For a long time, the stock photo agency Shutterstock was the most “mysterious” stock photo agency. While other stock agencies provided and continue to provide statistics on user views of images or even the number of sales of a particular image, Shutterstock only showed the number of works in the contributor’s portfolio.

The popular stock photo agency Shutterstock, like other stock agencies, is in constant development. Recently, it decided to please its contributors again by sending them emails about upcoming updates.

On the iStockphoto microstock platform, I found an interesting article in the articles section about what exactly iStock buyers need and what is in high demand. Essentially, this material will be most useful for those who are just starting their work in microstocks or for those who cannot figure out the theme for specialization in their work.

Recently, the stock agency Depositphotos sent out a letter to all authors regarding the necessity of filling out a tax form from the U.S. Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for non-U.S. authors (+ the instructions for filling out form W-8 BEN):

Don’t let your exclusivity agreement with another stock interfere with uploading images or video footage to Shutterstock. Shutterstock offers a special “Opt Out” option that allows authors to upload images and clips whenever and however they prefer.

Since the photo bank Crestock was acquired by Masterfile in July 2010, many changes have occurred. The new owner has brought consistency to this business and the photo site, provided stability to payments, and brought in responsive people to support authors and address all inquiries without delays.