Posts

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Celebrating a Milestone: My “Ghanaian Night” Featured in Artist Closeup Magazine

I am thrilled and deeply honored to share that my photography has been showcased in the prestigious pages of Artist Closeup Magazine. Among the stunning array of artistic talent, my selected piece, “Ghanaian Night,” has found its place, and I couldn’t be more grateful for this recognition.

“Ghanaian Night” is more than just a photograph; it’s a reflection of my profound admiration for the Ghanaian landscape and my unwavering dedication to capturing its essence. In this particular image, hues of blues and greens dance together in perfect harmony, encapsulating the serene beauty of a Ghanaian night sky. The tranquil atmosphere depicted in the photo evokes a sense of peace and wonder, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in the enchanting allure of the scenery.

To experience “Ghanaian Night” and explore the incredible artworks featured in Artist Closeup Magazine, I invite you to visit the magazine’s website here. Join me in celebrating the magic of art and the transformative power it holds to inspire, evoke emotions, and bring joy to our lives.
View it here, Pg. 57: https://www.artistcloseup.com/magazine

 

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FEATURED ON EXPLORING STAMPS EPISODE

Having been an expat around the world for ten years, a photographer and a philately enthusiast, I decided to create my ‘Mail Photography’. At the moment I live in Ghana and I sent a postcard to Graham, star of the increasingly popular Exploring Stamp Youtube series. Almost unbelievably, my postcard travelled all the way from Accra and arrived safely in New Jersey. Resultantly, my mail photography was featured on an Exploring Stamps episode, which you can watch below.

Contact me if you’d like to receive one. 

You may also find me on postcrossing!

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123RF advises to talk to plants while in confinement

Hello all. So only a few hours after Shutterstock’s letter to the community with regards to coronavirus, 123RF- Inmagine Group decided to speak up as well. It was about time, given that the group’s HQ is in Malaysia where lots of cases are spawning. 
Shutterstock and 123RF chose different approaches. While SSTK’s letter was signed by the COO, 123 had Stephanie Sitt sign their email. Stephanie is now the CEO but she’s also the wife of the company’s founder, Andy Sitt, and has always been extremely involved in high decisions. 123RF went for a less professional and more friendly style in its email to the contributors and clients. They also showed a very cute illustration of suggested activities we can do while we’re stuck at home. I particularly like the ‘talk to your plants’ recommendation as it is something I’ve been doing even before the epidemic. 

Here is the full letter:

Dear friends and customers,

In light of the continuing spread of COVID-19 in the past few months, INMAGINE Group has stepped up measures to safeguard our staff at our offices around the world, while simultaneously ensuring that our products and services continue to be delivered efficiently to you.

At 123RF, we prioritize the safety of both our employees and clients. With that said, we wish you, your colleagues, family, and friends well during this crisis, and ask that you take extra precautions to be safe and stay healthy. By doing so, we can help minimize the spread together!

If you’re practising social distancing and working from home (like us) here are some suggestions of what you can do at home from our colleagues at Designs.AI.

 

We’re still here when you need us!

As the virus continues to ravage economies and communities, all of us have to change the way we work and socialize, just to be safe and stave off the threat. Amidst these challenging times, please rest assured that we will continue to deliver the highest level of quality service to you.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to your relevant, dedicated Account Manager. You may also reach out to us on our support pages or Live Chat or email us at info@123rf.com. If you’d like to call instead, here’s our complete toll free and local number directory for your convenience.

As always, we value your presence and look forward to continuously supporting you in making your business successful.

Together we shall prevail, be safe out there!

Stephanie Sitt
Group Chief Executive Officer
Inmagine Group

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Stock photography agency employee: Best Ways to Make Money

If you, like me, have enthusiasm for digital photography burning in you, a profession in digital photography would certainly be a fantastic suggestion!

Yet, making money with photography is easier said than done!

Stock Photography is definitely a way to make money.  There are numerous companies that require images that are substantial to their jobs yet do not have much time to take these images as a result of their busy routines. They decide to buy stock images as opposed to employing a specialist digital photographer, not just to conserve cash, however time too due to the fact that these images prepare to make use of.

I’ve been contributing for years and I learnt a couple of things about stock photography.

Moreover, I worked as a Marketer for one of the largest agencies too. So let me transfer to you some of my knowledge. Learn more about me here

Exactly what is stock photography?

