STOCK PHOTOGRAPHY

Photographic libraries sell images to all kinds of organisations and, just like book libraries, are always looking for interesting new content. These images are known as ‘stock photography’.

Active photos of people doing something (sport, shopping or whatever), and people with an interesting image or a fresh, new look are always in demand. It’s my job to keep track of what images are in demand at any one time and then supply them to libraries, using my professional skills. Click here to see some of my examples.

If an image is considered good enough by a library, it will be included on its website for possible sale to a third party. Only if someone buys that image am I then paid a fee. Although I obviously use my experience and judgement to supply photos that might sell, I have no ultimate control over this.

MODELLING OPPORTUNITIES

This is where you come in. You don’t have to look like a catwalk model either; photo libraries seek people of all shapes, race, gender and age. Many diverse types of people are needed as subjects for stock photography and today’s market demands all types – not just the classically beautiful. Confidence and a positive personal image are important but more so is character and a story to tell.

Everyone I photograph receives free prints and digital pictures on CD, if required, in return for their time and co-operation. I do not normally pay fees to models. These free images are supplied on the strict understanding that they are for personal use or, in the case of professional models, self-promotion only. They cannot be resold since I, as their creator, own the commercial rights to them under international copyright law.

Photograph libraries require me to obtain a written agreement from the subject (that’s you). This is known as a ‘model release’ form. If I work with minors, then a parent or legal guardian must sign. This is so that my agents can accept the pictures knowing that people agree to their pictures appearing on web sites, and potential publication.

I still occasionally photograph professional models and when I do, I always work closely with them to create an original and striking image for their portfolio.

FAQS

Am I really model material?
You’d be surprised who makes model material in today’s stock photography world. If I think you have an interesting look, you’ve made it to the first stage. If, together, we create an image that a photo library wants to have in stock, your face will be seen by thousands of professionals in marketing and design. After that, anything can happen. 

Why should I do this for free?
Unless you’re already a photographic model and in demand, being photographed by a professional usually costs hundreds of dollars – sometimes thousands. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like being a photo model, this is a great way to find out. You’ll probably enjoy the experience too.

Am I being exploited?
Not at all. You get fantastic personal photographs for you and your family to enjoy in exchange for a small amount of your time. It’s a fair trade.

How old do I have to be?
There’s no upper or lower age limit. If you’re a minor, a parent or legal guardian must sign the model release form (see above).

Why do I have to sign a written agreement?
It’s a legal requirement to protect all parties in case of later dispute. All professional photographers shooting for stock image libraries are bound by the same regulations.