Getty Images is one of the most recognized stock photography and video marketplaces in the industry. Its content is licensed by major news organizations, advertising agencies, publishers, brands, and media companies around the world.
Becoming a Getty contributor is more challenging than joining many other stock platforms. The company maintains strict quality standards and looks for content that meets professional commercial or editorial needs. Because of this higher barrier to entry, accepted contributors often gain access to clients with larger budgets and more specialized licensing requirements.
Contributors earn royalties whenever their photos or videos are licensed. Earnings vary based on factors such as content type, licensing terms, and contributor agreements. Editorial photography, news coverage, sports imagery, entertainment events, and unique real-world moments are often among the most valuable categories because businesses and media outlets need timely, high-quality content that is difficult to replicate.
For professional photographers and videographers, Getty Images can provide access to premium licensing opportunities and long-term royalty income from a strong portfolio of commercial or editorial content. While acceptance is competitive, the platform remains one of the most respected destinations for creators looking to license professional visual media.
Pay
15% to 45% royalty depending on exclusivity and content category. Editorial and rights-managed content licenses for $100 to $10,000 per use depending on the publication and usage rights. A 15% royalty on a $1,000 editorial license earns $150 per single use.
How You Make Money
You apply as a contributor, pass the quality review, upload editorial or commercial content, and earn royalties each time a media company, brand, or publication licenses your content.
Payment Method
PayPal, check, wire transfer
Minimum Payment
Monthly once minimum is reached
Withdrawal Speed
Monthly once minimum is reached
Skill Level
Advanced (professional photography or video quality required, editorial access preferred)
Pros
Highest-prestige stock platform globally, accepted content is seen by the world's largest media buyers.
Rights-managed licensing can earn hundreds or thousands per single image use.
Editorial photography at major events can generate extremely high-value licenses.
Getty's brand reputation adds credibility to your professional portfolio.
Content can earn for decades from a single shoot or submission.
Cons
Extremely selective acceptance process, most applicants are rejected.
Lower royalty percentage than platforms like Alamy or self-managed licensing.
Primarily serves editorial and commercial clients, lifestyle and generic content performs less well.
Application and review process can take months before income begins.
Best For
Professional photographers with high-quality editorial, news, sports, or commercial content who want access to the highest-paying licensing market in the stock media industry
