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Microstock Photography Forum - General => Microstock GTG / Workshops / Events => Topic started by: michealo on April 03, 2008, 08:10

Title: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: michealo on April 03, 2008, 08:10
Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta? I booked my ticket and accommodation today ....
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: leaf on April 03, 2008, 08:29
pardon my naivety, but what are you talking about  ??? what is Ref5resh
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: vphoto on April 03, 2008, 08:47
http://www.istockphoto.com/forum_messages.php?threadid=65324 (http://www.istockphoto.com/forum_messages.php?threadid=65324)
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: michealo on April 03, 2008, 08:55
istockalypse type event for non exclusives
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: leaf on April 03, 2008, 09:18
ok, thanks.  here is another thread with more ticket information etc.
http://www.istockphoto.com/forum_messages.php?threadid=67469&page=1

i guess i might seriously consider going... it definitely sounds interesting.
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: leaf on April 03, 2008, 09:25
more info

Cost of the event:  US $350
Lodging: (cheapest) 112.5 Euro (5 nights)
Dates: June 15-22, 2008

a question for those who have gone to these things.  Can you use the pictures you take in the shoots for stock?  It seems it could get complicated or something when there are 50 people with images from the same shoot ???

and would it be worth the ~$1000+ it would cost
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: fotografer on April 03, 2008, 10:29
You can but only at istock, you can't upload anything taken at these events to other sites.
more info

Cost of the event:  US $350
Lodging: (cheapest) 112.5 Euro (5 nights)
Dates: June 15-22, 2008

a question for those who have gone to these things.  Can you use the pictures you take in the shoots for stock?  It seems it could get complicated or something when there are 50 people with images from the same shoot ???

and would it be worth the ~$1000+ it would cost
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: michealo on April 03, 2008, 10:57
well its a cheap holiday and a good networking opportunity and I'm in the cheap hotel if anyone else is coming ...
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: Lee Torrens on April 03, 2008, 11:02
a question for those who have gone to these things.  Can you use the pictures you take in the shoots for stock?  It seems it could get complicated or something when there are 50 people with images from the same shoot ???

and would it be worth the ~$1000+ it would cost

Creating stock is the primary focus of these events. Think about the prices for a moment and you'll see something interesting. The ticket price is US$350. Do you think iStock would profit from that? Do you think they'd even come close to break-even?? Of course not. They book locations, LOTS of models, LOTS of lighting equipment, makeup & wardrobe, plus all the organisation, and sending 5+ staff members out! The money they make is in the photos taken during the event and the rise in (usually exclusive) contributors' skill level. (Any other agencies reading this take note!!!).  So while they make a massive loss on the event, it's recouped within months and after that it's all profit. Why else would iStock continue running iStockalypse events?

I attended the last iStockalypse as a guest and asked the "is it worth it" question to about five of the participants who had previously been to one or more such events. The responses varied between three and six months to recoup the cost, after which it's all profit.
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: michealo on April 03, 2008, 11:16
So Lee, Argentina to London to Malta - you coming !?
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: sam100 on April 03, 2008, 12:03
Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta? I booked my ticket and accommodation today ....

Sorry for the expression, but this is utter bull**it.... !!

What average contributor can afford to go on vacation with his earned money to ................................................................... ..?...

Just another hollow ad campagne.

Patrick.
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: michealo on April 03, 2008, 12:08
Well the $21 million IS paid out last year makes me think probably quite a few.

Its a nice place, lovely weather , and you get to hang out with other stock photographers ...

some of whom I am hoping won't be too curmudgeonly
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: CofkoCof on April 03, 2008, 12:28
Went for some beers with a friend thats exclusive with IS yesterday. He just got back from Argentina for that Che'lypse or what was it called. He spent 2000€ and expects to get it back in a few months with the pictures he made. Now I'm wondering if I should go to Minilypse that we have here in Ljubljana. It's "only" 180€ :D
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: Lee Torrens on April 03, 2008, 12:36
So Lee, Argentina to London to Malta - you coming !?

I'd definately like to, though at this time it's not looking likely.
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: Lee Torrens on April 03, 2008, 12:39
What average contributor can afford to go on vacation with his earned money to ................................................................... ..?...

Agree 100%. I went to the last one and didn't see any "average" contributors there. Only successful ones who knew how to create stock photos that sell. Everyone who goes makes a profit on what they spend.

Just another hollow ad campagne.

