The last two weeks we’ve been talking about photos that don’t sell. Today, let’s take a look at a few Breakfast Stock Club reader photos that DO sell as stock.
These all came in via the Breakfast Stock Club Facebook page, when we asked readers to share their best-selling images.
From Kim Nelson: This has been my best seller so far, and the funny thing is it was rejected by Shutterstock. I took it as part of my homework for a photo composition class. Our assignment was “red”. I had no idea it would sell so well. Now I need to take more that sell like this.
From Valerie Haas: Because I have not seen many images of Cornhole boards on stock sites, I had a feeling this would sell. Little did I know it would sell seven times in the first couple of weeks! I guess I need to take some more photos!
From Theresa St John: This was one of my “pleasant surprise” images. I could see it selling in my head, but was not sure if the image was clear enough for buyers. It has sold over and over and over again, on multiple stock sites, so glad I went with my gut and submitted it across the board.
From Amy Muschik: These two photos are both among my best sellers. But when I took them, I had no idea they would sell so well.
From Stri Der: I took a few quick photos one day at a local coffee shop by setting my camera on the counter as I enjoyed my drink. I figured this one might get some sales, and I think it sold the first day it went online.
From Michael Dyer: This Saguaro cactus in bloom is my best seller to this point. Each Saguaro cactus is unique, providing limitless photo ops.
Looking over the images, notice a few things that they all have in common:
- Simple compositions without distractions…
- Clear and immediately apparent subject…
- Usefulness to buyers.
These are three key ingredients in making a best-selling stock photo. If you can create simple photos with a clear subject (or idea) that is useful for photo buyers, you’ll likely have a winner on your hands.
Editor’s Note: Learn more about getting started selling your photos online in stock agencies – no matter how much or little photography experience you have – in the Breakfast Stock Club e-newsletter. It’s once a week, and it’s free to join, here.
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