Stock pictures are not photographed for a certain customer or usage yet portray a much more basic idea. Purchasers obtain wanted image, stock digital photography agents obtain a portion of every image offered on their site, and also professional photographer obtains continuing to be percent.

How to sell stock digital photography?

young-man-doing-acrobatics-in-water-in-tropical-location

You require your pictures to be of its finest. You should ensure that there are no noticeable sounds or grains in your stock pictures. They have to be free from spots, as well as unneeded background products. There are stringent standards you require to comply with. In order for your images to be thought about stock picture top quality, they have to be small, effectively taken, skilfully revealed as well as with high resolution.

Stock photography is the highest quality requiring photography. 

As such, see it as a gym to learn and practice photography at its toughest level. When in the future you decide to move towards more artistic creations or perhaps photojournalism, your standards will be amongst the highest. Learn more about this on this other article I wrote here

You will certainly additionally require software to edit your stock pictures.

You needn’t purchase the extremely expensive Adobe license to use Photoshop. You can download an older version of Photoshop for free, which is great if you want to start out without investment.

There are a whole lot of electronic cameras in market with fantastic attributes. Personally I like my Nikon D3200. It’s the best in terms of price/quality ratio and the easiest for beginners in the range of pro cameras. Nikon produced later versions like the D3400 which is a great DSLR and amongst the cheapest. DSLRs can be expensive to start out and the cheapest with a lens included goes between 250 to 380 Dollars. However you can also go for a second hand one. I always advise to buy used electronics either via Ebay because they protect you from scams or via Facebook if you can meet the seller, thus try the camera. However, it is always safer and better to purchase a new one. Amazon has interesting prices and options. Remember that you should always invest more on lenses rather than cameras.

[adinserter block=”8″]

I recommend this little book to practice all kinds of photography. I love it cause it tells you in bullet points exactly what settings to use in each situation and it’s small enough to be carried around and on the field. 

[adinserter block=”4″]

What are the top selling portfolios?

view-from-the-sea-of-posillipo-hill-naples-and-the-blue-waters-2

Difficulty in offering your stock images is its originality as well as adaptability. In order to increase your possibilities of selling you can either try to build a portfolio with a large variety of categories (i.e. travel, business, food, nature…etc.) or select a certain particular niche market. if you choose this approach, you generally need less photos in your portfolio but these pictures have to be exactly what your consumers are trying to find. You have to have the ability to have an extensive understanding of the niche market and also make sure there is enough demand for that niche. 

Quantity in your portfolio is also relevant. Most bloggers only give you tips about how YOU can improve your pictures. Reality is that the IT algorithms used by stock photo agencies determine heavily who and what is going to sell. If your portfolio is large, it’ll be shown more, thus you’ll have better chances of selling. The more you sell, the more the algorithm will show you. 

There are a bunch of stock digital photography recruitment agencies where your images can be offered. These websites have standards on what you ought to get in order to make an effective image entry. Generally, Shutterstock, Adobe Stock, Dreamstime and Istock require at least 4mp but 123RF will ask for 6mp.

I advise you to put your keywords directly in your files metadata rather than pasting them as you upload your pics on every site. It’ll save you a lot of time!

Last but not least

Remember, there are people who manage to live out of stock photography. They are only a few but you can be one of them. It just takes time and patience. You’ll likely need years to create a 10 000 photo portfolio but if you stay put, you’ll achieve it.

Start with small objectives. Reaching 100 pictures is a milestone. When you get to 500, you’ll start seeing a real progress in your earnings. 1000 photos truly changes your earnings report so work on that for now. 

I’m out for now, drop a comment or email if you want more info. Please do not use this article in your blog unless you ask me first.

Learn more about the World Stock Photography Market 2019 by viewing the new report on the industry here.

