Photos We Need Most

What Kinds of Stock Photos Sell Best?

At Bigstock, we are always looking for fresh images. But there are some types of shots that our customers prefer and are in high demand. These tips and examples will give you an idea of what images we are most likely to accept, and what will make you the most income over time.

First, if you haven't already, please visit our Contributor Tutorial.

People Photos

This is our most in demand category. Real-life scenes of people in their natural surroundings have been selling especially well. Some customers still prefer clean, composed studio shots, including shots of people isolated on white backgrounds. But we are noticing increasing demand for "reality" shots.

Three-quarter view photos of smiling, attractive people are in high demand, since they can be used for many purposes. Shots of couples smiling and on dates or trips are in demand.

When you photograph people, consider:

Diversity

Authentic images of people from a variety of races and ethnicities are needed in every category.

Model releases

Be sure you have model releases for the people in your photos. Learn more about model releases in our Contributor Tutorial.

Creative Concepts

Always think about how you can add a creative twist to your images that shows a specific concept. We need conceptual images that convey ideas such as wealth, fear, health, balance, success, pride, anxiety, addiction, heartache, joy or surprise.

Business and Commerce

Many of our best-selling images show people at work. Images of people talking on phones or wearing headsets, people in business meetings, money, office buildings, and office objects are all very desirable.

Sports and Action

We need images of activities such as skiing, baseball, football, snowboarding, skateboarding, running, weightlifting, workout, yoga, aerobics and Pilates.

Travel

Images that can be used to illustrate vacation, leisure and luxury concepts are big sellers.

Food

Many customers have a need for well-styled, appealing food shots.

Holidays and Celebrations

Images related to Christmas, Halloween, Hanukkah, Thanksgiving and Valentines Day enjoy bursts of sales several months of the year. Also consider images that represent birthdays, weddings, and other celebrations.