Posts

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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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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…
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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
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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…
,

NEW: COMBINING PHOTOGRAPHY & PHILATELY

Having been ab expat around the world for ten years, a photographer and a philately enthusiast, I decided to create my 'Mail Photography'. I send my photographic artworks by mail; they can be collected, traded, purchased and sold like any…
/3 Comments/by
, , ,

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″]

 

 

, , ,

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…
,

NEW: COMBINING PHOTOGRAPHY & PHILATELY

Having been ab expat around the world for ten years, a photographer and a philately enthusiast, I decided to create my 'Mail Photography'. I send my photographic artworks by mail; they can be collected, traded, purchased and sold like any…
/3 Comments/by
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Stock Photography Agency Employee: “It’s a gym for beginners!”

Hi, I am a stock photographer. Actually, that is how my passion for photography started all together and  throughout the years lead me to become a visual artist and a stock photography agency employee. In fact, I am a marketing specialist for 123RF.

Stock photography is often criticised by the so called ‘real photographers’. Yet, I find such criticisms rather snobbish. Before becoming an artistic photographer, everyone needs practice. There are lots of things to learn: technical abilities, artistic skills, the creative market’ functioning and so on.

Money is also relevant. We don’t all know since the start that we want to take photography seriously or if we are able to. You can make some passive income by uploading your digital pictures to stock photography websites. Every time an image of yours is downloaded you earn a commission.

As a visual artist and a marketing expert for a stock photography agency, I strongly believe stock photography is a gym for beginners.

It enables you to draw some income to purchase your first gear, understand what the market is looking for, analyse what are the subjects you shoot best, keep high quality and technical standards and more.

It is also an excellent way to master technical abilities. Stock photography requires perfection. Contrasting the fine art world where rules are made to broken, if your picture is a little bit noisy or slightly out of focus, it will not be sellable as stock. This a good discipline for beginners who still have to learn how to respect rules before going onto the next level and learn how to break the rules.

There are numerous stock photography sites that need your photos. Numerous people, organizations, associations, sites and print distributions are in consistent need of a wide assortment of value photos for their sites, direct mail advertisements, handouts, magazines, recordings and daily papers. These substances consistently swing to stock photography sites to purchase the photos that they require.

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Stock photography agencies will pay you a rate for each one of your photos that gets downloaded, each time it is downloaded. Your photos can be downloaded a boundless number of times.

You can present your computerized photos to sites Shutterstock and the agency for whom i work, 123RF. You don’t need to be an expert picture taker. You simply require a computerized camera (with additional memory cards) and web get to. Agreeing to accept these sites is free. Each time one of your photos is downloaded you’ll get paid a level of the cost of the photo, which for the most part comes to twenty-five pennies to a few dollars.

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Pretty much any sort of computerized picture is acknowledged as long as it is of high caliber. Your photos should be in JPG/JPEG and for most stock sites they ought to be 1600 x 1200 pixels or bigger. New picture takers for Shutterstock need to submit photos that are 4.0 Megapixels or Million Pixels (MP). You can ascertain the quantity of pixels in a photo by increasing the width by the stature. A photo that is 1600×1200 is 1.92 million pixels.

In photos that portray a minor, or where an identifiable human face is unmistakable, you should send a model discharge with the photo to the site. You have to submit unique work and ensure that you do exclude copyrighted material or logos in your pictures. Try not to submit photos that have been expanded in estimate from their unique document measure. You should read the accommodation rules from every site before you begin posting your photos.

When you have transferred a photo to a stock photography site, it remains there for whatever length of time that you like (notwithstanding for quite a long time). Each time it gets downloaded you win cash. You can transfer your photos to a few unique sites as long as the sites permit the accommodation of non-restrictive photos.

You can take ten pictures every day and transfer every one to ten diverse stock photography sites. In only three months you’ll have around 900 photos transferred 9,000 times. What is extremely cool about this is before your photos are transferred they keep on making cash for you with no extra work on your part. In the event that you constantly transfer pictures to the stock sites you can win considerably more.

TIP: As a stock photography agency employee, I know that the first real milestone income-wise is having 1000 photos on sale. From that turning point, you will see a major change in your revenue. 

Yet, you don’t need to reach that amount to have some good surprises. When I had around 500 images on Shutterstock, I sold one for 44$ of commission in one sale… I was astounded! But this sort of unexpected surprises happens often and the more pics you have online, the more frequently you’ll get surprised.

The majority of the stock sites pay you once every month through PayPal, MoneyBookers, paper check or direct store.

Start by taking pictures in your general vicinity, or travel anyplace and bring home the bacon by taking stock photos. The more pictures you upload the all the more procuring potential you have. You can profit from this “employment” from pretty much anyplace on the planet.

Want me to refer you as a contributor and increase your chances to sell? Just follow this link: https://submit.shutterstock.com/?ref=3756818

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

[adinserter block=”14″]
, , ,

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…
,

NEW: COMBINING PHOTOGRAPHY & PHILATELY

Having been ab expat around the world for ten years, a photographer and a philately enthusiast, I decided to create my 'Mail Photography'. I send my photographic artworks by mail; they can be collected, traded, purchased and sold like any…
/by
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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.

/2 Comments/by