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The global stock images market was valued at USD 6.37 Billion in 2025. The market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.60% during the forecast period of 2026-2035 to reach a value of USD 12.07 Billion by 2035. The market is expanding steadily, driven by the rapid growth of digital content creation, online marketing, and media consumption.
As businesses increasingly rely on visual storytelling to connect with audiences, demand for high-quality, rights-cleared stock photos and videos has surged across sectors. With the rise of digital transformation, small businesses, content creators, and global enterprises are adopting subscription-based stock image platforms to access professional visual assets. In September 2025, iStock introduced a subscription model that allows unlimited downloads & modifications plus access to generative AI–powered image creation. Platforms like Shutterstock, Adobe Stock, and Getty Images have diversified their offerings to include footage, vector illustrations, AI-generated visuals, and editorial content, expanding use cases across geographies.
The growth of the stock images market is supported by expanding digital marketing budgets, increased content output by businesses, and the rising need for cost-efficient visual assets. In 2024, Adobe Stock reported a 17% increase in image downloads across North America and Europe, citing higher adoption by freelancers, agencies, and SMEs. Additionally, the growth of e-learning and remote work has boosted the use of stock visuals in presentations, training materials, and virtual classrooms. Investments in AI-generated image platforms and improved API integrations with design software have also made it easier for users to source and customize stock assets.
Content localization, the creator economy, and the increasing popularity of AI-driven design tools are further shaping demand patterns. Stock images are now critical for social media marketing, website development, e-learning, and product packaging. As copyright regulations tighten, users are shifting from free, open-source content to licensed alternatives to mitigate legal risks. With visual content becoming a strategic necessity, the global stock images market is well-positioned for sustainable growth.
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In 2023, North America represented the largest market, followed by the Asia Pacific, Europe, the Middle East and Africa, and Latin America.
Shutterstock, Inc., Getty Images, and Adobe Inc., among others. are a few of the major companies in the market.
The rise in the presence of such Stock images captured by drones is predicted to accelerate the demand for Stock images among its end users.
The global stock images industry is moderately concentrated, dominated by global platforms and an increasing number of regional and niche content suppliers. Market competition encompasses subscription models, on-demand licensing, and freemium hybrid offerings. Industry leaders such as Shutterstock, Getty Images, and Adobe Stock are investing in AI, automation, and global expansion to drive competitive edge.
Firms are spending on AI-driven search, customized recommendations, and generative image capabilities. Prompt-to-image software provides distinctive customization features through which users can create images from text. Strategic purchases are also influencing the industry. Localization is emerging as a differentiating strategy, with platforms curating local content to address increased demand for cultural representation. User experience, licensing flexibility, and integration with creative software are still top competitive levers.
Shutterstock, Inc.
Founded in 2003 and headquartered in New York City, the United States, Shutterstock is a global provider of stock images, videos, and music. The company pioneered a subscription-based licensing model and recently integrated generative AI into its platform, enhancing creative workflows and allowing users to produce unique visuals from simple text prompts.
Getty Images, Inc.
Established in 1995 and based in Seattle, the United States, Getty Images is renowned for its extensive archive of editorial and creative content. It has played a key role in digitizing historical photography and offers premium imagery to global media and advertisers. Getty continues to innovate with AI-powered search and licensing solutions.
Adobe Inc. (Adobe Stock)
Adobe Inc., founded in 1982 and headquartered in San Jose, the United States, launched Adobe Stock in 2015. Integrated into Adobe Creative Cloud, Adobe Stock offers millions of high-quality assets. Its innovation lies in seamless software integration, AI-powered search via Adobe Sensei, and growing use of generative AI to support creative professionals.
Canva Pty Ltd.
Canva, founded in 2012 in Sydney, Australia, is a graphic design platform that simplifies content creation for non-designers. Known for its drag-and-drop interface, Canva offers access to stock photos, videos, and templates. It has expanded into enterprise tools and AI-based design features, enabling users to create professional visuals effortlessly.
Other key players in the stock images market include Dreamstime,123RF, Envato Pty Ltd., Depositphotos, Alamy Ltd. and Pond5.
*While we strive to always give you current and accurate information, the numbers depicted on the website are indicative and may differ from the actual numbers in the main report. At Expert Market Research, we aim to bring you the latest insights and trends in the market. Using our analyses and forecasts, stakeholders can understand the market dynamics, navigate challenges, and capitalize on opportunities to make data-driven strategic decisions.*
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In 2025, the market reached an approximate value of USD 6.37 Billion.
The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.60% between 2026 and 2035.
The market is estimated to witness a healthy growth in the forecast period of 2026-2035 to reach around USD 12.07 Billion by 2035.
Key strategies include expanding diverse and inclusive image libraries, adopting AI for smarter search and tagging, and offering flexible pricing models. Companies also focus on global contributor partnerships, video and vector content expansion, and seamless integration with creative software to enhance user experience and retention.
The key trends include the demand for stock images shot in real scenarios and the growth of the content creation economy.
The different types of stock images include still images and footage.
The major applications of stock images include commercial and editorial.
The key players in the market include Shutterstock, Inc., Getty Images, Inc., Adobe Inc. (Adobe Stock), Canva Pty Ltd., Dreamstime,123RF, Envato Pty Ltd., Depositphotos, Alamy Ltd. and Pond5.
Significant challenges include expanding subscription models, AI-driven content tagging, and personalized search capabilities. Platforms focus on diversifying content libraries, localizing visuals, and partnering with creators globally. Emphasis on licensing flexibility, video and 3D content, and integration with design tools further enhances user engagement and market growth.
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Australia
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India
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+91-723-689-1189
Philippines
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+63-287-899-028, +63-967-048-3306
United Kingdom
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Vietnam
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