[adinserter block=”14″] [adinserter block=”15″]

 

 

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Named 2024's Most Trailblazing Business Leader by CIO TODAY MAGAZINE

At just 28 years old, the distinction of being named the "Most Trailblazing Business Leader of the Year 2024" by CIO TODAY MAGAZINE is both humbling and exhilarating. Featured prominently on the magazine's cover and with my story shared within…
, , ,

Celebrating a Milestone: My "Ghanaian Night" Featured in Artist Closeup Magazine

I am thrilled and deeply honored to share that my photography has been showcased in the prestigious pages of Artist Closeup Magazine. Among the stunning array of artistic talent, my selected piece, "Ghanaian Night," has found its place, and…
, ,

PHOTOMAIL FROM GHANA WITH LOVE: POSTCROSSING

For over a year, I've been living in Accra, Ghana. Although I manage the revenue & marketing departments of a luxury hotel, living in this part of Africa is a continuous source of great photographic shots. Apart from being a serial expat…
, , ,

My "Beauty is Simplicity" Featured by BBC on the Theme of Water

Exciting news! Last week, BBC chose to highlight my photo, "Beauty is Simplicity," as part of their themed showcase on water. It's an honor to be recognized by such a renowned platform. "Beauty is Simplicity" captures a serene moment on the…
Victoria Schaal Awards
, , ,

Honored to be Featured in Photographize's "100 Best Photographers 2021" Book!

I'm excited to share some incredible news - I've been listed in Photographize's annual book honoring the top 100 photographers of 2021! Titled "Photographize Best Selected 2021," this book celebrates the work of visionary artists who have truly…
, , ,

FEATURED ON EXPLORING STAMPS EPISODE

Having been an expat around the world for ten years, a photographer and a philately enthusiast, I decided to create my ‘Mail Photography’. At the moment I live in Ghana and I sent a postcard to Graham, star of the increasingly popular Exploring…
, , ,

Celebrating a Milestone: My “Ghanaian Night” Featured in Artist Closeup Magazine

I am thrilled and deeply honored to share that my photography has been showcased in the prestigious pages of Artist Closeup Magazine. Among the stunning array of artistic talent, my selected piece, “Ghanaian Night,” has found its place, and I couldn’t be more grateful for this recognition.

“Ghanaian Night” is more than just a photograph; it’s a reflection of my profound admiration for the Ghanaian landscape and my unwavering dedication to capturing its essence. In this particular image, hues of blues and greens dance together in perfect harmony, encapsulating the serene beauty of a Ghanaian night sky. The tranquil atmosphere depicted in the photo evokes a sense of peace and wonder, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in the enchanting allure of the scenery.

To experience “Ghanaian Night” and explore the incredible artworks featured in Artist Closeup Magazine, I invite you to visit the magazine’s website here. Join me in celebrating the magic of art and the transformative power it holds to inspire, evoke emotions, and bring joy to our lives.
View it here, Pg. 57: https://www.artistcloseup.com/magazine

 

, , ,

FEATURED ON EXPLORING STAMPS EPISODE

Having been an expat around the world for ten years, a photographer and a philately enthusiast, I decided to create my ‘Mail Photography’. At the moment I live in Ghana and I sent a postcard to Graham, star of the increasingly popular Exploring Stamp Youtube series. Almost unbelievably, my postcard travelled all the way from Accra and arrived safely in New Jersey. Resultantly, my mail photography was featured on an Exploring Stamps episode, which you can watch below.

Contact me if you’d like to receive one. 

You may also find me on postcrossing!

,

123RF advises to talk to plants while in confinement

Hello all. So only a few hours after Shutterstock’s letter to the community with regards to coronavirus, 123RF- Inmagine Group decided to speak up as well. It was about time, given that the group’s HQ is in Malaysia where lots of cases are spawning. 
Shutterstock and 123RF chose different approaches. While SSTK’s letter was signed by the COO, 123 had Stephanie Sitt sign their email. Stephanie is now the CEO but she’s also the wife of the company’s founder, Andy Sitt, and has always been extremely involved in high decisions. 123RF went for a less professional and more friendly style in its email to the contributors and clients. They also showed a very cute illustration of suggested activities we can do while we’re stuck at home. I particularly like the ‘talk to your plants’ recommendation as it is something I’ve been doing even before the epidemic. 

Here is the full letter:

Dear friends and customers,

In light of the continuing spread of COVID-19 in the past few months, INMAGINE Group has stepped up measures to safeguard our staff at our offices around the world, while simultaneously ensuring that our products and services continue to be delivered efficiently to you.

At 123RF, we prioritize the safety of both our employees and clients. With that said, we wish you, your colleagues, family, and friends well during this crisis, and ask that you take extra precautions to be safe and stay healthy. By doing so, we can help minimize the spread together!

If you’re practising social distancing and working from home (like us) here are some suggestions of what you can do at home from our colleagues at Designs.AI.

 

We’re still here when you need us!

