Shutterstock published a new version of their contributor app (version 1.4) that allows uploading of model releases as part of the image upload process. This allows for a full mobile work flow for users.
Model and property releases now part of the Shutterstock Contributor App
At the end of last week, Shutterstock announced its newest version of their Contributor App which already had the reputation of giving good insights into image sales and allowed for uploading of new images but was missing a rather important feature: The addition of model releases to submitted images.
With the new version, the Submission section was extended to allow full uploading of all images acceptable to Shutterstock, including editorial images but also people shots that require model releases. Along with this, a sister function for property releases was added as well.
Options to either use electronic release forms or capture paper releases
The new model release feature is part of the submission screen and can be accessed on the bottom of the form when uploading a new image into the app. The feature allows access to all model releases stored in the user account, even those that were submitted in the past through the website.
It also allows addition of new releases with the usual data also needed on the contributor website. For the release itself, Shutterstock offers two solutions: Either an image file can be uploaded from the user's photo stream which also allows usage of electronic model release apps like EasyRelease; as an alternative, the user can shoot a new image within the app which would be useful if the model release is available in paper form.
By loading the video, you agree to Vimeo's privacy policy.
Learn more
The competing app by Fotolia (Fotolia Instant) had built in a model release feature for some time already. Up to now, Shutterstock required users to upload and assign model releases to submitted images only through their website.
Overall a great move into the right direction from Shutterstock. Let's see if they accept my mobile photos as well now.
