Recently, after reading a NY Times article, I decided to try becoming a photographer for a couple of stock photo sites. I have joined two places, but have only uploaded photos to one site as of now, www.bigstockphoto.com. (If you would like to see my uploaded photos, click the link on the sidebar, under my profile.)
So far, it has been a slightly frustrating experience. About half of my photos have been rejected: either from quality issues or problems with the composition, subject, etc. Many have been denied because they are not usable for stock. I usually take pictures for myself, not with other people in mind. I compose my photos to be interesting or to draw the eye towards certain parts of the picture. Unfortunately, Stock photos aren't supposed to be artistic; instead, they should be useful and attractive to as many possible buyers as possible. This (and other factors, of course) has left me with a 50% approval rating and no sales. Due to some "technical difficulties" I now have a 35.48% approval rating.
Thus, I am somewhat disappointed, though not completely surprised. I am not expecting to make a living off photography, but hope to get at least one sale in my "stock photo career." Though I have a low rating and no sales, I have learned about the industry, picked up some advice from professionals, and affirmed my love for photography. In these ways, I consider my little stock photo escapade a success.
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