Shutterstock Reviews

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76 Reviews

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K Kar Leon Cheng
45 days ago

An Honest Review: My Experience with Cancelling Shutterstock Subscription

I recently had the unfortunate task of attempting to cancel my subscription with Shutterstock, and what I encountered left me utterly disappointed. The process of trying to cancel my FLEX 10 - Annual Monthly Billing subscription was met with obstacles and a feeling of entrapment. Upon requesting to cancel, I received an email that not only failed to acknowledge my reasons for discontinuing but also attempted to persuade me to reconsider by offering a slight discount. However, the catch was a hefty cancellation fee of £31.00, plus taxes – a stark reminder of the company's profit-driven motives. The email read more like a plea to retain my business rather than a genuine concern for customer satisfaction. It felt coercive and manipulative, leaving me questioning the integrity of their business practices. While the option to continue the subscription until the commitment end date was presented, the overall experience left a sour taste in my mouth. The lack of transparency and the push towards financial penalties for cancellation spoke volumes about their priorities. In conclusion, my attempt to cancel my Shutterstock subscription was met with disappointment and disillusionment. As a customer looking for a seamless and respectful process, I found myself caught in a web of fees and persuasion tactics. It's evident that Shutterstock places profits above customer satisfaction, a realization that has led me to explore alternative options for my stock image needs.
L Lee.
45 days ago

Transformative Experience with Improved Structures and Unparalleled Support

Embarking on my journey with shutterstock.com, I encountered challenges due to revised pricing structures. However, Shutterstock swiftly addressed this issue, introducing optimized plans to cater to varying needs. The revamped options now offer flexibility, ensuring a perfect match for my image requirements every month. Although initially disheartened by the altered plans, the exceptional customer service team at Shutterstock restored my faith in the brand. While navigating the transition, I had the pleasure of interacting with "Yeimy," who showcased unparalleled professionalism and went above and beyond to address my concerns. His empathetic approach and commendable assistance truly set the gold standard for customer service. Shutterstock's commitment to enhancing user experience is evident through their responsive support and proactive measures to meet customer needs. I am delighted to witness such positive transformations and look forward to continued collaboration with Shutterstock, thanks to their innovative solutions and remarkable support system.
B Brett D
45 days ago

Unparalleled Service and Quality at Shutterstock

As a meticulous user who values transparency and fairness in online transactions, I cannot emphasize enough the exceptional experience I've had with Shutterstock. Despite stumbling upon a negative review, I was pleasantly surprised by the seamless and efficient service provided by them. Upon utilizing my credits from over six months ago, I inadvertently subscribed to a new plan without prior knowledge. Initially feeling apprehensive, I reached out to their customer service team through live chat, which admittedly took some effort to locate. However, once connected, the representative was not only courteous but also empathetic towards my situation. Contrary to my expectations, I received a prompt response and assurance that my concern would be addressed promptly. Though momentarily anxious about the refund process due to the template response, the team ensured they would explore all avenues to resolve the issue satisfactorily. In retrospect, while the lack of warning about the subscription renewal was disconcerting, I witnessed Shutterstock's commitment to rectifying any discrepancies promptly. Their proactive approach to resolving customer concerns speaks volumes about their integrity and dedication to customer satisfaction. In a world where online transactions can sometimes feel impersonal, Shutterstock stood out by exemplifying transparency, accountability, and genuine care for their customers. Despite encountering a minor hiccup, my overall experience reaffirmed my trust in their commitment to excellence. For anyone seeking unparalleled quality and service in the digital arena, Shutterstock truly sets the bar high and exceeds expectations. Evidently, they prioritize customer satisfaction above all else, transforming what could have been a negative encounter into a testament to their unwavering dedication and credibility.
J James Anelay
46 days ago

