Stock Photography Modeling
Stock photography has opened the door to thousands of models that are either just learning the business or have otherwise limited modeling opportunities. The vast range of images that are contained within stock photography can make it easier than ever to get into the modeling industry. Although payment for modeling for stock photography can be limited, it might be helpful when a model is trying to fill a portfolio and gain experience.
A Different Aspect of the Modeling Industry
The digital camera has allowed amateur photographers into the photography arena especially with the advent of stock image web-sites that pay both professional and amateur photographers. Many of the most popular or desired images need to contain people and that's where a stock photograph model comes in. Stock photographs can be used for just about anything. Advertising businesses, bloggers, artists and publishers use stock photographs to save time, money and to fill in spaces that require less specific images.
Getting Started as a Model
A model interested in stock photography might contact local photographers to determine if they sell stock images and if they are looking for models. Many modeling agencies also hire models specifically for stock images. A web search on stock image modeling might also be helpful in determining the best place to start.
Many agencies that will not hire a person who doesn't fit the typical model image will hire one for the purpose of stock photography because of the need for diversity. People interested in this aspect of modeling should be wary of any person or agency that charges upfront fees to become a part of a modeling pool, however many agencies require portfolios at the model's cost. Payment of a model is negotiated with the photographer or agency.
Stock Photography Requires Diversity
The market for stock photos is completely diverse that photographers who don't already have an existing contract with an agency may require that a model pose in a variety of ways. Many stock photos are used for brochures, websites or other advertisements so the less specific the image is, the better the potential market will be. This means that a model may be asked to pose in a beach scene, in a sports scene or with a baby all in one shoot. This will maximize the potential for the image to sell. Models should be prepared and ask questions prior to the shoot regarding clothing and accessories.
A model in this particular industry may be surprised at where his/her images show up. Stock images are generally bought and sold by a third party, often online and depending on the rights that the photographer attributes to the image, may show up just about anywhere. Models are almost always required to sign a release or a waiver by the photographer that will be held by the third party seller. These releases generally contain clauses stating that the image is owned by the photographer. The photographer then decides if he/she wants to sell the rights or simply sell the image for a one-time fee. This means that a model may be paid once for an image that is printed in multiple brochures or is on several internet sites.
Stock photograph modeling can be a good place to start for a new model. It can offer the opportunity to gain valuable experience, obtain contacts in the industry and make a bit of money in the process.
