One of the questions we get asked the most from submitters is “What do the buyers want?” The answer is not so simple. We have customers from different parts of the world, all searching for different images, and different types of projects. The most important thing to remember is that variety is key. Try different subjects, and be open. One week you may want to shoot only women, the next you can do farm equipment. It can help you in many ways, but more sales will be one of them.
Also, trust your instincts on whether you think an image is versatile enough to be interpreted in many ways. This way, more people will have use for the image in their work.
Aside from that, here are five tips that can make your images more likely to sell:
Take both a vertical and horizontal shot of the same subject—
The orientation of the image can give a different “feel” to the subject, and that might be what the buyer goes for first. Also, both orientations provide different cropping options. Images by iko.
Go with the flow to capture subtle movements—
Images that are too posed or artificial looking are less likely to appeal to buyers. Help your models feel comfortable and have fun, you’ll capture their subtle, natural movements. Images by barsik.
Play with different types of lighting—
Because you never know what the buyer will need from the subject. Lighting can change the mood and the overall image might look completely different. Images by Paha_L.
Expand your Concepts—
There are many ways to shoot the same subject, and each way can have a distinct feel or meaning. Maximize your models and props! Images by Anton Prado PHOTOGRAPHY.
Smiling vs. Serious Models—
Although most of the images of people that we sell are smiling, many buyers will have a need for serious images for many reasons. Images by tobkatrina.
If you follow these tips and (most importantly) have fun with your photos, you should see an increase in your skills and sales. Good luck!
This article was adapted from a Shutterbuzz post written by Shutterstock submitter, iofoto.
