One of the most common names you may have heard of is VSCO short for Visual Supply Company, as a photo-editing and sharing app for mobile devices. Launched in 2011 by Joel Flory and Greg Lutze, VSCO quickly rose to prominence thanks to its superior filters that intended to replicate real film photography. It has grown over the years from simply a photo-editing tool to a complete creative ecosystem including advanced tools, an engaged community, and integrated ways for creators to connect and share their work.
VSCO is the same digital darkroom that everyone used in 2024 with a hint more influence across photography and content creation attracting as many casual users as creators committed to vsco.co. It has now greater than 200 million users across the globe and over 160,000 paid subscribers that gain access to its premium features which include cutting-edge enhancing tools in addition to professional networking opportunities.
The Evolution of VSCO
It has grown beyond its roots as a creator of unique, visually popular image filters and now bills itself as a serious creative platform. The app has undergone many changes over the past few years, with a renewed focus on improving user experience and providing tools that cater to professionals as well as those who aspire to create products on Planet-Scale.
The biggest change, however, was the creation of VSCO Spaces in 2022 when the app shifted towards becoming more community-oriented. Spaces enable you to create common galleries where users can work exchange feedback, and participate in discussions. This has been especially useful for photographers and digital artists trying to improve their practice by interacting with other creatives of like kind.
Spaces is joined by a new focus on vsco.co Studio sections, which now have better descriptions for how each editing tool and preset work with your graphics in addition to added support for drafting feature saves and working with multiple types of media. Collage Mode is another awesome feature that allows users to mix multiple images into much more dynamic and visually appealing layouts, really taking creativity to the next level.
VSCO Pro and Monetization Options
As of late, it has been honing its attention on the professional tool front, launching a service to cater to serious creators called VSCO Pro. Subscribers for $59.99 per year get AI editing tools, more filters, and premium content. VSCO Hub (More or Less the LinkedIn for Photographers!) Cre8sians offers users the chance to make money off of their work and find jobs because brands and businesses can hire photographers for flights.
Like other social media platforms (Instagram in particular), has its unique monetization twist. Hopes are that the platform’s ability to help creators showcase their work and attract future inquiries will compensate for its lack of ad revenue sharing. This is in contrast to the more traditional advertising models found elsewhere, if at all.
VSCO’s Unique Place in the Creative App Ecosystem
VSCO has found a good position in the crowded space of photo-editing apps, as an option for creators who are really into their craft. While Picsart focuses on being quirkier and more user-friendly in a fun way, on the other hand, vsco.co caters to serious creators by providing them with the necessary tools. In addition, vsco.co has emerged as an option for those seeking a more creative and expressive social media experience, contrasting with the pressures created by traditional social media apps.
The reference to getting “ back to its roots ” reflects a renewed dedication to the initial goal of offering photographers and artists the necessary tools for creating meaningful work. We think this approach has never been more necessary as creators increasingly gravitate towards something as freeing as a legitimate platform for genuine artistic expression in an environment not dominated by spiraling likes, followers, or algorithms.
Conclusion
From its humble inception to a full-blown creative platform for photographers, artists, and visual creators at large. We are primarily focused on a few different things such as community building, professional development, and offering high-quality tools which puts us in a unique position compared to other photo-sharing apps. Whether you are a casual user trying to improve your social media pics or a pro photographer seeking new capabilities, there is something special about this app.
Frequently Asked Questions About VSCO
How does VSCO differ from Instagram?
VSCO differs from Instagram in several key ways. First, it does not prioritize metrics like likes or followers, making it a more relaxed environment for creators who want to focus solely on their work. Additionally, the offers more advanced editing tools and professional networking opportunities, whereas Instagram is geared more toward casual sharing and social interaction.
Is VSCO a good tool for beginners?
Yes, vsco.co is beginner-friendly, offering simple and intuitive editing features that anyone can pick up. However, it also offers more advanced tools and resources for those looking to improve their skills and grow as creators.
What are VSCO Spaces?
VSCO Spaces is a collaborative gallery feature that allows creators to work together, exchange feedback, and build meaningful connections. It’s designed to foster creativity by enabling users to participate in visual conversations.
Can you make money using VSCO?
Yes, with the launch of VSCO Hub, photographers and digital artists can connect with brands and businesses looking for creative talent. This professional networking feature is aimed at helping creators monetize their work.
Is VSCO available on a desktop?
No, it is primarily a mobile app for iOS and Android users.
Does VSCO offer video editing?
Yes, offers video editing features for premium subscribers.
Can you use VSCO filters outside the app?
No, filters are exclusive to the app and can’t be applied elsewhere.
Does it have social media-like features?
Yes, it includes “Spaces,” where users can share, collaborate, and interact without likes or follower counts.
Can I export high-resolution images?
Yes, allows the exporting of high-quality images after editing.
Is it good for professional photographers?
Yes, especially with VSCO Pro, which offers advanced tools and networking opportunities through VSCO Hub.
What is the cost of VSCO Pro?
VSCO Pro costs $59.99 per year.
Is it a safe platform for teens?
Yes, this promotes a positive environment focused on creativity, with minimal focus on metrics like likes or followers.
Can I edit RAW photos on VSCO?
Yes, Supports RAW photo editing for more control over image quality.
How can I cancel my VSCO Pro subscription?
You can cancel your VSCO Pro subscription via your device’s app store settings
