Stock photo platforms are essential for anyone in need of high-quality images, whether you're running a business, marketing a product, or just need a striking visual to enhance a presentation. These services save you the hassle of organizing a photoshoot and are an invaluable tool for content creators, marketers, and designers alike.
In this article, we will review the top stock photo platforms available in 2025, considering both the contributor’s and buyer’s perspectives. From a contributor's point of view, we will look at earning potential, commission structures, and ease of use. From a buyer's perspective, we’ll explore the variety, quality, and pricing models that make these platforms stand out.
Shutterstock is at the top of our list as a platform that caters to both buyers and sellers. With fair commission rates, an extensive media library, and an easy-to-use interface, Shutterstock remains a top choice for photographers looking to monetize their work. At the same time, its vast image library and competitive pricing make it an excellent resource for buyers.
Best Stock Photo Platforms: Our Top Picks
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Shutterstock Stock Photos
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Adobe Stock
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iStock Stock Photos
These three platforms dominate the stock photo industry, offering various features and options that cater to both contributors and buyers. Let’s dive deeper into each platform and see why they deserve a place at the top of the list.
What Makes the Best Stock Photo Site?
When looking for the best stock photo platform, both contributors and buyers have distinct needs that a great stock photo site should address. The ideal platform must offer a seamless and supportive experience for contributors to generate income and an efficient, well-rounded resource for buyers seeking high-quality, diverse content. Below, we’ll dive deep into what makes the best stock photo site from both perspectives, considering factors like commission rates, licensing options, image quality, and pricing models, among others.
For Contributors: Key Features of the Best Stock Photo Site
For photographers and creatives looking to contribute to stock photo platforms, the best sites must go beyond simply offering an easy sign-up process. Here are some critical features that distinguish a great stock photo site for contributors:
Competitive Commission Rates and Earnings Potential
One of the first factors contributors consider when choosing a stock photo platform is the commission rate. A stock photo site that offers fair and competitive commission structures allows contributors to earn a reasonable income from their work. Stock photo platforms typically operate on a royalty-based model where contributors receive a percentage of the sale price when their images are downloaded by buyers.
High-earning platforms offer clear and transparent payment systems and may provide higher rates as contributors become more successful or upload more content. For example, many sites have a tiered commission system that rewards contributors with higher earnings once they reach a certain number of uploads or sales, giving them a sense of progression. For contributors serious about making money from their photography, these performance-based incentives are crucial. Moreover, sites that provide detailed insights into trending image categories and buyer demands enable contributors to tailor their portfolios to what the market needs, increasing their chances of success.
Comprehensive Contributor Resources and Support
To stand out in a crowded stock photo marketplace, contributors need more than just a place to upload images. The best platforms offer a range of resources and tools to help contributors succeed. These resources may include guides on how to optimize image titles, keywords, and descriptions, tips on submitting images that meet buyer demands, and access to tutorials or community forums where contributors can learn from experienced photographers.
Additionally, platforms that provide insights into trends in visual content help contributors stay ahead of the curve. If a stock photo platform offers a data-driven approach to identifying in-demand topics or specific image styles, it can help contributors focus their efforts on areas with the highest potential for sales. For example, platforms that analyze market trends and offer resources on what types of images are most likely to sell can be a huge advantage for newcomers or even seasoned photographers looking to break into new niches.
Furthermore, a robust support system is essential. Whether it’s through a responsive customer service team or an active community of contributors, support can be invaluable in helping photographers troubleshoot issues, understand licensing terms, or simply feel more confident in their work’s potential.
Ease of Use and Contributor Tools
The best stock photo sites are those that prioritize usability, offering an intuitive interface that makes uploading, managing, and tracking content as simple as possible. A user-friendly contributor dashboard is crucial for contributors to track their earnings, monitor the status of their images, and get a better understanding of how their work is performing on the platform.
For example, platforms with contributor apps that allow photographers to upload images directly from their smartphones, track their sales, and view analytics on the go offer flexibility and convenience. This makes it easier for contributors to stay updated with their earnings and performance, helping them optimize their portfolio to maximize profitability.
