iStock by Getty Images

iStock, originally known as iStockphoto, is a pioneer in the microstock photography industry. It was founded in 2000 in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, offering high-quality, royalty-free digital content. The platform revolutionized the visual media market by providing accessible imagery for designers and businesses globally.

In 2006, the brand was acquired by Getty Images, a global leader in visual communications. Today, its digital services are managed through international servers and managed by contributors worldwide, though the corporate headquarters remain in the United States. As of 2026, iStock remains a flagship brand under the Getty Images umbrella, serving millions of users across the globe.