Microstock Or Not Microstock – That Is (Not) The Question…

Gilles & Yann spoting Ladakhi wildlife, Tso Kar, Ladakh

What is Microstock?

Microstock Agencies are Stock Agencies that:

1. Source their images exclusively via the Internet,
2. Accept pictures from a wider range of photographers than the traditional Stock Agencies (including Amateurs)
3. Sell the pictures at very low rates (generally less than 1 or 2 USD for a royalty-free image).

Advantages and Disadvantages

• It is definitely easier to be listed as a Photographer in a Microstock Image Agency than in a classical Stock Image Agency
• It is much easier to have pictures accepted than at a classical Stock Image Agency, where expectations can turn downright frustrating
• But: once you are working with Microstock Agencies, the odds are that no classical Stock Image Agency will ever work with you.
• For that reason, we would strongly recommend not to go towards Micro Stock!