Commercial vs. Editorial Photos on Shutterstock

How can you upload images of people and buildings on Shutterstock or other stock photography agencies without a model or property release? This is the most frequently asked question on my YouTube channel so I figured it's time to make an in-depth video about it.

Yes - you can upload images of people and places without a release form as microstock - under certain conditions! In this video, I talk about the differences between commercial and editorial photos and what restrictions are in place for each of them. There are a number of rules, usage terms and conditions that you need to know about each of them.

Whether you upload to iStockPhoto, Getty Images, Alamy, Colourbox or any other stock photography agency or website, similar rules will apply.

My gear:

[thisismyphlife]

I've been in stock for many years and just discovered you on Youtube. You are by far one of the most educational and interesting artists on here, so sick of all the 'Hey hey whats up Youtubers?' types. Also I think we have the same love for Beanie hats. Please keep up this fabulous channel.

[fatimasaleem]

Thanks Nicole by giving Better understanding of Commercial and editorials very good explanation.

[richardandlinda]

Just uploaded my first photos today. You absolutely answered my question about this issue. Thanks

[tuckerhoranmedia]

Been into stock for about 2 years now, I used to use your shutterstock ftp video as reference ALL the time, finally dropped you a sub!

[evanmurnighan]

Recently found your channel and I am thrilled!! I’ll be doing a lot of binge watching 😃

[calebgondo]

I love your videos, Nicole Glass, your expectations are very clear and straight to the point, keep it up.

[michaelmarfell]

As a stock photographer I found Nicole's video spot on, and great advice for anyone wanting to jump into the business.

[abhinavohri]

Good video with all required content. Properly answered all my queries in mind. Thanks

[angeliquem.j.simard]

Your videos are excellent. The content is so useful, I love the barely noticeable music in this one, your fashion sense works and the videos are polished yet warm.

[paulknights]

Thanks Nicole. As a newbie to uploading video stock I find myself being directed to a number of your great tutorials/insights/tips on the subject. They are very informative and explained in a very honest, open and friendly manner. Great job! Thanks for sharing.

[hernanbarski]

Really appreciate our videos, very clear, to the point. THANK YOU.

[megakiller]

Found your channel last night and you know what its actually quite helpful! No lengthy discussions, and some really nice pointers in them.
So thanks as you earned another subscriber.

[huzeyfemahmut]

I would like to thank you in a special way ..
I dont know how .. but really a bunch of thanks from the deep of my heart dear 🌹🌹

[raycloud]

You really helped too many people like me, thank you very much! Already subscribed.

[animalsareawesome]

Hey there. You are doing a great job. Really enjoy your videos. Very informative and enjoy your style.

[iandavis]

Great stuff Nicole, many thanks. BTW, I really like your straight-ahead, conversational style of dialogue and not the typical get at it" banter seen with many Youtubers. I've now watched a few of your videos and found them friendly, professional, informative and to the point. You have another subscriber . . . cheers!

[LifetheWildRide]

Thank you, I am just getting started and was trying to figure out why so many were getting denied. I was just missing the details thanks again a very helpful video.

[KPleader]

I just started on Shutterstock, thank you for this video. Subscribing right now :)

[thattravellingguy]

Thank you Nicole, this was very helpful.

[Solonomadjourneys]

Thank you soooo much. This video was gold. There is one thing that I don't understand is why all the time I had pictures rejected for having people or recognizable buildings on them, they didn't just tell me to upload them as non-editorial, instead of asking me a release.