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How does the integration with Shutterstock work?

Learn how to use Shutterstock with Gelato to create products from 360M+ images

Updated over 3 months ago

This article explains how to use the Shutterstock integration, including pricing and product compatibility. With the Shutterstock integration, you can create products using over 360 million images without any upfront costs. You only pay a small fee when a product containing a Shutterstock design is sold.


Using the Shutterstock Integration

To use the Shutterstock integration, follow these steps:

  1. Log in to your Gelato account.

  2. Create a new product by selecting "Design Your Print".

  3. On the left side of the Gelato editor, choose the Shutterstock option.

  4. Browse the Essentials collection (1 million popular images) or the Full collection (360+ million images). You can search for specific images and filter results by Photo, Vector, or Illustration.

  5. Adjust the image placement on the product, preview it, and click "Continue".

  6. Complete the publishing process, including selecting mockups, adding product details, and setting pricing. Click "Publish" when you're ready.

The Shutterstock image will appear in a maximum of 580x800 px during design. If you zoom in, the image might look pixelated. However, the final printed product will use a higher-resolution version of the file.


Image Usage and Attribution

When you use a Shutterstock image, the creator is automatically credited in the product listing's description. The format is "Image by <artist> / Shutterstock". By using this integration, you agree to Shutterstock's Terms of Service.


Pricing and Fees

You are only charged when you sell a product using a Shutterstock image. Here's a breakdown of the pricing structure:

Free customers

Gelato+ Subscribers

Essentials collection fee: USD 1 per image

Essentials collection fee: Free!

Full collection fee: 19% of the Gelato product price (with a min. fee of USD 1.70)

Full collection fee: 13% of the Gelato product price (with a min. fee of USD 1.49)

Examples of pricing for Free customers:

  • If Gelato's product cost is USD 5 (19% of the product cost is USD 0.95, which is lower than USD 1.70), the fee will be USD 1.70 (minimum fee).

  • If Gelato's product cost is USD 15 (19% of the production cost is USD 2.85, which is higher than USD 1.70) the fee will be USD 2.85.

  • If you use an image with a design fee of USD 1 and sell 10 framed posters with that image => then the total fee payable is USD 10.

Gelato+ subscribers enjoy benefits such as free use of Shutterstock Essential elements in products.


Product Compatibility

You can currently use Shutterstock images for these products:

  • Branded Label and Packaging Insert

  • Wall art

  • Mugs

  • Apparel

  • Tote bag

Shutterstock images are not currently supported for these products:

  • Calendars

  • Photobooks

  • Stationery

  • Business Cards

  • Cards


Important Considerations

  • You can use the same Shutterstock image multiple times within a single product, but you only pay for it once.

  • If you use multiple unique Shutterstock images in one product, the fee applies to each different image.

  • While you're purchasing the right to use the image for your chosen product through Gelato, you can't download the image itself.

  • Mockups for products using Shutterstock images are the same as those for other products. However, you can't use mockups that solely display the artwork without any background.

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