your work and build trust in your content.
4. Uploading Your Video Files to Shutterstock
Now that your account is set up and approved, it’s time to upload your videos. This part is crucial because high-quality, well-organized footage has a better chance of getting accepted and making sales. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get your videos onto Shutterstock smoothly.
First, prepare your video files. Make sure they meet Shutterstock’s technical requirements:
- Format: MP4 (H.264 codec is preferred)
- Resolution: Minimum of 1920×1080 pixels (Full HD)
- Frame Rate: Typically 24, 25, or 30 fps
- File Size: Up to 50 GB, but smaller files upload faster
- Duration: Usually between 5 seconds and 60 minutes
Next, organize your files on your computer. Naming your files descriptively can help keep track of what’s what. For example, instead of “VID001.mp4,” use “sunset-beach-waves.mp4.” Clear names make uploading and managing your portfolio much easier.
Log into your Shutterstock contributor dashboard and navigate to the upload section. You’ll see options to drag and drop your files or select them via a file browser. If you’re uploading multiple videos, consider batching them for efficiency.
As your videos upload, Shutterstock’s system will process each file. During this time, it will analyze your footage for technical quality and compliance with their guidelines. Keep an eye on the progress bar and address any prompts or warnings that pop up. Sometimes, the platform will flag issues like low resolution or shaky footage, so be prepared to re-upload or adjust if needed.
Once uploaded, you’ll need to add metadata—this includes titles, descriptions, keywords, and categories. Think of this as giving your video a detailed label so buyers can find it easily. Be descriptive and specific with keywords; for example, instead of just “nature,” use “mountain sunrise,” “hiking trail,” or “wildlife camera shot.”
After entering all the details, review your submission to ensure everything is correct. When satisfied, submit your video for review. Shutterstock will then evaluate whether your footage meets their quality standards and content guidelines. If approved, your video will go live and be available for buyers to purchase.
Remember, uploading consistently and maintaining high quality across your videos can boost your chances of making sales. Keep learning, experimenting with different styles, and stay up-to-date with Shutterstock’s guidelines to maximize your success as a contributor.
5. Adding Metadata and Tags to Your Footage
Once you’ve uploaded your footage to Shutterstock, the next crucial step is adding the right metadata and tags. Think of metadata as the details that tell buyers what your footage is about—it’s what helps them find your clips when they search.
Why is metadata important? Well, even the most stunning footage won’t get noticed if it’s not properly tagged. Good metadata improves visibility, increases the chances of sales, and ensures your footage reaches the right audience.
What kind of metadata should you add?
- Title: Make it clear and descriptive. Use relevant keywords that accurately describe your footage. For example, instead of “Video1,” try “Sunset over Mountain Lake.”
- Description: Provide a brief but informative summary of what’s happening in your clip. Mention key elements, setting, mood, and any unique features.
- Keywords/Tags: Add relevant keywords that people might search for. Think about different ways someone might look for your footage—synonyms, related topics, or specific details.
- Categories: Select the most appropriate categories to help Shutterstock classify your footage properly.
Tips for effective tagging
- Be specific: Instead of generic tags like “nature,” try “snow-capped mountains” or “tropical beach.”
- Use a mix of broad and niche keywords: Broader tags get more views, niche tags attract specific buyers.
- Avoid keyword stuffing: Use relevant tags naturally—don’t just list unrelated keywords to inflate your tags.
Remember, accurate and detailed metadata not only helps your footage get discovered but also ensures that it reaches the right buyers, increasing your chances of making sales. Take your time to craft thoughtful titles, descriptions, and tags—your future sales depend on it!
6. Understanding Shutterstock Submission Guidelines
Before you hit that submit button, it’s essential to understand Shutterstock’s submission guidelines. These rules help maintain a high standard for content and make sure your footage is accepted smoothly.
Why do guidelines matter? Following Shutterstock’s rules reduces the chances of rejection, saves you time, and helps build your reputation as a reliable contributor.
Key Shutterstock submission requirements include:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Video Quality | Footage must be high resolution (minimum 1920×1080), sharp, stable, and well-lit. Avoid grain, blurriness, or excessive compression. |
| Content Restrictions | No copyrighted material, logos, or recognizable private property unless you have a model or property release. |
| Duration & File Format | Typically, clips should be at least 5 seconds long and uploaded in formats like MOV or MP4, encoded with H.264 codec. |
| Model & Property Releases | If your footage features recognizable people, private property, or trademarks, you need appropriate releases. |
| Metadata Completeness | Fill out all required metadata fields accurately—titles, descriptions, keywords—since incomplete info can lead to rejection. |
Additional tips for a smooth submission process:
- Review your footage carefully: Make sure it meets technical specs and is free of issues.
