Organization, creativity and consistency are the 3 keys to succeed in the Stock Media industry.
From Vecpho, as an agency representing microstockers, we know how important it is to work with enough foresight and know the most commercial dates around the world. In addition, the use of meta-data and promoting the portfolio on social networks are other key actions to increase revenues in Stock Media.
What is a content calendar?
If you have been working in Stock Media for a long time, you will know the importance of organizing your work well and being proactive so that the content arrives on time to the stock agencies and the final consumer.
You can have the best graphic material in the world, a wide and high quality portfolio… but if your portfolio does not have the material demanded by stock agencies, the previous work is worthless.
That’s why, from Vecpho, in addition to advising you, we provide you with a content calendar with the main dates for microstockers.
How can it help you improve your work and monetization?
Organization is the main quality of successful microstockers.
Work two months ahead to create the content and at least one month to upload it to the main stock agencies. In addition, promoting it on time and properly on social networks can increase your stock media customers.
You can’t forget that the main end customer of stock agencies are marketing agencies and companies all over the world. Therefore, this is a client that needs specialized graphic resources well in advance to work on the promotion and marketing of their products and services.
The most important dates in 2023 for the content calendar
January
January 1st – New Year’s Day
New Year’s Day is the first day of the year, January 1, in the Gregorian calendar. It is a public holiday in many countries and it is typically celebrated with fireworks, parades, and other festivities. In some cultures, it is a time for making resolutions for the coming year and for spending time with family and friends.
Some explamples of resources are:
- Fireworks photos.
- Party photos.
- Greeting cards.
- Wallpapers.
January 16th – Blue Monday
“Blue Monday” is a term that is often used to describe the third Monday in January, which is said to be the most depressing day of the year. The term was coined by a PR company in 2005, and it is suggested that a combination of factors such as the weather, debt from the Christmas holiday season, and failed New Year’s resolutions contribute to feelings of sadness and depression on this day.
However, it is important to note that the concept of Blue Monday is not scientifically proven and it is not a widely recognized phenomenon among mental health professionals. There is no evidence that one specific day can be considered the most depressing day of the year, as mental health and emotional well-being can vary greatly from person to person.
January 22th – Chinese New Year*
Chinese New Year, also known as Lunar New Year or Spring Festival, is the most important traditional holiday in China. It is celebrated at the turn of the lunar calendar, typically in late January or early February. The exact date of Chinese New Year varies from year to year, as it is based on the lunar calendar.
The Chinese New Year is a time of celebration, and it is an opportunity to reflect on the past and look forward to the future. It is also a time for giving and receiving blessings, and for wishing for health, happiness, and prosperity in the new year.
(This date varies every year depending on the lunisolar calendar, being located between the winter solstice and the spring equinox).
There are many different types of photos and resources that can be used to celebrate Chinese New Year:
- Chinese new year decorations.
- Food.
- Greeting cards.
- Wallpapers.
- Videos.
February
February 4th – World Cancer Day
It is an initiative of the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) and its goal is to raise awareness about cancer and to encourage its prevention, detection, and treatment. The day is an opportunity for individuals, organizations, and governments to unite and take action to help reduce the global burden of cancer.
The theme of World Cancer Day changes every year, but generally focuses on raising awareness about different types of cancer and promoting cancer prevention, early detection, and access to treatment.
February 14th – Valentine’s Day
Valentine’s Day is a holiday celebrated on February 14th, in which people express their love and affection for one another.
Valentine’s Day is named after Saint Valentine, a Christian martyr who lived in the 3rd century. The origins of Valentine’s Day as a holiday for romantic love can be traced back to the Middle Ages, when it was believed that birds began to mate on February 14th.
Valentine’s Day is not a public holiday in most countries, but it is widely recognized and celebrated in many parts of the world, especially in Western countries. It has also become a commercial holiday, with many businesses using it as an opportunity to promote their products and services.