As the virus continues to ravage economies and communities, all of us have to change the way we work and socialize, just to be safe and stave off the threat. Amidst these challenging times, please rest assured that we will continue to deliver the highest level of quality service to you.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to your relevant, dedicated Account Manager. You may also reach out to us on our support pages or Live Chat or email us at info@123rf.com. If you’d like to call instead, here’s our complete toll free and local number directory for your convenience.

As always, we value your presence and look forward to continuously supporting you in making your business successful.

Together we shall prevail, be safe out there!

Stephanie Sitt
Group Chief Executive Officer
Inmagine Group

, , ,

Stock photography agency employee: Best Ways to Make Money

If you, like me, have enthusiasm for digital photography burning in you, a profession in digital photography would certainly be a fantastic suggestion!

Yet, making money with photography is easier said than done!

Stock Photography is definitely a way to make money.  There are numerous companies that require images that are substantial to their jobs yet do not have much time to take these images as a result of their busy routines. They decide to buy stock images as opposed to employing a specialist digital photographer, not just to conserve cash, however time too due to the fact that these images prepare to make use of.

I’ve been contributing for years and I learnt a couple of things about stock photography.

Moreover, I worked as a Marketer for one of the largest agencies too. So let me transfer to you some of my knowledge. Learn more about me here

Exactly what is stock photography?

Stock pictures are not photographed for a certain customer or usage yet portray a much more basic idea. Purchasers obtain wanted image, stock digital photography agents obtain a portion of every image offered on their site, and also professional photographer obtains continuing to be percent.

How to sell stock digital photography?

young-man-doing-acrobatics-in-water-in-tropical-location

You require your pictures to be of its finest. You should ensure that there are no noticeable sounds or grains in your stock pictures. They have to be free from spots, as well as unneeded background products. There are stringent standards you require to comply with. In order for your images to be thought about stock picture top quality, they have to be small, effectively taken, skilfully revealed as well as with high resolution.

Stock photography is the highest quality requiring photography. 

As such, see it as a gym to learn and practice photography at its toughest level. When in the future you decide to move towards more artistic creations or perhaps photojournalism, your standards will be amongst the highest. Learn more about this on this other article I wrote here

You will certainly additionally require software to edit your stock pictures.

You needn’t purchase the extremely expensive Adobe license to use Photoshop. You can download an older version of Photoshop for free, which is great if you want to start out without investment.

There are a whole lot of electronic cameras in market with fantastic attributes. Personally I like my Nikon D3200. It’s the best in terms of price/quality ratio and the easiest for beginners in the range of pro cameras. Nikon produced later versions like the D3400 which is a great DSLR and amongst the cheapest. DSLRs can be expensive to start out and the cheapest with a lens included goes between 250 to 380 Dollars. However you can also go for a second hand one. I always advise to buy used electronics either via Ebay because they protect you from scams or via Facebook if you can meet the seller, thus try the camera. However, it is always safer and better to purchase a new one. Amazon has interesting prices and options. Remember that you should always invest more on lenses rather than cameras.

[adinserter block=”8″]

I recommend this little book to practice all kinds of photography. I love it cause it tells you in bullet points exactly what settings to use in each situation and it’s small enough to be carried around and on the field. 

[adinserter block=”4″]

What are the top selling portfolios?

view-from-the-sea-of-posillipo-hill-naples-and-the-blue-waters-2

Difficulty in offering your stock images is its originality as well as adaptability. In order to increase your possibilities of selling you can either try to build a portfolio with a large variety of categories (i.e. travel, business, food, nature…etc.) or select a certain particular niche market. if you choose this approach, you generally need less photos in your portfolio but these pictures have to be exactly what your consumers are trying to find. You have to have the ability to have an extensive understanding of the niche market and also make sure there is enough demand for that niche. 

Quantity in your portfolio is also relevant. Most bloggers only give you tips about how YOU can improve your pictures. Reality is that the IT algorithms used by stock photo agencies determine heavily who and what is going to sell. If your portfolio is large, it’ll be shown more, thus you’ll have better chances of selling. The more you sell, the more the algorithm will show you. 

There are a bunch of stock digital photography recruitment agencies where your images can be offered. These websites have standards on what you ought to get in order to make an effective image entry. Generally, Shutterstock, Adobe Stock, Dreamstime and Istock require at least 4mp but 123RF will ask for 6mp.