- Check legal requirements: Ensure you have the rights to all elements and include releases if necessary.
- Stay updated: Shutterstock’s guidelines can change, so periodically review their Contributor FAQ and updates.
By understanding and adhering to these guidelines, you’ll improve your chances of acceptance and start building a successful portfolio. Remember, quality and compliance are the keys to thriving on Shutterstock!
7. Reviewing and Publishing Your Footage
Once you’ve uploaded your footage to Shutterstock, the next step is to review everything carefully before it goes live. Think of this as your final quality check — you want your videos to look polished and professional, giving buyers confidence in your work. First, double-check that your files have uploaded correctly and that the quality meets Shutterstock’s standards. This means ensuring the resolution is high enough (usually at least 4K or Full HD), the color grading is appealing, and the footage is sharp without any distracting artifacts.
Next, review your metadata, including titles, descriptions, and keywords. These elements are crucial because they help buyers find your footage when searching. Make your titles clear and descriptive, and use relevant keywords that accurately reflect the content. Avoid keyword stuffing—be honest and precise to attract the right audience.
Shutterstock provides a review process where their team checks for technical quality, legal compliance, and content suitability. Be patient—this process can take a few days. If your footage gets rejected, don’t be discouraged! Shutterstock typically provides feedback on why it was declined, so you can make necessary adjustments and resubmit.
Once approved, you’ll see your footage published on your contributor dashboard. You can then monitor its performance, see how many downloads it gets, and track your earnings. Remember, the first few uploads are all about learning and refining your process, so take notes on what works well and what could be improved for next time.
Most importantly, keep your portfolio updated with fresh content. Regular uploads increase your visibility on the platform, helping you build a reputation and boost your sales over time.
8. Tips for Increasing Sales of Your Video Content
So, you’ve uploaded your footage and it’s live—great! But how do you turn those views into actual sales? Here are some friendly tips to help you boost your video sales on Shutterstock:
- Focus on Trending Topics: Keep an eye on current trends, events, and popular themes. Content that taps into what’s in demand, like remote work, sustainability, or technology, tends to attract more buyers.
- Use Strategic Keywords and Descriptions: As mentioned earlier, accurate and relevant keywords are your best friends. Think about what buyers might search for and include those terms naturally in your descriptions.
- Upload High-Quality, Versatile Footage: The better the quality, the more likely your footage will be downloaded. Also, create clips that are versatile—think wide shots, close-ups, and different angles—so buyers can use them in various projects.
- Create a Cohesive Portfolio: Building a themed collection makes it easier for buyers to find multiple related clips at once. For example, a series of clips about urban life, nature, or business scenes can be very appealing.
- Optimize Your Upload Times: Consider uploading during peak activity periods for Shutterstock, which can vary, but generally mornings and early evenings on weekdays tend to be good times to upload new content.
- Engage with the Community: Participate in Shutterstock forums or social media groups for contributors. Sharing tips, asking questions, and learning from others can provide valuable insights and motivation.
- Keep Learning and Improving: Watch tutorials, read articles about videography and editing, and stay updated on platform guidelines. The more you refine your skills, the more your videos will stand out.
Lastly, patience is key. Building a steady stream of sales takes time, but consistency, quality, and understanding what buyers want will set you on the right path. Keep experimenting, stay motivated, and enjoy the process of creating content that can earn you passive income over the long haul!
Conclusion and Final Tips for Successful Submission
Submitting your footage to Shutterstock can be a rewarding experience when approached with the right strategies. To maximize your chances of approval and sales, ensure your content aligns with Shutterstock’s quality standards and adheres to their technical requirements. Remember to always review their content guidelines thoroughly before submitting. Consistency is key; regularly upload fresh, high-quality footage to build your portfolio and increase visibility. Pay attention to trending topics and popular categories to target your content effectively. Metadata optimization plays a crucial role in discoverability—use clear, descriptive titles, tags, and keywords that accurately reflect your footage.
Here are some final tips for a successful submission:
- Upload only high-resolution, well-lit footage free of noise or artifacts.
- Include relevant, accurate metadata to improve searchability.
- Ensure all clips are properly formatted and meet technical specifications.
- Maintain consistency in your style and subject matter to attract targeted buyers.
- Review Shutterstock’s Contributor Dashboard regularly for updates and feedback.
By following these best practices and staying persistent, you’ll enhance your chances of making successful sales and growing your presence on Shutterstock. Patience and attention to detail are your best allies in this journey toward a thriving stock footage portfolio.