March
March 3rd – World Wildlife Day
World Wildlife Day is an international observance that takes place on March 3rd every year. It was declared by the United Nations General Assembly in 2013 to celebrate and raise awareness of the world’s wild animals and plants.
It serves as a reminder that wildlife is an important part of our natural heritage and it is important for individuals, organizations and governments to work together to protect it.
March 08th – International Women’s Day
It is a day to celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women, as well as to raise awareness about the ongoing struggle for gender equality.
International Women’s Day has its roots in the early 20th century, when women began to organize and advocate for their rights. The first International Women’s Day was celebrated in 1911, in Austria, Denmark, Germany, and Switzerland. Today, International Women’s Day is recognized and celebrated around the world, and has been officially recognized by the United Nations since 1975.
International Women’s Day is a day to celebrate the achievements of women and to raise awareness about the ongoing struggle for gender equality. It is an opportunity to reflect on the progress that has been made and to commit to continuing the fight for gender equality in all areas of life.
March 17th – St. Patrick’s Day
St. Patrick’s Day is a holiday that is celebrated on March 17th, primarily in Ireland and by people of Irish descent around the world. It commemorates Saint Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland.
St. Patrick was a Christian missionary and bishop who is said to have introduced Christianity to Ireland in the 5th century. He is also credited with driving the snakes out of Ireland, although this is likely a metaphor for his efforts to convert the Irish people to Christianity.
On St. Patrick’s Day, people traditionally wear green clothing and accessories to show their Irish heritage and pride.
March 20th – Spring Equinox
The Spring Equinox, also known as the Vernal Equinox, is one of the two equinoxes that occur each year. It is the moment when the sun is directly above the Earth’s equator, resulting in equal amounts of daylight and darkness for all parts of the planet.
The Spring Equinox has been celebrated throughout history by many cultures, as it marks the time when the days start to become longer and the weather starts to get warmer.
April
April 13th – International Kissing Day
It is a day to celebrate the act of kissing and to promote love and affection. On International Kissing Day, people typically exchange kisses with their loved ones, and some people also choose to participate in events or activities that promote love and affection, such as kissing contests or kissing marathons.
Social media campaigns are also organized to raise awareness and to encourage people to express their love and affection to others.
Some people also use this day to show love to their pets, or even to themselves.
April 22th – World Earth Day
The first Earth Day was celebrated in 1970, and it has since grown into a global event that is recognized by more than 190 countries. Earth Day is an annual event that is celebrated on April 22nd around the world.
The theme of Earth Day changes every year, but generally focuses on raising awareness about environmental issues such as climate change, pollution, and conservation of natural resources.
April 23th – International Book Day
International Book Day, also known as World Book Day, is an annual event that is celebrated on April 23rd around the world. It is a day to promote books and reading.
The day was established by UNESCO in 1995 to encourage people to read more, to appreciate the value of books.
Some of the activities that take place on International Book Day include:
- Book promotions and discounts.
- Book fairs.
- Reading events.
- Author events.
International Book Day is a day to celebrate the joys of reading, the power of literature, and the importance of education.
May
Mothers’ Month
This month is the month of the most important women in our lives: mothers. This month is celebrated all over the world, with the day differing according to different countries. Mother’s Day is celebrated to honour and thank mothers for their love and dedication to their children.
The celebration has its roots in ancient religious and cultural traditions, but has evolved to become an occasion to show love and appreciation for mothers around the world.
May 4th – Star Wars Day
It is an annual celebration in honour of the world-famous “Star Wars” film saga, which includes films, books, comics, TV programmes, etc. The celebration is held on 4 May every year, and the motto is “May the fourth be with you”, a play on the famous dialogue “May the force be with you”.
The celebration includes special Star Wars-related events, promotions and merchandise, as well as an opportunity for fans of the franchise to come together, dress up as their favourite characters, and share their love and devotion to the saga.
