When you submit content to Shutterstock, it undergoes a review process by our inspection team to ensure it meets our quality, legal, and technical standards.
How long does the review process take?
All content is funneled into separate queues by media type and marketplace designation, so review times vary by asset. Some assets, like those identified as a potential match for the data marketplace, may require further review and will remain in your Pending tab longer
Why might some items take longer?
There are a few reasons why certain files in your submission may take longer than others:
Second Opinion Review: Occasionally, an individual item from a batch is passed to another inspector for additional input. This can create a delay for that file even if the rest of the batch has already been reviewed.
Escalation to a Manager: In some cases, a reviewer may request a more authoritative judgment from a manager. This is a normal step in the process and does not mean there is a problem with your submission.
Peak periods: During times of high submission levels, reviews may take longer as we process a higher volume of content than usual.
Account flags: Select contributor accounts and content may require additional accommodation or review. It is important to keep your account in good standing by only submitting high quality content that meets all requirements.
What should I do while waiting?
No action is required from you while your files are pending. Please allow time for our team to complete the review. Content pending review cannot be edited. Deleting and resubmitting pending content may result in it being permanently blocked from the site