FAQs / Questions

The answers to (almost) ALL your questions are directly below.
Please browse the topics below to get immediate help.

Also see BigStockPhoto Forums for more help, forum members are usually great help and fast to reply - thanks members!

What do these credit card errors I am getting mean?
On our credit card form, make sure you are entering the street address and postal code where your credit card statement is mailed to you or the transaction will not process. If you are getting an error, it's 99% of the time because you entered incorrect information or your card has insufficient funds.

I'm trying to buy some credits but can't -- what do I do?
We accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover, Amex, Paypal and Google checkout payments. If you need to use MoneyBookers we can arrange that too - contact Customer Support. If you are having trouble please call us for a phone order at 1-800-631-9809 during normal U.S. business hours. If we are not able to take your call we will phone you back as soon as possible.

How do I download images?
1. Sign up here (it's free) if you haven't yet... if you are signed up and need help downloading, read "How To Download" page here

2. Make sure you are logged in (you'll see a white 'My Account' link directly beneath BigStockPhoto logo if you are logged in)... purchase some download credits ( you'll see a white Buy Download Credits' link to the right of the 'My Account' link if you are logged in)...

3. Locate and click the photo you want, it will enlarge. On that screen there is a Download Photo Now button below the photo. Follow the next couple screens to download the photo to your computer. Be sure you note WHERE on your own computer you are downloading the photo. :-)

What are credits? I just want to buy some photos.
At BigStockPhoto you purchase photo credits, and then you can download photos with your credits. Images cost from 1 to 6 credits based on size of image you want. So you need to buy credits in order to get photos. The more you buy, the lower the prices too!

Please sign up, log in, and then you'll see the link in blue bar near top of page to purchase download credits.

How many credits do I need to download an image?
Images cost from 1 to 6 credits based on size of image you want. So 1 credit will do it if you need a 900 px image. If you need larger or higher resolution, those images cost 2, 4 or 6 credits. We are also starting to offer other file formats such as EPS, AI, PSD, PNG and PDF. These formats cost about the same as the JPG images, but a bit more in cases when the art is more intricate.

How can I get credits in order to download images?
You buy them through standard Credit Card purchase, Paypal, or Google checkout. It's quick and easy - and you will get your credits right away. No waiting - UNLESS you use an eCheck or bank account as a funding source from Paypal. In that case you may need to wait 3-4 days for your bank to clear the payment... at that time, the credits will show up in your BigStockPhoto account. We're happy to get you a few credits while you are waiting normally also if you're in a panic. Write us on the Contact Us page.

To purchase credits, you Sign Up, then log in. You'll see a large "Purchase Download Credits" link at top center of page after you log in.

How much do your images cost?
Anywhere from $1.00 up to $2.50 each depending on how many credits you purchase. The more you purchase, the cheaper the cost per credit. Purchase image download credits now here >>

What image formats do you offer?
JPG, PSD, EPS, AI, PNG and PDF. The vast majority of images are JPG photos, but we now offer other vector and bitmap formats as noted.

Do my credits expire? Do I have to use them all now, all at once?
Your credits do expire after one year from date of purchase, otherwise you are free to use them anytime you want to. We will alert you with a bold, red text alert every time you log in, within 90 days of losing credits due to expiration.

I need a receipt for my image purchases, can you help?
Yes, please log in, then go to your "My Account" main page, or your Payment History page, there is a link for this there.

Can I use the images for anything I want?
Almost. There are a few exceptions - most notably you can not re-print, re-sell, re-post or re-distribute the photos alone or as a main definitive part of your project or product. Basically, the images are not intended to BE your product - they are intended to be integrated into your product or design as a supporting element. Please see Image Usage Agreement and Examples page for more information. We do offer Special Licensing also, for photo buyers whose needs fall outside of the scope of our standard Photo Usage Agreement.

You may not defame the models in any way. Please read our full Image Usage Agreement for all details.

Will I get my photo credits immediately, so I can use them now?
You will get your credits right away. No waiting - UNLESS you use an eCheck or bank account as a funding source from Paypal. In that case you may need to wait 3-4 days for your bank to clear the payment... at that time, the credits will show up in your BigStockPhoto account. We're happy to get you a few credits while you are waiting normally also if you're in a panic.

If you have any trouble or your credits are not added to your account properly, write us on the Contact Us page - we know it's important to get the credits when you need 'em.

How can I close my account?
Contact us at the Contact page here with your request.

For non-contributors:  We cannot offer refunds on unused credits as stated in our Terms.

For contributing Artists/Photographers:

• Note that we automatically remove your uploaded images from the live store within 24-48 hours.
• If you decide to re-open your account later, your previously images may be no longer available.
• Accounts cannot be closed unless the images have been online for at least 90 days. This is in accordance with our upload agreement.
• Please be aware that if your commission earnings are less than $50.00 they will be forfeited in accordance with our Terms.

I used up a credit for a download but didn't get my image - what should I do?
Please read the "How To Download" page first, and the information below:

Then try to download the image again - you will not lose a credit if you do it again within 30 days after your original download attempt..

If needed, contact Support for another credit. Be aware that there is a limit to the number of times we can credit your account for failed downloads.

I don't like the image I downloaded, can I get a credit for it?
Basically, a download is a download. The cost is cheap, so even if you purchased 10 or 20 photos you hated and got one good photo, you're still saving plenty over the cost of standard stock photos at Getty or Tony Stone, etc. In the event that you download a file that is messed up or obviously inferior quality, please let us know on our Contact Us page, we'll refund you as needed.

Can I download the image again later without losing another credit?
Yes, if you need to re-download a file immediately after your original download attempt you will not lose another credit if you already paid a credit for that file.

If you need the file much later, you will need to purchase the photo again. At these low prices, we can't support unlimited future downloads unfortunately.

