I am a photographer working exclusively with Dreamstime.com.

1. Tell us about yourself. What is your life outside of microstock photography? - I am a graphic designer, webmaster, photographer. Live in Estonia. 3 kids. Mac-person. Nikon-person. 2. How did you get involved with microstock photography? - Initially gave my images for free on Stock.XCHNG back in 2003. Then discovered that some people would actually be willing to pay for my random photo experiments. Found Dreamstime, had lots to say in the forums and Serban invited me into their family :) ...
 

I am a photographer working exclusively with Dreamstime.com.

1. Tell us about yourself. What is your life outside of microstock photography?
- I am a graphic designer, webmaster, photographer. Live in Estonia. 3 kids. Mac-person. Nikon-person.
2. How did you get involved with microstock photography?
- Initially gave my images for free on Stock.XCHNG back in 2003. Then discovered that some people would actually be willing to pay for my random photo experiments. Found Dreamstime, had lots to say in the forums and Serban invited me into their family :)
3. What is your background in photography? Were you formally educated or are you self taught?
- Totally self taught. Through trial and error. Mostly latter.
4. What do you think makes the ideal microstock photo?
- Broad usability. Solely.
5. What process do you go through when setting up for a shoot in terms of styling, lighting and location?
- I have studio experience, but am not so active lately. Mostly shoot events, family, objects. I like to use my Nikon Speedlights (900 and 800) off the camera wirelessly. Could use even more units for interesting light effects and colors (different gel filters).
6. What´s your favorite photo you´ve taken thus far?
- Impossible to say. Like which one of your kids is your favourite - they're all dear and lovely!
7. How would you describe your photographic style?
- Get an idea. Try it out. Improve. I would call this Japanese-style, I guess :P
8. What are your favorite photography subjects?
- Non-moving objects, architecture.
9. What is the most important characteristic / skill needed to become a successful microstock photographer?
- Persistence and objectivity. Suppress your ego.
10. What´s one piece of advice you would pass along to new microstock photographers?
- The beginning is always slow and painful. Do not give up and do not take anything personally. Strangers looking at your images (reviewers) do not know you at all and are utterly objective - they express their first impression of your image while only comparing it to the other ones they have seen. This is usually how the browsing buyer will see your image.
11. What changes have you seen in the industry since you began as a microstock photographer?
- A lot of stuff seems to be available for free nowadays, but always check the source and usage terms. Many people think that the biggest free image bank in the world is Google - it could turn out to be the most expensive one, so be careful. Everyone seems to be a photographer - some are quite talented first off, others have to work their way up. Photography in general has become immensely more accessible. Veterans struggle to keep their edge.
12. How has being a microstock photographer had an impact on your career overall?
- It has taught me not to overlook details in an image. They are often the deal makers or breakers. The more you work on details in your images (given the whole concept is salable) the more rewarding it will be in the long run.