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By themousepotato | November 19, 2008
Being new to photography, I want to explore all the possibilities of having a camera as a hobby. And one of this is earning from your photos.
There is this so-called “MICRO STOCK PHOTOGRAPHY” wherein you join some “stock photo” sites (much like joining friendster or having google ads), submit photos, get approved and finally earn some money.
Here is a simple guide by Anton Villalon
HOW TO DO MICRO STOCK PHOTOGRAPHY (at least, the way I do) - with other stuff included
1. Get accepted as a contributor in the micro stock sites (click on my links below).
- Submit samples of YOUR OWN good photos (has to be sharp at 100% magnification, properly exposed, no brand names, no recognizable faces without model release, no private property without property release, practice good cropping), technically correct - no unintended distortion / wrong white balance / no purple fringing, etc… Vary your subjects to increase your chances of acceptance. Use the slowest ISO (e.g. ISO 100) that your camera can allow for the exposure. Using a tripod would improve your chances for acceptance. SHOOT WITH FIRE AND EDIT WITH ICE.
- Confirm your identity (passport, ID - whichever is applicable).
- Wait. Acceptance times vary.
- If rejected - study, practice, get better photos and then submit again.
- Recommended Sites: Shutterstock, iStockphoto, Dreamstime, Stockxpert, Bigstockphoto, Fotolia, 123rf.
2. Once accepted, upload your photos regularly. Keep track of your accepted / submitted / rejected photos. Use a simple database in Excel or something similar. Note their comments. If they don’t accept your photos, it’s okay. There is something to be learned or improved. Otherwise just submit the same photo to a different site. I have photos that were rejected in other sites but are earning a lot in the others. Subjectivity is rampant. The law of diminshing returns applies when you edit (Photoshop) your photos to satisfy their comments for rejected photos. This wastes time. As much as possible, do it right the first time, i.e. Shoot photos properly.
3. In the meantime, for those in the Philippines, enroll in moneybookers. Get the wire transfer code for your local bank account. Get your account details accredited for better service.
4. Wait until you reach the minimum amount for a payout. In Shutterstock, they send the money automatically when you reach that payout level. Otherwise, look for the link in the stock photo site to prompt them to send money, preferably through moneybookers.
5. Wait for the amount to be posted in Moneybookers (about 2-3 banking days). Send the money to your local bank account. Accumulating your payouts is advisable, moneybookers charges fees per wire transfer.
6. Wait (about 2-3 banking days again). Presto! You have received your earnings!
7. (Options)
- Pay your bills
- Save
- Buy equipment to expand your shooting capabilities (It’s easier to justify your equipment purchases with your wife/parents/family - you are now earning from your photos! It’s not just a vice anymore ) Do in moderation. “L” lenses can be sooo tempting.
- Consider becoming a full-time photographer. Pursue your other dreams…
- Plan trips / arrange set-ups to shoot more stock photos. These trips are investments!
- Contribute to charity, begin at home.
- Do socially / artistically relevant photography. Follow your heart as a photographer / artist. Save these photos for a future exhibit. You may decide that photos from these are worth more than selling as stock photos. Join contests.
- Send me money as your way of saying thanks - Just kidding.
- Find your life’s meaning.
8. Repeat steps 2 to 7. SHOOT PHOTOS REGULARLY and avoid annoying your loved ones / pets / security / your boss / neighbors while doing your photography. (Picture-picture na naman?!). Respect others’ rights to privacy (don’t forget to bring with you a generic model release in your camera bag regularly).
Hope this helps! (Been having a lot of queries lately).
Anton
__________________
Anton Villalon
antonvillalon.multiply.com
Topics: Helpful Info / FAQs |
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