What You Can’t Do with a Shutterstock License

When you use images, videos, or other media from Shutterstock, it’s important to understand the type of license you are purchasing. The Shutterstock license gives you legal permission to use their content in a way that aligns with your project’s needs. Without the right license, you could face legal consequences. This post will explain the different types of Shutterstock licenses, what you can and can't do with them, and the common restrictions to watch out for. Whether you're a content creator, marketer, or business owner, understanding these licenses is essential for using Shutterstock’s assets safely.

Different Types of Shutterstock Licenses

Shutterstock offers two primary types of licenses for their media: the Standard License and the Enhanced License. Each has different terms and conditions that determine how the content can be used. Let’s break them down:

• Standard License: This is the most commonly purchased license. It allows you to use the content for personal or commercial purposes, such as marketing materials, websites, and social media, but with certain limitations on distribution.
• Enhanced License: This license provides more flexibility and is ideal for high-volume commercial use. It allows for more extensive distribution, including items for resale, and the ability to use the media on larger platforms or in physical products.

Each license comes with its own set of rules that define how many copies you can produce and the types of products you can include the media in. Understanding the difference is key to making the right choice for your project.

What You Can Do with a Standard Shutterstock License

The Standard License is perfect for most general uses. It offers a broad range of flexibility, but there are still some restrictions. Here’s a breakdown of what you can do:

• Use in Websites and Social Media: You can use images, videos, and music in blogs, social media posts, and websites. This includes marketing and promotional materials.
• Print Products: You can print media in brochures, flyers, and posters, but the distribution is limited to a certain number of copies.
• Commercial Uses: You’re allowed to use Shutterstock assets for advertising campaigns and other business-related projects, as long as they don’t violate any usage terms.
• Presentations: Shutterstock content can be used in PowerPoint presentations and other similar business or educational tools.

However, the Standard License does have its limitations. It does not allow for the resale of the media or use in certain high-volume distribution scenarios. For example, if you're planning to create merchandise that you’ll sell in large quantities, you may need to upgrade to an Enhanced License.

What You Can Do with an Enhanced Shutterstock License

The Enhanced Shutterstock License offers much more flexibility compared to the Standard License. It’s designed for users who need more extensive rights to the media they purchase, especially in commercial settings. With this license, you can use Shutterstock assets in ways that are not allowed under the Standard License. Here's what you can do with an Enhanced License:

• Extended Distribution: You can distribute the media more broadly, including on items that will be sold, like merchandise, t-shirts, posters, and physical products.
• High Volume Commercial Use: The Enhanced License allows you to use Shutterstock media for large-scale campaigns, including billboard ads, TV commercials, and large product packaging.
• Use in Merchandise for Resale: This is one of the biggest perks of the Enhanced License. You can use the media on products that are sold, like t-shirts, mugs, posters, and other merchandise. You can create as many copies as you need.
• Large-Scale Digital Use: You can include the media in digital products, like e-books, apps, and templates, which may be sold or distributed to a large audience.

In short, if you need to use Shutterstock content in a commercial setting where the media will be resold, reproduced in large quantities, or used in high-traffic platforms, the Enhanced License is your best option. It gives you more freedom to make the most of the content in commercial and retail environments.

What You Can’t Do with a Shutterstock License

While Shutterstock licenses grant you plenty of freedom, there are also specific restrictions on how you can use their media. These rules are in place to protect the copyright of the creators and ensure that the media is used in a way that benefits both parties. Here’s a list of what you can’t do with any Shutterstock license:

• Resell or Redistribute As-Is: You cannot resell, redistribute, or make the media available for download in its original form, such as selling the image as a print or offering it as a standalone download.
• Use in Logo or Trademark: You cannot use Shutterstock media in your logo or trademark. This includes using it in a way that could lead others to believe the media is part of your brand’s identity.
• Create Unlawful, Offensive, or Harmful Content: You cannot use Shutterstock content in ways that promote hate speech, violence, or illegal activities. The media should not be altered in a way that changes the original message or intent.
• Use in Sensitive Areas: Media cannot be used in certain sensitive areas such as adult content, gambling, or tobacco-related ads without explicit permission or an additional agreement.
• Alter Content Beyond Acceptable Limits: You can make minor edits, but you cannot create derivative works (like a logo or a new image) that changes the media’s core composition or use it in a way that misrepresents its original context.

It’s crucial to read through the terms of the license carefully to avoid violating any rules. Shutterstock’s licenses are designed to protect both users and creators, so understanding these limitations is key to staying compliant.