Disagree 100%. The contributors profit and iStock profits. It's win-win. What's "hollow" about that?
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: Seren on April 03, 2008, 13:01
Well I'm interested in going, but I'd rather camp or stay in a hostel than pay those ridiculous prices for the hotels.  I don't think I'd go anywhere in Europe and pay that much!  They seem to have made deals with the hotels though, so I guess they probably get a cut of what the hotel takes.
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: sam100 on April 03, 2008, 13:22
Well I'm interested in going, but I'd rather camp or stay in a hostel than pay those ridiculous prices for the hotels.  I don't think I'd go anywhere in Europe and pay that much!  They seem to have made deals with the hotels though, so I guess they probably get a cut of what the hotel takes.

Still then, i live in europe... going to malta, a very expensive region, considering myself a a moderate earner on stock, i can not afford that... final.

In all honesty, what photog/contributar from outside europe can afford this trip and  say afterwords, ppppppppffffffff, i easily earn that money back... !!!

Please come foreward... and in doing so it will be clear that this cathering isn't for the average photog/contributor.

Patrick.
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: michealo on April 03, 2008, 14:14
Seren is €22.5 a night really a ridiculous amount for a hotel?
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: Lee Torrens on April 03, 2008, 14:46
In all honesty, what photog/contributar from outside europe can afford this trip and  say afterwords, ppppppppffffffff, i easily earn that money back... !!!

Please come foreward... and in doing so it will be clear that this cathering isn't for the average photog/contributor.

Patrick.


Hey Patrick,

That's easy. There's a list: http://www.istockalypse.com/BuenosAires/whos_coming.html

See how many contributors came from Europe to South America, and not all of them from rich European nations. Then take a look at their portfolios - not too many average ones there. Then sitemail them and ask them how long it takes to recoup the cost.

Buenos Aires isn't so expensive, so perhaps you'd better look at some of the previous iStockalypse events and find one in a more expensive location. But you'll see the same thing - "non average" contributors traveling from all parts of the world.
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: Seren on April 03, 2008, 14:47
Seren is €22.5 a night really a ridiculous amount for a hotel?

When I looked the prices were more than that?  But a three star hotel in Malta, you're looking at 22.50E each for a double room at least.  A single room would have a supplement charged most likely so you're looking at more whichever way you go.  But the page with the actual prices (not just "From" prices) isn't working, so I guess we'll know more when the site is working properly.
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: sam100 on April 03, 2008, 14:58
In all honesty, what photog/contributar from outside europe can afford this trip and  say afterwords, ppppppppffffffff, i easily earn that money back... !!!

Please come foreward... and in doing so it will be clear that this cathering isn't for the average photog/contributor.

Patrick.


Hey Patrick,

That's easy. There's a list: [url]http://www.istockalypse.com/BuenosAires/whos_coming.html[/url]

See how many contributors came from Europe to South America, and not all of them from rich European nations. Then take a look at their portfolios - not too many average ones there. Then sitemail them and ask them how long it takes to recoup the cost.

Buenos Aires isn't so expensive, so perhaps you'd better look at some of the previous iStockalypse events and find one in a more expensive location. But you'll see the same thing - "non average" contributors traveling from all parts of the world.


hi Lee,

I get your point. In one way you are completely right... but... here comes the but....

What photog doing this as a hobby, stucked in a different daily job can afford, make time to just go on this trip... unless he/she is a real **s licker with the boss and gets time off and above that can afford a whole week vacation.... will go on that trip... as I said, it's not for the average photog/submitter.

Another thing to take into account... unless you are willing to drink tap water during the whole trip, eat supermarket sandwiches your trip will be much more expensive than  suspected... i live in europe, i know the cost and prices in europe.  Are you willing to stay in the hotel with the whole bunch and not visit the sight seeings.?... i doubt....
Conclusion.... you need to have an out of daily job, earn a good living, or at least make a lot out of stock photography to afford such a social trip.

Patrick.
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: leaf on April 03, 2008, 15:24
well i think that was Lee's point.  These events are  attended by non avereage stock shooters.  They are not made to appeal to the average stock shooter.   If it was it probably wouldn't be for a week.  The only ones who can take a week off are the ones who are self employed stock shooters.
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: leaf on April 03, 2008, 15:26


I attended the last iStockalypse as a guest



like a guest who was paid to come, or had a free pass?  how did you wrangle that?
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: Seren on April 03, 2008, 15:27
well i think that was Lee's point.  These events are attended by non avereage stock shooters.  They are not made to appeal to the average stock shooter.   If it was it probably wouldn't be for a week.  The only ones who can take a week off are the ones who are self employed stock shooters.