For Buyers: What Makes a Stock Photo Platform Ideal for Purchasing Images?
When it comes to stock photo platforms for buyers, several key factors contribute to a smooth and cost-effective purchasing experience. Whether you are working on a personal project or developing content for marketing or advertising, the ideal stock photo site for buyers should make the process of finding and purchasing images simple, affordable, and versatile.
Large, Diverse Image Library
One of the primary reasons to choose a stock photo site is its image library. The best stock photo platforms offer an extensive and diverse range of images, catering to various industries, creative needs, and styles. A large, well-organized library of high-quality photos ensures that buyers can find exactly what they need, whether it’s professional imagery for corporate use or more abstract or creative shots for artistic projects.
Moreover, a diverse image collection means that buyers have access to a broad spectrum of content that can be adapted for different purposes. Whether you need images for websites, blogs, social media campaigns, marketing materials, or other creative projects, platforms with robust libraries ensure that buyers don’t have to spend excessive amounts of time searching for the right visual assets.
Flexible Pricing Models and Subscription Plans
When buying stock photos, flexibility in pricing is an essential consideration. Buyers are often looking for cost-effective solutions without sacrificing image quality. The best stock photo platforms offer various pricing options to suit different budgets and requirements. These may include subscription-based pricing models, where buyers pay a fixed monthly fee for a set number of downloads, or on-demand packages where images can be purchased individually.
For businesses or individuals who require frequent image downloads, subscription models can be the most economical option. Platforms that provide scalable pricing options based on the buyer's needs, such as plans for smaller businesses with limited image requirements and premium plans for enterprises with extensive content needs, ensure that every buyer can find a plan that fits their specific budget.
Some platforms also offer credit-based systems, where buyers purchase credits that can be redeemed for images. This flexibility ensures that buyers don’t have to commit to a subscription plan, which may be especially beneficial for those with one-time or occasional image needs.
Access to Other Forms of Media (Videos, Music, Audio, and More)
While stock images are the primary offering of most platforms, the best stock photo sites also offer access to other types of media, such as videos, music tracks, audio clips, illustrations, and 3D models. For content creators, marketers, and advertisers, having access to these additional media types can be a game-changer, as it allows them to complete their creative projects with ease.
Having the ability to access a variety of media on the same platform eliminates the need to visit multiple sites, which can be time-consuming and frustrating. Whether you need background music for a video, 3D models for a digital product, or high-quality video footage to accompany your images, comprehensive stock media libraries provide convenience and save time.
AI-Powered Search and Image Customization
With the growing demand for unique, customized content, some of the best stock photo sites are integrating artificial intelligence (AI) technology to enhance the image search process. AI-powered tools allow buyers to find specific images based on text descriptions, allowing for more accurate and personalized search results. For example, platforms with AI image generators enable buyers to enter keywords or prompts, and the AI will generate original images based on the request, saving time and ensuring that the content fits the buyer’s vision perfectly.
Moreover, some platforms offer customization options, where buyers can edit and modify images directly on the site before downloading. This is especially useful for businesses that need to tailor stock photos to their specific needs, such as adjusting colors, cropping, or adding logos.
Our Top Recommendations
When it comes to selecting the best stock photo platforms, there are several factors that make certain platforms stand out in the crowded market. Whether you're a photographer looking to contribute your work or a buyer in need of high-quality, diverse stock images, the right platform can make all the difference. Below are our top recommendations based on the features and tools available for both contributors and buyers. These platforms offer the best overall experiences for both parties, and their robust resources ensure they remain at the forefront of the stock photo industry.
Shutterstock Stock Photos
Shutterstock is one of the largest and most established stock photo platforms, offering a vast library of images and videos for buyers and contributors alike. With over 406 million images in its library, Shutterstock has a diverse selection of content available, catering to almost any need, from personal projects to corporate campaigns. Shutterstock’s wide range of contributors ensures that its collection is constantly updated with new, high-quality images that meet the ever-evolving demands of the marketplace. This extensive media library is ideal for buyers who require variety and consistency in their image searches.
