Why did you decline my content when there is similar work in the collection?

We know it can be frustrating when your content is declined, and you might be tempted to compare it to similar work already published in Stocksy's collection. Out of respect for our community, we won't discuss other artists' work with you, but there are a few things to consider about how we curate and evolve our collection.

Our collection prioritizes freshness and relevance

Stocksy's collection constantly evolves to reflect our clients' current and future needs. The decision to decline content is not just about the visual aspects but also how it fits into the broader context of the collection. We consider factors such as the uniqueness of the subject matter, storytelling, and how well the content complements or enhances what we already offer. Content accepted years ago may no longer meet the expectations of today's collection, which focuses on staying dynamic and relevant. The last thing we want is a collection that recycles, repeats, or copies itself.

We've learned from our existing collection

Over time, we've gained valuable insights into what resonates with clients. If we already have similar work in the collection that isn't performing well, we may choose to pass on submissions that closely resemble it, even if they're technically strong. We aim to ensure that every piece we accept contributes something unique and meaningful to the collection.

Legal Considerations

While we may have accepted content under past legal guidelines, our standards and policies in this area also continuously evolve. If the decline was for legal reasons, the legal position might have changed, we may have learned something new, or we may have made a mistake. Please follow the guidelines in this article. 

You can learn more about our current standards by following our Creative Briefs and reading updates in Member News.

Feel free to reach out if you have any questions—we're always here to help!