How to Earn as a Photographer or Illustrator in 2025
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Hello everyone!
I create vector illustrations on the computer. Not long ago, I discovered micropayment photo banks (stock photo sites) online. I found out that these platforms – commonly known as microstocks – offer a great way to sell vector illustrations, as well as photos, 3D images, and videos. Since then, I’ve started working with photo stocks and haven’t looked back!
Although I don’t yet have extensive experience in this field, like seasoned microstock contributors with years of practice, I spent a lot of time at the beginning of my journey diving into various sources, gathering numerous articles, and processing a large amount of information about this industry.
For someone starting from scratch in 2025, with no prior knowledge of microstocks, understanding the nuances of this work can be time-consuming.
Moreover, many of my designer and photographer friends are interested in microstocks and would appreciate having a single source of reliable information about them.
With this in mind, I decided to start my blog to share curated materials about photo stock sites, along with useful tips, interesting insights, and my personal experience working in microstocks.
To begin, I’d like to describe the general process of working with microstocks – or micropayment photo banks – in 2025.
What is a micropayment photo stock or microstock?
A photo stock, first and foremost, is a database of various images. This database brings together the works of countless authors. The images are organized, categorized, and described with keywords, making it easy and efficient for potential buyers to find the exact stock photo or illustration they need.
Who uses photo stock sites?
Most often, designers and editors from online and offline media outlets purchase stock photos and illustrations from microstocks (micropayment photo banks). This is because creating specific images or illustrations themselves isn’t always feasible – they may lack the time, resources, skills, or opportunities to do so.
Additionally, not every agency can afford to hire a professional designer or photographer. 
Even seasoned photographers and designers can experience creative blocks, while deadlines and client demands still loom.
In these situations, photo stocks provide a practical solution. Acting as intermediaries, photo stock sites connect image creators with potential buyers, much like marketplaces or exchanges.
The role of a photo stock site includes:
- Attracting buyers,
- Hosting and managing a large database of images,
- Handling payment processing.
By taking on these responsibilities, photo stocks simplify life for both buyers and contributors.
I hope this gives you a general understanding of photo banks.
I want to focus on one particular type of photo bank: microstocks. Micropayment photo stocks, or microstocks, are defined by their relatively low prices for stock images – typically ranging from $1 to $10. While this might not seem like much, microstocks make up for it with high sales volumes.
The main buyers of microstocks are web designers, non-profit organizations, and small to medium-sized agencies.
To expand your perspective, there are also macro stocks and mid stocks. However, these platforms differ significantly:
- Prices are much higher.
- Image requirements are stricter.
- Sales volumes are hundreds or even thousands of times lower.
- Working conditions are often more restrictive, limiting participation to select contributors.
For those who are interested, venturing into macro stocks or mid stocks is possible, but it requires a greater level of expertise and commitment.
With some basic knowledge and a willingness to learn, anyone can become a contributor at microstocks and start earning money by selling their creative work.
Which content sells via microstocks?
The range of products available for sale on microstocks is quite diverse. Initially, when microstocks first appeared, they primarily focused on photographs. Today, however, the scope has expanded significantly to include illustrations (both vector and raster), 3D creations, videos, audio files, and even Flash animations.
With such a wide variety of options, almost anyone can find their niche for earning on microstocks.
How much can you earn on microstocks?
Although the price of each individual sale is relatively low, the monthly earnings of a professional microstock contributor with a substantial portfolio can range from $1,000 to $5,000, according to industry practices.
For beginners, the primary focus should be on building a portfolio of at least 200–300 photos/images. This initial effort will not only help cover hobby-related expenses but also lay the groundwork for a stable monthly income with the right skills and dedication.
Portfolio size vs. income
Statistics indicate a clear correlation between portfolio size and income:
- 200–400 works: $50–$200 per month
- 500–1,000 works: $200–$1,000 per month
- Over 1,000 works: $1,000–$5,000 per month
How to become a microstocker?
First and foremost, it’s important to understand that no one gets paid for free – even in the world of microstocks. Working with microstocks is like any other job, with one key difference: you work for yourself. Additionally, it offers an excellent opportunity to unleash your creative potential while earning a decent income.
It’s a rare combination in today’s world, wouldn’t you agree? Now, let’s break down what you need to get started as a microstocker:
1. A computer, basic computer skills, and Internet access
Having a stable and reliable Internet connection is highly recommended – preferably unlimited or a dedicated line such as ADSL. While a standard dial-up connection may work initially, uploading large image files (a common task in microstock work) is much smoother with a faster connection.
