The Rise of Online Marketplaces: A Comprehensive Guide to Selling Photos Online (2025)

The world of online marketplaces has experienced tremendous growth over the years, with more and more people turning to these platforms to sell their unwanted items. However, one often-overlooked yet lucrative opportunity is selling photos online. In this article, we will delve into the best websites to sell photos online, exploring their features, fees, and requirements.

Introduction

The internet has made it possible for individuals to showcase and sell their work globally. With a vast array of platforms available, choosing the right one can be daunting. This article aims to provide an in-depth look at the top websites to sell photos online, helping you make informed decisions about your photography endeavors.

Understanding Online Marketplaces

Before diving into the list, it’s essential to understand how online marketplaces work. Most platforms charge a commission fee on sales, which can range from 10% to 50%. This means that for every sale made, you’ll be required to pay a significant portion of the revenue to the platform.

The Best Websites to Sell Photos Online

1. Shutterstock

  • Fees: 15% - 45% commission
  • Requirements:
    • Must be at least 18 years old
    • Have a valid credit card or PayPal account
    • Agree to terms and conditions
  • Features: Large customer base, high-quality images, easy uploading process

2. iStock

  • Fees: 15% - 45% commission
  • Requirements:
    • Must be at least 18 years old
    • Have a valid credit card or PayPal account
    • Agree to terms and conditions
  • Features: Huge collection of images, quick payment processing

3. Adobe Stock

  • Fees: 33% commission
  • Requirements:
    • Must be an Adobe Creative Cloud customer
    • Have a valid credit card or PayPal account
    • Agree to terms and conditions
  • Features: Seamless integration with Adobe ecosystem, high-quality images

4. 500px

  • Fees: Varies based on sale price (typically 15% - 20%)
  • Requirements:
    • Must be at least 18 years old
    • Have a valid credit card or PayPal account
    • Agree to terms and conditions
  • Features: Community-driven platform, high-quality images

5. Etsy

  • Fees: Varies based on sale price (typically 3.5% transaction fee + payment processing fees)
  • Requirements:
    • Must be at least 18 years old
    • Have a valid credit card or PayPal account
    • Agree to terms and conditions
  • Features: Niche marketplace for unique items, strong focus on customer support

6. Getty Images

  • Fees: Varies based on licensing agreement (typically 50% - 80% commission)
  • Requirements:
    • Must be a professional photographer or have explicit permission from the owner
    • Have a valid credit card or PayPal account
    • Agree to terms and conditions
  • Features: High-end marketplace for premium images, strong focus on copyright compliance

7. Redbubble

  • Fees: Varies based on sale price (typically 20% - 50%)
  • Requirements:
    • Must be at least 18 years old
    • Have a valid credit card or PayPal account
    • Agree to terms and conditions
  • Features: Community-driven platform, focus on print-on-demand products

8. Photobucket

  • Fees: Varies based on storage plan (typically $3 - $12 per month)
  • Requirements:
    • Must be at least 13 years old
    • Have a valid credit card or PayPal account
    • Agree to terms and conditions
  • Features: Basic image hosting, limited storage space

9. Snapwire

  • Fees: Varies based on licensing agreement (typically 50% - 80% commission)
  • Requirements:
    • Must be a professional photographer or have explicit permission from the owner
    • Have a valid credit card or PayPal account
    • Agree to terms and conditions
  • Features: High-end marketplace for premium images, strong focus on copyright compliance

10. ImageShack

  • Fees: Varies based on storage plan (typically $3 - $12 per month)
  • Requirements:
    • Must be at least 13 years old
    • Have a valid credit card or PayPal account
    • Agree to terms and conditions
  • Features: Basic image hosting, limited storage space

Conclusion

Selling photos online can be a lucrative venture, but it requires careful consideration of the platform’s fees, requirements, and features. By choosing the right marketplace for your needs, you can increase your chances of success and grow your photography business.

Is there a specific platform that interests you? What do you plan on selling? Let us know in the comments!