Learn to sell AI art 2023 (updated)

You have spent thousands of hours generating AI art, but you’re still the only living soul to see your creations.

Maybe it’s time to think about selling your AI art.

In this post, I will show you how to start selling AI-generated art and highlight some of the best places to sell your AI images.

Let’s jump into it!

Introduction

Selling AI-generated art can be a lucrative venture for artists and freelancers looking to monetize their creations. With the increasing popularity of AI image generators, such as Midjourney, there are now various platforms where you can sell your AI art and reach a wider audience. In this article, we will explore the legality of selling AI images, discuss the licensing terms, examine ownership rights, and provide insights into the best places to sell your AI-generated art.

Can You Sell AI Generated Art?

Yes, in most cases, it is okay to sell artwork created by AI image generators like Midjourney. Many artists and freelancers make money by selling their AI art on platforms like Etsy, Redbubble, and Fiverr. However, it is essential to consider guidelines, legal requirements, and ethical issues associated with selling AI-generated art.

Licensing of AI Images

When selling AI images, it is crucial to understand the licensing terms under which your AI art is generated. These terms can range from full commercial usage to limited personal use. For example, Midjourney provides all paid subscribers with a commercial license for all images generated on the platform, while free trial accounts are limited to personal use. Similarly, Stable Diffusion operates under the CreativeML Open RAIL-M license, allowing commercial use of the model but restricting harmful, deceptive, or unethical purposes.

Ownership Rights to AI Art

Unlike traditional art forms, AI-generated art does not receive copyright protection according to the US Copyright Office. This means that although you can sell your AI art for commercial use, you do not own exclusive rights to the image. Others can use your work without legal consequences. However, selling your AI art under commercial use can still be a viable option for generating income.

Where to Sell AI Art

There are several ways to sell your AI artwork online, catering to different platforms and audiences. Here are some of the best places to sell your AI-generated art:

Marketplaces

Marketplaces like Etsy and Redbubble provide a great starting place to test the demand for your AI art. These platforms attract a wide range of customers looking for unique and trending pieces. To succeed on these platforms, it’s essential to sell products that align with seasonal trends or specific occasions. For example, during the holiday season, you can focus on creating AI images or products with a Christmas theme. Niche down further by targeting events like birthdays, anniversaries, or graduations.

Stock Image Sites

Stock image sites such as Adobe Stock and Freepik offer opportunities to sell your AI images and earn passive income. These platforms cater to designers, journalists, and businesses seeking high-quality visual content. When submitting your AI-generated content to stock image sites, consider the preferences of the buyers who frequent these platforms. Scenic backgrounds and photorealistic images tend to be in high demand. Think of subjects like natural gas plants, drone imagery of solar panels, or corporate office photos that cater to the needs of potential buyers.

Freelance Sites

Freelance platforms like Fiverr and Upwork provide avenues for selling your AI art files or offering customized services. While direct sales of AI art files are straightforward, packaging your services in a customizable manner can attract more customers. For example, you can create personalized couples’ digital art based on submitted photos or sell packs of AI avatars generated from customer images. Consider adding value to your offerings, such as including photo editing services to enhance the final product. Craft your offers carefully, keeping in mind the unique needs and preferences of your target customers.

Personal Website

Setting up a personal website using platforms like Wix or Carrd can be an excellent option if you want to avoid paying substantial fees. Upload your AI images to your website and integrate a payment option using free services like Poof. The main challenge with this approach is driving traffic to your website. If you already have a significant following on social media platforms, you can direct your followers to your website. Otherwise, you’ll need to employ strategies like building a social media presence, paid advertising, collaborations with influencers and other artists, and engaging with art communities or forums to promote your work.

How to Sell AI Art

To monetize your AI creations effectively, you can explore different avenues:

• Selling the Image File: When selling your AI art on platforms like Fine Art America, you typically upload the original image file. Ensure your image meets the platform’s guidelines and resolution requirements. If your AI image’s resolution is too small, consider using AI upscaling techniques to increase its quality. Some AI image generators, like Midjourney, have built-in features to maximize resolution and improve the quality of your AI art.
• Merchandise: Merchandising your AI art can significantly expand your customer base and revenue potential. Platforms like Amazon Merch and Printify allow you to upload your AI images and print them on various apparel and gift items. By offering merchandise, you can create a brand around your AI art and appeal to a broader range of customers.
• Selling AI Art Prompts: AI prompt marketplaces, such as PromptBase, enable users to buy and sell text prompts used in AI tools like Midjourney and ChatGPT. Well-crafted prompts can have a significant impact on the output of AI-generated art. While competition may be steep in prompt marketplaces, if you have unique and compelling prompts, you can stand out and potentially attract buyers.

Conclusion

Selling AI-generated art presents a lucrative opportunity for artists and creators. With the increasing popularity of AI art and advancements in AI technology, there are various avenues to explore when it comes to selling your creations. Whether you choose to sell on marketplaces, stock image sites, freelance platforms, or through your personal website, it’s essential to understand the preferences of your target audience and cater to their needs.

Remember to ensure that you have the necessary rights and licenses for your AI images, and be aware of the legal and ethical considerations surrounding AI art. While copyright protection may not apply to AI-generated art, you can still monetize your work and find success in the growing market.

Experiment with different strategies, such as selling image files, creating merchandise, or exploring AI prompt marketplaces, to maximize your revenue potential. Stay updated on industry trends and adapt your approach accordingly. And most importantly, continue to refine your AI art skills and create unique and compelling pieces that resonate with your audience.

Now is the time to share your AI art with the world and explore the possibilities of selling your creations. Start implementing the strategies discussed in this article and embark on your journey to monetizing your AI-generated art