Not sure which country you live in, but in the UK most employees of private companies get 21+ days off of holiday per year.  That's four weeks if you play your cards right.  It's not unfeasible to take a week off to go on a photographic hobby!
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: leaf on April 03, 2008, 15:50
Seren is €22.5 a night really a ridiculous amount for a hotel?

When I looked the prices were more than that?  But a three star hotel in Malta, you're looking at 22.50E each for a double room at least.  A single room would have a supplement charged most likely so you're looking at more whichever way you go.  But the page with the actual prices (not just "From" prices) isn't working, so I guess we'll know more when the site is working properly.

if you are alone and book a room it looks like it is 35 Euro
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: leaf on April 03, 2008, 15:51
well i think that was Lee's point.  These events are attended by non avereage stock shooters.  They are not made to appeal to the average stock shooter.   If it was it probably wouldn't be for a week.  The only ones who can take a week off are the ones who are self employed stock shooters.

Not sure which country you live in, but in the UK most employees of private companies get 21+ days off of holiday per year.  That's four weeks if you play your cards right.  It's not unfeasible to take a week off to go on a photographic hobby!

yeah, holidays are the same here in Norway, but lots of people have a 'mandatory' holiday schedule, with a certain three weeks in the summer they have to take off.  If you used saved up time though, most people could swing getting a week off.
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: sam100 on April 03, 2008, 15:55
well i think that was Lee's point.  These events are  attended by non avereage stock shooters.  They are not made to appeal to the average stock shooter.   If it was it probably wouldn't be for a week.  The only ones who can take a week off are the ones who are self employed stock shooters.

I am a self employed photog... and guess.. i can not afford such social trips.

Patrick...

ps : i live in belgium, the second highest tax country in europe next to denmark... from every dollar i earn i consider myself lucky to keep 50, maybe 55 cents... not even taken into account what i loose on conversion rates etc.... not even taken into account the cost of living, not even taken into account the cost of models, props, studio, appartment etc.... but hey... i love doing it so i keep at it.
I think this should make perfectly clear that i can not afford social trips whenever i like....
In fact, I plan to have a vacation for the first time in 10 years this year to Turkey... to visit a (successful) fellow photog, but i need to save for that, it just doesn't come falling from the sky.
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: michealo on April 03, 2008, 16:20
I booked and paid for the cheap hotel on offer and including airport transfers each way it came to €245 for 7 nights.
And the event ticket cost €256.
And Ryanair (that august irish institution) fly there from Dublin, Ireland and Luton, UK

As an aside I live in Ireland the legal holidays are 21 days + 9 public holidays for a total of 6 weeks.

I would expect that living it up in Malta will cost less than staying in Ireland ....
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: Lee Torrens on April 03, 2008, 21:07


I attended the last iStockalypse as a guest



like a guest who was paid to come, or had a free pass?  how did you wrangle that?

as Press
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: Lee Torrens on April 03, 2008, 21:12
well i think that was Lee's point.  These events are  attended by non avereage stock shooters.  They are not made to appeal to the average stock shooter.   If it was it probably wouldn't be for a week.  The only ones who can take a week off are the ones who are self employed stock shooters.

I am a self employed photog... and guess.. i can not afford such social trips.

Patrick...

ps : i live in belgium, the second highest tax country in europe next to denmark... from every dollar i earn i consider myself lucky to keep 50, maybe 55 cents... not even taken into account what i loose on conversion rates etc.... not even taken into account the cost of living, not even taken into account the cost of models, props, studio, appartment etc.... but hey... i love doing it so i keep at it.
I think this should make perfectly clear that i can not afford social trips whenever i like....
In fact, I plan to have a vacation for the first time in 10 years this year to Turkey... to visit a (successful) fellow photog, but i need to save for that, it just doesn't come falling from the sky.

Then it's tax deductible for you. If your rate is 45 cents in the euro, you'll only need to have earned a little over €1,100 in the tax year to make the trip completely free from a net-tax point of view (using michaelo's actual costs). I think you can easily afford it.
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: leaf on April 05, 2008, 18:07
hmm.. well pondering long and hard on this.  it is looking very tempting.
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: leaf on April 10, 2008, 04:20

more info

a question for those who have gone to these things.  Can you use the pictures you take in the shoots for stock?


