How to Upload Videos to Shutterstock

When venturing into the realm of stock video submissions it’s important to understand what Shutterstock looks for in your content. Having gone through this process myself I can attest that adhering to these standards is vital for a seamless upload and approval. Shutterstock has established criteria to guarantee that all videos meet quality standards and align with the requirements of their platform.

Here are the key points you should remember:

• Resolution: Videos should be at least 1920×1080 pixels (Full HD). Higher resolutions like 4K are also accepted and often preferred.
• Frame Rate: Shutterstock accepts videos at various frame rates, but 24, 25, and 30 fps are standard. Ensure consistency throughout your video.
• File Format: MP4 with H.264 codec is the most accepted format. It’s best to use this to avoid any compatibility issues.
• Duration: While there’s no strict limit, short clips (15-60 seconds) are popular. Longer videos can be accepted but ensure they are engaging throughout.

Remember that these guidelines will not only assist you in aligning with Shutterstock‘s criteria but also make your content shine amidst their extensive collection.

Preparing Your Videos for Upload

Before you click that upload button it’s crucial to polish your videos to align with Shutterstock‘s guidelines. Having gone through this process myself I can offer you some insights that will streamline the journey and boost your approval odds.

Start by reviewing your video content. Check for clarity, focus, and overall quality. If you’ve used any music or sound effects, make sure you have the proper licenses or use royalty-free options. Shutterstock values original and high-quality content, so:

• Edit for Quality: Use video editing software to enhance color grading, stabilize shaky footage, and remove any unwanted elements.
• Check for Metadata: Properly tag your video with relevant keywords, and write a concise yet descriptive title and description.
• Review Legal Aspects: Ensure you have model releases for any identifiable people and property releases for private properties included in your footage.

Finally make sure to reduce the size of your video without sacrificing its quality. You can use tools such as HandBrake for assistance. By following these guidelines you can ensure a seamless approval process instead of dealing with potential rejections.

How to Create a Shutterstock Contributor Account

Starting your journey on Shutterstock is a walk in the park once you grasp the process. I can still recall the thrill I felt when creating my contributor account ready to showcase my videos to the universe. Here’s an easy peasy roadmap to assist you in establishing your Shutterstock Contributor account.

To get started go to the Shutterstock Contributor registration website. You’ll be required to provide

• Personal Information: Enter your name, email address, and create a secure password.
• Contact Details: Fill in your contact details including address and phone number.
• Payment Information: Set up your payment method. Shutterstock offers various options including PayPal and bank transfers.
• Tax Information: Complete the necessary tax forms based on your country’s regulations. This is crucial for receiving your payments.

Once you finish these steps you’ll have to accept Shutterstock’s terms and conditions. After you send in your details Shutterstock will take a look at your application. This typically takes a few days. While you wait you can begin getting your videos ready for upload. It’s an easy process that unlocks a range of possibilities, for sharing your creations with a worldwide audience.

Steps to Upload Videos to Shutterstock

Submitting videos to Shutterstock is a thrilling way to showcase your artistic flair. I recall feeling a bit anxious about nailing it the first time but once you familiarize yourself with the process it becomes pretty seamless. To assist you in this journey here’s a guide to make the navigation smooth and easy.

Follow these steps:

• Log In to Your Contributor Account: Start by logging into your Shutterstock Contributor account. If you haven’t created one yet, refer to the previous section on setting up your account.
• Access the Upload Section: Once logged in, navigate to the “Upload” section. This is usually found in the dashboard or main menu.
• Select Your Files: Click on the “Upload” button and choose the video files from your computer. You can upload multiple files at once, which saves time.
• Review and Edit: After uploading, you’ll see a preview of your videos. Make sure they look good and are free from any errors or issues. You might want to edit or trim your videos if needed.
• Submit for Review: Once you’re satisfied with your videos, submit them for Shutterstock’s review. They will check your content for quality and adherence to their guidelines.

Keep in mind that it may take a while for the review process to be completed. Use this time to create new videos or polish your current ones. The excitement of having your videos approved and released is definitely worth the wait!

Adding Metadata to Your Videos

While it may appear to be a detail adding metadata to your videos plays a role in boosting the visibility of your content on Shutterstock. When I began my journey I didn’t fully grasp its significance. However I quickly came to understand how vital it is for enhancing the searchability and attractiveness of your videos. Here’s a guide on how to do it effectively.

Follow these tips for effective metadata:

• Title: Craft a clear and descriptive title for each video. Use keywords that potential buyers might search for. For example, if your video features a beautiful sunset, a title like “Stunning Sunset Over Mountains” works well.
• Description: Write a detailed description of your video. Include relevant details about the scene, location, and any other notable features. A well-written description helps buyers understand what they’re getting.
• Tags: Add relevant tags that describe the content of your video. Think about what terms buyers might use to find similar footage. Be specific and include various keywords related to your video’s theme.
• Categories: Select the appropriate categories for your video. Shutterstock provides various categories to choose from, so pick the ones that best fit your content.

