Photography sites

[youyours]

Hello,

I know there is a few in here that do photography for a living, so this question is for you.

A hobby of mine is taking photos and I was thinking about uploading some for sell on devianart or istockphoto, but, reading the agreements on both of them it is a very much one sided contract, in other words, I almost have to give up my rights on the photos and not having them on any other sites and so on. Is this normal? And also, do any of you have any other similar sites that have better agreements?

--Helen

[Ian Beckerton]

Hi Helen,
Photo Library’s can be useful in the fact that they will give you exposure if you are lucky, you may not get paid very much but the potential is that you could be recognised by a photo agency. If this happens then you could be commissioned to work for them as a freelance photographer. This would be the ultimate but there are lots of photographers trying to do the same and it would depend on you developing an unusual style, one that is unmistakably yours.

Nearly all my work is for advertising and not the glamorous end either, well that is if you count taking photographs of umbrellas and tea cosy’s as being unglamorous that is! I do work for some of the big names and I could expand if I wanted to quite easily as I specialise in jewellery photography which is a subject that most leave well alone as it is technically demanding.

I would give it a go with the Library’s as you never know and it will give you the practice to become more professional with your photography. If a library accepts your work then you stand a chance, the quality will be acceptable not only to them but also to the agencies that feed off them and they might just offer you a commission.

Regards and have luck,

I..

[youyours]

Thanks Ian for your answer. What is the link to this place so I can read more about it.


Have a nice day,
Helen

[Ian Beckerton]

Hi Helen,

As there are so many Photo Libraries you may find it best just to type in to GoogleUK ‘Photo Library’. You can then have a look at what is around and at the quality they expect. There will also be a terms and conditions section that is worth looking over.

I know that this is not very specific but not all Libraries will want to stock certain types of images, so I think talking to them first would be a good idea. I have never used one as I have always worked from a different direction; I am more involved with Public Relations and Product Advertising than anything else. I am sure you will find something that will encourage you to take more photographs and you may just strike lucky.

Regards,

I..

[youyours]

I see what you mean Ian, thanks for answering :) Will keep on looking for that site with ok agreements.

Have a nice day!!

--Helen