You can but only at istock, you can't upload anything taken at these events to other sites.

Have you found an istock thread or something that talks about this?  And where do they draw the line.  If i take off on my own and take some pictures at the beach then I should be able to upload those to any site I want right?  If i take pictures at their photo shoot, then I can see that they should be istock exclusive.

I am thinking this could be a great event, just not sure how many sales I am going to end up getting from the images.  I seem to have hard time getting good sales at istock.
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: leaf on April 10, 2008, 04:27
ok.. i asked the question on the istock forum... i am waiting to be boo-ed out.

edit: got an answer... just as fotografer said...
http://www.istockphoto.com/forum_messages.php?threadid=67469&page=7

which brings to the point.  Someone should really organize a get together, shoot weekend or something for members of all the sites.. i guess it might be expensive if one site isn't 'supporting' it but still, it could be a good time.  Dpchallenge members have managed to organize a few.
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: michealo on April 10, 2008, 05:55
I suspect (though I have nothing concrete to back this up) that this event is meant to convince one to become exclusive.

They give you a cheap holiday, setup shoots, introduce you to the istock head honchos and some high earning exclusives.

Will softly selling the guiles of exclusivity
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: Freezingpictures on April 10, 2008, 06:10
I can understand why iStockphoto wants the images to be sold exclusively on their site, I think they deserve it if they organize the shooting.
It would be great if a shooting would be organized by others too, like microstockgroup :-). But probably not enough people form here are going there. Just checked, I can fly with the miles & more programm for 91 Euro to Malta. Hmm tempting...
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: kosmikkreeper on April 10, 2008, 06:25
If the images are exclusive to Istock, they should give us 40% commission!  ;)
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: leaf on April 10, 2008, 06:57
If the images are exclusive to Istock, they should give us 40% commission!  ;)

yeah, that is true!! ... to bad they don't have an individual image exclusive deal like dreamstime or some of the other sites.

to agree with freezing, I understand too, that they should get exclusive rights on the image if they set it up.  It would be foolish to help create great images for all the other stock sites.... but still disappointing.

Well if you come Freezing, that would make three of us :)  (if i decide to come... i think i will make the final decision today or tomorrow)
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: leaf on April 10, 2008, 10:20
ok...
the flight, hotel and admission fee are paid :)  see you there!
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: michealo on April 10, 2008, 10:53
Cool!

Looking forward to meeting up ...

Freezingpics you in?
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: leaf on April 16, 2008, 03:23
any other takers?  Only two more weeks left to register!

Looks like they are starting to update their site as well with the list of attendees
http://www.istockalypse.com/Ref5esh/attendees.html
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: hatman12 on April 16, 2008, 03:27
I'd come, but its an expensive trip from Australia.

By the end of the year I'll be living in France.
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: Freezingpictures on April 16, 2008, 06:58
No sorry, it does not look likely that I go. It sounds really good and I wish I could come.
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: faber on April 24, 2008, 08:33
well i think that was Lee's point.  These events are  attended by non avereage stock shooters.  They are not made to appeal to the average stock shooter.   If it was it probably wouldn't be for a week.  The only ones who can take a week off are the ones who are self employed stock shooters.

So it's about time to break the rules and add an average stock shooter - me.

Just completed all bookings.

Hey, Malta was on my "to visit" list anyway, the weather in June should be fine and istock really made great deals for accommodation (I'm in the "cheap" hotel - and I checked: if you book this via regular channels you nearly pay twice the price).

So I consider this as a great and relatively inexpensive "couple of days off" + having fun with shooting + learning from the "big guys" + having fun with stock-addicted people.

So I'm looking forward to see you there!

Manfred (istock account-> manwolste)
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: leaf on April 24, 2008, 08:39
great.. thanks makes 3 of us from here!
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: faber on April 24, 2008, 09:32
great.. thanks makes 3 of us from here!

So we will be seated at the "non-exclusive-and-non-diamond-pariah" dinner-table.... :D

Just kidding, it sure will be fun there.
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: leaf on June 06, 2008, 04:21
one week to go :)

I am surprised at how many Canadians there are coming!

