Progression of Stock Photography

Since I've began my journey into the stock photography realm, my progression as a photographer has changed in many ways.

Icy Conditions ahead

I realized shortly after focusing all of my attention into creating stock images that my passion and love for photography quickly diminished, whether it be from having images that I had worked on for countless hours not being approved, or by the effort to find things that I felt were stock worthy. I needed to make a change. I took a month or two off, then began to shoot the things that I had enjoyed shooting in the past, live music, nature, and fashion. What pleased me the most from this experience is that the images I took during these shoots were better stock images as well, so I was able to shoot what I love and still be able to be successful with these images here on Dreamstime as well!

Fireplace

My acceptance ratio has been higher than it has in a long time and I no longer fear submitting images that I like in fear of them being rejected. So here's to all of you my fellow Dreamstimers, continue to shoot what you love to shoot, don't ever lose your passion for your art, and don't be afraid to submit the images that you love! And if any of you have also had this similar experience please let me know!

Young woman in bikini outside

Photo credits: Matthew Clausen.
Matthew Clausen
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  • Mattography
  • Fresno, United States
Photography has become a way of life for me. It has made me appreciate the fine details of life that normally may go over looked. Feel free to leave comments or photo requests on a picture. Thanks and keep shooting!!

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Rosedarc

January 20, 2010

I'm sure we all go through phases where we wonder if it's all worth it! I also take photos of what I like and then select what I consider worthy of stock. My problem is no so much rejection as sales. I never know what will sell and what sells is often not what I prefer out of my photos... I don't submit many shots but I spend quite a bit of time in post-production, selecting carefully, cleaning up, choosing a title and keywords. It's a very time consuming effort and it's a lot "one way" to start with, not instantly gratifying for sure but worth it nevertheless.

Justmeyo

January 20, 2010

You got nice images,Matthew:)

Creativei

January 20, 2010

Well even I'm going through this, earlier I used shoot lots of people on the street, their expression and way of life. No before I click my shutter button I think hey will it sale, is it worth to take this picture. Now I change, I shoot everything I like, later select from this lot what to sell. And it makes sense. This idea was from Mani and another of my close friend here in Dubai.

Mattography

January 20, 2010

Stock photography is a great experience, its a whole entity within itself. For one it made me realize just how difficult and time consuming it is to create such simple images, such as an object on an isolated white background. My only criticism would be to say that it can detract from the artistic value that a photographer has, but stock shots are an art form of their own. And thank you Frantab01 for the nice remarks :-)

Frantab01

January 20, 2010

we all get out moments, glad to have you back - great images by the way

smartview27

January 20, 2010

I also think stock photography is a positive experience

Fultonsphoto

January 19, 2010

I find it difficult to adapt as well but have not stopped taking of what I love but tried to take some more stock orientated images. I believe with time I will grow and improve these types of images but can still continue to serve my passion when out in nature etc...

Xiaofeng123

January 19, 2010

continue upload!

Mattography

January 19, 2010

Haha o well do whatcha gotta do, your work is great! Congrats on the new family members too!

Bradcalkins

January 19, 2010

Thanks! I gave in to the dark side :)

Mattography

January 19, 2010

Ya thanks Brad that seems about right :-) Your doing amazing!!!!! I got some catching up to do lol

Bradcalkins

January 19, 2010

Hey - good to have you back! I seem to recall you hitting a wall after your basketball shots - glad you found your muse again and are enjoying it...

Mani33

January 19, 2010

Well said! To me it's a healthy addiction ;)