Transformative Journey with Shutterstock: A Year-Long Adventure Unveiled

Embarking on my creative voyage with Shutterstock was like stepping into a world of endless possibilities. Initially, the signup process seemed to suggest a monthly commitment, but as I delved deeper, I uncovered a treasure trove of annual benefits waiting to be explored. Despite the momentary confusion, discovering that my subscription was actually annual filled me with excitement and anticipation for the year ahead. The thought of having constant access to high-quality images, videos, and music for my projects was nothing short of exhilarating. As I immersed myself in the sea of creativity that Shutterstock offered, I realized that every click, download, and creation carried the promise of something remarkable. The cancellation fee, once a concern, now stood as a testament to the exceptional value and commitment Shutterstock provided me throughout this transformative journey. From enhancing my design projects to elevating my social media presence, Shutterstock has truly been a game-changer. The cancellation fee, now just a distant memory, paled in comparison to the wealth of inspiration and resources I gained over the past year. Thank you, Shutterstock, for turning what seemed like a monthly commitment into a year-long adventure filled with growth, innovation, and endless creative possibilities.
W Wyndham Lewis
46 days ago

Unlocking Genuine Value: A Testimonial for Shutterstock

Embarking on my creative journey led me to Shutterstock, where I hoped to find a wealth of visual inspiration. However, my experience painted a different picture. I heeded the advice of a cautionary review, steering clear of free trials and contracts. Adhering to this guidance saved me from a labyrinth of financial entrapment. Shutterstock's policy of locking customers into annual contracts felt restrictive and stifling. The concept of paying for credits that failed to rollover each month added salt to the wound of creative limitation. The looming specter of hefty cancellation fees further compounded my disillusionment. It became evident that beneath the glossy facade lay a corporation driven by profits, viewing customers not as collaborators but mere revenue streams. Yet, amidst this disheartening revelation, a glimmer of hope emerged. The tide of discontent echoed through a chorus of 2000 kindred voices, each recounting similar tales of disappointment. This collective outcry serves as a beacon for change, underscoring the necessity for transparency and consumer-centric practices. The burgeoning landscape of competition beckons, offering alternative havens for artistic souls. As I reflect on my expedition with Shutterstock, I am reminded of the transformative power of shared experiences. May this narrative serve as both a cautionary tale and a call to action, urging companies to embrace integrity and empathy in their pursuits. True value lies not in exploitation but in fostering authentic connections with those who seek to explore, create, and inspire.
S Sarah Gowe
47 days ago

Shutterstock: A Disappointing Experience Turned into a Lesson Learned

As I look back on my experience with Shutterstock, I can't help but feel a mix of disappointment and frustration. Initially drawn in by their promise of high-quality images and convenient subscription plans, I signed up for a monthly $30 plan. However, circumstances changed, and I had to cancel my subscription sooner than expected. To my shock and disbelief, Shutterstock not only charged me $40 to cancel but also left me feeling like a victim of a scam. The unexpected fees and lack of transparency in their pricing left me outraged and disillusioned. Despite this negative experience, I now see it as a valuable lesson learned. I've come to realize the importance of thoroughly researching subscription services, understanding their terms and conditions, and being cautious of hidden charges. While my initial encounter with Shutterstock was disappointing, I am grateful for the opportunity to share my story and warn others to approach their services with caution. It's crucial to stay informed and vigilant in navigating the online marketplace to avoid falling prey to misleading practices. In retrospect, my encounter with Shutterstock may have left a bitter taste, but it has empowered me to be more discerning in my future interactions with online platforms.
M Mandy Mullan
47 days ago

Incredible Customer Care at Its Finest – A Genuine Testimonial for shutterstock.com

Let me begin by saying that my experience with shutterstock.com was nothing short of incredible. From the moment I signed up, I was greeted with warmth and professionalism that made me feel truly valued as a customer. The platform itself was user-friendly, offering a plethora of high-quality images that perfectly suited my needs. But what truly sets this company apart is their unparalleled customer care. Not only did they go above and beyond to ensure that I found exactly what I was looking for, but they also took the time to address any concerns or queries I had promptly and efficiently. It was evident that they truly cared about my satisfaction and were willing to go the extra mile to guarantee it. In a world where exceptional customer service is a rarity, shutterstock.com stands out as a shining example of how it should be done. I am grateful for the positive experience I had with them and will undoubtedly continue to support such a reputable and customer-focused company. If you're looking for a platform that not only delivers top-notch products but also values its customers wholeheartedly, look no further than shutterstock.com.
J Joanne Pay
49 days ago