I will also plan on writing a little day by day blog update here, or somewhere, so hopefully next time others can have an easier decision on whether to come or not.
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: michealo on June 06, 2008, 05:10
Woohoo one to go, and I am going to track all the images I shoot there to see whether events like this make economic sense.
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: leaf on June 06, 2008, 05:11
Woohoo one to go, and I am going to track all the images I shoot there to see whether events like this make economic sense.

exactly ! :)
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: mantonino on June 06, 2008, 08:54
If we'd known about this with time to book it, we 'd have gone.  When the next one comes, unless it's in Seattle or something "boring" to me, I'll be there.  Malta?  DAYUM I missed the good one. lol
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: grp_photo on June 06, 2008, 09:08
Will be interesting how brainwashed you will return ;)

get exclusive!
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14 Virgins and free beer for lifetime
go exclusive!
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paradise is waiting for you
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 ;D

Have a nice journey :)
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: leaf on June 06, 2008, 09:19
I won't give in ;D
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: faber on June 06, 2008, 10:16
mmhhhh........14?......really???  :o
This means that I would have to spend my additional exclusivity royalties on viagra....
 ;D ;D
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: leaf on June 12, 2008, 08:09
So has anyone seen a list of things we should bring (that we might forget)

I guess it is obvious that we need our basic camera equipment but what about stuff like flashes, pocket wizard, reflector etc?
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: faber on June 12, 2008, 10:23
Good question but wrong thread (I guess). Better post this at istock, there are all the experts who run this event.

http://www.istockphoto.com/forum_messages.php?threadid=67469&page=1

I will just bring my very basic stuff.
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: bittersweet on June 12, 2008, 12:09
great.. thanks makes 3 of us from here!
So we will be seated at the "non-exclusive-and-non-diamond-pariah" dinner-table.... :D

Those of you attending with an open mind are going to be blown away by the generosity of the great majority of the attendees. The folks that go to these events are really into the community aspect of istock, not those who are all anal about their "secrets". ;) You will learn SO much and have a blast. iStock does these things right. You are going to have a wonderful time!!!
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: michealo on June 13, 2008, 07:39
Well, I'm bringing my D200, 18-135 mm, my Speedlite SB600 and a tripod, which is heavy but will probably be quite useful. Powerbook, chargers for PB and Camera, USB cable.

The only other lens I have is a 70-200 which probably won't be much use and its heavy so I am leaving it at home.

Anything obvious I'm forgetting?
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: leaf on June 13, 2008, 07:48
leaving a lens home??

I am such a pack rat, i couldn't stand to leave things home that i 'might' want.....

as such, all the lenses are coming - not that there is so many mind you (4 in total).

so yeah, i guess similar to you

Camera, Lenses, computer and card reader, charging cables, back-up drive, .. not sure about a speedlight  though.. perhaps I should, and a couple filters... looking forward to it!
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: leaf on June 13, 2008, 12:08
don't forget things like a cable release if you have one.
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: leaf on June 14, 2008, 03:13
headin' for the plane... see you there.  :)
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: kosmikkreeper on June 14, 2008, 06:35
Well, I'm bringing my D200, 18-135 mm, my Speedlite SB600 and a tripod, which is heavy but will probably be quite useful. Powerbook, chargers for PB and Camera, USB cable.

The only other lens I have is a 70-200 which probably won't be much use and its heavy so I am leaving it at home.

Anything obvious I'm forgetting?

Nooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo! Don't leave your 70-200mm at home! it's an awsome portrait lens! You'll regret it!
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: Nemo1024 on June 14, 2008, 18:04
I've been to a one week holiday on Malta in April and some of the shots are already up in my portfolio. With 15 UL/week my Maltese backlog is close to 6 months worth of images :D

Malta is a photographer's paradise - you can find subjects for every taste. On the other hand it is a very dusty environment, so I would advise against frequent lens changes. I managed with just one lense - Nikon 18-200mm VR 3.5-5.6 and had a set of Kenko extention tubes for macro work. You can get fantastic night shots, so take your tirpod with you (this advice comes in a retrospect - I didn't have mine with me, of which I regret, though VR helpd me out in many places, especially inside churches, palaces and museums, where you can only photograph handheld). Speedlight might come in useful, but I used it as the last resort. Shooting in available light gives much more pleasing images.
As I mentioned before, Malta is dusty, or moe precise, sandy - everything is built from sandstone, so take with your sensor cleaning equipment.