Many successful microstockers started with dial-up, but upgrading your Internet setup can save you significant time and frustration.
2. Basic English language skills.
Why is English so necessary? The majority (about 90%) of microstock sites do not support Russian (or other local languages) and cater to English-speaking buyers. To upload your graphic work, you’ll need to write short descriptions (usually one sentence of 5–8 words) and provide 30–50 relevant keywords for better visibility.
Most stock sites offer keyword suggestion tools, but you’ll still need to understand what you’re selecting. While online translators can be helpful, basic school-level English will make the process much easier and more efficient.
3. At least ten high-quality photos or illustrations.
Why so many right away? You’ll need these for the initial exam to start working on major microstocks.
Key requirements:
- A resolution of at least 4 megapixels (minimum 2000×2000 pixels on each side). Lower resolutions might limit your opportunities.
- Stock works should be free of logos, trademarks, and recognizable features unless you have signed Model Release.
What is a Model Release? A Model Release is a document signed by the photographer, the model, and a witness. It grants permission from the model to use their likeness in your works. This is required for stock photos or videos featuring identifiable faces, tattoos, piercings, or distinctive hairstyles.
4. Valid government documents for identification in English.
You’ll need either a foreign passport, driver’s license, or another form of ID in English for registration. These documents are essential for receiving payments from microstocks.
If you don’t have these documents, you can register using a friend’s or relative’s ID. However, keep in mind that your account will be under their name. Some microstocks may allow you to work without documentation, but leading platforms will require proper ID.
5. Patience, persistence, ambition, and a little talent.
Success in microstocks isn’t instant. It requires dedication, a willingness to learn, and the perseverance to overcome initial challenges. Talent helps, but consistent effort and a drive to succeed are just as important.
The Process of Working with Microstocks
What does the process of working in microstocks look like? Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:
Registration and Starting Out
The way begins with the microstocker registering on a platform, submitting their photos and images for an initial exam, and awaiting confirmation. Once approved, they can start regularly uploading their creations to the platform.
Inspection and Feedback
After submission, microstock inspectors review the works to ensure they meet the platform’s requirements. Inspectors either approve the photos/images for inclusion in the stock portfolio or reject it if it fail to comply with the stock guidelines.
If a stock work is rejected, don’t take it personally. Instead, review the comments constructively, make the necessary corrections, or submit a different piece. Rejections are part of the process of working in microstocks and should not deter you. Remember: success requires perseverance, not giving up at the first hurdle.
Adopting a positive mindset in response to challenges will lead to success – not just in microstocks but in life.
Sales and Earnings
Once a photo or image is approved, it becomes available for purchase by interested stock buyers. Sales generate revenue, with the microstocker earning an agreed percentage.
It’s worth noting that stock authors typically do not know the buyers’ identities or how their stock photos or images will be used. Occasionally, you may stumble upon your work being used in unexpected places, which can be both surprising and rewarding.
Some stock creators worry about the misuse of their works in unacceptable contexts. However, photo stock buyers are legally bound to use purchased works appropriately. In a majority of cases, buyers come from regions with strict legal enforcement, and violations can lead to serious consequences.
Misuse Concerns: Reality Check
- Risk of Improper Use: While a small number of stock buyers may misuse photos/images or share them illegally, these cases are rare and mostly occur in regions with less regulated markets.
- Buyers’ Risks: Buyers themselves face uncertainties regarding how purchased stock works were used before them. This creates a shared sense of trust within the microstock ecosystem.
Ultimately, any venture carries risks, but the rewards often outweigh them.
Why Consider Microstocks for a Living?
Microstocks offer a viable source of additional income – and for some, even a primary source of earnings. During economic downturns, this income can be a lifeline.
If you’re passionate about vector illustrations, photography, or video production, microstocks provide a platform to monetize your creativity.
So, why wait? Jump into the world of stock photo sites and turn your talent into a steady source of money!
This article is also available for reading in the following categories: About Microstocks
Thank you for the review. I’ve already sifted through a ton of information, but I’m still looking for nuggets of new insights in 2024. Many articles are already outdated. Oh, it’s tough to boost stocks in 2023-24)))) But I didn’t know about them 5-8 years ago, which is a pity.
This might be useful to someone; here is another article. The author describes a specific method of earning on microstocks.
Which photo banks are currently relevant for earning?
Start with Shutterstock, Adobe Stock (formerly Fotolia), Dreamstime, Depositphotos.
Please tell me, can I upload the same illustration to multiple stock agencies at once?
Not only can you, but you should!
The only exception is if you are exclusive; then you upload only to one stock agency.