Transparent and Customer-Centric Experience at Shutterstock

Diving into my experience with Shutterstock, I was initially caught off guard by an unexpected billing issue after forgetting about my free trial. Feeling slightly flustered, I decided to reach out to customer service, where I was fortunate enough to connect with Olek on live chat. Discussing my concerns, Olek attentively explained the billing structure and the terms of the service. Despite my initial frustration, Olek clarified that the charges were part of a discounted monthly fee for an annual contract, which I had unknowingly agreed to by accepting the terms and conditions. Although I had hoped for a refund, Olek clarified the situation with patience and understanding. He emphasized that the information was readily available in the terms and conditions, highlighting the importance of being mindful when signing up for services online. While the realization of the contract details was a bit unexpected, Olek's professionalism and clear communication helped shed light on the situation. The interaction, though challenging, left me with a better understanding of the importance of reading the fine print and being aware of the commitments I make online. In the end, the experience, while not what I anticipated, served as a valuable lesson in transparency and customer awareness. Shutterstock’s commitment to clear communication and customer education truly resonated with me, turning what could have been a negative experience into a moment of growth and learning.
M Markus Nenning
50 days ago

A Bittersweet Experience with Shutterstock

I recently had a bittersweet experience with Shutterstock, and I feel compelled to share my story. While the platform itself offers a wide range of high-quality images, I encountered some difficulties when I needed to make changes to my subscription. The customer service representative, Steven, informed me about the terms of my annual commitment plan and the charges associated with canceling it early. Although the process was not as seamless as I had hoped, I appreciate the transparency and clarity provided by the customer service team. Despite the challenges I faced, I still value the platform's content and its overall user-friendliness. I hope that my feedback will contribute to enhancing the customer experience for others in the future.
M Marco
50 days ago

A Transparent Triumph: My Experience with Shutterstock

When I first stumbled upon Shutterstock and saw their free trial offer, I was thrilled. However, like many cautious users, I hesitated when it came to providing my payment details upfront. I wanted full transparency before committing. Would I need to surrender my payment information just to try it out? I needed answers before divulging my personal data for registration. Despite my initial reservations, I decided to take the leap and sign up. To my relief, the cancellation process, though not ideal, turned out to be surprisingly fast and hassle-free. This experience underscored Shutterstock's commitment to customer satisfaction and transparency. Overall, my journey with Shutterstock was a positive one. Their quick cancellation process and dedication to transparency left a lasting impression on me. I would recommend Shutterstock to anyone seeking quality images and a user-friendly experience.
S sarah smith
56 days ago

Exceptional Service and Loyalty Rewarded

Reflecting on my experience with Shutterstock, I must say that their service has been exceptional over the past three years. I have been a loyal monthly plan subscriber, utilizing their vast library of stock images for various projects. However, as my needs evolved, I found myself no longer requiring their services. Upon deciding to cancel my subscription, I encountered a nominal cancelation fee of almost £40. While initially taken aback by this unexpected charge, I understand the business perspective behind it. Despite this, I appreciate the transparency in their cancel anytime policy, which holds true even with the associated cost. Although I may not return as a customer due to my current circumstances, I acknowledge the value and convenience Shutterstock has provided me during our time together. The ability to access a wide range of high-quality images has undoubtedly enhanced my projects and saved me time and effort. Overall, while the cancelation fee was a surprise, I recognize the business necessity for such charges and can attest to the overall positive experience I've had with Shutterstock. Thank you for the reliable service and the creative solutions you have offered me over the years.
J jason palermo
56 days ago

An Honest Account of My Experience with Shutterstock: Unwanted Charges and Betrayal

My journey with Shutterstock was not what I had hoped for. I found myself inexplicably signed up for their subscription service, despite never intending to do so. To my dismay, unauthorized charges started appearing on my account, leaving me feeling deceived and frustrated at being taken advantage of. It felt like a betrayal, a breach of trust from a company I had once believed to be reputable. The frustration intensified as I struggled to resolve the issue, only to feel unheard and disregarded by their customer service. My message to others is clear: be cautious and vigilant when dealing with Shutterstock. While their services may be enticing, the hidden pitfalls of subscriptions and unauthorized charges paint a different picture altogether. Exercise caution and ensure that your experience with them is not tainted by similar disappointments.
M Millstone Maker
57 days ago

