Special Effects

[ImaRetiredTeacher]

Hello All,

I feel like I read somewhere that vignetting is not allowed, but I can't find where I read it. Or did I dream this information?

Thanks, in advance!

[Jill_C · Accepted solution]

You didn't dream it!
On this Help page:

https://helpx.adobe.com/stock/contributor/help/editing-dos-and-dont.html

Effects

Don’t: Add sunrays or flares.

Don’t: Create mirrored images, kaleidoscopes, or patterns.

Don’t: Use effect filters.

Don’t: Add vignettes or frames.

You can always search for a specific topic, by going to this help page and using the search box:

https://helpx.adobe.com/support/stock-contributor.html

[Nancy OShea]

vignetting is not allowed

By @ImaRetiredTeacher

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That's right.

No special camera effects or fancy filters allowed. 

If customers want to add special effects after purchase, they can do it themselves with Photoshop.

[Abambo]

Trouble with all those filters are, they are easy to apply, but difficult to remove. So best is to leave that part to the customer.

[ImaRetiredTeacher]

One last question on this topic: does this apply to Polarization filters?

[Abambo]

You may apply any filter you want, as long as the picture still looks natural. Hardware filters may or may not produce a result that is accepted by stock. 

So whatever you do: the don'ts are to be read "don't..., except if the image still looks natural". The problem with filters is, that people use them to cover up bad decisions during the image take.

[Jill_C]

When Adobe advises not to use "filters" I'm quite sure they're referring to the software effects that are applied in many photo editing apps, some of which give very unnatural end results. Filters that are screwed on to the end of your lens are definitely allowed. I use a CPL filter quite frequently.

[Nancy OShea]

One last question on this topic: does this apply to Polarization filters?

By @ImaRetiredTeacher

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No. Polarization is fine. It merely neutralizes unwanted light glare. Clear filters that protect your lens coating are also fine.

Filters to avoid are ones that add special effects like stars, curves or kaleidoscopic effects.

[Abambo]

It's more than fine, if used correctly.