Getting Started
If you are completely new to microstock there are some basic things you should know. For example you should know what sort of images are in demand and more importantly what is not in demand. You will learn these thing on your own through the painful but healthy experience of getting photos rejected - it has happened to everyone and it will happen to you - but it doesnt hurt to know a bit about it to begin with. One thing that is important to note is that if your photo is rejected, this does not necessarily mean that it's a bad photo, it could just mean that it isn't suitable for stock.
Subjects
To know what is in demand, think like a designer. A designer might be trying to make an ad to sell something, and to make it sell it has to have some appeal. It can be happiness, beauty, business, teamwork, success, freedom etc. If you can make visually pleasing photographs that have a concept or message, then you're half way to success. There are many "classic" micro stock subjects, such as businessmen shaking hands, women with cellphones and tech-support people with headsets, which are very popular. However there is such a lot of similar images on these subjects that competition is very hard. As a beginner you would be better off if you find another niche.
A good but well covered subject
Business handshake over blue background, ©Ensa/iStockphoto.com
Image quality
To be accepted by stock sites your images should be correctly exposed, composed and sharp. This is basic. If they are not, they will likely not be accepted. If you are an experienced photographer you probably already know how to do this. If not then you need to practise. Your manual, and internet, is invaluable for learning how to handle your camera.
An SLR is better for stock because it gives you full control, better image quality and versatility becuase you can change lenses. However it is possible to use a compact camera and be successfull in stock. And it gives you an edge over the SLRs when it comes to depth of field. After all, having a good camera helps, but if you dont know how to use it then it doesn't matter which camera you have.
Common Rejection Reasons
There are some specific issues in microstock concerning the image quality. The standards differ from agency to agency but the most common rejections are for:
- Noise
Some digital cameras produce more noise than others. Generally, SLRs are better than compact cameras at minimizing noise, due to their bigger sensor. Always shoot at the lowerst ISO possible and be sure to set a correct exposure. Noise is often seen in the dark areas and shadows of images. Always check att 100% size. See the tutorials section for tips on how to correct noise.
- Purple fringing/chromatic abberation
Show as a purple or green glow in areas with much contrast, like branches of a tree towards a bright sky. Can be helped by stopping down your aperture. See the tutorials section for how to correct for it.
- Incorrect exposure
Digital cameras have a higher tendency to blow highlights sooner than film so don't over expose. Under exposing and brightening the pictures in post processing brings out more noise.
- Incorrect focus
You need to have your subject in focus. This rejection reason is often given when you have a short depth of field and the reviewer thinks you have the wrong part of your subject in focus. Can also be given if your picture isn't sharp enough. Always use a tripod and focus manually when you can.
- Incorrect white balance
If your white balance is off your images will have a color cast. If you shoot in RAW then you can set the white balance in post processing, it can be corrected if you shoot JPEG too, but that will degrade the image. See the tutorials section.
- Poor lighting
The lightning of your subject is one of the most important things along with the composition. Avoid harsh shadows unless you're going for an intentional dramatic look. Don't use your on camera flash, except for maybe as a fill light.
- Poor composition, poor framing
Very important. Use the rule of thirds to avoid a centered and static composition. Don't put the horizon in the middle of the frame. You can make your images more attractive to designers by having some copy space, space for text.
A good example of copyspace
Fresh green leaves, © ooyoo/iStockphoto.com
Start uploading
Once you have the basics down, choose one or a couple of sites that seem to fit your style and get started! A recommended site to start at is Shutterstock. Shutterstock has a very active community, so before you upload your first photos there, it could be a good idea to check out their forums. Good luck!