iStock Affiliate Program Review: Earn Up to 20% with a Trusted Global Brand
If you’re looking to monetize your creative or content-driven platform, the iStock Affiliate Program is one of the top-performing and most reputable options in the digital stock media world. Backed by Getty Images, iStock gives affiliates the chance to earn recurring commissions while promoting a trusted, high-converting platform that offers premium photos, vectors, videos, and more.
In this article, we break down everything you need to know about the iStock affiliate program—its benefits, features, commission structure, and why it could be a powerful source of online income for you.
About iStock: Trusted Since 2000
iStock, originally launched in 2000 as iStockphoto, was created by Bruce Livingstone as a free stock photo platform. The platform rapidly evolved and was acquired by Getty Images in 2006 for $50 million. In 2013, iStock dropped “photo” from its name to reflect its growing catalog of stock videos, illustrations, audio tracks, and more.
Today, iStock remains a global leader in affordable, high-quality stock content, with millions of digital assets added monthly by contributors worldwide. It’s a go-to resource for marketers, designers, entrepreneurs, bloggers, and large organizations alike.
Why Promote iStock? Key Features of the Affiliate Program
Here are the top reasons to join the iStock Affiliate Program in 2025:
High Commission Potential
Earn up to 20% recurring commissions
10% for existing customers
20% for new customers
This makes iStock highly competitive compared to other stock image platforms in the affiliate space.
Attractive Average Order Value
Average Order Value (AOV): $130
With higher AOVs, even a single sale can earn you a substantial commission, making it easier to hit your income goals.
30-Day Cookie Duration
You get a 30-day cookie window, meaning you’ll still earn a commission even if the customer completes the purchase weeks after clicking your link.
Incentives & Promotions
iStock regularly offers customer incentives, such as discounts, bundles, and time-sensitive offers, increasing your chances of conversions.
Dedicated Affiliate Support
You’ll get access to a dedicated management team, performance tracking tools, and a flexible API for advanced marketing strategies.
Program Structure: Flexible and Powerful
The iStock affiliate program is designed for all types of marketers, whether you're a blogger, YouTuber, agency, designer, or social media influencer. Its payment models are flexible, catering to both one-time sales and long-term recurring revenue.
Affiliates can also benefit from API access—a great feature for building tools or integrating stock content into websites, portfolios, or SaaS platforms.
Who Should Join the iStock Affiliate Program?
This affiliate program is ideal for:
Design Bloggers & YouTubers who review creative tools and resources
Digital Marketers who work with small businesses or agencies needing stock media
Online Course Creators and educators providing design tutorials
Web Developers looking to monetize blog traffic
Creative Tool Aggregators who compare stock platforms
Whether you're a seasoned affiliate or just starting out, iStock offers the trust, value, and earnings potential needed to build a successful affiliate stream.
How to Join the iStock Affiliate Program
Joining is easy and open to everyone:
1. Visit the affiliate signup page via iStock or Getty Images.
2. Complete the short application form with your site or promotional details.
3. Once approved, you’ll get access to affiliate links, banners, and creative materials.
4. Promote iStock using blog posts, videos, email marketing, or on your website.
5. Earn cash commissions for every qualifying sale.
Final Verdict: Is the iStock Affiliate Program Worth It?
Absolutely. The iStock Affiliate Program combines reliability, generous commissions, and a globally recognized brand name. It’s perfect for content creators who want to align with a premium stock media platform that converts.
With a solid 20% commission, 30-day cookies, recurring revenue, and regular promotional support, iStock stands out in a crowded field of affiliate options for creatives and marketers.