Oh, and I took close to 2000 images, so an external storage is a must. :)

Here is my Maltese LB: http://www.istockphoto.com/file_search.php?action=file&lightboxID=4107940
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: michealo on June 15, 2008, 03:19
Well, I'm bringing my D200, 18-135 mm, my Speedlite SB600 and a tripod, which is heavy but will probably be quite useful. Powerbook, chargers for PB and Camera, USB cable.

The only other lens I have is a 70-200 which probably won't be much use and its heavy so I am leaving it at home.

Anything obvious I'm forgetting?

Nooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo! Don't leave your 70-200mm at home! it's an awsome portrait lens! You'll regret it!

Too late, I'm afraid!
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: michealo on June 23, 2008, 06:10
Just got back last night. And was it undoubtedly worth going, iStock ran a suberb event from beginning to end. The administration and creative teams were excellent, the hosts epitomised hospitable, the participants were friendly and sociable and the location was amazing.



Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: bittersweet on June 23, 2008, 06:35
Excellent!
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: faber on June 24, 2008, 01:32
Just got back last night. And was it undoubtedly worth going, iStock ran a suberb event from beginning to end. The administration and creative teams were excellent, the hosts epitomised hospitable, the participants were friendly and sociable and the location was amazing.
I prefer to agree with Micheál (michealo) instead of adding my bad English here (btw: Micheál, thanks for being my English teacher in Malta! ;)).
Just one more aspect: for a (relative) newbie like me this event was a great opportunity to learn and gain in experience. Definitely worth going there!



Title: best way to see "Ref5resh in Malta" images
Post by: ann on June 24, 2008, 16:20
Visited relatives in Malta decades ago, and would love to see shots taken during the event.  Beyond putting "Malta" in ISP search box, does anyone have suggestion?
thanks - ann 
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: michealo on June 24, 2008, 16:50
I'll post a link to a lightbox when some stuff starts coming online
Title: Re: best way to see "Ref5resh in Malta" images
Post by: bittersweet on June 24, 2008, 17:47
Visited relatives in Malta decades ago, and would love to see shots taken during the event.  Beyond putting "Malta" in ISP search box, does anyone have suggestion?
thanks - ann 

There are some event candids posted in the istock thread, but they always set up an "official" lightbox for shots taken during their 'lypses. There are bound to be many unofficial incarnations as well. ;)
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: ann on June 24, 2008, 22:43
Thank you, michealo and bittersweet!

It was like a trip back to the time of the Knights of Malta when I was there. Still remember Valletta's stairway sidewalks, the forts, the sacrificial caves, the beautiful harbor, and ultimately, the ferry ride to Italy.  (And it just happened to be shortly after I read Thomas Pynchon's "V" which features Valletta prominently. But that's another story, literally.)

Anyway, can't wait to see the photos! smiles - ann
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: leaf on June 25, 2008, 01:51
Yeah, just to chime in with faber and michealo, the event was really great.  TONS of shooting opportunities and helpful and friendly people.  The event was run very smoothly and had lots of varied and interesting shooting locations / ideas.  Nice also to meet some of the istock admins / owners - who are very approachable and friendly types.  I would definitely go to one again. 

It will be interesting to see how the pictures sell....  I don't think i can expect to make a profit on the trip, and i don't think Istock markets it as such either, but it would still be nice of course (and perhaps quite possible) and would obviously make justifying a future trip like this much easier.

It was also great to finally meet a few members from here (faber & michealo)!
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: michealo on June 25, 2008, 03:30
Bittersweet, I know you touched on this before in a thread about the similarity of your username here to that of a certain stock celebrity. Any truth in there?
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: faber on June 25, 2008, 04:25
BTW: leaf, you must have missed this because of your early return flight
-> michealo won the award for being the best rookie in Malta!!

Congrats again michealo, great job, way to go!!
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: leaf on June 25, 2008, 04:36
BTW: leaf, you must have missed this because of your early return flight
-> michealo won the award for being the best rookie in Malta!!

Congrats again michealo, great job, way to go!!

ohh no, i didn't know.  congrats!
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: michealo on June 25, 2008, 06:17
blush, and thanks
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: bittersweet on June 25, 2008, 07:09
Bittersweet, I know you touched on this before in a thread about the similarity of your username here to that of a certain stock celebrity. Any truth in there?

Actually the only suggestions that there was any relation at all came from sources other than me. At the time I thought it was pretty obvious that that wasn't the case, and that denial on my part would only fuel the flames.

