Taking pictures of people in stock photos can be very tricky. There are many various factors that come to play in order to make a photo look sells worthy. Stock photos of people need to have lighting that looks perfect and is perfectly lit. Harsh shadows are a definite no in stock photos unless you are specifically trying to get that specified look.
If you take a look at stock photos of people they all usually have diffused lighting. The transition from light to dark is seamless and very soft. The lighting is usually very even throughout the entire picture. Shadows are never present unless desired. Stock photography will require some good knowledge of lighting properly.
A good start for lighting people would be the key light. This light will be the main light of illumination of your person of interest. Placing the key light on the same axis of the lens will make less shadows and a more flat picture. This type of light placing will make for very even lighting and can reduce blemishes and such. Another option is to place the key light to the side of the subject thus creating side lighting. Side lighting can be very harsh and very diffused. It all depends on the fill light.
The fill lights primary purpose is to fill in the shadows that are cast from the key light. An actual fill light can be used or reflectors can be used as well. The fill light is placed usually on the other side of the subject. It is on the opposite side of where the key light is at. The fill light must have a light intensity that is either equal to or less than the key light. If it is more than the key light it becomes the key light.
A back light can also be used to create a halo effect around the subjects outline. This will distinguish the person from their background. A background light also can be used to light the background. You can have many lights for a single photograph. It all depends on the desired effect you want.
When lighting for people in stock photography or any type of photography you can always default to the high key lighting with even balance of light and such. However, is this really going to help show the subject better? More advanced lighting actually is for the purpose of showing the character of the person being photographed. You can use lighting to make a person look scary, powerful, weak, happy, etc. Lighting can make a person look like they have more of a personality. Using lighting to add impact to your stock photos will be very beneficial and can make your photo much more high quality and profitable.
The color of light used is very important as well. Using the right color of light can make a subject look healthier and more vibrant. Using the wrong light hue will result in a sickly looking person. Do not simply skip out on the details of light when taking stock photos.
Stock Photos Of People
Both Amateur and Professional photographers generally can sell both types, and while assignment photography typically takes care of their base costs they find it to be self-limiting in profit potential. Stock photos, however, while generally commanding a lower price, sell more often and to a wider market. A good site to sell your stock photos is http://www.PhotoDaisy.com
If you think you might want to try your hand at making money with stock photography, it's a good idea to know what kind of photography interests you and in what aspect of photography you have talent. As you hone your skill, you can start to amass a stockpile of photos. That beautiful landscape pictures you took of the setting sun during last months trip to the beach, the pictures of your garden, or the pottery your spouse made, or with a written model release, even the pictures you shot of someone using a cell phone, or typing on a laptop can all be potential stock photos.
A magazine may be doing an article on gardens or on the dangers of driving while using a cell phone. A newspaper might need pictures of the local coastline. Take pictures of everything. Photos you have about police actions can be quite profitable. Other highly popular stock photo subjects also include certain types of plants, food, cars, and boats. Amass a photo library with varied photos. With your good stock photos, the possibilities are endless.
Often, however, photograph editors in magazines and newspapers often don't have the time or the inclination to expand much effort when buying stock photography. So basically you need to find someone who will market and sell your pictures for you. Think about this ? the larger the website, the less time a photo editor will have to spend looking for the right photo and the greater chance your stock photo will be viewed and possibly purchased.
In picking out a service to sell your stock photos you are looking for functionality and affordability. You will need to be able to sell your stock photos and the interface of the website must be one that is not only easy for you to upload your stock photos, but is also easy for those who wish to buy stock photos.
With the advent of the Internet, the business of buying stock photos and selling stock photos has greatly increased. Whether you are an amateur stock photographer or a professional stock photographer, the potential for making a profit from selling stock photos is substantial enough to warrant your attention.
Both Al Sanchez & Lancefish3 are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
Al Sanchez has sinced written about articles on various topics from Arts, Digital Photography and Arts. Al Sanchez has a great program that teaches how to sell pictures online.. Al Sanchez's top article generates over 1300 views. Bookmark Al Sanchez to your Favourites.
Lancefish3 has sinced written about articles on various topics from Arts. About Photo Daisy.comPhotography enthusiasts and professional photographers provide a diverse collection of digital images for sale. Photo Daisy allows photographers to store, share, promote and sell their photos to those in need of Stock Photos.We are on. Lancefish3's top article generates over 1000 views. Bookmark Lancefish3 to your Favourites.
Biographies For Young Adults You would never give your child a car without drivers training so make sure you give them a practical financial education before they move out