Is Bigstock Part of Shutterstock

Exploring the realm of photography will lead you to Bigstock and Shutterstock. These platforms boast vast collections of images, each with its own distinct features. I still recall my initial experience with stock photo websites; it was akin to entering an expansive sea of visuals, where every image narrates a tale. Bigstock and Shutterstock can be seen as two separate islands in this sea of visuals, each possessing its own unique allure and attractiveness.

Bigstock, established in 2004 stands out for its pricing and user friendly interface. It provides a diverse collection of images to meet different requirements, ranging from business presentations to personal endeavors. In contrast Shutterstock has been in operation since 2003 and is widely regarded as a leader in the stock photography industry. With its vast library and robust search capabilities it serves a wide audience including major corporations and creative professionals.

While both platforms offer visuals they have distinct approaches and user experiences. Recognizing these variations can assist you in selecting the option that best suits your requirements be it as a freelancer seeking images for a client or as a business in need of visuals for marketing initiatives.

How Bigstock and Shutterstock Are Related

Though Bigstock and Shutterstock are separate companies they have a connection. They both belong to the broader Shutterstock family. It may seem a bit perplexing at first but allow me to clarify. In 2006 Shutterstock purchased Bigstock, so Bigstock functions under the Shutterstock brand.

This partnership enables Bigstock to leverage Shutterstock's extensive resources and knowledge while preserving its distinct brand. Think of it as a smaller, niche relative in a bigger clan. For users this translates to Bigstock tapping into Shutterstock's wide pool of contributors and tech but emphasizing a unique pricing model and user interface.

While Bigstock and Shutterstock share ownership they target slightly distinct audiences. This setup allows Shutterstock to offer a wide array of choices to users with different preferences and financial capacities.

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Differences Between Bigstock and Shutterstock

While Bigstock and Shutterstock may share a connection, their contrasting features can greatly influence your decision. From costs to how user friendly they are, here's a breakdown of what makes them distinct.

• Pricing: Bigstock is known for its more straightforward pricing model, which might appeal to those with a tight budget. Shutterstock, with its vast library, offers a more tiered pricing structure that can be beneficial for frequent users.
• Image Library: Shutterstock boasts a larger library with millions of images, videos, and music tracks. This extensive collection means you'll have a wider selection, but it can sometimes be overwhelming. Bigstock, while smaller, still offers a substantial library that is well-curated and easy to navigate.
• Search Features: Shutterstock’s search functionality is often praised for its advanced filters and AI-powered recommendations. Bigstock provides a simpler search experience, which can be less overwhelming but might lack some of the advanced features of Shutterstock.
• Subscription Plans: Both platforms offer subscription plans, but they vary in terms of the number of downloads and the types of licenses available. If you're a frequent downloader, Shutterstock's plans might provide better value in the long run.

When it comes to deciding between Bigstock and Shutterstock it usually boils down to what you prefer and what you specifically require. Whether you prioritize options or a vast collection of images knowing these distinctions can assist you in making a choice.

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Why the Confusion Happens

Have you ever found yourself in a spot where you have so many options that it becomes a bit too much to handle? That’s the sort of dilemma folks often encounter when they’re trying to figure out the difference between Bigstock and Shutterstock. I can recall my experience of trying to make a decision between the two it was like trying to find your way through a maze without any directions.

The main source of the misunderstanding stems from the fact that their services overlap and they share ownership. As Bigstock is part of the Shutterstock family their branding and offerings may appear alike at first glance. Both platforms offer stock images, videos and various other media making it easy to assume that they are identical or serve similar functions.

The pricing models also add to the mix up. While Bigstocks transparent pricing seems more straightforward Shutterstock's tiered plans can come across as intricate at first glance. Moreover the vast array of content available on Shutterstock in contrast to Bigstock can make it challenging to determine which platform aligns with your preferences.

In addition the way marketing and user experiences are crafted aims to resonate with a wide range of people. This can lead to some similarities in features and advantages. It’s akin to having two cousins who resemble each other and share common hobbies—one may be more extroverted while the other is more introverted yet they both inherit family characteristics.

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How to Choose the Right Platform for Your Needs

Deciding between Bigstock and Shutterstock is similar to selecting the tool for a task it all comes down to your requirements and work style. Let me share a bit of my own experience. There was a time when I had to pick a stock photo site for a project and I realized that matching the platforms advantages with my unique needs made the choice more straightforward.

Here’s a straightforward to assist you in selecting the most suitable platform:

• Assess Your Budget: If you’re working with a tight budget, Bigstock’s straightforward pricing might be more appealing. However, if you plan to download a large number of images regularly, Shutterstock’s subscription plans might offer better value.
• Consider the Size of the Library: Shutterstock’s massive library is a significant advantage if you need a wide range of options. On the other hand, Bigstock’s well-curated collection is easier to navigate and might be sufficient for less extensive needs.
• Evaluate Search Features: If you require advanced search capabilities and AI-driven recommendations, Shutterstock excels in this area. Bigstock’s simpler search features might be more user-friendly for those who prefer a straightforward approach.
• Check the Licensing Options: Different projects require different licensing. Make sure the platform you choose offers the type of license that matches your needs, whether it's standard or extended.

In the end consider what you need and how well each platform meets those needs. Finding that personal fit will guide you to a decision that feels right for you.

Read This: How Much Shutterstock Membership Costs

Common Features of Both Platforms

Despite their distinct characteristics Bigstock and Shutterstock offer a range of features that can prove advantageous based on your requirements. These features serve as a point of convergence for both platforms, even though they possess unique qualities.