By providing good metadata, you can assist potential buyers in discovering your videos with greater ease. So make sure to invest some time in completing it comprehensively. It can greatly impact the performance of your content on the platform.

Reviewing and Submitting Your Videos

Before your videos go live on Shutterstock the final step is reviewing and submitting them. It’s a crucial moment as it gives you one last opportunity to ensure everything is just right. I remember feeling a blend of excitement and jitters during this phase. Here’s how to make sure your videos are primed for success:

Here’s a checklist to follow:

• Final Quality Check: Watch your video one last time to catch any errors or inconsistencies. Check for any glitches, audio issues, or visual problems that might have been missed earlier.
• Ensure Compliance: Verify that your video meets all Shutterstock’s requirements, including resolution, format, and content guidelines. Double-check that all model and property releases are in order if applicable.
• Metadata Accuracy: Review the metadata you’ve added to ensure it’s accurate and complete. Make any necessary adjustments to titles, descriptions, tags, and categories.
• Submit Your Video: Once you’re confident that everything is in order, click the submit button. Your video will be sent to Shutterstock for review.

Feeling a little worried is normal, but have faith in the journey. After you submit your videos they will be reviewed by Shutterstock and before you know it you’ll witness the fruits of your labor. Wishing you the best of luck!

Tracking Your Videos’ Performance

Once your videos go live on Shutterstock the adventure doesn’t stop. Keeping an eye on how they perform can provide you with valuable feedback on what’s effective and what might require some adjustments. I recall my initial experiences of uploading videos eagerly monitoring the numbers to gauge their success. It’s somewhat akin to nurturing your plants—you hope to witness them blossom and thrive!

Here’s how you can monitor the performance of your videos.

• Access Your Dashboard: Log in to your Shutterstock Contributor account and go to the dashboard. This is where you’ll find performance metrics for all your uploaded videos.
• Check Views and Downloads: Monitor the number of views and downloads your videos are getting. This helps you understand which content is resonating with buyers.
• Review Earnings: Keep an eye on your earnings report. It will give you a breakdown of how much you’re making from each video and which ones are performing best.
• Analyze Trends: Look for patterns in your successful videos. Are there specific themes or styles that seem to attract more attention? Use this information to guide your future uploads.

By keeping an eye on these numbers you can refine your strategy and boost your odds of achieving your goals. Its all about growing and adjusting just like we do in our everyday routines.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting Tips

Every person who uploads content runs into a few bumps in the road. I’ve dealt with my fair share of challenges ranging from glitches during uploads to mix ups in metadata. But no need to fret—most problems come with easy fixes. Here are some issues you might encounter and tips on how to handle them.

• Upload Failures: If your video fails to upload, check the file format and size. Ensure it meets Shutterstock’s requirements. Sometimes, a slow internet connection can also be the culprit.
• Metadata Issues: If your metadata isn’t showing up correctly, double-check for typos or errors. Make sure all required fields are filled out properly.
• Rejection of Videos: If a video gets rejected, review Shutterstock’s feedback carefully. It might be due to technical issues, content quality, or missing releases. Make necessary corrections and resubmit.
• Performance Problems: If your videos aren’t performing well, revisit your keywords and tags. Ensure they are relevant and specific to your content.

While these challenges can be annoying they come with the territory of growing. Tackling them directly will enhance your journey and increase your chances of success on Shutterstock.

FAQ

Q: How long does it take for my videos to get approved?

A: It usually takes a couple of days to go through the review process. The Shutterstock team will assess your videos based on their quality and how well they follow the guidelines. Make sure to check your dashboard regularly for any updates.

Q: What should I do if my video gets rejected?

Take a look at the comments from Shutterstock. They typically explain why your submission was rejected. Make the required changes to your video or its details and send it back in for another review.

Q: Can I edit the metadata after uploading my video?

Absolutely! You have the option to refresh the details of your videos even after theyve been uploaded. Simply head over to your dashboard choose the video and make the necessary modifications.

Q: What are the best practices for creating high-quality stock videos?

When creating videos pay attention to details like resolution lighting and sound quality. Make sure your content is captivating and polished. Steer clear of using copyrighted music or clips and always obtain the required permissions.

Q: How can I increase my video sales on Shutterstock?

To increase your sales focus on producing content that stands out, incorporating relevant keywords and tags and consistently sharing fresh videos. Keep an eye on how things are performing and tweak your approach based on what proves successful.

Conclusion

Starting your adventure with Shutterstock can be an exhilarating yet demanding experience. Whether it’s grasping the platform’s video guidelines or honing the skill of adding metadata every stage offers valuable insights. I recall feeling a mix of excitement and being overwhelmed during my initial uploads. However as time went on everything began to fall into place. The secret lies in staying determined continuously improving your strategy and drawing lessons from every encounter. The joy of witnessing your creations come to life and being cherished by others is truly fulfilling. So embrace the journey and let your imagination shine through your videos. Wishing you happy uploading!