I've paid for credits but can't find my image...why?
First, have you downloaded the photo (you do this yourself, we don't mail them to you)? If so, then we have to determine WHERE the photo went on your computer when you downloaded it. Probably it's on your Desktop or maybe your "My Downloads" folder. It's somewhere on your computer, probably where ever your other files you download go. The file will be called something like "ForestandTrees_bigstockphoto.jpg".. so you can do a search on your computer for 'bigstockphoto' and maybe find it that way.

Please read the "How To Download" page also, it has lots of info that may help.

I'm trying to download a photo or buy credits but I can't... why?
Your credit card may be declined if you are not entering the NAME, ADDRESS, CITY, STATE, and ZIP where your credit card statement is mailed each month. If you have too much trouble getting your card to pass, call us for a manual order ($20 minimum) at 530-852-4867.

You must have an account (it's free) and be logged in first before you can download photos or buy photo credits. SOMETIMES your browser gets confused and thinks you're logged in, but loses your login state, and that will cause a "Page Not Found" error occasionally. Try logging OUT, then back in again, or follow the directions below to determine if that's the problem:

First, let's determine if you are logged in now or not - if you see under the BigStockPhoto logo at top left of page the white "My Account" link then you are already logged in. Feel free to do whatever you like, including purchase photo credits with the "Buy Download Credits" link in the blue bar.

If you see "please login or register free" then you are not logged in.

If you know your login name and password, enter them in the Login and Password fields and click "Go" - you will be logged in and you can proceed to purchase download credits or download photos if you already have photo credits.

Again, SOMETIMES, you will see the "My Account" link even though your browser thinks you're logged OUT.. so click "Logout" and then log in again and try once more. It should work.

If you are still having trouble, your browser cookies may need to be deleted. Go under your browser "Preferences" or "Options" and try deleting any cookies from bigstockphoto.com or www.bigstockphoto.com.

I am having trouble logging in - what can I do?
You will need a user account in order to log in, so please sign up (it's free) first if you have not done so already.

After you sign up, you will receive a short validation email with the subject "BigStockPhoto Account Validation" at the email address you used in signup. Please check your email and click the link there in that Activation email. Now you're all set.

Sometimes when you are having log in trouble, you might be logged in but not know it. So next, let's determine if you are logged in now or not - if you see under the BigStockPhoto logo at top left of page the message "My Account" then you are already logged in.

Feel free to do whatever you like, including purchase photo credits with the "Buy Download Credits" link in the blue bar.

If you see "please login or register free" then you are not logged in.

If you know your login name and password, enter them in the Login and Password fields and click "Go" - you will be logged in.

The validation link in my Account Validation email isn't working...
If the link in the Account Validation email doesn't seem to work make sure the link has not wrapped to another line in your email - if so, just make sure to cut and paste the *entire link*, even if you have to cobble it together, into your browser to validate.

I signed up and I am not receiving my Account Validation email. Why is that? What can I do?
It's possible the email could be going to your Junk email area... please check for that. Or perhaps you entered the wrong email address or forgot which email address you used when you signed up (many of us have more than one email address to remember). To resend the Account Validation email or get fast help, shoot us an email on the Contact Us page and we'll sort it out for you right away.

I am trying to sign up, but your site says my email address is already in use! How can that be?
You may have come to sign up some time ago and forgotten. Just shoot us an email on the Contact Us page and we'll sort it out for you right away.

Still can't log in? Try these steps:

1. Log out by clicking here... then try to log in again at the top of this screen.

2. Delete Session Cookies and Browser Cookies: If that doesn't work, try deleting all your web browser cookies and cache from this site... if you're using Internet Explorer, at the VERY TOP of your browser, under the blue bar, click "Tools... Internet Options.... " then in the second area labeled "Temporary Internet Files" click "Delete Cookies" and if needed "Delete Files" also... then click "Apply"

Try logging in again. Make sure you are typing your USERNAME and PASSWORD just as you created them, and clicking the little green "Go" button.

I am getting a blank page or a page not found error.
It's possible your login information needs refreshing, so please click "Logout" link in top blue bar to log yourself out, then log in again. You are logged out when you see the "please login or register free" message under the BigStockPhoto logo in top left corner. That normally remedies this "blank page" problem. See the item above about Login Trouble and follow those directions if needed.

Try logging OUT then logging back in again to re-energize your browser cookies (the most common cause of login issues). Click here to log out, then try logging in again.

I can't log out.
Please click "Logout" link in top blue bar to log yourself out, then log in again (or click here to log out). You are logged out when you see the "please login or register free" message under the BigStockPhoto logo in top left corner.

If that doesn't work try again a few times. If it still doesn't work you will have to clear your cookies in your browser (or for advanced users, deleting just the BigStockPhoto.com and www.BigStockPhoto.com cookies will suffice).

I've uploaded my image, has it been approved, what is happening?
In your User Account area there is a TAB for showing your photo's status. Try that tab to see what is happening. Pending means it's in the approval queue. Approvals take a few days normally...unless we get really slammed with photos (this happens). We are working night and day to keep the Approvals going, so thank you for your patience. :-)  At worst it can take up to one week.

What restrictions are there for uploading photos?

• The photo MUST be taken by you. No exceptions. (or if it's artwork you must be the author of the artwork)
• At least 800 pixels across (but 2500-4000 pixels across or more is preferred)
• JPG, PSD, EPS, AI, PDF or PNG files only, 25 MB max. file size (this will be raised very soon). Files such as PSD, EPS, AI, PDF, PNG must be from current software programs, as some older graphics software creates images that are not currently to spec for these file types.
• Photo images should be uploaded as JPG ONLY - not as PDF, PSD, AI, PNG etc. Use JPG for all photo images.
• Crisp clear images, well lit, nicely composed, good color.
• "Snapshot" quality photos probably will not be approved.
• Photo/image should be usable for the public at large

What file formats do you accept?
JPG, PSD, EPS, AI, PNG and PDF. The file formats that support IPTC and EXIF data are also supported on our site. Some formats like PNG do not support meta data like IPTC. Photo images should be uploaded as JPG ONLY - not as PDF, PSD, AI, PNG etc. Use JPG for all photo images.