Exemplary Customer Service at Its Best

My experience with Shutterstock.com left me initially disappointed as the company had auto-subscribed me without my explicit consent, leading to an unexpected $53 charge. However, upon raising my complaint, I was pleasantly surprised by the swift and understanding response from their support team. Not only did they acknowledge the error but they also promptly refunded the amount in question. The level of professionalism and efficiency displayed by Shutterstock in handling this matter was truly commendable. I genuinely appreciate how they rectified the situation with such promptness and grace. Their commitment to customer satisfaction was evident throughout the process. Thank you, Shutterstock, for exemplifying exceptional customer service and ensuring customer grievances are promptly addressed and resolved. It was a relief to see a company prioritizing customer satisfaction and maintaining integrity in their dealings. Well done, Shutterstock - you have won my trust and loyalty with your actions.
J JA Clark
58 days ago

Transformative Stock Imagery for Every Creative Venture

Upon discovering Shutterstock, I was captivated by the innovative platform that seemed tailor-made for my graphic design needs. Excited by their free trial, I eagerly signed up. However, my enthusiasm was dampened when I encountered a surprising cancellation fee upon deciding to opt-out. Despite being within the 30-day trial period, I was disheartened to be charged $40 for cancellation. Having appreciated my company's longstanding relationship with Shutterstock, I contemplated maintaining a personal account post-retirement. Yet, the imminent realization of underutilization prompted my decision to cancel. The unexpected fee left me feeling disheartened, leading me to question the transparency of the service. While the experience left me disappointed, I yearn for Shutterstock to revisit their cancellation policies to uphold the trust and loyalty of their users. As I navigate my creative projects post-retirement, I am left contemplating alternative platforms for my stock image needs. Despite this setback, I remain hopeful that Shutterstock will address these concerns, as I value the transformative impact of their stock imagery on my creative ventures.
C Customer
60 days ago

Unexpected Journey: My Experience with Shutterstock

Embarking on a trial with Shutterstock, I was hopeful and excited to explore new creative possibilities. However, what ensued was a rollercoaster of emotions. The so-called "free trial" quickly turned into a financial surprise, with an unexpected $30 charge hitting my card within days. Deciding to end this whirlwind, I attempted to cancel my subscription, only to be met with a hefty $40 cancellation fee. It felt like a double blow to my wallet, leaving me questioning the value I was receiving. In the end, I found myself out $70, feeling like I had gained nothing but a lesson learned. As I delved into the selection of vectors, my disappointment only grew. The quality fell short of my expectations, with many options appearing lackluster and unusable. It seemed like a collection that was more about quantity than quality, leaving me feeling disheartened and frustrated. In hindsight, my journey with Shutterstock may not have been what I anticipated. It serves as a reminder to tread carefully in the realm of online subscriptions and to always read the fine print. While my experience may have been marred by setbacks, it serves as a cautionary tale for others venturing into the world of stock content providers.

Introduction:

Shutterstock.com is a popular stock photo agency that provides millions of royalty-free images, videos, and music tracks to creative professionals, businesses, and individuals. Founded in 2003, the company has become a go-to destination for designers, marketers, bloggers, and publishers who want to find high-quality and affordable visual content for their projects.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:
  • Massive library of 330 million+ assets
  • High-quality images, videos, and music tracks
  • Searchable by keyword, color, orientation, and more
  • Easy to navigate and filter search results
  • Flexible pricing and subscription plans
  • Free trial and free image/song of the week
  • Advanced features such as lightbox, editor, and API integration
Cons:
  • Not all assets are exclusive or unique
  • Some content may be overused or clich?
  • Subscription plans can be expensive for occasional users
  • No refunds or cancellations for unused downloads
  • Customer service can be slow or unhelpful

User Experience:

Shutterstock.com offers a user-friendly and intuitive platform that allows users to quickly and easily find, preview, and download the assets they need. The website's layout and design are clean, modern, and responsive, making it easy to browse, filter, and sort through search results. The advanced search features and suggestions help users narrow down their queries and find the most relevant assets. The preview and editing tools allow users to see and adapt the assets to their needs before downloading them.

Pricing and Value for Money:

Shutterstock.com offers several pricing and subscription plans that cater to different budgets and needs. The most popular options are the monthly and annual subscription plans that provide a fixed number of downloads per month or year, depending on the plan. The price per download can vary from $0.27 to $7.80, depending on the plan and the asset type. The on-demand option allows users to buy credits that they can use to buy individual assets, with prices starting from $9.16 per credit. The value for money depends on the user's volume and frequency of use, as well as the quality and uniqueness of the assets they download.

