This updated guide explains how stock photography has moved to a digital-first workflow while preserving traditional composition principles. It covers format and aspect-ratio choices, technical priorities (high resolution, exposure, releases), composition tips for marketability, and practical advice on selling through stock platforms.

Why stock photography still matters

Stock photography is a practical way for photographers to license images for advertising, editorial use, and online content. The market shifted from film to digital over the past two decades, but the core skills - composition, lighting, and subject selection - remain the same. Today, agencies and microstock platforms connect millions of buyers with contributors worldwide.

Digital first; film still has a niche

Most stock work is shot digitally for speed, consistency, and easy metadata embedding. Film and medium-format film are still used by some photographers for their look, but digital medium-format cameras and high-resolution full-frame bodies now deliver file sizes and tonal range that meet stock clients' needs.

Choosing an aspect ratio and format

Aspect ratio affects composition and how buyers use an image. Popular ratios include 3:2 (traditional 35mm), 4:3, and 1:1 (square). Medium-format film offered choices such as 6x4.5, 6x6, 6x7, and 6x9; each shaped compositional decisions. For example, rectangular formats like the 6x7 (approx. 7:6) historically made it easier to compose both horizontal and vertical shots without extreme cropping.

Today's cameras offer a range of native aspect ratios and large sensor resolutions, so you can frame with your intended use in mind and still crop for different layouts when necessary.

Technical priorities for stock images

  • Shoot at high resolution and low noise. Buyers expect clean files that scale for print and digital.
  • Expose for clean highlights and recoverable shadows.
  • Use neutral backgrounds and consistent lighting for product-style work.
  • Get model and property releases when people or private locations appear in commercial images.
  • Embed accurate metadata and keywords - discoverability drives sales.

Composition and marketability

Marketable stock images solve a need: clean backgrounds, clear subject focus, and flexible composition (negative space for text, multiple orientations). Think about client use: horizontal images often suit banners and ads, while vertical formats work for posters and mobile. Authenticity and real-world context remain strong trends.

Where to sell and what to expect

Distribute through established stock agencies and marketplaces to reach buyers. Licensing models vary (royalty-free, rights-managed, subscriptions). Research each platform's submission standards, legal requirements, and commission structure before you invest time.

Bottom line

Stock photography remains a viable income stream if you combine strong photographic fundamentals with modern digital workflows, correct releases, and smart keywording. Choose formats that support your composition and the markets you target, and prioritize image quality and legal clarity.

FAQs about Stock Photography

Do I need a medium-format camera for stock work?
No. High-resolution full-frame cameras can produce excellent stock images. Medium-format sensors offer extra resolution and tonal range, which can be beneficial for certain commercial or fine-art uses, but they are not required.
What image specs do stock agencies usually require?
Agencies typically ask for high-resolution JPEG or TIFF files with minimal noise, correct color, and no visible sensor dust or compression artifacts. Exact specs vary by platform, so check each agency's submission guidelines.
How important are model and property releases?
Very important. For commercial licensing you must have signed model and property releases for identifiable people and private properties. Editorial use may have different rules, but releases are essential for many commercial sales.
Should I shoot in RAW or JPEG?
Shoot RAW for maximum dynamic range and post-processing flexibility, then export high-quality JPEGs or TIFFs per the agency's requirements.
How do I make my images discoverable?
Use accurate, specific metadata and keywords, clear titles and captions, and follow platform tagging best practices. Good keywording significantly increases search visibility.