- Shutterstock alternatives at a glance
- Ten Shutterstock alternatives to consider
- The print limit hidden in standard licences
- What to compare in a stock library
- How to choose images that don't look like stock
- Stock image mistakes to avoid
- Questions to ask before you license stock images
- My plain advice on Shutterstock alternatives
- Frequently asked questions
Shutterstock alternatives are other stock image and video libraries where you license photos, illustrations and footage for marketing and design. Boutique agencies offer more distinctive images, while large libraries offer volume and choice. Read the licence tiers before you buy, because print runs and products often need a higher licence.
Shutterstock has one of the biggest stock libraries around, but big isn't always better. If you're tired of seeing the same images everywhere, or you want something more authentic, there are good places to look.
Here are ten Shutterstock alternatives in no particular order, sorted alphabetically, from curated boutique agencies to large stock libraries. Each description comes from the site's own pages, re-checked today. If your images end up on Instagram, my answer to whether Instagram reduces photo quality helps you export them well.
Decide what matters most: distinctive images for a brand, or lots of images for a busy content calendar.
Then check the licence types. Standard licences usually cover marketing and web use, while extended licences cover bigger print runs and products for sale.
Shutterstock alternatives at a glance
In the free plan column, Yes means the tool's own site describes a free version, free plan or open-source download, Trial only means a time-limited trial, and No means neither is stated. Free versions usually come with limits, so check what's included before you depend on one.
| Tool | Type | Good for | Free plan |
|---|---|---|---|
| 123RF | Stock image library | Large general library | Trial only |
| Alamy | Stock photo agency | Editorial and unusual images | No |
| Bigstock | Stock photo site | Everyday marketing images | Trial only |
| Depositphotos | Stock content library | Photos, vectors and video | No |
| Dreamstime | Stock photo community | Large community library | Yes |
| Photocase | Curated stock photo agency | Authentic European style | No |
| Pond5 | Stock media library | Stock video footage | No |
| Stocksy | Boutique stock agency | Distinctive, artistic images | No |
| Storyblocks | Stock media subscription | Video and audio for creators | No |
| Westend61 | Stock photo agency | Authentic people and lifestyle | No |
Ten Shutterstock alternatives to consider
123RF
Best for: Marketers who want a large library of photos, vectors and video.
Alamy
Best for: Publishers and designers who want a huge range, including editorial and niche images.
Bigstock
Best for: Small businesses who want everyday stock photos and vectors for marketing.
Depositphotos
Best for: Creators who want photos, vectors, video and music from one library.
Dreamstime
Best for: Designers who want a big community-built library, including free images.
Photocase
Best for: Brands who want curated, authentic photos with a European feel.
Pond5
Best for: Video editors who want stock footage, music and sound effects.
Stocksy
Best for: Brands who want distinctive, art-directed photos and video from a curated collective.
Storyblocks
Best for: Video creators who want stock footage, audio and templates in one subscription.
Westend61
Best for: Advertisers who want authentic people and lifestyle images from a family-run agency.
The print limit hidden in standard licences
Here's the clause that catches people out. Depositphotos' own licence page lists the quantity of copies or impressions under its Standard licence as up to 500,000, while web use and website visitors are unlimited. It also offers an Extended licence.
Most other stock sites set a similar line between standard and extended use. So if you're printing packaging, flyers at scale or products to sell, check the limits before you buy, and keep the licence with your files.
What to compare in a stock library
- Style: images that look like your brand.
- Licences: standard and extended terms.
- Media types: photos, vectors, video or music.
- Search: filters for colour, orientation and people.
- Downloads: how credits or subscriptions work for your volume.
How to choose images that don't look like stock
- Search for actions and moods, not generic nouns.
- Avoid images with forced smiles or pointing at screens.
- Pick a consistent colour palette.
- Crop for your layout rather than using the full frame.
- Mix stock with your own photos.
Stock image mistakes to avoid
- Ignoring licence tiers. Print and products need checking.
- Using editorial images in ads. They're not licensed for it.
- Generic business photos. They make brands look the same.
- Losing licence records. Keep them with your files.
For planning what to post with your images, my guide to content marketing templates and tips is a handy companion.
Questions to ask before you license stock images
A stock licence is a contract, even if it's a click. These questions help you buy the right one first time.
- Does the standard licence cover my print run?
- Can I use the image on products I sell?
- Is the image editorial use only?
- Do I need model or property releases for this use?
- Can I keep using the image if I cancel?
Save the answers with the licence and the file. It takes seconds and avoids awkward questions later.
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Do you make stock image libraries? Tool makers can ask to be considered for a featured place on this list.
My plain advice on Shutterstock alternatives
Buy for your brand, not for the deal. A smaller set of distinctive images will do more for you than hundreds of generic ones.
And always check the licence for print and products. Web use is usually simple, while physical products are where the rules change.
Frequently asked questions
What's a good alternative to Shutterstock?
Boutique agencies offer distinctive images, and big libraries offer volume.
What's the difference between standard and extended licences?
Extended licences usually cover bigger print runs and products for sale.
Can I use stock photos on products I sell?
Usually only with an extended licence. Check the terms.
Where can I find authentic stock photos?
Curated agencies focus on natural, less posed images.
Do stock sites offer video?
Many include footage, music and sound effects too.
What's editorial use only?
Images that can be used for news and commentary, not advertising.
Can I edit licensed stock images?
Most licences allow edits. Check the restrictions.
Do I need to credit stock photos?
Licensed images usually don't need credit in marketing.
Are there free stock photo sites?
Yes, though their licences differ from licensed libraries.
How do I keep track of licences?
Save the licence or receipt with each downloaded file.
Can I use stock images in social media ads?
Usually, under a standard licence.
Should I use stock or my own photos?
Mix both, and use your own wherever you can.
Can I use one image across several projects?
It depends on the licence. Some cover one project per licence, others allow wider reuse.
What's a model release?
A signed form from the person pictured that allows commercial use of their image.
Can I use stock images in a logo?
Most licences don't allow stock images in logos or trademarks.
Do stock sites offer music too?
Some include music and sound effects alongside photos and video.
