Can you use ChatGPT Images / OpenAI images on Shutterstock Contributor?

1. Does ChatGPT Images / OpenAI permit the commercial use?

As between you and OpenAI, and to the extent permitted by law, you retain input rights and own output. Similar output can be produced for other users. API and business customers should also check the OpenAI Services Agreement that applies to those services.

2. Does Shutterstock Contributor accept the image?

The contributor policy says AI-generated content from contributors is not accepted, even though Shutterstock operates its own generative-AI products.

What you must do

Do not upload externally generated AI images as contributor stock while this policy remains in force.

What this exact combination looks like in practice

This is where the two policy layers overlap. The provider can give you commercial-use rights while the destination still controls whether and how the file may be sold, published or submitted.

Decision path for OpenAI → Shutterstock

1. Clear the generator layer. Confirm the exact OpenAI plan, model or access method used when the final asset was generated.
2. Clear the destination layer. Follow Shutterstock’s current acceptance, disclosure, labeling or submission rule even if the generator already permits commercial use.
3. Clear the image itself. Review the actual output for third-party rights, real-person likenesses, logos, protected characters and source material that neither policy layer automatically clears.

What can still make the image unsafe to sell?

OpenAI’s current Service Terms also restrict using Visual Capabilities to reproduce a person’s likeness without express consent and all necessary rights. Assignment from OpenAI does not create copyright where local law does not recognize it or clear third-party rights.

• A recognizable person without the necessary consent or rights.
• Brand logos, protected characters, trade dress or source material you do not have rights to use.
• A misleading listing or ad that implies a false endorsement or hides a required AI disclosure.
• A local-law rule that is stricter than the provider/platform contract.

Evidence worth keeping

• The generator/model, plan and generation date for the final asset.
• The official provider and destination-policy URLs you relied on.
• The prompt, source assets and meaningful manual edits for material commercial work.
• Any disclosure, release or permission required by Shutterstock for the intended use.