For Contributors:
One of the key features that make Shutterstock a top choice for contributors is its contributor mobile app. This app allows photographers and creatives to upload their images directly from their smartphones, manage their portfolios, track earnings, and view performance insights while on the go. The convenience of being able to contribute content from anywhere means that photographers can maximize their productivity, even when they are away from their desktops.
Shutterstock's platform is designed to be user-friendly, making it easy for new contributors to sign up, upload, and monitor their sales. Contributors also benefit from access to valuable resources such as trend reports, marketing tips, and workshops that can help them improve their portfolios and boost sales. However, it’s important to note that due to the platform’s popularity, the competition among contributors is high, and standing out requires quality, relevant content that meets market demand.
Another appealing aspect for contributors is the active subscriber base of Shutterstock, which gives photographers access to a large number of potential buyers. With over 343,000 subscribers and millions of active users around the world, the site has a vast audience for contributors' work, which is essential for generating consistent sales. The high volume of subscribers, coupled with a solid reputation, ensures that contributors have a steady stream of opportunities to make money from their images.
For Buyers:
Shutterstock provides AI-powered image generators that allow buyers to create custom visuals by simply inputting text prompts. This innovative tool is perfect for those who have very specific content requirements but are unable to find exactly what they need in the platform’s massive library. The AI generator is a game-changer for anyone looking to create unique, on-demand content. Additionally, Shutterstock offers video content, templates, music, and 3D models, making it a one-stop shop for various media needs.
Shutterstock offers both subscription and on-demand pricing models, ensuring that there is a plan to fit every buyer's needs. Subscriptions start at $29 per month for 10 images, with options scaling up for more downloads. For those who need just a few images, the on-demand package is available, offering flexibility and access to high-quality content without a long-term commitment. Moreover, Shutterstock offers a free trial that allows buyers to download up to 10 images at no cost, giving users the opportunity to evaluate the platform before committing to a subscription.
Adobe Stock
As a leading name in the creative software industry, Adobe is no stranger to the world of stock images. Adobe Stock has been integrated seamlessly with the Creative Cloud suite of applications, making it the perfect option for creative professionals who are already using Adobe products like Photoshop, Illustrator, or InDesign. This integration ensures that users can quickly and efficiently find the images, videos, and graphics they need without leaving the Adobe interface.
For Contributors:
For those contributing to the platform, Adobe Stock offers an exceptional opportunity to showcase work to millions of Creative Cloud subscribers. The integration of Adobe Stock with Creative Cloud means that contributors’ work is directly accessible to those who are already engaged in creative projects. This visibility is especially beneficial for graphic designers, photographers, and video creators who wish to monetize their work in a highly professional, creative environment.
Contributors on Adobe Stock receive 33% commission for images and 35% for videos, which is a competitive rate in the industry. Adobe Stock also provides access to Adobe Portfolio, a tool that enables contributors to create a personalized portfolio website. This feature is particularly valuable for those looking to build a personal brand or attract direct clients, as it offers a seamless way to link their Adobe Stock profile with their portfolio.
Another notable benefit is Adobe Stock’s high-quality image library, which is meticulously curated to meet the needs of professional buyers. Since Adobe Stock is integrated with Creative Cloud, contributors are more likely to receive their fair share of exposure, as users of Adobe software are inherently more likely to purchase high-quality, well-optimized content.
For Buyers:
Adobe Stock offers an incredible variety of images, videos, templates, and audio files. With 263 million images in its library, buyers are presented with an expansive selection that is organized in a way that is intuitive and easy to navigate. Advanced search features, such as the ability to filter by depth of field, make it easier to find exactly what you’re looking for, whether you're searching for creative, abstract visuals or professional business-related content.
