Artlist is a subscription library of music, sound effects, stock footage and templates used by filmmakers and video creators, and it now adds AI tools for image, video, voice and music. Filmmakers and motion or sound designers can apply to contribute content. Its music catalog isn’t accepting new submissions at the moment, so the open route is footage and sound. Royalties are paid once a year.
At a glance
| What it is | Subscription library for video creators |
| Open to | Filmmakers, motion designers, sound designers |
| Music submissions | Currently closed |
| Royalties | Paid annually, between December and January |
| Royalty period | 1 December to 30 November |
| Entry | Application and review |
How it works
You submit an application with samples through Artlist’s contributor page. If accepted, your content is added to the library, where subscribers download it under Artlist’s license. You earn royalties based on that use.
What you earn
Artlist doesn’t publish a public rate for contributors. Royalties are calculated from 1 December to 30 November and paid once a year, between December and January, by digital transfer.
Music
Artlist has worked with independent musicians and pays them, but it is currently not accepting submissions for its music catalog. Musicians looking for a similar library can look at Epidemic Sound or Storyblocks.
The Ambassador program
Separately, Artlist runs an Ambassador program that pays a commission for each new subscriber you refer. That is affiliate income rather than contributor income, but some creators combine both.
Getting started
Apply with your best footage or sound effects, choosing clips with clear commercial use: travel, lifestyle, nature, urban scenes and textures. Make sure you own all rights and have any releases needed.
Common mistakes
Some applicants send music while submissions are closed. Others submit footage with logos, recognizable people without releases or shaky handheld shots. A third mistake is expecting monthly income; Artlist pays once a year.
What sells
Video creators look for clips and sounds that fit everyday edits: transitions, ambient sounds, travel shots, cityscapes, nature and lifestyle moments. Clean, well-lit and stable footage is easier to use and more likely to be downloaded.
Releases and rights
Get model releases for recognizable people and avoid logos and branded products. For sound effects, make sure every element is your own recording or design.
Planning for annual pay
Because Artlist pays once a year, keep track of what you upload and estimate earnings only after your first payout. Don’t count on it for monthly cash flow.
Is it worth it?
For filmmakers and sound designers who already produce stock content, it’s a worthwhile extra channel. The undisclosed rates and yearly payout make it hard to plan around.
Technical standards
Submit footage in high resolution, ideally 4K, with stable shots and accurate color. Label sound effects clearly and keep them clean of background noise.
Before you apply
Choose a focused set of your best work rather than everything you have. Reviewers judge quality and commercial fit, so show both.
Owen’s take
Artlist is worth applying to if you shoot good stock footage or design sound, but the annual payout and undisclosed rates make it a secondary channel. Check back on music if that’s your work.
Who it suits
It suits filmmakers and sound designers with high-quality, commercial content. It suits less well musicians right now, or anyone who needs regular income.
Similar options
- Storyblocks shares subscription revenue monthly.
- Epidemic Sound pays musicians upfront.
- Pond5 sells footage at prices you set.
- Adobe Stock pays 35% on video.
More options are in Stock Media.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Large audience of video creators
- Accepts footage and sound effects
- Separate referral program
Cons
- Music submissions closed
- Rates not published
- Royalties paid once a year
FAQ
Can I sell music on Artlist?
Not right now; its music catalog isn’t accepting submissions.
What can I contribute to Artlist?
Footage, motion content and sound effects, after applying.
How often does Artlist pay?
Once a year, between December and January.
How much does Artlist pay contributors?
It doesn’t publish its rates.
Does Artlist have an affiliate program?
Yes, the Ambassador program pays per new subscriber referred.