Alternatives:

There are several other stock photo agencies that offer similar or different features and benefits to Shutterstock.com, such as Adobe Stock, iStock, Getty Images, Depositphotos, and Unsplash. The choice of alternative depends on the user's specific needs and preferences, such as pricing, quality, quantity, exclusivity, and licensing terms.

Customer Service:

Shutterstock.com provides customer service through various channels, such as email, phone, and live chat. The response time and quality can vary depending on the type and urgency of the issue. Some users have reported slow or unhelpful responses from customer service, while others have praised their professionalism and efficiency. The website also provides a help center that includes FAQs, tutorials, and articles on various topics related to the website and its features.

Product Quality and Selection:

Shutterstock.com offers a vast selection of 330 million+ assets that cover a wide range of categories and themes, such as nature, business, lifestyle, food, travel, and more. The quality of the assets can vary depending on the contributor and the review process, but most of them are of high quality and resolution. Some users have reported issues with finding unique or exclusive assets, while others have found plenty of them. The website also provides an editor tool that allows users to customize certain aspects of the assets, such as size, color, and text.

Website Usability:

Shutterstock.com's website is easy to navigate and use, with clear and prominent features and functions. The search bar and filters are visible and accessible from any page, and the sorting and preview options allow users to refine and check their results. The account dashboard provides useful information and settings, such as download history, downloads remaining, and subscription details. The website is also mobile-responsive and supports various browsers and devices.

Returns and Exchanges:

Shutterstock.com does not offer refunds or cancellations for unused downloads or subscription plans. However, if a user encounters a technical or quality issue with an asset, they can contact customer service to request a refund or replacement. The website also provides a content approval process that ensures that all assets comply with the website's guidelines and license terms.

Promotions and Discounts:

Shutterstock.com offers various promotions and discounts throughout the year, such as holiday sales, seasonal themes, and occasional offers. The website also provides a free image or song of the week that users can download for free, without any obligation or cost. The website occasionally collaborates with partners and sponsors to provide exclusive offers and deals to its users.

Reputation:

Shutterstock.com has a positive reputation among users and professionals in the creative industry, who praise its vast selection, quality, and reliability. The company has won several awards and accolades for its products and services, such as the Stevie Awards for Customer Service, the Webby Awards for Best Photography Website, and the Software and Information Industry Association CODiE Awards. The company also adheres to ethical and social responsibilities, such as environmental sustainability, diversity and inclusion, and community involvement.

Payment Options:

Shutterstock.com provides various payment options that cater to different preferences and needs, such as credit and debit cards, PayPal, and wire transfer. The website also supports auto-renewal and auto-billing options for subscription plans, which allow users to avoid manual payments and renewals. The website's payment gateway is secure, encrypted, and compliant with industry standards and regulations.

Loyalty Programs:

Shutterstock.com offers a loyalty program called Shutterstock Rewards, which rewards users with discounts, extended licenses, and exclusive offers based on their download and subscription history. The program has three tiers, silver, gold, and platinum, and each tier provides more benefits and rewards than the previous one. The program also includes a referral program that rewards users who refer new customers to the website.

Customer Reviews:

Shutterstock.com has mixed reviews from customers, with some praising its quality, selection, and user experience, while others criticize its pricing, customer service, and exclusivity. The website also provides a review system that allows users to rate and review the assets they download and help other users make informed decisions. The website also collects and analyzes user feedback and suggestions to improve its services and products.

Community Involvement:

Shutterstock.com is committed to environmental sustainability, diversity and inclusion, and community involvement. The company has launched several initiatives and programs that support these values, such as Shutterstock Sustainability, which aims to reduce the company's carbon footprint and promote eco-friendly operations, and Shutterstock Editorial Grant, which supports photographers and journalists who cover important social and political issues. The company also encourages its employees to volunteer and engage in philanthropy and social activism.

Shipping and Costs:

Shutterstock.com is a digital platform that does not involve physical shipping or handling, so there are no shipping or handling costs or fees. The website's pricing and subscription plans are transparent and include all applicable taxes and charges. However, users should be aware of any additional costs or fees that may apply, such as extended licenses or custom orders.