Adobe Stock’s pricing plans start at $29.99 per month for 10 standard assets and go up to $199.99 for 750 assets per month. Buyers can also purchase credits that can be used to buy specific images or videos. This flexibility allows buyers to tailor their stock photo usage according to their needs, whether they are working on a few personal projects or require a constant stream of content for a business.
For those who are already using Adobe products, Adobe Stock offers seamless integration, allowing users to search for images directly within their preferred software and use them in their creative projects without having to leave the platform.
iStock by Getty Images
As a subsidiary of Getty Images, iStock offers high-quality stock imagery with the advantage of being integrated with the larger Getty Images database. This extensive connection makes iStock a reliable choice for buyers and contributors looking for premium content. iStock boasts a collection of over 300 million images, covering a wide variety of industries and niches.
For Contributors:
Contributors to iStock have access to a well-established platform that is trusted by major corporations, media outlets, and creative agencies. iStock’s connection to Getty Images means that contributors can potentially see their work featured alongside some of the most renowned stock photos globally. iStock offers royalty-free licenses for the majority of content, but high-performing contributors can also opt for exclusive licenses, allowing them to sell their images on a per-use basis.
The commission rate for contributors ranges from 15% to 45%, depending on the type of content and the subscription plan chosen by the buyer. iStock also provides contributors with tools to optimize their work, including access to Adobe Stock integration, allowing contributors to sell their work on both platforms.
For newcomers, iStock offers a resource library with tips on uploading successful content, optimizing metadata, and tracking market trends. This guidance helps contributors increase their chances of generating sales, while the comprehensive library ensures that there are constant opportunities for exposure.
For Buyers:
iStock’s massive library of images, illustrations, videos, and 3D renderings provides buyers with everything they need for a wide range of projects. As part of the Getty Images network, iStock is known for offering premium content that is high in quality and often exclusive to their platform.
iStock offers various subscription plans, such as the basic, premium, and premium + video options. These plans start at $29 per month for access to 10 downloads and go up to $333 per month for the most comprehensive plan. Alternatively, buyers can opt for credit packs, starting at $12 for 3 credits, with larger packs available for those who need a high volume of content.
iStock’s integration with Adobe makes it even easier for creative professionals to find and use images directly within their Adobe applications. Whether you're designing a website, creating marketing materials, or producing social media content, iStock offers a seamless experience for both individual users and businesses.
Paid Stock Photo Platforms
Stock photography has evolved into an essential tool for content creators, businesses, and marketers looking to enhance their visual content without the need to conduct expensive photo shoots. For those in search of high-quality, diverse images, paid stock photo platforms provide an invaluable resource. These platforms offer a wide variety of images, from traditional stock photos to more niche content, as well as videos, 3D models, and even sound effects.
When exploring paid stock photo platforms, it is essential to consider factors from both a contributor’s and a buyer’s perspective. Contributors want fair commissions, exposure, and resources to help them succeed, while buyers seek a broad selection of high-quality images, fair pricing models, and easy-to-use search features.
Here, we explore three of the most popular and highly recommended paid stock photo platforms: Shutterstock, Adobe Stock, and iStock by Getty Images. These platforms have set the standard for quality and user satisfaction, making them go-to choices for both buyers and contributors.
1. Shutterstock
Subscribers: 343,000
Library Size: 406 million images
Commission for Sellers: Around $0.50 per image
Key Features: Video library, contributor app, AI image generator
For Contributors:
Shutterstock is one of the largest stock photo platforms in the world, and its expansive library of over 406 million images is one of the main reasons why it is a favorite among both buyers and sellers. With more than 1 million photographers contributing to its vast content library, Shutterstock is an excellent option for contributors who want exposure to a massive audience.
The platform’s commission rate, however, might seem modest, with some images earning as low as $0.50 per download. This low commission rate can be a drawback for those hoping to make substantial income from a single sale. However, the sheer size of the platform and the active subscriber base makes it easier for contributors to see consistent sales, as the platform boasts millions of active buyers. In this sense, contributors benefit from high visibility and frequent purchasing activity, ensuring a steady stream of income, especially for those who upload high-quality, in-demand content.