What I'm saying is, if Bruce were here, he'd say so.  ;)


And thanks for the report, leaf. I wondered about your thoughts on the event, since you'd been very quiet on the subject since returning. I'm glad to hear you found the trip worthwhile.
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: leaf on June 25, 2008, 07:15
well i'm waiting to see some pictures from you guys, michaelo and faber!!!
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: faber on June 25, 2008, 09:37
well i'm waiting to see some pictures from you guys, michaelo and faber!!!

I'm working day and night on these images.....so don't disrupt me..... :D

Seriously, I already uploaded some images (so far just travel images stuff because we have to wait for the releases). But....may I remind you that I'm not exclusive ;) and so it will take some time until the images are available (let's hope some of them will be accepted by inspectors).

But you can see the first Ref5esh images online by "gioadventures", his first event image is a very nice night shot.
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: faber on July 02, 2008, 05:39
Some photographers are carefully investigating what "micro boys", "idiots", "corporate slaves" like us are doing.....oh boy.... :)

http://www.alamy.com/forums/Default.aspx?g=posts&t=2448

istock, will you please stop organizing events at "holiday destinations", burning all the "photo opportunities" for these poor guys?

These discussions are so weird and illogical. Malta is burned now for photo opportunities? Yeah, it was a well hidden secret before....just 14.121 images at Alamy to compete with. And Alamy claims that  most of travel images sales are RM(L) editorial - no istock competition here.

Obviously microstock-phobia beats logic.
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: leaf on July 02, 2008, 06:02
thanks for the link.  Looks like yet another micro vs macro (or perhaps more correctly put, micro vs alamy :)) heated debate!!...

here is the news story link
http://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20080701/local/photogenic-malta-for-online-archive
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: leaf on July 02, 2008, 06:05
so how is the image editing going by the way?  I uploaded 20 today after we got the releases.. heres hoping they get accepted.
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: faber on July 02, 2008, 06:42
so how is the image editing going by the way?  I uploaded 20 today after we got the releases.. heres hoping they get accepted.

Not too good, my Nikon (or me?) produced quite some back focus junk. But my Canon is back from service now and I'm busy shooting L-editorial for Alamy.

I also consider to grab my Canon and make another trip to Malta later this year (when it's a bit cooler there). I discovered so many nice L-editorial opportunities, maybe it's time to add some more images to the 14.121 at Alamy (no istock exclusivity ref5esh restrictions then for this future trip ...).
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: fotografer on July 02, 2008, 06:45
Wow they sound totally desperate and paranoid.  Jose Elias defended himself extremely well but I'd rather them think that we make a pittance here then less of them will decide to try the micros.

Some photographers are carefully investigating what "micro boys", "idiots", "corporate slaves" like us are doing.....oh boy.... :)

[url]http://www.alamy.com/forums/Default.aspx?g=posts&t=2448[/url]

istock, will you please stop organizing events at "holiday destinations", burning all the "photo opportunities" for these poor guys?

These discussions are so weird and illogical. Malta is burned now for photo opportunities? Yeah, it was a well hidden secret before....just 14.121 images at Alamy to compete with. And Alamy claims that  most of travel images sales are RM(L) editorial - no istock competition here.

Obviously microstock-phobia beats logic.
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: michealo on July 02, 2008, 07:27
Most of my stuff is models, so have some in queue now, I suspect it will be weeks before I get it all uploaded.

My first rather ordinary picture from the trip is here

http://www.istockphoto.com/file_closeup/food-and-drink/alcohol/6494509-grapes-growing-in-vineyard.php?id=6494509 (http://www.istockphoto.com/file_closeup/food-and-drink/alcohol/6494509-grapes-growing-in-vineyard.php?id=6494509)
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: faber on July 08, 2008, 14:38
Funny coincidence - since Malta my istock revenue is going down - and my shutterstock revenue is going up....if the trend continues July will be shutterstock-BME and istock-"worst month of the year".

Yeah, the gods of microstock are unpredictable....maybe I produced some bad karma in Malta.... :D
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: leaf on July 08, 2008, 15:04
mine has stayed about the same...  no malta pics online yet though.  Hopefully soon as they were uploaded a week ago tomorrow.

Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: mantonino on July 08, 2008, 17:01
Would someone who's registered point out to the tools over there that Yuri's #1 image has over 7k DLs?

http://www.istockphoto.com/file_closeup/health-and-beauty/fashion/2100749-businessteam.php?id=2100749

Someone on page 1 said it was 2100 and nobody corrected him.  Uninformed lahoosers.
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: leaf on July 08, 2008, 17:09
Would someone who's registered point out to the tools over there that Yuri's #1 image has over 7k DLs?

