How to Increase Sales on iStockphoto?

On iStockphoto’s articles section, there’s a useful piece about what iStock buyers need and what they purchase most. This material is especially helpful for those just starting their microstock journey or for contributors who struggle to pick a specialization.

It should also be useful for those focused on increasing image sales not only on iStock but across other stock photo sites as well. I translated that article.

Below are iStock’s suggestions, presented as short briefs describing subjects, themes, and concepts underrepresented in the iStock collection that attract strong buyer interest.

These briefs help identify gaps and underserved niches on iStock. Some ideas have already been explored by iStock contributors, but the authors believe there’s still room for original approaches and fresh executions. The briefs are open-ended and quite concise. More detailed notes are provided below in separate paragraphs.

You’ll quickly notice recurring trends, topics, and headings. Here are the core queries from iStock buyers:

• Natural, authentic photos and videos of people;
• Local content relevant to your region;
• Fresh takes on classic stock concepts;
• Conceptually strong editorial imagery;
• All kinds of high-quality illustrations;
• All kinds of professionally produced video.

More details below.

Simple video

iStock video buyers consistently ask for cleaner transitions and backgrounds:

• Storyboards;
• Abstract and “ethereal” content;
• Backgrounds.

Even though there’s a solid selection on the site, strong demand means there’s a constant need for new, fresh work.

Authentic video

We need more stock video of people shot in a natural and authentic style. iStock clients routinely look for everyday, candid moments where people aren’t posing and behave naturally. Such footage is highly versatile across many use cases.

Remember, those who buy stock video usually follow their own client briefs. So video concepts that are overly specific or heavily stylized—despite being cool—tend to have limited applications and therefore fewer sales.

There’s steady demand on iStock for people-focused footage in areas like:
Seasonal and holiday themes;

• Finance;
• Healthcare;
• Food and beverages;
• Everyday home and family life.

Games and analogs

Photos, illustrations, and videos of people playing games are in high demand—focusing on real-world games rather than video games. Video games are great too, but that’s a separate category.

Buyers want imagery centered on diverse people (not just business professionals but everyday folks) in real settings—indoors and outdoors—playing recognizable games of all kinds. Think families, kids, and adults playing together. Concepts that communicate family fun, bonding, culture, and strategy.

Specific game types buyers want most:

• Board games (watch for copyright issues—approach creatively);
• Role-playing games;
• Traditional games: mahjong, dominoes, checkers, chess;
• Games for seniors: bingo, shuffleboard.

Festive party activities: pin the tail on the donkey, piñata, hide-and-seek, and more.

To be continued…

Author: iStockphoto
Link: https://www.istоckphoto.com/article_view.php?ID=1237