One of the standout features for contributors is the Shutterstock contributor app, which allows photographers to easily upload their work from smartphones, track earnings, and manage their portfolios on the go. This app makes it convenient for contributors to stay engaged with the platform without needing to be tied to a computer. Additionally, Shutterstock offers insightful resources for contributors, including trend reports, market analysis, and tips from successful photographers on how to maximize their exposure and earnings.
For Buyers:
For buyers, Shutterstock offers an enormous range of content, including stock images, videos, music, templates, and even 3D models. Whether you're looking for creative visuals, professional stock photos for marketing, or multimedia content to complement your project, Shutterstock offers a variety of options that suit nearly every need.
One of the standout features for buyers is the AI-powered image generator that enables users to generate custom images by simply typing in a word or phrase. This allows buyers to create specific visuals that meet their needs, and it helps save time by providing more tailored results.
Shutterstock also offers flexible subscription and on-demand pricing models, giving buyers the ability to choose the plan that best fits their needs. Subscriptions start at $29 per month for 10 images, but users who need more content can opt for higher plans, such as $499 per month for 750 images. For those with occasional image needs, Shutterstock also offers an on-demand pricing model, which allows users to purchase images as needed without committing to a subscription. Additionally, new users can take advantage of a free trial that allows them to download up to 10 images at no cost.
2. Adobe Stock
Subscribers: 26 million (Creative Cloud)
Library Size: 263 million images
Commission for Sellers: 33% for images, 35% for videos
Key Features: Multimedia library, Adobe Portfolio for contributors
For Contributors:
Adobe Stock, a prominent player in the stock photography world, integrates seamlessly with Adobe’s Creative Cloud suite of software. This makes it an ideal platform for photographers and creators who already use Adobe products like Photoshop, Illustrator, or InDesign. For contributors, this integration means that their work is easily accessible by millions of Creative Cloud users, many of whom are professionals working in creative industries.
The commission rates for contributors are competitive: 33% for image sales and 35% for video sales, making Adobe Stock one of the more generous platforms for contributors. Adobe Stock also provides contributors with the opportunity to use Adobe Portfolio, which allows them to create personalized websites to showcase their work. This portfolio feature makes it easier for photographers to attract clients, as it provides a professional platform for them to market their work beyond Adobe Stock.
Another significant benefit of contributing to Adobe Stock is access to detailed insights on trends, performance, and user engagement, which helps photographers optimize their portfolios. While the platform has 26 million Creative Cloud users, it’s worth noting that not all of them are active stock image buyers. However, the small percentage of active users still represents a vast number of potential buyers, making Adobe Stock an excellent choice for contributors looking to monetize their work.
For Buyers:
For buyers, Adobe Stock offers a broad spectrum of images, videos, illustrations, and audio clips, ensuring that there is content available for nearly every need. One of the unique features of Adobe Stock is the advanced search functionality, which allows users to filter search results based on specific criteria like depth of field or orientation. This ability to fine-tune search queries can save buyers time and make it easier to find the perfect image or video.
Adobe Stock’s pricing plans start at $29.99 per month for 10 assets, and it scales up to $199.99 per month for 750 assets. For buyers who need to make occasional purchases, Adobe Stock also offers credit packs for one-off purchases. Adobe Stock’s free trial is another attractive feature, offering 10 free images and 500 AI credits for a 30-day period. This allows buyers to test out the platform and explore the vast media library before committing to a subscription.
3. iStock by Getty Images
Subscribers: 825K
Library Size: 300 million images
Commission for Sellers: 15%–45%
Key Features: AI image generator, Adobe integration, resource library
For Contributors:
iStock, a subsidiary of Getty Images, offers an established and reliable platform for contributors looking to sell stock photos and videos. With over 300 million images in its library, iStock offers contributors significant exposure, especially given the platform’s partnership with Getty Images, one of the largest image licensing platforms globally.