Why are you restricting the number of uploads to my account?
In order to manage the number and quality of images that are submitted to the Approval Queue, we have to place some restrictions on uploading. These have been revised as of May 2009.

If you are uploading good quality images, that are marketable, you will have no limits generally. But if you submit a lot of images that are low quality or not very marketable and these images are declined, you will have some restrictions, which will be removed if you take the time to learn what is going wrong with some of your images and how to improve your shots. More declines = more restrictions. Less declines = higher uploading abilities.

These are the current upload retrictions that you might run into, updated May 2009:

• New users with less than 15 total approved images are limited to 15 images in the Admin Approval Queue at a time
• Users with an approval percentage of 50% or less are limited to 10 images in the Approval Queue at a time
• Users with an approval percentage of 70% or less are limited to 20 images in the Approval Queue at a time
• Users with an approval percentage of 85% or less are limited to 40 images in the Approval Queue at a time
• Users with an approval percentage of 92% or less are limited to 50 images in the Approval Queue at a time
• Users with higher than 92% approval percentage have no limit.

An approval rating of 50% means that half of your images were approved, and the other half were denied. A rating of 95% means one out of twenty images is not approved. So it's a ratio of approved images compared to all images that were approved or denied.

UPDATE: Images that are uploaded and then deleted by you, BEFORE you ever submit them to the Approval Queue, will no longer affect your Approval Rating. Please be judicious about uploading, and only upload images you intend to submit. Otherwise it wastes a lot of bandwidth and disk space. If you upload a lot of images and delete them, you may be warned or have restrictions placed on your account, so please try not to do that. Thanks again.

What can I do to raise my approval percentage?
Work hard to improve your images and image quality if you are getting images declined. If it's declined there is a clear problem with the image, and you need to learn from this to earn more money and be more successful as a contributor.

Don't worry if your approval percentage slips a few percentage points... all you need to do is upload a few good photos and you're back in business. No biggie.

Why the 25 MB limit? My raw files are much larger.
At this time, we are trying to manage the bandwidth and server loads, with all the uploading and downloading, while keeping overall speed as optimal as possible. For the time being we have this 25 MB limit. For JPG images this should be more than enough for most purposes. A raw file that weighs in at 40 or 50 MB can easily be compressed using only the most MINIMAL JPG compression - down to 5 or 10 megabytes easily, with virtually zero perceptible image quality loss. So if your files are over 25 MB, try running a tiny tiny bit of JPG compression on them, they will reduce dramatically, again, with no perceptible quality loss.

Do I have to take the photograph myself?
Yes, this is the only way to be sure you own the copyright. This is critically important. Uploading photos that are not your own is cause for immediate account termination, and you will lose any commissions you may have.

Can I incorporate images or elements that I did not create into artwork I submit to you?
Not unless the elements you have added are completely royalty free and you have a license saying so. An example of an allowable exception is Photoshop brushes that come with Photoshop. They are intended to be used for your own purposes. Sometimes brushes you download online are not copyright free, so be careful. Generally, stick to art that you created 100% yourself.

What does "royalty-free" mean?
It means that you are agreeing to sell your images to users for a flat one-time fee without a royalty for each copy of their product that they sell. Users will not pay based on the number of times they are using the photo for one product or use.

If the user creates two web template designs or two print advertisements, etc. that use the same photo, they are required to buy the photo once for EACH product. They are purchasing royalty-free rights to use the photo as described in our Image Usage Agreement for as many copies of one product as they like.

Do I lose my rights to the photos after I've uploaded them?
No - never! You do not lose the copyright or ownership... but by uploading, you do agree to allow BigStockPhoto to use and sell your photo for a minimum of 90 days, and pay you for it. You also agree to allow us to license your photos to be sold through partner sites as long as you get paid properly and the terms of sale are not appreciably different than what we allow on our site. We do not encourage removing your photos - and if you are the kind of person who posts and then removes photos a lot (some do), we would kindly suggest that you might be better off elsewhere as it costs a lot to host, market, approve and manage the photos. We are hoping you'll leave you photos online for a very long time. That being said we are reasonable people and if we get a request to remove a photo, most likely, we'll take it off the site for you. But we can't prevent anyone who has already downloaded/purchased it from using it.

How much can I earn?
There is unlimited potential for earning. We pay at this time $0.50 commission per credit spent for standard images. Special licensed images is slightly different. But standard images sell for between 1 and 6 credits, so you earn from 50 cents to $3.00 per download.

If you decide to take part in Special Licensing (you should!) you can earn up to $60 per image download. You earn from 30%-50% of the amount paid for your image under Special Licensing. Average Special Licensing commission is about $12 per image. We highly recommend you opt-in to Special Licensing. If you are logged in click here to sign up now.

Commissions are paid upon request as soon as your account reaches at least $50.

What type of images can I upload?
Anything, as long as you took the photo, or created the art all by yourself, just about whatever you like (except fully naked buttocks, breasts or genitals). Editors will review each photo to make sure your keywords and categories are applicable and correct.

Can I upload artwork that is mine?
Yes, as long as YOU are the artist. You can not upload art that you did not create entirely. You may not modify other art you have found or scanned, any art must be entirely created by you. we now accept many file formats: JPG, EPS, AI, PSD, PNG and PDF. The file formats that support IPTC and EXIF data are also supported on our site. Some formats like PNG do not support meta data like IPTC.

Can I edit the title and keywords of my photo AFTER I've submitted it?
UPDATE - yes you can! For a long time we didn't allow uploaders to alter their data because each and every image's data is reviewed and edited at great expense... but we now allow uploaders to edit already uploaded image data - if they are careful. This can be done to live images that are already approved and on the site. Log in, go to your Account : Uploads area and click "Uploaded Images Status". From there you will see your images and an "Edit" link next to each.