Limitations on Redistribution and Resale

One of the most important aspects of a Shutterstock license is the restriction on redistribution and resale. While you have the right to use Shutterstock assets in your projects, you can't simply resell or redistribute the media as-is. Here's a breakdown of the limitations you should be aware of:

• Redistribution Restrictions: You cannot redistribute Shutterstock content in its original form (e.g., images or videos) as part of a collection or as a standalone download. This means you can’t offer the images to other people to download from your website or distribute them as part of a digital product that others can access.
• Resale of Media: You cannot resell the Shutterstock media itself, even if you’ve made modifications. This includes using images in physical products like t-shirts, mugs, or posters, unless you have an Enhanced License that grants permission for resale.
• Merchandise with Minor Modifications: If you’re using the content for merchandise, any modifications must go beyond simple changes (e.g., resizing or color adjustments). If the media is too close to the original, you might still be violating the terms.
• Non-Exclusive Licensing: The content is non-exclusive, meaning others can purchase the same media. You can't claim exclusivity or rights over any asset you purchase, even if you’ve incorporated it into a product.

These limitations ensure that the original creators and Shutterstock maintain control over the distribution and commercial use of the media. If you need the rights to resell or redistribute media in large quantities, an Enhanced License is necessary to avoid legal issues.

Common Copyright Violations to Avoid with Shutterstock

Shutterstock’s licenses protect the rights of both users and the creators of the content. While it’s important to know what you can do with Shutterstock media, it’s equally crucial to understand the common copyright violations to avoid. Ignoring these restrictions can lead to legal issues, fines, or even lawsuits. Let’s go over some of the most frequent copyright violations people make:

• Using Media Without a License: This is the most basic violation. If you use Shutterstock content without purchasing the appropriate license (Standard or Enhanced), you’re violating copyright laws. Make sure you always select and pay for the correct license based on your project’s needs.
• Redistributing or Reselling the Content: As mentioned before, you cannot resell or redistribute the content in its original form. This includes uploading an image to your website for others to download or distributing it as part of a template.
• Modifying Images Beyond Permissible Limits: Shutterstock allows some modifications to its content, like resizing or cropping, but altering the image to the point where it no longer resembles the original or misrepresents the content is a copyright violation.
• Using Content for Unlawful or Offensive Purposes: You cannot use Shutterstock media for projects that promote hate, violence, illegal activities, or other harmful content. This includes using the media for misleading, defamatory, or inappropriate purposes.
• Using Content Without Proper Attribution (if required): Some types of content may require you to provide attribution to the creator. Be sure to check the license terms and follow them if attribution is necessary.

By understanding these common copyright violations, you can avoid costly mistakes and ensure that you use Shutterstock content legally and ethically. Always read the full license agreement to stay compliant.

FAQ about Shutterstock License Restrictions

If you’re unsure about Shutterstock license restrictions, you're not alone. Many people have questions about what they can and can’t do with licensed media. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions:

• Can I use Shutterstock media in my logo?
  No, you cannot use Shutterstock media in logos or trademarks. This is restricted to prevent the image from becoming part of your brand identity.
• Can I use an image for merchandise like t-shirts and mugs?
  If you have a Standard License, no. However, an Enhanced License allows you to use the content on merchandise for resale in large quantities.
• Can I use Shutterstock images in a paid app?
  It depends on the type of license you have. With a Standard License, the content can be used in a paid app, but you should check if the content will be sold as part of the app. The Enhanced License is a safer choice for these kinds of projects.
• Can I use Shutterstock media for a YouTube video?
  Yes, you can use Shutterstock images, videos, or music in YouTube videos, as long as it is within the terms of your license. Just make sure you’re not violating any redistribution or commercial use rules.
• What happens if I violate the Shutterstock license terms?
  Violating the terms of your Shutterstock license can result in legal action. Shutterstock can terminate your access to the content and seek compensation for any damages or infringements.

Always refer to the Shutterstock license agreement for the most accurate and detailed guidelines. If in doubt, contact Shutterstock for clarification on how to use their media correctly.

Conclusion: Understanding Shutterstock License Restrictions

Understanding Shutterstock’s license restrictions is essential to using their content legally and ethically. Whether you’re a small business owner, marketer, or content creator, knowing the terms of the Standard and Enhanced Licenses can save you from potential legal issues. Always ensure that you’re using Shutterstock media within the bounds of the license you’ve purchased, and remember to respect copyright laws.

By familiarizing yourself with the do’s and don’ts of Shutterstock licenses, you can confidently use their assets for a wide range of projects, from digital marketing to print materials, without worrying about violating any rules. If you’re unsure, don’t hesitate to consult the license terms or reach out to Shutterstock for clarification. Ultimately, understanding the restrictions and following them will help you maximize your use of Shutterstock’s resources without legal risk.