My 123RF Monetization Journey – Waiting Two Months for Approval
1. Why I Started with 123RF
After selling images on Adobe Stock and Redbubble, I wanted to expand into another marketplace: 123RF. It’s a well-known global stock platform where creators can sell photos, vectors, illustrations, and even videos. The international reach and the potential to diversify income streams were strong reasons for me to give it a try.
2. Two Months of Waiting – Still Pending
I uploaded my first batch of images to 123RF about two months ago. Unlike Adobe Stock, where reviews often take just a few days, the approval process here has been unexpectedly slow.
To this day, my portfolio is still marked as “Pending Review.”
Out of concern, I emailed their support team to ask about the delay. The reply I received was short:
“Please wait a little longer.”
So, the waiting continues.
3. How 123RF’s Review System Works
Through further research, I learned something important:
You must upload a certain minimum number of files before the review process even begins.
Only after passing that review does your portfolio become eligible for sales.
Until then, no matter how many files you upload, they won’t be available to buyers.
This system is different from other stock platforms. While Adobe Stock or Freepik Contributors approve assets fairly quickly, 123RF sets a higher entry barrier for contributors.
4. Lessons Learned During the Wait
Although frustrating at times, this waiting period has taught me a few things:
Every platform has its own rules and pace. Some are fast, others require patience.
As contributors, we need to prepare for long approval timelines instead of expecting instant results.
It’s smart to keep uploading to other platforms during this period, building a broader portfolio across multiple marketplaces.
5. Looking Ahead
For now, I’ll keep uploading more files to reach the review threshold and wait for the official approval. Once my portfolio is approved and starts generating sales, I plan to share an update with detailed performance insights.
For anyone considering 123RF, I’d say: be patient, focus on volume, and diversify your stock strategy. The waiting game is part of the journey, and eventually, the effort will pay off.
