You know how they say that the correct answer is often right in front of you? It’s definitely true for anyone wondering how to create a strong passive income with stock photography, illustrations, or videos. To determine what sells best, you simply need to look at the things that are right in front of your face all day in a new light.

You must keep in mind that all types of companies purchase images. Could you create…

• the pattern image on that product packaging?
• textured backgrounds for social media posts?
• a portfolio of editorial photos that show off your city?
• conceptual collages that help express the message of magazine articles and blog posts?

The possibilities are endless. Look at the things that you buy and the ads all around you. What part(s) of the visual composition may have been purchased? Can you make something similar? Do it. Apply to become a Shutterstock Contributor now.

I recently created a set of spiritual collages with the idea that life coaches, yoga instructors, and others may like to use them as backgrounds for inspirational quotes about positive vibes, spiritual growth, and transformation… and I sold one before I even finished uploading the set. The key to making this quick sale was knowing specifically who I was creating for (and that this type of person was looking for this) while creating the digital collage images.