As editors, we will run into situations or projects where footage we need to tell a comprehensive story isn’t always available. Knowing that, we have the option to go online and search for footage shot by others to help us tell our stories. That’s where stock footage comes in. However, finding the best place to purchase stock footage can be a tireless effort. I’m here to provide some info on reliable sites which I’ve used in my career to help me fill in gaps in my projects.
ArtBeats (www.artbeats.com)
One of the oldest and most respected sites for stock media, Artbeats sells a variety collections to accommodate any project. Footage from their site has been used by every major broadcast network on the planet. They offer footage in SD, HD, Stereo 3D and 4K. The formats of the clips tend to be Photo JPEG but if you want any 2K-4K media, you have the option to get an R3D file. They are the most renowned site for stock media and also the most expensive. If you want to use clips from them, make sure your client’s budget can withstand it. They provide excellent previews and training tips on how to integrate their footage into your projects as well as the option to create bins to group specific clips. Membership is required if you want to partake in purchasing their footage.
Unlimited Stock Media (www.unlimitedstockmedia.com)
Another site that’s been around for some time is Unlimited Stock Media. They sell stock media based on an access plan. For $49, you have 24 hour access to unlimited downloads from the USM library. For $197, you get 30 day access to unlimited downloads from the USM library. These clips are shot by the highly talented staff of USM and they provide these plans with client budgets in mind. You can browse the entire library at once or by collection. One of the best features is that whatever clips you download within that time period are yours to keep and use for business or personal use even after your subscription period expires. The footage from USM comes in the Photo JPEG format and has a frame rate of 29.97 unless otherwise specified.
Shutterstock (www.shutterstock.com)
One of the newer sites I’ve used for stock footage, Shutterstock has been selling stock footage since 2006. Known for their affordable stock image library, they offer customers stock footage based on a subscription plan or on a per clip basis. Their footage is available in multiple formats such as DVCAM, HDCAM, Betacam and more. If you are purchasing a clip online from them, you can get a clip that is web friendly, SD quality or HD Photo Jpeg at various frame rates. As of today, Shutterstock has over 1 million royalty free stock footage clips.
Overall, these are just a few of the sites I’ve used for my stock footage needs but they are not the only ones out there. Below is a list of few other respected sites that I rely on from time to time for stock footage as well.
Digital Juice (VideoTraxx)
Videohive.net
FreeStockFootage.com
TimeTrapVideo.com (Slow Motion Videos)
I’m the NLE Ninja with AudioMicro asking you to stay creative.
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