Rin, this implies that your works should not have transparencies, and you should not use certain effects additionally (like 3D, for example). Look for more detailed information online; there are many articles on these topics now. By the way, many photobanks now allow uploading works in EPS10 format. But I don’t know about transparencies and overlays in them; I’m not sure if they are allowed. I became interested in making money from illustrations and microstocks three years ago. I dug through a mountain of information. So don’t be lazy. It’s very important; it’s tedious at first, but then it pays off. 🙂
I see. Thank you for the prompt and quick responses.
What does the level of vector illustration and the price on Dreamstime depend on?
The number of sales for each individual illustration. Initially, each illustration starts at the lowest level, and then, upon reaching a certain sales volume, the illustration level increases, and consequently, the royalties for it.
Hello. I read about the requirements for vector works on microstocks on one of the resources: Compliance with EPS8 implies the use of a limited number of effects allowed by version 8. So what does this mean? What limitation of the number of effects is being referred to?
Good afternoon. There are currently very few stock agencies that still require EPS8; most have switched to EPS10. However, EPS8 does indeed support a very limited number of effects; for example, you cannot use transparencies, gradients, shadows, and so on. It’s not about the number of effects used, but rather that the use of most effects results in rasterization when converting to EPS8 (embedded JPGs are created), and this should not happen, so they cannot be used.
Among professional photobanks, I prefer rusmediabank.ru – they are professionals.
From microstocks, I work with 123rf.com – it’s a good stock.
Thanks for the great information, but I have some questions – should Adobe Illustrator be licensed? Is it possible to create drawings in other programs? Does the drawing have to be vector?
Stella, if you are planning to create vector graphics, you can use Corel in addition to Illustrator. For raster graphics, Photoshop and other editors are suitable. The decision on licensing is entirely up to you—whether to work with a pirated version, violating the rights of developers, or to purchase a license for a certain amount. I know stock photographers who work legitimately, and I also know those who use pirated software. For the illustration itself, there’s no difference.
P.S. I wanted to clarify… what typical requirements does the microstock inspection have for “vectors”?
1) closure of paths
2) absence of unnecessary points
3) size restrictions (each photo stock has its own)
4) requirements for EPS version (depends on the photo stock)
Thank you very much for the adequate and clear presentation of the material. I have “ripened,” and will take action!
I want to work as a microstocker, but I don’t know anything related to this. Where should I start learning? From Illustrator, from drawing lessons, or should I not start at all?
Illustrator or Corel. Download a collection of beginner lessons, practice, and if you succeed, then try working…
Olya – Good day.
I have been a professional photographer for over 50 years.
I am contacting you with a business proposal. To spread my works across photobanks. The time has come to scatter stones.
Look at the website or Wikipedia about Leonid Lazarev.
Or consult a professional who knows the nuances of communicating with foreign photobanks.
I really hope. Leonid Lazarev. Moscow
Good day, Leonid Nikolaevich!
The problem is that only the photographer (the author of the photographs) or a person who has legal rights to the works, or an employee of a registered company has the right to sell their works in photobanks. Of course, you can hire someone in your team (as, for example, Yuri Arkus did) who will take on the most boring functions of attribution and submission of content. If you are looking for exactly such a person, it may be easier for you to find him in your region, city, area; you can provide him with material, sign a cooperation agreement (possibly notarize it) at a personal meeting. This way, it will be easier for you to control his work and maintain work issues. Any person with minimal knowledge of English and available free time and traffic will be suitable for this.
Of course, I would gladly help you, but I specialize exclusively in vectors, and I am fully loaded with my work.
If you have any problems with registration or uploading works, I will try to answer your questions as thoroughly as possible in the topics of the stock agencies you are interested in on my blog.
Thank you for your offer.
“I make vectors in Illustrator.”
brrr
What’s wrong with that?
I am actually doing them because I consider this work that needs to be DONE!
Hello Olga. I could not find your contacts. Please write to 6apon1(at)gmail.com
Hello, Olga! It’s been almost a year since the last comment… How are your relations with microstocks now, if it’s not a secret?
Good day, Evgeny!
Things are good. Income is growing. The portfolio is increasing. I left my offline job to focus on stock…
Tell me, do you have an RSS feed for this blog?
Yes, of course. Look at the very bottom of the blog.
I set a plan for myself – at least 5 works a day. If I skip, I try to catch up. In general, it’s not hard if you overcome your laziness. So my portfolio is growing – and so are my earnings – currently averaging $15 a day – without days off.
Olya, are you making a lot of money from those vectors on Shutterstock? Is the upload rate high?
Here’s to a fresh start in the New Year.