I advise you to put your keywords directly in your files metadata rather than pasting them as you upload your pics on every site. It’ll save you a lot of time!

Last but not least

Remember, there are people who manage to live out of stock photography. They are only a few but you can be one of them. It just takes time and patience. You’ll likely need years to create a 10 000 photo portfolio but if you stay put, you’ll achieve it.

Start with small objectives. Reaching 100 pictures is a milestone. When you get to 500, you’ll start seeing a real progress in your earnings. 1000 photos truly changes your earnings report so work on that for now. 

I’m out for now, drop a comment or email if you want more info. Please do not use this article in your blog unless you ask me first.

Learn more about the World Stock Photography Market 2019 by viewing the new report on the industry here.

[adinserter block=”14″] [adinserter block=”15″]

 

 

, , ,

Named 2024's Most Trailblazing Business Leader by CIO TODAY MAGAZINE

At just 28 years old, the distinction of being named the "Most Trailblazing Business Leader of the Year 2024" by CIO TODAY MAGAZINE is both humbling and exhilarating. Featured prominently on the magazine's cover and with my story shared within…
, , ,

Celebrating a Milestone: My "Ghanaian Night" Featured in Artist Closeup Magazine

I am thrilled and deeply honored to share that my photography has been showcased in the prestigious pages of Artist Closeup Magazine. Among the stunning array of artistic talent, my selected piece, "Ghanaian Night," has found its place, and…
, ,

PHOTOMAIL FROM GHANA WITH LOVE: POSTCROSSING

For over a year, I've been living in Accra, Ghana. Although I manage the revenue & marketing departments of a luxury hotel, living in this part of Africa is a continuous source of great photographic shots. Apart from being a serial expat…
, , ,

My "Beauty is Simplicity" Featured by BBC on the Theme of Water

Exciting news! Last week, BBC chose to highlight my photo, "Beauty is Simplicity," as part of their themed showcase on water. It's an honor to be recognized by such a renowned platform. "Beauty is Simplicity" captures a serene moment on the…
Victoria Schaal Awards
, , ,

Honored to be Featured in Photographize's "100 Best Photographers 2021" Book!

I'm excited to share some incredible news - I've been listed in Photographize's annual book honoring the top 100 photographers of 2021! Titled "Photographize Best Selected 2021," this book celebrates the work of visionary artists who have truly…
, , ,

FEATURED ON EXPLORING STAMPS EPISODE

Having been an expat around the world for ten years, a photographer and a philately enthusiast, I decided to create my ‘Mail Photography’. At the moment I live in Ghana and I sent a postcard to Graham, star of the increasingly popular Exploring…
, , , ,

”How Do You Like It?” A dissertation on customer services

HOW DO YOU LIKE IT?  

Customer Services: Personalisation or Standardisation?

Abstract: This research faces two practical questions, which have arisen in the past decades and have not found a concrete solution yet: how do individuals expect customer services to be delivered and which is the most effective approach to retain customers.

The importance of customer retention is now widely recognised and the vital role of customer services in it has been agreed. Yet, the bridge that links customer services and customer retention is a field still mined by discussions and arguments.

Scholars depict two main approaches in order to retain consumers: standardisation and customisation. Although academics have produced extensive studies on these approaches and have evaluated both, none has gathered primary data on the matter in order to reach a more realistic, reliable and applicable conclusion.

This dissertation explores the numerous academic works, but also attempts to obtain results through the production of an inductive qualitative research aiming at interviewing consumers in order to discover concretely what are their preferences and the reasons behind their reactions and behaviours.

The results of the research provide concrete answers to this dissertation’s questions: they indicate the exact expectations customers’ have in relation to how customer services agents should serve them and illustrate how individuals’ favourite approach changes depending on subjective factors. Furthermore, this dissertation can serve as a basis for future studies on the topic, as well as represent a priceless starting point on which organisations may train their customer services. Based on academic theory and the research’s findings, it attempts to provide guidelines to create a successful training program for businesses aiming at customer services improvement and consumer retention.

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Nikon releases two full frame mirrorless cameras

Last Minute News

Nikon is releasing two full-frame mirrorless cameras on August 23rd!

The cameras apparently will get rather sci-fi android names: the Z6 and Z7 (so original guys!)
They are said to be introduced alongside three lenses and the Z7 will shoot at 45 megapixels!

I’ll update as soon as I get more info.