If the image is still in Admin Approval Queue you cannot edit the data until the image is out of the Approval Queue.

CAUTION:   Editing your image data in a bad way, or attempting to use keyword stuffing to unfairly boost your image's relevancy will result in account suspension or disabling the ability to edit your image data. Take care to only make relevent edits, do not remove good data or keywords and do not add keywords that are not really applicable or relevent. Each edit you make is logged and reviewed.

Bottom line: take care in your title, description and keyword entry at all times.

How can I delete an image?
Make a request at the Contact Us page please. Remember that by uploading, you do agree to allow BigStockPhoto to use and sell your photo, and pay you for it, forever basically. That being said we are reasonable people and if we get a request to remove a photo, most likely, we'll take it off the site for you. But we can't prevent anyone who has already downloaded/purchased it from using it.

Also be aware of the 90 day window - you cannot under any circumstances remove a photo from our site within 90 days of pushing it into the Approval Queue. This is to prevent photographers from requesting removal of their photos after our approvers have spent significant time, energy, and resources approving, editing, adding keywords, categories, ranking and reviewing the photos, not to mention bandwidth, marketing and overhead costs.

How long to approve my images?
Normally a few days ...sometimes longer depending on the upload volume. Lately, there have been a ton of uploads, so we are trying hard to keep up.

My images aren't selling, what can I do?
There are a few reasons why your photos are not selling:

1. Your photos are not commercially in demand, in other words there may not be many people who can find a use for your photo. So please take photos that you think are highly usable if making $$ is your goal. Look at the Most Popular files to get an idea of what is selling - and review other professional sites like Comstock, Tony Stone, Alamy, PhotoDisc etc to learn more about what sells.

2. You have not uploaded enough photos... all our top earners have portfolios with anywhere from 100 to several thousand photos in them. Uploading a few photos will not make you any $$ normally... upload a good sized collection of your most commercially viable or most stunning photos.

3. You may not have given them enough time... if you just signed up and have a small portfolio, build your portfolio and wait a couple months.

4. The quality of your photos is not very good.. we rank each photo based on it's overall quality and potential for salability. If your photos are not clear, crisp, nicely composed, commercially viable, well lit, etc, then they will not receive a high ranking and may not appear in as many search results as those with higher rankings.

5. You may not be entering enough keywords or selecting the best categories for your photo when you submit it. We make every effort to add as many keywords as we can, but you will be the best at coming up with every pertinent keyword, and you should try as hard as you can to enter all applicable keywords. Do NOT enter "junk" keywords or keywords that are not applicable or this will slow down your approval process.

See what you can do to improve your portfolio and quality of your photos. It's a great learning experience to challenge yourself to become a better photographer. Study the work of others and study the photos you find personally enjoyable. Learn from watching others and sharing with other photographers. BigStockPhoto Forums are a good place to chat and critique each other, and get some honest helpful feedback.

Can people use the photos for web site templates ?
Yes, this a hallmark of BigStockPhoto. Almost none of the other photo sites allow this and we wanted to create a place for web template designers to go for photos, and without as many restrictions as many other sites. An image that is purchased from BigStockPhoto can be used for one template design and that template design can be resold. If the same image is used in any other design, it must be re-purchased/licensed for use in the new design.

The original large-size image file you download may NOT be included as a stand alone file - it must be part of the embedded PSD or Flash file or whatever file format your templates are distributed in. In other words using the scaled down image inside your PSD or HTML or Flash file, etc. is fine but distributing the original download from BigStockPhoto along with your template files is fobidden. If you use the image in more than one design, re-purchase/re-license it for each seperate SKU or design you offer/sell/distribute. See our Image Usage Agreement for more details.

Is there a faster way to upload my images?
Absolutely, use our FTP uploading and 10-at-a-time web based uploading - all available now in Upload/Submit Photos area.

Is there a way to offer BigStockPhoto photos to my users or clients?
If you have a web-based service and want to integrate BigStockPhoto photos into your application, we can give you a simple to integrate and flexible Co-Branded Photo Search interface for allowing your users to search BigStockPhoto, then come to this site to purchase them. You will earn 35% of each new user purchase this way. Contact us here for a Co-Brand Photo Search for your Site. We do not have a way to keep your users in your site while conducting the purchase unless you have a technical team that can set up the needed programming on your side.

Do you have an API that my company can use to resell BigStockPhoto images?
Yes, please contact us here and tell us what you need.

Can I upload photos with frames on them, or images that have been photo-manipulated?
Normally, no. We really don't want frames or fuzzy borders or any other junk on the photos. Some digital manipulations that are REALLY clean and really nicely done will be accepted, but mostly, digital fussing, unless nicely done, will be declined.

What about Clipping Paths? Do you support them and can I create and save a clipping path with my photo? it
Yes absolutely. Adding a good clipping path to your image in Photoshop creates more value to the downloader and boosts your chances of selling the image. Read more about Clipping Paths here. Adding a Clipping Path is most common in photos with a subject isolated over white, or a solid color.

If you don't understand how or are confused about Clipping Paths, no problem, this is NOT a requirement in any way, just a suggestion that could help boost your sales.

Can I exchange commissions I've earned for photo credits?
Absolutely - as long as you have enough commission to cash it out. Just email us to let us know that is your wish, we'll give them to you at our lowest rate - THEN go to your Account : Commissions area and click the button for whatever payout type you want. In the email let us know if you want your entire commission as credits, or just part of it.

How can I upload ?
You have two choices: FTP or web browser-based uploading form. The uploading form is called the Multi-File form - but you can upload just one file if you like... or as many as 10 at a time. Instructions for using this and the FTP method are on the main upload page.

