How to be a Luckypix contributor

Think you have what it takes to be a Luckypix contributor? We, as an agency, are just as picky as the next agency when it comes to what type of imagery we will accept into our collection. This can be quite daunting for those of you who are new to this whole business.

Take for example one of our newest contributors, Patrick Mooney. When Patrick first approached us with his images we couldn't sign him right away. It wasn't that he didn't have the talent, because it was obvious that he had an eye for photography. It's just that the first batch of photos we saw weren't as commercially appealing as they could have been.

We don't want to take the camera out of your hands, so to speak, but it is important to create images that are both visually strong and commercial.

We look for certain things when signing photographers and taking images — the most important being graphic yet simple images with uncomplicated backgrounds. As for what subject matter works best, try these 'stock-friendly' categories: business, technology, families, senior citizens etc.

When shooting multiple people, try to focus more on interactions.

For example, a young couple working on their new house together, a kid burying his father in the sand at the beach, a couple laying in the grass together, kids jumping off a pier into a lake, flying kites, or on their parent's (or grandparent's) shoulders. Also professionals commuting to work while talking on their cell phones. Active seniors is another important category. They could be riding bikes, gardening or maybe doing something goofy like playing in a sprinkler, or eating a huge banana split. Women exercising is also great — running, yoga in a field.. you get the idea.

Beyond the visual, we are just as interested in the emotional quality of an image. What does the image say and how does it say it? Our collection celebrates the unplanned, the unique and sometimes hilarious moments life throws at us. We don't want to be the biggest collection; just the most memorable.

Some final pointers:

• We generally look for twenty or so images to get started with a photographer
• Make sure you've got the necessary model and/or property releases
• Do include outtakes and multiple angles
• Read our Five Truths About Contributing

Of course all of these comments are Luckypix-specific. Your images might fit perfectly with what a different agency is looking for.

This entry was posted by Christoph, on August 8, 2006. You can leave your response.