Success on Getty Images isn't just about capturing stunning photos—it's about making them discoverable. With millions of images in their database, proper keywording is the difference between your photos being found and purchased or lost in the digital void.
Getty Images has specific requirements and best practices for keywords that many photographers overlook. Understanding and implementing these guidelines can dramatically increase your visibility and sales potential.
Getty Images Keyword Requirements
Official Getty Standards:
- Quantity: Exactly 50 keywords required (no more, no less)
- Relevance: All keywords must directly relate to the image content
- Language: English keywords only for global reach
- Format: Single words or short phrases, no sentences
- Accuracy: Factually correct and verifiable
The Getty Keyword Hierarchy
Getty Images uses a sophisticated search algorithm that weights keywords differently. Understanding this hierarchy helps you prioritize your keyword selection:
1. Primary Keywords (First 5-10)
These carry the most weight in search results. Include the most obvious and essential descriptors:
- Main subject (person, object, scene)
- Primary action or state
- Location (if specific and relevant)
- Most important conceptual themes
2. Secondary Keywords (Next 15-20)
Supporting details that provide context and expand searchability:
- Descriptive adjectives (color, size, mood)
- Secondary subjects or objects
- Time of day, season, weather
- Compositional elements
3. Tertiary Keywords (Remaining 20-30)
Broader concepts and alternative search terms:
- Conceptual themes (success, teamwork, innovation)
- Industry-specific terms
- Synonyms and related terms
- Technical specifications
Getty's Preferred Keyword Categories
Essential Categories to Cover:
People & Demographics
- Age ranges (20-24 years, mature adult)
- Ethnicities (when visible/relevant)
- Number of people
- Relationships (family, colleagues)
Actions & Activities
- What subjects are doing
- Professional activities
- Leisure pursuits
- Daily routines
Locations & Settings
- Geographic locations
- Indoor/outdoor
- Specific venues
- Environmental context
Concepts & Themes
- Business concepts
- Emotions and moods
- Abstract ideas
- Cultural themes
Keywords to Avoid
Getty Will Reject These:
- Camera/technical terms: "DSLR," "high resolution," "stock photo"
- Subjective quality: "beautiful," "amazing," "best"
- File information: "horizontal," "vertical," "isolated"
- Copyright/branding: Trademarked terms without permission
- Redundant plurals: Both singular and plural of same word
- Spam keywords: Unrelated popular search terms
Real-World Keywording Examples
Example 1: Business Meeting Photo
Image: Five diverse professionals discussing around a conference table
First 10 Keywords (Primary):
business meeting, teamwork, collaboration, office, professionals, discussion, conference room, diverse team, planning, corporate
Next 20 Keywords (Secondary):
multiethnic, men, women, laptop, documents, strategy, brainstorming, working, colleagues, modern office, business people, communication, sitting, table, indoors, daytime, formal wear, technology, papers, presentation
Final 20 Keywords (Tertiary):
cooperation, leadership, management, productivity, success, ideas, innovation, workplace, professional development, corporate culture, decision making, problem solving, analysis, growth, partnership, engagement, motivation, achievement, goals, objectives
Seasonal and Trending Keywords
Getty Images search trends change with seasons, current events, and cultural shifts. Staying ahead of these trends can significantly boost your sales:
Current High-Demand Keywords (2025):
- Sustainability, eco-friendly, green technology
- Remote work, hybrid office, video conference
- Mental health, wellness, self-care
- Diversity, inclusion, representation
- AI, automation, digital transformation
Keyword Research Tools
While manual keyword research is valuable, these tools can help identify trending terms and validate your choices:
- Getty Images Search: Analyze similar images and their rankings
- Google Trends: Identify rising search terms in your niche
- Shutterstock Keyword Tool: Cross-reference popular terms
- Adobe Stock Insights: Track seasonal and emerging trends
The AI Advantage
Manually researching and applying 50 keywords to each image is time-consuming, especially for photographers with large portfolios. AI-powered tools specifically trained on Getty Images requirements can:
- Generate exactly 50 relevant keywords automatically
- Prioritize keywords based on Getty's algorithm
- Include trending terms you might miss
- Ensure compliance with Getty's guidelines
- Process entire portfolios in minutes
Optimize Your Getty Portfolio
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Try Getty Mode FreeMeasuring Keyword Success
Track these metrics to refine your keyword strategy:
- View-to-sale ratio: Higher quality keywords improve conversion
- Search position: Track where your images appear for key terms
- Download patterns: Identify which keywords drive sales
- Seasonal performance: Adjust keywords for time-sensitive content
Conclusion
Success on Getty Images requires more than great photography—it demands strategic keywording that aligns with their search algorithm and buyer behavior. By following these guidelines and maintaining consistency across your portfolio, you'll significantly increase your visibility and sales potential.
Remember, keywords are your primary sales tool on stock photography platforms. Invest the time to get them right, or leverage AI tools designed specifically for Getty Images requirements. Your bottom line will thank you.