May 25th – Geek Pride Day
Geek Pride Day is a celebration that arose as a commemoration of the anniversary of the first Star Wars film, which was released on 25 May 1977.
It aims to change the view of people who behave differently from the rest of society, as they tend to be strange and live in a world full of fantasy.
June
June 5th – World Environment Day
World Environment Day is an event to raise awareness of the importance of caring for our environment and to promote a series of actions to improve it.
The date of 5 June was agreed by the United Nations General Assembly in 1972. Since then, it has been celebrated every year all over the world.
June 21th – International Yoga Day
Since 2014, International Yoga Day has been celebrated around the world in order to inform and disseminate the many benefits that its regular practice can bring us.
Of Indian origin, yoga is a combination of physical, meditation and breathing exercises that improve our physical, mental and even emotional health.
During this day it is very common to see exhibitions and mass yoga events.
June 28th – LGTBI+ Pride Day
LGBTI+ Pride Day is an annual celebration that takes place on 28 June around the world. It commemorates the Stonewall Uprising in 1969, a historic episode in which LGBTI+ people rebelled against discrimination and oppression in New York.
The celebration includes parades and marches in cities around the world, where LGBTI+ people gather to show their support and celebrate diversity. In addition, cultural and educational events are held to promote understanding and inclusion.
It is important to continue working to ensure that all LGBTI+ people have access to equal rights and opportunities, and to eradicate discrimination and violence based on sexual orientation or gender identity.
June 30th – Social Networking Day
The aim of this date is to raise awareness of the impact of social media on society and to reflect on its use.
Social media are online platforms where people can share content and connect with others. They have changed the way we communicate, interact and consume information. While social networks have many benefits, such as the ability to connect with people around the world and access a variety of content, they also have disadvantages, such as exposure to misinformation, privacy vulnerabilities and cyberbullying.
It is important to be aware of the impact of social media in our lives and to reflect on how to use it responsibly.
July
July 4th – Independence Day (USA)
It commemorates the United States’ declaration of independence from Great Britain, which was approved by the Continental Congress in 1776.
The Declaration of Independence was a historic document that proclaimed the independence of the thirteen British colonies in North America and established the foundations of the American nation.
American Independence Day is celebrated with a series of events and activities across the country, including parades, concerts, sporting events and fireworks. It is a bank holiday, when people gather with friends and family to celebrate America’s independence and history.
July 13th – World Rock Day
The purpose of this date is to commemorate the legacy and influence of rock music and culture worldwide.
Rock is a musical genre that developed in the 1950s and has evolved over the decades. It is characterised by its energy, strong rhythm and rebellious atmosphere.
World Rock Day is celebrated with concerts, events and activities around the world, paying tribute to rock’s most iconic bands and artists and celebrating the diversity and creativity of the genre.
July 21th – World Dog Day
It is an annual celebration that puts the spotlight on “man’s best friend”.
World Dog Day is an opportunity to reflect on the relationship between humans and dogs and to remember the importance of treating these animals with love, affection and respect.
Dogs are loyal and loving animals that have been by our side for thousands of years, and have played an important role in our lives as companions, helpers and protectors.
July 30th – International Friendship Day
It was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 2011 with the aim of promoting friendship between people of different cultures and countries, so as to serve as an initiative to calm certain scenarios of tension worldwide.
The International Day of Friendship seeks to foster dialogue and understanding between people of different cultures and countries, and to promote peace and harmony in the world.
The idea is that friendship between people of different backgrounds can help overcome prejudice and cultural barriers, and contribute to building a more united and caring world.
August
August 04th – International Beer Day
The date was chosen to commemorate the creation of beer, one of the world’s oldest and most popular beverages. It is believed to have originated in Mesopotamia more than 5,000 years ago. Throughout history, beer has been an important drink in many cultures and has played an important role in society.
According to data from the International Beer and Malting Organisation, more than 400 million hectolitres of beer were produced worldwide in 2019, this gives no idea of the importance of this beverage.