I've uploaded my image, has it been approved, what is happening?
In your User Account : Uploads Tab area there is a link for your Uploaded Photos Status. Try that link to see what is happening. Pending means it's in the approval queue. Approvals take a few days...unless we get really slammed with photos (this happens). We are working night and day to keep the Approvals going, so thank you for your patience. :-).

I've uploaded my photo, but I can't see the little thumbnail in my Upload Images Queue - what's going on?
Sometimes it takes a minute or so for those thumbnails to show up if the servers are really busy... and sometimes your browser is caching your page and not showing you the images even though they may exist. Try waiting a minute, then REFRESH your page holding down the SHIFT key.

FTP supports multi-file upload of course.. but dDo NOT attempt to upload directories of files using FTP method. You can upload a huge batch of individual files if you like but do not try to upload files that are inside of directories via FTP. Putting files inside a directory will cause an error.

If that doesn't work, there may have been an upload error, or you uploaded the wrong file type etc. if that doesn't do it, please log in, then contact Support Here and let us know exactly what is happening.

How can I upload?
You must first take and pass the Photographers Tutorial (link is in left navigation bar). Then you can use one of three methods for uploading:

Single file upload, multi-file upload or FTP upload. All information on how to use each is within the Uploads Area after you pass the Photographers Tutorial.

There are no photos in my FTP area, even though I just uploaded some... what's going on?
The system clears out your photos almost immediately after you upload them into your FTP area (if you are using FTP upload method that is), so you will not see them after a few seconds or so. Check your Uploaded Photos Queue in your Account : Uploads tab to see if they uploaded OK.

My photos are just sitting in my FTP area, but they are not showing up in my Uploaded Photos Queue... why?
The system may be very busy and may need 30-60 minutes to catch up - but this is rare. Please contact Support if you have waited an hour and your photos are not moving from your FTP area to your Uploaded Photos Queue.

FTP upload supports SINGLE FILE uploads only... do NOT attempt to upload a directory into your BigStockPhoto FTP area. Copy only individual files to your BigStockPhoto FTP upload area. Putting files inside a directory will cause an error.

I am having trouble uploading... why?
Be sure you are uploading an allowable file format: .JPG, .PSD, .EPS, .AI, .PNG and .PDF files only... that are 25MB or less in size. Be sure they have the correct file extension at the end of the file name. Be sure there are not any weird characters in the file names like * or @ or ?. Try to use names that are like "bigTreeInForest.jpg" or "LionAtTheZoo-2110.JPG" etc... sometimes naming files with consecutive numbers causes a problem, so best to give them names. Be sure your internet connection is alive too.

FTP upload supports SINGLE FILE uploads only... do NOT attempt to upload a directory into your BigStockPhoto FTP area. Copy only individual files to your BigStockPhoto FTP upload area. Putting files inside a directory will cause an error.

Do I need an individually signed Model Release for each photo, in other words does the model have to sign 10 releases if there are 10 photos?
No, you can do it based on the photo session. One release per photo session is fine. But you will need to assign the release to the photo.

How do I upload Model or Property releases with my images?
New Release Manager! >>

1. Upload the releases
2. Upload the images
3. When pushing image into Admin Queue, you ASSIGN the releases to the images

As of March 2007 you upload the release FIRST, in the Release Manager tab in your Account area. Then you upload your images and in the Uploaded Image Edit screen, you select any number of your uploaded releases to assign to that photo. So if there are 3 models in the photo you will select 3 releases.

You will upload each release ONCE ONLY, and then separately, you upload your images. Then when you edit the image data to send to Approver Queue, you ASSIGN the release to your photos that pertain to that release.

Typically, you'll upload a lot more photos than you will releases, then you assign the releases to the appropriate photos.

What about images and releases I uploaded in the past? Do I convert them to the new system?
No - you don't. Old images and releases will remain as they are. Please use the new system as it is,

How many photos can I assign the same release to?
As many as you like. The idea is to upload only ONE of each release, then assign them as needed to your images.

What if I forget to upload a model release - can I do this somehow without re-uploading the photo?
Yes, your photo will get declined and kicked back into your Uploaded Photos Bin - you can upload/attach the model release to your photo at that point.

Can people or crowds be in the photos legally?
Yes, as long as they are not recognizable, otherwise you need a Model Release. If you can recognize their faces, you must have a signed Photo Release from that person. Photo Releases are available here. You upload them along with your photo as a PDF, JPG or GIF. You can print the release, have it signed, and then scan it or just shoot it with your camera.

Can buildings or homes be photographed legally?
Yes, as long as the photo is taken from a publicly accessible place and you are not invading the privacy of anyone. The limitation is that you cannot photograph PEOPLE in the building or home or in any way invade their privacy. If possible, it's BEST to have a signed property release which you upload to BigStockPhoto along with your photo, although not imperative.

Taking photos of buildings or homes from outside in a public place such as the sidewalk or the street is generally OK, as long as they don't show anything private such as people on or within the premises or other details that the property owner may wish to keep private. Better yet, photograph a group of homes or buildings, so as not to single out just one.

But if you take a photo of a home in your neighborhood for instance, or the coffee shop downtown from INSIDE the building, or on the owners property, you will need a release from the property owner.

What are "editorial use images"?
Editorial-use images are generally images taken in public places, of recognizable people and celebrities that do not have model releases. Because they are taken in public they do not infringe the personal privacy of the individuals generally.

Images like this can be legally used for commentary and newsworthy purposes such as public interest commentary, news reporting, criticism of social, news worthy, and/or cultural issues. U.S. law allows photographers to take photos of people in public places without the need for a model release, as long as there is no posted notice prohibiting it. Agents like BigStockPhoto can sell these images, as long as they are taken in a public place where photography is not restricted or prohibited (many music and sports venues do not allow photos, so those would be illegal) and downloaders can use those images for "editorial" uses listed above.

