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How to Enhance Your Visuals Using Shutterstock’s Editor

by Christian Fischer
6 minutes of reading

Dive into the world of Shutterstock Creative Flow, a dynamic platform that transforms your creative visions into reality. Whether you’re an expert designer or just starting out, this tool will elevate your projects to new heights. Discover its key features, unlock pro tips, and enhance your editing skills with our insightful guide.

Key Features of the Editing Suite

This dynamic service that seamlessly combines an image editor and cutting-edge generative AI features. Designed to cater to a wide range of design needs, it offers standout tools that elevate your projects effortlessly.

FeatureDescription
Image CustomizationModify size and colors, add text, and apply filters to enhance your visuals.
Pre-designed TemplatesChoose from a wide array of editable templates for social media, marketing materials, and more.
Generative AIAlter stock photos to meet your vision using the latest AI technology without learning complex design skills.
AccessibilityEasily use the editing features online, across desktop and mobile devices, without installing anything. 

Getting Started on The Platform

To embark on your creative journey, follow these straightforward steps:

  1. Create an Account: Log into your Shutterstock account or create one for free to access Creative Flow.
  2. Select an Image: Browse through Shutterstock’s extensive library to find the perfect image for your project.
  3. Launch the Editor: Click on the “Edit” button to open the tool and start customizing your visuals.

Alternatively, go to Creative Flow directly and browse photos from the editor or upload pictures from your device to edit them in the app. 

Unlock the full potential of Creative Flow with any Shutterstock subscription or download pack—premium features await you at no extra charge! Free users enjoy limited yet still useful access to features. 

Editing Images Easily – Step by Step

Follow these simple steps to open, edit, and export your image using the Shutterstock Editor:

Open the editor:

Log in to your Shutterstock account, search for an image, click on it, and then click either “Edit” to access all the generative AI features to modify your file or “Open in Create” to access the complete image editing suite. 

Start Editing:

Choosing “Edit”: 

  • Use “magic brush” to select and erase or replace elements in the photo
  • With “expand,” you can obtain a larger canvas, filled with content-awareness, to adjust composition or simply enlarge the picture
  • Use “variations” to see four AI-generated images inspired by your selected pic
  • The “background remover” will eliminate the shot’s background and replace it with anything imaginable, using AI 
  • There are options to add filters and crop the picture for extra customization.
  • The “Design” tab allows selecting from a few templates and further tailoring their layout, colors, fonts, and text.

Choosing “Open in Create”: 

  • The intuitive interface allows users to perform simple tasks such as cropping, adjusting colors, adding filters, and adding text. There are also useful one-click solutions like Smart Resizing to adjust a visual’s dimensions for different platforms and uses.
  • You will find options for advanced editing, such as AI background removal and object erasure or replacement, animation, and photo manipulations to adjust exposure and colors, apply filters, shadows, creative effects, and even retouching portraits with AI.
  • In this editor, you may also upload your own graphics and elements to add to the design (such as a brand logo), search for and add more content from Shutterstock’s libraries, use design templates, create collages, and more.

Preview Your Work:

Review all edits to ensure everything looks perfect. Adjust any elements as needed before finalizing.

Export the Final Image:

Click the “download” button, choose the desired file format (JPEG or PNG), and save the image to your device. You’re done! Your customized image is now ready to use.

Solve All Main Creative Needs with One Editor

Shutterstock’s editing tools transform your creative vision into stunning visual designs, from simple tweaks to complex masterpieces. With this versatile software, you can effortlessly craft content for any marketing need.

  • Social media: captivating posts, dynamic stories, and eye-catching ads across platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.
  • Advertising: Captivating ads span across platforms—from dynamic web banners and engaging newsletters to striking billboards
  • Websites: Vibrant hero images and banners, and all types of visuals for web use.
  • Blog: eye-catching headers and vibrant graphics for an immersive reading experience.
  • Print materials: Compelling flyers, attractive brochures, and professional letterheads, among others.

Expert Tips for Effective Editing

To enhance your editing skills, consider these expert recommendations:

  • Utilize Layers: Organize different elements of your design using layers for precise adjustments and improved composition.
  • Choose High-Quality Assets: Always start with high-resolution photos to ensure a professional finish.
  • Maintain Consistency: Use similar fonts, colors, and design elements throughout your project for a cohesive look.

Pros and Cons of Using This Editing Tool

Before diving into your projects, it’s essential to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of using this editing tool:

ProsCons
User-friendly interface that is easy to navigate.Some advanced features may require a learning curve for beginners.
Access to a vast library of high-quality visuals and templates.The best functions are reserved for Premium users (with an active Shutterstock subscription.)
Generative AI tools expand creative possibilities.Limited offline capabilities; requires an internet connection.
Regular updates and new features enhance functionality. 

Top Tips for Maximizing Your Experience

To ensure getting the most out of the Shutterstock editing tool, consider these top tips:

  • Explore Tutorials: Take advantage of the company’s various tutorials and guides for using Shutterstock editor effectively.
  • Utilize Shortcuts: Familiarize yourself with keyboard shortcuts to speed up workflow.
  • Stay Updated: Keep an eye on updates and new features to continually enhance your editing capabilities.

Design with Shutterstock’s Editing Tools

Unleash your creativity with Shutterstock Editor, a dynamic tool for crafting breathtaking visuals. Dive into its features and advanced techniques to elevate every project, whether personal or professional. With unmatched flexibility and functionality, this resource transforms your ideas into vibrant reality.

Dive into the platform with a playful spirit and let your creativity soar. With each design, you’ll sharpen your skills and open up limitless possibilities for your artistic journey.

THE AUTHOR

Christian Fischer

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