What Makes a Good Stock Photo?

Stock photography consists of photos that can be licensed for use. As good quality cameras become increasingly affordable, and the market for photography expands, many people are finding themselves drawn to stock photography as a way to make some extra money. Many people are not aware that good photography is not the same thing as good stock photography. While a photo may be of good artistic quality, it still may not sell well as stock.

Useful

When considering using a photograph for stock, first ask yourself if it is useful. Simply put, a photograph that is not useful to someone will not sell and is therefore not good stock. Keep your audience in mind and consider who might be buying your images and what type of photographs they will find most useful.

Unique

There are billions of photos out there, and some areas are bound to be tread upon again and again. Photographs of flowers, sunsets, and national landmarks may be pretty, but they won't sell unless there is something unique about them. By adding a twist to a common theme, your photography can stand out from the rest.

Clear

A good stock photograph is in focus, sharp and lacks digital noise. It should be free of distractions and focus on one subject. If your emphasis is on an object in the photograph, that object should be the focal point. Adding too much to a stock photograph makes it busy and confusing, and it simply won't sell. Simple, clear photos make the best stock.

High quality

Photos that look professional are the hallmark of good stock photography. High quality stock images begin with high quality equipment. Invest in a good digital single-lens reflex camera with excellent resolution and a variety of lenses. If you plan on conducting indoor shoots, obtain the appropriate lighting tools. Making money from stock photography requires an investment in the proper equipment.

Interesting concept

Good stock photography should tell a story. Once again, consider the audience. A photograph of a model standing by a wall may go great in a portfolio, but it doesn't tell a story. Buyers are interested in photography that sets a scene and helps them to get a particular message across. Often stock photography is used to express an abstract concept like love, teamwork or loyalty. Consider how you might illustrate these concepts in a story and work from there to come up with an unusual angle.

References

• What Makes a Good Stock Photo?
• Nature Stock Photography
• What is Good Stock Photography?