Some military installations are not allowed to be used for editorial use.

Commercial, trade, promotional and advertising uses are generally not permitted
with editorial-use images.
You should not use the images for reasons other than personal use/study, cultural commentary, political or newsworthy commentary, satire, or criticism. Using the image to sell a soft drink or other product - or as a product (calendar, tshirt, mug, etc.) would not be allowed without a model released image.

Do I need to upload model releases any more? Or can I skip it now?
Definitely upload the model releases as you normally do if you have them. That way buyers can use your images for most any purpose. If you do NOT have a release, and the image is commentary worthy, or newsworthy in some way, we can now sell the image for editorial use only. Generally, studio shots are not news/commentary worthy and need releases. Editorial, non-released images are taken in public during interesting events or happenings mainly.

What is newsworthy or commentary worthy? How do you define it?
Current photos of interesting people and events are the best example. However there is a subjective area that we reserve the right to decide on as needed. For instance, a can of Pepsi could be used in a news story about soft drinks. Bottom line is that interesting shots will be accepted, while non-interesting shots may be rejected more often.

Editorial Image Contributors Information

All editorial use images require a clear description, date and place within the image description field.
Images submitted as editorial, will not be approved unless you have a clear description, date and place where the image was shot. For example "Residential home on fire, Sept 2007 in Houston, TX suberb." or "Tom Cruise entering movie premier in Los Angeles, December 20, 2007".

What will contributors earn for editorial use image sales?
Same as regular images at this time. In the future we will be offering some self-pricing options to uploaders.

Are editorial use images available for Special Licensing?
No. Special licenses are for commercial uses and editorial images are not compatible with those types of commercial product type uses.

Please see more important information on editorial image usage and submitting here >>>

You can now upload EPS, AI, PSD, PDF and PNG files! Our vector and other file uploading feature is new and in BETA mode. It should work well for most people but there will be a few rough edges and we need your feedback and help to locate and fix them. Thank you for your patience and help!

Important! >>> Photo images should be uploaded as JPG ONLY. Please do NOT upload photo images as EPS, AI, PSD, PDF or PNG format. Do not embed photo image bitmaps in your EPS or AI files or they will not be scalable. Vector files should contain vector data only.

Important! >>> Please PRESERVE editing capabilities in all file types you can. The downloaders will want to edit the files most times.

Please read below if you are having uploading problems:

File fails to upload properly: Be sure you are uploading a valid .JPG, .PSD, .EPS, .AI, .PNG or .PDF and that the file name has one of those extensions. EPS(Encapsulated Post Script) and AI (Adobe Illustrator) are vector formats and you need to be sure your files are prepared properly for successful uploading.

Adobe Illustrator files will typically work better than files from older and other programs. We have tried to support as many versions of files as we can, but we know there are some (such as older Xara native EPS files) that are not supported. We will work to add as many as we can over time.

With Adobe Illustrator AI and PDF files be sure to check the "Create PDF compatible file" when the save dialog comes up. Without PDF compatibility the file may fail.

Too much white space around the artwork: The "artboard" or document size is large, but your actual art is small. Either reduce the document workspace in your file to fit more snugly around your artwork (without clipping it), or enlarge the art to fill the document artboard/workspace more.

Fonts not working: You MUST render your font layers if it's a Photoshop file or outline your fonts in EPS, AI, PDF formats - otherwise your type (if any) fonts will not render correctly since we don't have the fonts you used, nor do the image buyers.

Non supported graphics program : Some older graphics programs export files using very old file format standards. We have tried to include a wide variety of files that work within our system, but there will be some programs whose files do not work correclty. If you have this issue let us know here what you are using and maybe send us a file to inspect. We'll try to add support for your file.

Other trouble: Write us here and clearly describe the exact problem and the error message you are receiving, thanks. We will work to solve it.

Be sure you are uploading an allowable file format: .JPG, .PSD, .EPS, .AI, .PNG and .PDF files only... that are 10MB or less in size. Be sure they have the correct file extension at the end of the file name. Be sure there are not any weird characters in the file names like * or @ or ?. Try to use names that are like "bigTreeInForest.jpg" or "LionAtTheZoo-211.eps" etc... sometimes naming files with consecutive numbers causes a problem, so best to give them names. Be sure your internet connection is alive too.

How much will I earn when someone downloads one of my .PSD, .EPS, .AI, .PNG or .PDF files?
At this time we are offering the native format ( .PSD, .EPS, .AI, .PNG and .PDF ) file for 2 credits and a small JPG for 1 credit and a large JPG for 2 credits if your file permits it. We will be increasing the cost of larger files in the near future. You earn .50 for each credit spent, as always.

Do I need to upload a JPG with my EPS/AI/PSD/PNG/PDF? No, we'll create the JPG files for you. Just upload the one file and we'll take care of the rest.

How can I replace some older JPG files with the actual EPS, AI, etc. (native file) that I created the JPG from? I uploaded the JPG only because you didn't used to support native file formats and so I want to replace the JPGs with the native files.
We added that ability and offered it for many months, but it has been discontinued. If you need to replace an older JPG with it's original true vector image please upload it as you normally would then contact support asking for the older JPG version to be taken down.

Do I need anything special to use these "native" files - like special software, etc.?
If you are planning to edit the file or change it somehow you will need a software program that allows you to edit the file. Typically, for EPS, AI and PDF files that would be Adobe Illustrator. For PSDs, PNGs and JPGs, Macromedia Fireworks orAdobe Photoshop.

Can I resize the native files to be larger or smaller?
You can always make a file smaller - as long as you have the editing software (see question above). Resizing a file to be larger is another story... the EPS and AI files will allow you to resize them larger since they are vector format. Sometimes PDFs will also. But all the others are not meant to be enlarged without quality loss.