The commission structure on iStock is flexible, with 15% to 45% commission depending on the type of content, the buyer's subscription plan, and whether the content is exclusive or royalty-free. iStock also offers a range of licensing options, allowing contributors to choose between selling royalty-free images or exclusive licenses. Exclusive content often commands higher prices and commissions, giving contributors more flexibility to monetize their work based on their preferences.
In addition to its lucrative commission structure, iStock provides contributors with valuable resources like a resource library, trending insights, and Adobe integration, making it easier for photographers to manage their portfolios and track their sales.
For Buyers:
iStock’s image library is vast and varied, offering not only images but also videos, illustrations, and 3D models. As part of Getty Images, iStock offers premium content that is trusted by professionals across various industries, ensuring that buyers can access high-quality, visually striking content for their projects.
iStock’s subscription plans start at $29 per month for 10 downloads and can go up to $333 per month for the most comprehensive plan, which includes access to both images and videos. iStock also offers pay-as-you-go credit packs, where buyers can purchase credits to redeem for specific content. Credit packs start at $12 for 3 credits and scale up to $2400 for 300 credits, making iStock an excellent option for those who need high-quality content but may not need to download large volumes of assets.
Free Stock Photo Sites: A Comprehensive Guide
While paid stock photo platforms such as Shutterstock, Adobe Stock, and iStock offer vast collections of high-quality images with the assurance of premium content, free stock photo sites serve as an essential alternative for those on a budget, casual creators, or smaller projects. These platforms may not provide the extensive libraries found on paid sites, but they still offer a diverse selection of free-to-use, high-quality images, making them indispensable for personal projects, website design, blog posts, or marketing materials.
Free stock photo platforms are excellent resources for individuals who do not have the budget for expensive image licenses or those who only need a limited number of images. Despite offering fewer images compared to their paid counterparts, these platforms provide incredible value. Most importantly, free stock photo sites typically allow users to download images without restrictions on commercial and non-commercial use, making them a go-to for a wide variety of purposes.
This article delves into the best free stock photo sites available, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of what each platform offers and how to make the most of them.
1. Unsplash
Unsplash has quickly become one of the most well-known free stock photo sites, offering a vast library of high-resolution images that can be used freely for both personal and commercial projects. The platform boasts millions of high-quality photos contributed by talented photographers from around the world. The site’s simplicity and user-friendly interface make it an appealing choice for creators who are looking for beautiful, high-quality images without the hassle of licenses or complicated terms.
While the library on Unsplash may not be as extensive as some paid stock sites, the image quality is exceptional. The platform has built a reputation for offering stunning photos across various categories such as nature, architecture, lifestyle, technology, and more. Unsplash is an excellent resource for anyone looking for visually striking images to enhance website designs, blogs, and marketing materials.
For contributors, Unsplash provides the opportunity to share their work with a large and active community. The creative commons license that Unsplash operates under allows for both personal and commercial use without requiring attribution. This is a huge benefit for businesses, as they don’t have to worry about complicated licensing agreements. However, while images on Unsplash can be used without attribution, it's always a good practice to credit the photographers as a gesture of appreciation.
Features and Benefits of Unsplash:
Over millions of free high-resolution images
Simple and intuitive platform for quick searches and downloads
No copyright issues – images are free for commercial and personal use
Great for personal projects, social media content, and website visuals
Highly curated collections of images to make searching easier
2. Pexels
Pexels is another top-tier free stock photo platform that offers high-quality images and videos. Similar to Unsplash, Pexels features a broad range of free-to-use images for commercial and personal use, making it a go-to for content creators in need of quality visuals without breaking the bank. Pexels is widely recognized for its superb search functionality, which helps users find the perfect image by offering relevant suggestions and curated collections based on popular search topics.
What sets Pexels apart from other free stock photo platforms is its inclusion of free videos. This is a notable advantage for buyers who are looking to create multimedia content and need video assets in addition to still images. The ability to access free, high-quality videos alongside images makes Pexels a versatile platform for content creators working in various fields such as marketing, design, and social media management.
