stockphotography

Stock photography refers to the supply of photographs, illustrations, and sometimes video, created by photographers and illustrators. These works are then licensed for use by businesses and individuals in various projects, such as advertising, marketing, websites, books, and other media. Stock images are typically made available through agencies or marketplaces that facilitate the licensing process.

The concept of stock photography began with agencies that collected and distributed existing photographs to publications. Over time, with the rise of digital technology, the industry has evolved significantly. Online platforms have become the primary way to access and license stock imagery. Photographers upload their work to these platforms, where they can be searched and purchased by clients.

There are different types of stock photography licensing. Royalty-free licensing allows a client to pay a one-time fee for broad usage rights, without recurring royalties. Rights-managed licensing offers more specific usage terms, often for a set period and project, and is typically more expensive. Microstock photography is a segment of royalty-free, characterized by lower prices and a high volume of images, often contributed by a large number of photographers.

Stock photography provides a convenient and often cost-effective way for creators and businesses to obtain professional imagery without the expense and time involved in commissioning a custom photoshoot. It caters to a wide range of needs, from generic commercial visuals to niche artistic representations.