Here’s a look at what they both offer:

• High-Quality Content: Both platforms pride themselves on providing high-resolution images, videos, and music tracks. Whether you’re working on a website or a marketing campaign, you’ll find plenty of quality content on both sites.
• User-Friendly Interfaces: Both Bigstock and Shutterstock have intuitive interfaces designed to make searching for and downloading content easy. Their designs aim to enhance user experience, whether you're a seasoned pro or a first-time user.
• Flexible Licensing Options: Each platform provides various licensing options to suit different needs. This includes standard licenses for everyday use and extended licenses for more comprehensive projects.
• Download Options: Both services offer flexible download options, allowing you to choose the format and resolution that best fits your project requirements.

Whether you prefer the user friendliness of Bigstock or the vast library of Shutterstock these shared features guarantee that you’ll have access to the resources necessary to turn your creative ideas into reality.

Read This: How Much Photos Cost on Shutterstock

What Users Are Saying About Each Service

When deciding between Bigstock and Shutterstock it's valuable to consider the experiences of regular users of these platforms. I remember working on a project where I delved into numerous reviews and user perspectives to gain insights into both services. The input from users often sheds light on features that promotional content may overlook.

A lot of people like Bigstock because its pricing is easy to understand and its platform is simple to use. Small business owners and freelancers often highlight how the transparent pricing system helps them with budgeting. They find Bigstocks interface convenient and appreciate that there are no hidden fees. Here are a few thoughts on the matter.

• Ease of Use: Users love how easy it is to find what they're looking for on Bigstock. The streamlined design helps them navigate quickly without feeling overwhelmed.
• Transparent Pricing: Many users appreciate the no-frills pricing model, which avoids complicated subscription plans.

Conversely Shutterstock is commended for its extensive collection and sophisticated search functions. Creative individuals and bigger groups tend to favor Shutterstock as it offers a wider selection of content and enhanced functionalities. Here are some common remarks from users regarding Shutterstock.

• Extensive Library: Users are impressed by the sheer volume and diversity of content available, which is particularly useful for unique and niche projects.
• Advanced Search: The sophisticated search filters and recommendations are a big plus for those who need specific types of images quickly.

In short Bigstock is appreciated for its ease of use and clarity while Shutterstock is preferred for its extensive offerings and sophisticated functionalities. Your decision could hinge on which factors hold the greatest importance to you.

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Where to Find More Information

To gain insights into Bigstock and Shutterstock it's beneficial to gather additional information. I recall times when I felt inundated with options and struggled to find reliable sources of information. Fortunately there are various resources available that can provide you with a better understanding of the features offered by each platform.

Here are a few sources where you can find more information:

• Official Websites: The best place to start is the official websites of Bigstock and Shutterstock. They offer comprehensive information about their services, pricing, and features. You can visit Bigstock and Shutterstock to explore their offerings in depth.
• Online Reviews and Forums: Websites like Trustpilot, G2, and even Reddit can provide insights from other users. Reading through reviews and discussions can give you a sense of real-world experiences and common issues faced by users.
• Comparison Articles: Many tech blogs and review sites publish detailed comparisons between these platforms. These articles often break down features, pricing, and user feedback in a way that’s easy to digest.
• Social Media and Community Groups: Following the official social media accounts of Bigstock and Shutterstock, as well as joining relevant online communities, can offer additional updates and user interactions.

Utilizing these tools allows you to collect the necessary insights to make a well informed decision that suits your requirements.

Read This: How to Sell Photos on Shutterstock

FAQ

1. Are Bigstock and Shutterstock owned by the same company?

Yes, Bigstock is a member of the Shutterstock family. Shutterstock purchased Bigstock back in 2006, which explains why the two platforms have certain similarities while also providing unique features and pricing structures.

2. Which platform offers a better selection of images?

Shutterstock boasts a library that surpasses Bigstocks offering with a wider selection of images, videos and music tracks. That said Bigstocks collection is also noteworthy and thoughtfully curated.

3. Is Bigstock more affordable than Shutterstock?

Bigstock tends to provide pricing choices that are easier to understand and more cost effective. On the hand Shutterstocks pricing structure is more intricate but it could offer greater value for regular users or larger groups because of its subscription options.

4. Can I use images from Bigstock or Shutterstock for commercial purposes?

Both platforms provide licenses that include usage for purposes. However it’s important to carefully examine the licensing terms to ensure that your intended use aligns with the guidelines set by the platform.

5. How do the search features compare between Bigstock and Shutterstock?

Shutterstock stands out with its search features, boasting advanced filters and AI powered suggestions. On the hand Bigstock provides a search experience that may be more user friendly for those who appreciate simplicity in their search process.

Read This: How to Cancel a Shutterstock Subscription

Conclusion

Having delved into the nitty gritty of Bigstock and Shutterstock it’s evident that both platforms bring their own advantages to the table, catering to distinct needs. Based on my experiences I’ve observed that the decision between the two often hinges on project requirements and individual preferences. Bigstocks straightforwardness and clear pricing make it a choice for those who like a hassle free approach. On the hand Shutterstocks vast library and advanced features are well suited for users seeking a wider array of options and more refined search functionalities.

In the end, the decision comes down to what matters to you more. Is it the user friendly interface and transparent pricing of Bigstock or the extensive library and cutting edge features provided by Shutterstock? Each platform has its own set of benefits and recognizing these can assist you in making a choice that aligns with your creative requirements and financial considerations.