What is a "vector" file? Why do I care?
Vector files are files that use mathematic algorithms (vectors) to describe how they look. They can be sized larger or smaller without quality loss generally. Othre file type such as JPG, PSD and PNG are bitmap files that will show pixelation when you try to enlarge them.

Are there any limits to how or what I can use the images for?
See the Photo Usage Agreement for full details - basically, most uses are permitted except reprinting, reselling or posting them as stock images, or anything that defames or slanders the models in the photo.

If you need to reprint the images, or use them in ways not normally allowed within the Photo Usage Agreement, this IS allowed with one of our Special Photo Licenses. Please read more here to see how this works and sign up.

You will not want to use them in logos either because you'll probably want the copyright to the logo.. and the photographer will still hold the copyright to the photo you have integrated into your logo.. so that might not work for you.

However, you should be aware of U.S. Fair Use laws and copyright laws that may affect your usage of the photo in question. Some photos are OK for virtually any use, whereas others may be intended more for editorial purposes, and some uses not be permitted unless your usage falls under Fair Use laws.

The responsibility of determining whether your use is legal is yours, since it's impossible for BigStockPhoto to know what your planned usage for the photo is.

How large are the images? What is the d.p.i.?
We sell Medium and Large versions of most images. Medium sized images are normally 1200 pixels largest dimension at 72 dpi (about 1.1 Megapixels), and the larger sized image we sell is anywhere from 1.5 Megapixels - 14 Megapixels (up to 4500 px largest dimension) at 300 dpi - on average they are about 5 Megapixels at least.

You can choose the 1 credit (medium) or the 2 credit (largest) size image on the Download page. We receive images in many sizes from photographers around the glove...file sizes and resolutions vary depending on what the photographer supplies to us - but we give you the ability to buy a 72 dpi smaller size for 1 credit, or a 300 dpi larger size for 2 credits basically.

The important thing about the dpi of the image is that you can easily change it using any reasonable graphics program to be anything you want. Change 72 dpi to 300 dpi or vice versa. It has no effect on the image itself when done correctly, but the image will print differently. For printing, we recommend you adjust your images to 150-300 DPI... the higher the better.

When in doubt, simply get the largest pixel dimension image you can. This way you have maximum flexibility. If the image is a small pixel size (for instance less than 1000 pixels in height or width) then you will never be able to print it very large... so bigger pixel size is better, especially for printing uses.

What is d.p.i. and do I care about it?
DPI stands for Dots Per Inch. It's only relevant when you are printing an image...not when you are displaying it on a website. The higher the dpi, the more resolution per inch your image will have when printed. A 72 dpi image is perfect for online/web use... but for print use you want 150-300 dpi normally, to produce a clear image, otherwise when you print the image you'll see some unclarity and pixelation. This is a great link to explain more about dpi at Wikipedia.

Can I get the images in other sizes or resolutions?
Please refer to the items noted directly above... we offer two sizes of most images, but in some cases where the images are not very big, we just offer the one. To get the largest image we have simply choose that option when you download the image.

We also now offer vector and other native file format types : EPS, AI, PSD, PDF, PNG in addition to JPGs.

Image Editing and Resizing:
There are several good free online image resizing services - try searching Google here >>

To edit the image on your desktop, you will need a graphics software application... here's a list of free Windows based image editing programs that will allow you to re-sample your image into other sizes and resolutions:

    http://graphicssoft.about.com/cs/imageediting/tp/freephotoedw.htm

Here's a list of free Mac OSX based image editing programs that will allow you to re-sample your image into other sizes and resolutions:

    http://www.versiontracker.com/php/search.php?mode=basic&action=search
    &str=image+editor&plt%5B%5D=macosx

How do I change the d.p.i. of the images I downloaded?
Any reasonable graphics program will allow you to do this. Normally you open the image in the graphics software program you have, look for a menu item with a name like "image" or "resolution" or "image size" and change the "resolution or DPI" to be whatever you want. Programs like Photoshop, Paint Shop Pro, and many many others have this functionality. The free Windows Paint program does not. See the bottom of this page for some links to programs that are free that allow you to change a photos resolution.

In what format do we receive the images?
All images are available in JPG format. We also have many other file types such as EPS, PNG, PDF, PSD, and AI and you can select to download these file formats too if you like.

What do MPixels and MBytes mean?
MPixels is short for megapixels and Mbytes is short for megabytes. Megapixels is the height x width in pixels and megabytes is the data size of the file.

Do fonts come with the artwork?
No - in the few cases where there is type in the image, the type is probably not editable unless you choose a replacement font from your own computer. We do not supply fonts with the images. In some cases the font layers are rendered to retain the type properly, but rendering the font makes it uneditable. You would need to reset the type in a case like that. Luckily that is super easy.

Will there be a watermark on the image when I purchase it?
No - not at all. The photo will be full size (refer to the photo's 'preview" page to see the exact pixel dimensions and it will not have a watermark of any kind.

What can I do with the images I download?
Almost anything you like more or less, except resell them, repost them, or defame the models in the photos - as long as you are not breaking any copyright or trademark laws. There are some uses that would potentially create copyright or trademark problems such as:

You cannot use the photo as part of a trademark, since the photos copyright belongs to the photographer.

Another example that would get you in trouble most likely would be creating a web site for Nazi Skinhead Child Molesters Organization and showing a recognizable office building with a label "Our Offices" (unless of course you really had offices there!).

Using a model in an ad that says "I am a sexual escort for lonely gentlemen" or "I have am an ex-convict" would probabaly be considered defamation of the model. So stick to normal everyday uses and you should be fine.

So there are some limits, but not too many. Consult your legal advisors if you are concerned about your specific usage.

That said there are some uses that you need a Special License for - typically reprinting the images as stand alone products like posters or framed art, posting the images online as a gallery for users to choose from for some purpose, or printing the images on shirts, mugs, mousepads etc. Things like this where you are creating a product based almost entirely on the BigStockPhoto image generally require a Special License. They cost a bit more, but we are happy to help you - read more here.

