Last updated
    Behance
    Creative Networking Platform

    Behance

    by Adobe Inc.

    "The global network for creative professionals"

    84%

    Rating

    4.2/5

    FreeAvailable
    Community

    Overview

    Behance launched in November 2005 as an independent startup founded by Matias Corea and Scott Belsky. The platform quickly evolved from a simple portfolio showcase into a central hub for the design community, attracting millions of users before Adobe acquired the company in December 2012 for approximately $150 million. This acquisition integrated Behance into the broader Creative Cloud ecosystem while maintaining its distinct identity as a public-facing gallery.

    Today the service hosts over 56 million members who use the site to display work across disciplines like graphic design, photography, illustration, and 3D modeling. Unlike standard social media feeds, Behance structures content around complete projects that users can curate with high-resolution images, videos, and PDFs. The interface allows visitors to appreciate posts, leave comments, and follow specific creators to track new releases.

    In October 2021 Adobe introduced paid subscription tiers for creators alongside Non-Fungible Token (NFT) support. These updates enabled artists to monetize their following directly through monthly recurring payments or by linking digital collectibles to their profiles. The platform also adopted Content Authenticity Initiative tools to verify the origin of digital assets within Photoshop and the web interface.

    Key Features

    • Public portfolio hosting with project organization
    • Community feedback via appreciations and comments
    • Direct publishing from Adobe Creative Cloud apps
    • Creator subscription models for monetization
    • NFT integration for digital collectibles
    • Content authenticity verification tools
    • Advanced analytics for Pro subscribers

    Specifications

    Platform TypeWeb-based and Mobile
    Supported File FormatsJPG, PNG, GIF, MP4, PDF
    Mobile OS SupportiOS, Android
    User Base SizeOver 56 million members
    Parent Company Acquisition DateDecember 2012

    Pros & Cons

    Pros

    • • Seamless integration with Adobe Creative Cloud applications
    • • Large active user base of over 56 million creatives
    • • Free tier offers robust portfolio hosting capabilities
    • • New monetization options allow direct creator revenue
    • • High-quality visual presentation standards

    Cons

    • • High competition makes visibility difficult without networking
    • • Pro features require a paid subscription after trial period
    • • Algorithm changes can impact organic reach unpredictably
    • • Limited customization compared to standalone website builders
    • • Mobile app functionality sometimes lags behind desktop version

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is Behance used for?
    Behance serves as a global creative network where designers, photographers, and artists showcase portfolios, discover inspiration, and connect with potential employers or clients.
    Is Behance free or paid?
    Creating an account and showcasing work is completely free. Optional Behance Pro subscriptions offer advanced analytics and custom domain hosting after a seven-day free trial.
    Does anyone still use Behance?
    Yes, the platform remains highly active with over 56 million members as of late 2024 and is widely recognized by industry recruiters for discovering talent.
    What are the best alternatives to Behance?
    Dribbble suits those seeking quick design snippets, ArtStation dominates game design and VFX, while 500px and Flickr serve photographers looking for different community dynamics.
    How do creators get paid on Behance?
    Artists can earn money through Behance Subscriptions which allow followers to pay monthly fees, or by using the platform to secure freelance contracts and full-time employment.

    Keywords

    portfoliodesigner networkcreative showcaseAdobe subsidiaryvisual artsgraphic designphotography portfoliocreative cloudartist monetizationdigital gallery

    Sources

    Product Info

    Brand
    Adobe Inc.
    Manufacturer
    Adobe Systems Incorporated
    Category
    Creative Networking Platform
    Released
    November 2005
    Price
    Free
    Availability
    Available
    Founders
    Matias Corea and Scott Belsky
    Acquisition Price
    $150 million
    Acquirer
    Adobe Inc.
    Monetization Launch
    October 2021
    Content Authenticity Integration
    2020

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