There are three standard ways to purchase stock photography: as single images, in collections, and with a subscription. Which is the right method for you?

Single Image
The simplest method to purchase stock photos is on an image by image basis. Most online agencies and microstock companies sell images this way. After purchasing credits (1 credit = $1), you can browse the photo galleries and make individual image purchases.

This is the recommended method for small businesses and individuals on a tight budget, as it allows them to purchase only what they need, when they need it.

Stock Photo Collections
A convenient way to purchase stock photos is in a collection. Photo collections contain multiple images that are often related in subject or theme. Depending on the size and resolution of the images, stock collections can contain between 10 and 1,000+ photos.

Available on CD-rom or via digital download, stock photo collections make purchasing a group of images, and archiving them, a snap. And once you have purchased a collection, it is yours forever.

Get tips for buying a stock photo library.

Subscriptions
Subscription based agencies allow you to pay a single monthly fee, and download images as you need them. There is usually a set limit of image downloads per day, somewhere between 50 and 250. If you require a large number and variety of images, the subscription method may be a good choice.

Subscriptions range in time from 1 month to 1 year, and fees run from around $50 to $400 per month, depending on the quality and resolution of the images you require.

Choosing the method of purchasing stock photography that fits your needs can ultimately save you plenty of time and money.

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