On International Beer Day, beer lovers celebrate the creation of beer and its role in history and culture today. Many bars and breweries offer special promotions and events to mark the occasion
August 08th – International Cat Day
Along with dogs, cats are one of the most loved animals in the world. Despite being very independent animals, they are very affectionate with their owners, having a very positive impact on them and their environment.
An estimated 600 million cats live in the world as pets. Thanks to the expansion of social media, these companion animals have gained a lot of presence, with some of them becoming influencers.
On International Cat Day, cat lovers celebrate their importance in our lives and people are encouraged to adopt a cat or help protect stray cats. Many shelters and animal welfare organisations also organise special events to mark the occasion.
August 19th – World Photography Day
International Photography Day is celebrated on 19 August with the intention of highlighting the world of photography and its relevance. It is an art form and a means of communication that allows images of reality to be captured and preserved for the future.
In today’s world, photography is more accessible than ever before thanks to digital and mobile technology, and more and more people have access to photography and can express themselves through it.
On International Photography Day, people are encouraged to capture and share their moments and to reflect on the impact of photography on our society. Many museums, galleries and photographic organisations organise events on this day.
August 25th – World Video Game Day
Video games are a form of entertainment and a means of expression that has evolved a lot since their beginnings in the 1970s. They have evolved from being considered a pastime for children to a form of entertainment for all ages and a medium for education, training and the development of social and psychomotor skills.
In today’s world, video games are a growing industry and an important part of popular culture. On International Video Game Day, people are encouraged to enjoy their favourite games and share their experiences with the world.
September
September 27th – World Tourism Day
World Tourism Day aims to raise international awareness of the importance of tourism in the social, cultural, political and economic spheres worldwide.
International Tourism Day was proclaimed by the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) in 1979 with the aim of raising awareness of the importance of tourism and promoting responsible and sustainable tourism. On this day, people are encouraged to travel and experience new cultures and responsible and sustainable tourism is promoted.
October
October 01st – World Day of Older Persons
The elderly have always enjoyed respect and importance in human history. Considered as sages and experts, in the last few decades a worldwide phenomenon has been experienced that has pushed them aside from society.
As a result of this problem, this day was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 1990, with the aim of raising awareness in society of the importance of older people and promoting active and healthy ageing.
On this day, people are encouraged to reflect on the importance of older people in our society and to support their rights and needs.
October 05th – World Teachers’ Day
Teachers are a fundamental part of the development and future of our society, as they are responsible for educating new generations and transmitting the knowledge they need to face the challenges of today’s world. However, they often face challenges such as lack of resources, poor working conditions and a lack of recognition, which hinder their work and directly harm their students.
World Teachers’ Day was proclaimed by UNESCO in 1994 with the aim of raising awareness of the importance of teachers and promoting quality education worldwide
October 31th – Halloween
Halloween is an annual celebration held on 31 October. The date has its roots in Celtic and Christian traditions and is celebrated in many countries around the world. The celebration is characterised by costumes, carved pumpkins, parties and candy.
In the United States, Halloween is one of the most popular holidays of the year, with many people dressing up in costumes and throwing parties. It is also a great opportunity for businesses, as consumers are expected to spend a great deal of money on costumes, decorations, candy and celebrations.
In other countries, such as Mexico, Halloween is celebrated with the “Día de Muertos”, where the dead are honoured and celebrated with altars and offerings.
November
Movember Month
Movember is an annual campaign held during the month of November to raise awareness of men’s health and funds for research into diseases such as prostate and testicular cancer. The aim of the campaign is to promote men’s health awareness and encourage a culture of men’s health care.
The Movember campaign began in Australia in 2003, when a group of friends decided to grow their moustaches during the month of November to raise awareness of men’s health.