Can others buy them after I do?
Yes, the photo can be purchased by any BigStockPhoto member from this web site.

Are there any fees for creating something, a product of some kind, and selling multiple copies of my product?
Nope. Just don't sell them as a stock image or alone, but it may be included in a work or product as long as the photo comprises 50% or less of the product.

Examples of prohibited uses: Re-painting the photo exactly and selling it, printing the photo on card stock and selling it as a greeting card. In these cases the photo is more than 50% of the value of the item.

I create and sell web site templates... do I have to purchase the photo once per template I create?
Yes. Each template you create is a product. You should purchase the photo once for each new, individual product you create. You can resell the template as many times as you like but you owe it to the generous photographers to pay for the photo each time you put it into a new product.

Will there be watermarks on the large images I download with my credits?
Absolutely not. They are large images, mostly high resolution, no watermarks.

What does "royalty-free" mean?
It means that you can purchase these images for a flat one-time fee without paying a royalty for each copy of your product that you sell. You will not pay based on the number of times you are using the photo for one product or use.

If the you create two web template designs or two print advertisements, etc. that use the same photo, you are required to buy the photo once for EACH product. You are purchasing royalty-free rights to use the photo as described in our Image Usage Agreement for as many copies of one product as you like.

Are these photos FREE?
No - you must sign up, purchase credits for a buck or two, and then you can download 1 photo per credit. The money is split between the Photographer and BigStockPhoto.

Do I own the rights to any photo that I download?
No. You own the right to use the photo or image within the bounds of our Image Usage Agreement. The original photographer retains the copyright to the photo.

Can I resell the downloaded photos as photos?
No absolutely not. You may not resell, repost, free or for payment the photos on their own under any circumstances. The image must comprise less than 50% of any product you create, and that product may be a stock image or stock photography type product. You can print the photos if you are creating something for your own personal use, not for resale or trade, such as a framed print for your own wall.

Can I use these photos in web site templates?
Yes! We are one of the only companies that permits this usage... but remember, if you plan to use the photo in more than one template you must re-purchase it for EACH template you are using it in.

Can I get the photo in other resolutions?
What you see offered is what we have. We sell two sizes, Medium and Large versions, of most images. Medium sized images are normally 1200 pixels largest dimension at 72 dpi (about 1.1 Megapixels), and the larger sized image we sell is anywhere from 1.5 Megapixels - 14 Megapixels (up to 4500 px largest dimension) at 300 dpi - on average they are about 5 Megapixels at least.

You can choose the 1 credit (medium) or the 2 credit (largest) size image on the Download page. We receive images in many sizes from photographers around the glove...file sizes and resolutions vary depending on what the photographer supplies to us - but we give you the ability to buy a 72 dpi smaller size for 1 credit, or a 300 dpi larger size for 2 credits basically.

Once you download it you can easily change it in your graphics program.

Here's a list of free Windows based image editing programs that will allow you to re-sample your image into other sizes and resolutions:

    http://graphicssoft.about.com/cs/imageediting/tp/freephotoedw.htm

Here's a list of free Mac OSX based image editing programs that will allow you to re-sample your image into other sizes and resolutions:

    http://www.versiontracker.com/php/search.php?mode=basic&action=search
    &str=image+editor&plt%5B%5D=macosx

What is a Gallery?
It's a list of images that you create for later use. Say you wish to compile a few saved lists of images for two or three projects you are working on... with Galleries, you can save a list of images you are considering for each project and even share those lists with others.

What does Private Gallery and Public Gallery mean?
When you create a gallery you can make it Private (nobody else will see it except you when you are logged into your account) or Public (you can share the URL link to see your gallery with anyone, AND others on the site will be able to see it too). Public galleries are really cool because they allow users to share their own favorite images with each other.

Can I download right from my Gallery?
Yes! You'll see a "Proceed to Download Photo" link next to each image in your gallery.

How many Galleries can I make?
Up to 20.

How do I add, rename or delete a Gallery?
Click "Dowloadind and Galleries" in the top nav blue bar after you are logged in.

How do I add images to a Gallery?
From the Photo Details page (like this one: http://www.bigstockphoto.com/photo/view/171993) of any image there is a "Gallery Manager" in left column under the large thumbnail image.

Special licensing is available at BigStockPhoto for photo buyers who need to do things like re-print images, or post them online etc. - these are not allowed under the standard BigStockPhoto.com Photo Usage Agreement... but they can be arranged with a special license. Contact us for a quote or more information using the links below.

Are all photos available under the license I need?
No - the photographers decide which licenses they wish to participate in, but MOST images are available under most licenses... so there is a huge selection with any license - but you will want to check to make sure the image YOU need is available.

How do I know if the photo I need is available under the license I need?
The Photo Details page for each image (see this example of a Photo Details page)has a link in the right side column labeled "View Special Licenses" that will tell you which licenses are available for every photo.

How do I download the image under your "Special License"?
First you need to contact us here to set up your Special License account. After that is done you download images as you normally do, but on the final download page you will see new controls for downloading the image as a Special License image (see this example).

Can I download an image the "regular" way, under your cheaper Photo Usage Agreement too?
Yes, absolutely. When your account is set up for Special Licensing you will always have the option to download under your Special License or our Standard Photo Usage Agreement. Please see this helpful diagram page for full instructions >>

Photo Buyers FAQ and info >>

Photographers FAQ and info >>

Free web design templates - do you support them?
No - we're sorry but the process of building a website can be very involved and we can't support the free templates. You are free to use them for a web site project if you like. Do not resell or redistribute the templates to others.

Free photo library - can I get one for my site/users?
Of course! We encourage you to post our Free Photo Library and use the photos and share with your website users. The instructions and info are all right here >> You may not redistribute the images or resell them as is. If you wish to become a photo reseller, contact us.