Pexels is an excellent resource for anyone seeking beautiful photos for their websites, blogs, or promotional materials. The platform ensures that all content is carefully curated and optimized for commercial use, meaning you can download and use images and videos without any concerns about legal restrictions.
Features and Benefits of Pexels:
Free high-quality stock images and videos available for both commercial and non-commercial use
Extensive search options with relevant suggestions and curated collections
Creative commons zero license – no attribution required
Great resource for social media content creators and website owners
Free videos included, which is a rare feature among free stock photo platforms
3. Pixabay
Pixabay is one of the largest free stock photo platforms, offering over 4.2 million assets ranging from images and illustrations to videos and soundtracks. The platform provides a comprehensive media library that can be used for commercial and non-commercial purposes, all free of charge. Pixabay stands out by offering not only stock photos but also illustrations, vectors, music, and even sound effects, making it a versatile option for a wide range of creative projects.
One of the standout features of Pixabay is its inclusion of metadata for some images. This information can be incredibly useful for those who are looking for specific details about the photos, such as the camera settings or model release information. Pixabay's metadata helps buyers make informed decisions, especially for commercial projects where image quality and details matter.
Additionally, Pixabay's user interface is well-organized, making it easy to search for specific types of images, and the platform also provides filters to narrow down results based on image type, orientation, and more. Whether you're designing a website, creating a presentation, or looking for images to use in blog posts, Pixabay's large library is a fantastic resource.
Features and Benefits of Pixabay:
Over 4.2 million free stock photos, illustrations, videos, and music
Creative commons zero license – images can be used freely without attribution
Provides useful metadata for some images, giving more information about the content
A vast library of diverse assets beyond just images, including sound effects and vectors
Easy-to-use platform with filtering options to streamline your search
4. Burst by Shopify
Burst by Shopify is a free stock photo platform that is particularly tailored for entrepreneurs and business owners. Powered by Shopify, the platform offers a wide range of royalty-free stock images designed with the needs of e-commerce stores and online entrepreneurs in mind. Whether you're a business owner looking for images for your website, blog, or social media, Burst offers a collection of business-oriented images that are perfect for enhancing your brand’s visual identity.
One unique feature of Burst is its “search by business ideas” option. This allows entrepreneurs to find images that are directly related to their industry or business niche. For example, you can search for images related to fashion, technology, or food, and Burst will suggest relevant photos that are specifically designed for that business sector. This makes it easy for entrepreneurs to find content that fits their brand’s aesthetic and message without spending time searching through unrelated images.
Burst also includes a great selection of high-quality images suitable for use in e-commerce websites and marketing campaigns. Like other platforms, Burst provides images under the Creative Commons license, meaning you can freely use the photos for commercial purposes without needing to pay or provide attribution.
Features and Benefits of Burst:
Specialized focus on e-commerce and business images
Search function based on business ideas, making it easier for entrepreneurs to find niche images
Royalty-free images perfect for business marketing materials
High-quality, visually appealing images that can be used on websites, blogs, and social media
Ideal for Shopify store owners and digital entrepreneurs
Conclusion: Best Stock Photo Sites for 2025
Choosing the best stock photo site depends on whether you’re a buyer or a contributor. For those looking for a large, diverse library of high-quality images, paid platforms like Shutterstock, Adobe Stock, and iStock are excellent choices. These platforms offer extensive media catalogs, competitive commissions, and helpful resources for contributors.
For those on a tight budget, free stock photo sites such as Unsplash, Pexels, and Pixabay provide a great selection of free images, though the content libraries are more limited compared to their paid counterparts.
Ultimately, whether you’re purchasing images for a project or looking to sell your own photography, the best platform will depend on your specific needs. Paid sites are ideal for large-scale commercial use and those seeking a broader selection, while free platforms can serve as a useful tool for smaller, personal projects. The choice between paid and free stock sites will depend on your priorities, whether it's image variety, cost-efficiency, or contributor rewards.
