How to Sell Photos at iStockphoto

So you need some extra cash and have great looking photos you'd like to sell. iStockphoto is the place to upload your photos whether you're a weekend amateur or a professional photographer. The application process is quick and painless. Once you're accepted as a photographer, you can begin uploading digital photos and earn royalties when your images are downloaded by other members in the iStockphoto community.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Government-issued photo ID
• High-quality digital photos
• iStockphoto account

1. Log into your iStockphoto account using your member name and password.

2. Click "Upload" link and you'll be directed to the Contributor Application page. Select "Image" and click "Apply Now."

3. Read through the Stock Photographer Training Manual carefully. It covers many different and informative topics such as quality standards, acceptable and unacceptable images, model and property releases, titles, descriptions and keyword usage.

4. Click "Continue to Application" and take the Photographer Application Quiz. If you fail, no worries! Correct answers will be reviewed and you can begin the application process over again until you pass the quiz.

5. After passing the quiz, carefully read the Artist's Supply Agreement and type in "I Agree" if you accept the terms.

6. Upload one piece of government-issued photo identification in .jpg format—something like a passport or driver's license—to continue the application process. Click "Continue."

7. Upload three sample photographs for the inspection team's review. Study the Needed Files list from the Stock Photographer Training Manual to increase your chances of being accepted as a photographer.

8. Check the status of your application by clicking "Upload" after logging in to see if you've been accepted as a photographer to sell your photos online.

Tips & Warnings

• Royalties are only paid when other members purchase your photos.
• Payment requests can only be made after your account reaches a minimum balance. Check the Support section and look under Artist Payment for further details.

[swilso1]

on 8/8/2009 A good resource is the book "Sell Photos on IStockphoto" on Amazon. It has an interview with a successful IStock amateur photographer and several tips for success.

[orson]

on 3/9/2009 Well, it is not so easy... for example the answers for the quiz you can found on some sites (http://sellinggraphics.com), but to succeed with your sample photos is quite hard, so be careful with the choice. And if you are not accepted, try some another microstock agency from the list here: http://sellinggraphics.com/4