Micro Stock Agencies have forever changed the stock photo industry in may ways.  On the positive side, it has opened up considerable opportunity, especially for young photographers interested in getting their foot in the door. It can be difficult getting an account with one of the big (Macro Stock) agencies.  On the other hand, micro-stock agencies like IStockPhoto, ShutterStock, etc., have driven prices down so far it is hard for a photographer to expect a reasonable return on their efforts.  And while it has made quality photography available to more consumers, there is the risk that usage won't be unique.  That is, the same image may be used by others in various publications and formats.  Prices have also come down on the macro-stock agencies due to the pricing pressures from the micro-stocks.  Whether you are for or against micro-stock agencies, they are here to stay. It always gives me pleasure to see one of my photos published in a printed magazine.  This past week while on a Southwest Air flight from San Diego to Sacramento I was flipping through the pages of their in-flight magazine, "Spirit" when I notice a familiar picture mixed in with others in an article of things to see and do in California.  It took me a few seconds to realize that it was one of mine.  Although no credit was given to me specifically, it did mention IStockImages as the source (another drawback to micro-stock and a pet-peeve of mine).  Had I not been on a Southwest flight this May and read through the magazine, I never would have known of its usage.  IStock does not provide contributors any details of who or how their images are used due to privacy agreements. It was a very well done article by Kristin Luna, and a good example of how stock photography can be used by writers and publishers.  You can read the full article online at: http://www.camelsandchocolate.com/2011/05/spirit-of-california/

My image is of Yosemite Valley in the lower left of page 162 and can be seen in more detail below. I have been a contributor to IStockPhoto.com for several years now.  However, I only have a few dozen images uploaded as I just haven't had the time to prepare, upload, keyword and be approved for each image.  It is not unusual to have a large percentage rejected for various reasons, which can be frustrating and time wasting.  Even so, revenue trickles in at a steady rate, 24-7.  Given a thousand or more desirable images on one or more micro-stock sites and you could potentially have a nice revenue stream each year. If you are interested in learning more about the business of Stock Photography, I highly recommend taking a workshop by David H Wells.  You can find out more about the subject and Mr. Wells at: http://thewellspoint.com/ .