It is based on three pillars: awareness, research and advocacy. Awareness is raised through events and activities that promote men’s health, research is conducted to develop new treatments and cures for diseases such as prostate and testicular cancer, and support is provided to men and their families affected by these diseases.
November 23th – Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is an annual celebration held in the United States and Canada on the fourth Thursday in November. The date has its roots in Puritan traditions and is celebrated as a day to give thanks for life’s blessings and to spend time with family and friends.
Thanksgiving has its roots in the celebration of the first Puritan settlers in 1621, after a successful harvest year. The original celebration included a three-day feast with Native Americans, who helped the settlers survive in the new world. Over time, the celebration became a day to give thanks for life’s blessings and to spend time with family and friends.
November 24th – Black Friday
Black Friday is a shopping tradition celebrated the day after Thanksgiving in the United States and other countries. The date is characterised by a large number of deals and discounts in shops and online, which attracts a large number of shoppers looking to save money on their holiday shopping.
In recent years, Black Friday has become a major shopping holiday in the United States and other countries, with shops offering deep discounts and promotions on a wide variety of products, from electronics to clothing to toys. Many shops open early on Black Friday and offer limited-time and limited-quantity deals.
November 27th – Cyber Monday
The origin of the term “Cyber Monday” dates back to 2005, when a group of online retailers noticed a surge in online sales on the Monday after Thanksgiving and decided to promote it as a day of special online deals.
Since then, Cyber Monday has become one of the main dates for online shopping, with shops offering deep discounts and promotions on a wide variety of products, especially technology.
December
December 7th – Hannukah
Hanukkah is a Jewish holiday celebrated for eight days and nights, beginning on the 25th of Kislev in the Hebrew calendar. The celebration commemorates the victory of the Maccabees, a group of Jews, over the Greeks in 165 BC and the purification of the Temple in Jerusalem.
According to tradition, when the Maccabees entered the Temple after their victory, there was only enough holy oil to light the sacred candelabrum for one day, but miraculously the oil lasted for eight days. Therefore, during Hanukkah, eight candles are lit in a special candelabrum called a menorah, one each night for eight nights.
December 25th – Christmas
Christmas is a Christian holiday celebrating the birth of Jesus of Nazareth. It is celebrated around the world on 25 December and is considered one of the main holidays in the Christian calendar.
Christmas is a holiday of great importance to people of all ages and religions and is an opportunity to spend time with family and friends, celebrating life and hope.
Tips to organize your content calendar in 2023
1.- Study each date in detail
Not all dates are valid for everyone. Check these dates that we offer you from Vecpho as a representation agency for microstockers and select those that are in line with your portfolio, your way of working and the Stock Media agencies you work with or in which you aspire to sell your content.
2.- Anticipate with enough time
The most important thing about this content calendar is to always work on it with enough time in advance. From Vecpho we recommend you to always work two months in advance. For example, between September and October you should start working on preparing your Christmas content so that it is ready in November and December.
3.- Use meta-data properly
In addition to having the right content, it is important that each resource is correctly named through meta-data. Stock sites are becoming more and more demanding with the labeling of graphic resources. This favors the web positioning of the resources and thus captures a greater number of end customers.
4.- Spread the word on social networks
Social networks are an excellent showcase. Some microstockers don’t feel comfortable sharing their creations on social networks because of the risk of having their resources stolen.
However, at Vecpho we will always recommend you to work on your brand image through social media and promote your portfolio. As a tip, you can upload your assets with a small watermark to prevent your artwork from being stolen.
In this way, you can also upload content appropriate to each interesting date in the microstockers’ calendar and thus reach a larger audience. In this case, you won’t need so much anticipation, you will be able to share some of your assets at the appropriate time.
Join Vecpho to optimize your content in 2023
This content calendar for microstockers is useful for you to know the most commercial dates worldwide, so you can organize your work months in advance.
At Vecpho we can also advise you on how to optimize your portfolio and increase your income in Stock Media. If you want to know more about how we work, you can contact our agents.