Shutterstock is one of the world’s leading providers of royalty-free images, stock videos, music, and editorial assets. Whether you’re a filmmaker, content creator, marketer, or business owner, you’ve likely considered or come across Shutterstock when sourcing high-quality media. But one commonly asked question remains: Is Shutterstock purchase per clip? Understanding Shutterstock’s pricing model helps you make better decisions when buying assets, especially when it comes to videos.
TL;DR
Shutterstock offers both subscription-based and on-demand purchasing options for video clips. Yes, you can purchase individual video clips (per clip), which is ideal for occasional users or one-off projects. However, if you need multiple assets consistently, a subscription or a video pack might provide better value. Pricing depends on the resolution of the clip and your licensing needs.
Understanding Shutterstock’s Licensing Model
Before diving into the video-specific pricing, it’s important to understand how Shutterstock structures its licensing model:
- Royalty-Free Licensing: Most media content on Shutterstock is covered under a royalty-free license. This means you pay once and use it multiple times without worrying about additional fees.
- Standard vs. Enhanced Licenses: The type of license determines how broadly you can use the media. Standard licenses are suitable for web use or small distributions, while enhanced licenses are needed for large-scale distribution or commercial uses like advertising.
Does Shutterstock Sell Video Clips Per Clip?
Yes, you can purchase video clips individually on Shutterstock. This on-demand option is perfect for users who don’t require frequent downloads or have one-time project needs.
Here’s how the per-clip purchasing works:
- Visit Shutterstock’s video section and search for the clip you need.
- Choose the desired resolution: SD (Standard Definition), HD (High Definition), or 4K.
- Add the clip to your cart and check out—no subscription required.
The cost of each clip depends primarily on its resolution:
| Resolution | Price per Clip |
|---|---|
| SD | Approx. $79 |
| HD | Approx. $179 |
| 4K | Approx. $199 |
These prices may vary slightly depending on promotions or Shutterstock’s pricing updates, but they provide a general idea of per-clip cost.
Alternatives to Per-Clip Buying
If you’re planning to download more than a few clips, Shutterstock offers other plans that may better suit your needs:
1. Video Packs
Shutterstock’s video packs allow users to pre-purchase a set number of clips at a discounted rate. For example:
- 5 HD clips for ~$359 (saving you $36 per clip compared to the $179 rate)
- 10 HD clips for ~$669, and so on
These packs are a great middle-ground for teams and individuals with short-term or medium-sized video needs. They also stay valid for one year, so there’s no rush to use them immediately.
2. Custom Enterprise Solutions
For larger businesses or agencies, Shutterstock offers enterprise-level plans. These are customized solutions based on usage needs, licensing, and distribution goals and include features like enhanced licensing, access to premium content, and dedicated account support.
What’s Included with a Per-Clip Purchase?
When you buy a video clip per clip on Shutterstock, you’re getting:
- High-quality footage from a vetted contributor network
- Royalty-free rights for commercial or personal uses (depending on your selected license)
- Immediate download access after purchase
- Detailed metadata for easier organization and editing
However, remember that a per-clip purchase usually includes a standard license. If you’re planning to use the clip in advertising, TV broadcasting, or for audiences greater than 500,000 people, you may need to upgrade to an enhanced license, which incurs additional costs.
When Is Per-Clip Purchase the Best Choice?
Per-clip purchasing makes sense in the following scenarios:
- One-off Projects: If you’re making a single promotional video or meme and don’t plan to create similar content soon.
- High Budget Video Productions: Creative professionals who prioritize high-quality clips over budget constraints.
- Client-Specific Content: Freelancers or agencies working on fixed-scope projects for clients.
Can You Preview Clips Before Purchase?
Absolutely. Shutterstock allows users to preview video clips before buying. The previews typically include a watermark and lower resolution but give a good sense of framing, color grading, and motion. This helps you decide whether the clip is right for your project before committing to a purchase.
Tips to Make the Most Out of Shutterstock Per-Clip Purchase
To ensure you’re getting the most value from purchasing individual clips, consider these tips:
- Use Filters: Narrow your search using filters for length, orientation, resolution, and category to find exactly what you need faster.
- Group Purchases: If you already know which clips you’ll need for a project, consider buying a video pack instead of single-frame prices.
- Check Licensing Terms: Always ensure the licensing terms match your project goals. Don’t assume the standard license covers all use cases.
- Look for Discounts: Shutterstock occasionally offers discount codes or seasonal deals that can reduce the cost per clip.
Other Things You Should Know
- Shutterstock content is generally non-exclusive, meaning other users may buy and use the same clip as you.
- You don’t need a subscription or account to browse, but you must create a free account to purchase.
- Once purchased, you can re-download the clip any time by accessing your purchased content library.
Conclusion
So, is Shutterstock purchase per clip? Yes, it absolutely is. Shutterstock understands that not all users want or need a subscription. For occasional users, independent creators, or anyone managing one-off projects, the ability to buy a clip individually is both convenient and cost-effective.
That said, for frequent or high-volume users, video packs or tailored enterprise plans can provide better value with more content flexibility. Knowing your usage requirements is key to making the most economical and practical choice when sourcing video on Shutterstock.
Whether you’re on a tight budget or working on a high-end production, Shutterstock has an option for you. And with its massive library of over 20 million video clips, there’s no shortage of inspiration and choice.