[url]http://www.istockphoto.com/file_closeup/health-and-beauty/fashion/2100749-businessteam.php?id=2100749[/url]

Someone on page 1 said it was 2100 and nobody corrected him.  Uninformed lahoosers.


i don't think it is worth the bother to correct them.  They hate microstock.. end of story.  The longer they stay away the better.
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: leaf on July 10, 2008, 02:00
Ok.  finally a few pictures from malta

(http://www1.istockphoto.com/file_thumbview_approve/6563905/2/istockphoto_6563905-shy-female-portrait.jpg) (http://www.istockphoto.com/file_closeup.php?id=6563905)

(http://www1.istockphoto.com/file_thumbview_approve/6563670/2/istockphoto_6563670-happy-bride-in-garden.jpg) (http://www.istockphoto.com/file_closeup.php?id=6563670)

(http://www1.istockphoto.com/file_thumbview_approve/6563659/2/istockphoto_6563659-tired-tourist.jpg) (http://www.istockphoto.com/file_closeup.php?id=6563659)

(http://www1.istockphoto.com/file_thumbview_approve/6563640/2/istockphoto_6563640-happy-bride.jpg) (http://www.istockphoto.com/file_closeup.php?id=6563640)
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: suemack on July 10, 2008, 02:16
Ok.  finally a few pictures from malta

([url]http://www1.istockphoto.com/file_thumbview_approve/6563905/2/istockphoto_6563905-shy-female-portrait.jpg[/url]) ([url]http://www.istockphoto.com/file_closeup.php?id=6563905[/url])

([url]http://www1.istockphoto.com/file_thumbview_approve/6563670/2/istockphoto_6563670-happy-bride-in-garden.jpg[/url]) ([url]http://www.istockphoto.com/file_closeup.php?id=6563670[/url])

([url]http://www1.istockphoto.com/file_thumbview_approve/6563659/2/istockphoto_6563659-tired-tourist.jpg[/url]) ([url]http://www.istockphoto.com/file_closeup.php?id=6563659[/url])

([url]http://www1.istockphoto.com/file_thumbview_approve/6563640/2/istockphoto_6563640-happy-bride.jpg[/url]) ([url]http://www.istockphoto.com/file_closeup.php?id=6563640[/url])


Beautiful shots!!
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: leaf on July 10, 2008, 10:38
Ok.. just thought i woudl give the cost breakdown here.....

My costs for Istock malta Ref5esh   
flight - $455
hotel - $410
istock admission - $342
Food and Fun in malta - $195

Total - US $1403.52

Calculating that each image on istock earns me $10 over it's lifetime, I would need 140 images from this event to break even.  I am hoping these images will sell a lot better than the poor pictures I uploaded 2 years ago to istock... so perhaps I can expect $20/image average or more.

I was thinking to take the best 100 shots from the event, edit those and see how they sell.  I am not yet through the first two days and have over 20 so I don't think it will be a problem at all to find 100 shots.

iStock meant this event primarily to be a 'holiday' with shooting opportunities but I wanted to go as a business trip that was also a holiday.  It will be interesting to see how the images sell and how long it takes to get paid for a couple weeks of 'work' (weeks being 1 week in malta and 1 week editing)

Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: faber on July 10, 2008, 12:33
Leaf: great shots!

Hope they sell well and you can get a lot of return for your $ 1.403,52 investment. Maybe you can keep us updated about your race for "break even", I keep my fingers crossed, good luck/success!
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: leaf on July 10, 2008, 16:36
well no downloads yet, so I have a ways to go :)
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: leaf on July 10, 2008, 17:13
a little more portfolio pimping  :)

The first batch of uploads is now done being reviewed, and the reviewers were kind. 


(http://www1.istockphoto.com/file_thumbview_approve/6563364/2/istockphoto_6563364-priest-giving-a-blessing.jpg) (http://www.istockphoto.com/file_closeup.php?id=6563364)


(http://www1.istockphoto.com/file_thumbview_approve/6563380/2/istockphoto_6563380-lost-tourist.jpg) (http://www.istockphoto.com/file_closeup.php?id=6563380)

(http://www1.istockphoto.com/file_thumbview_approve/6563388/2/istockphoto_6563388-female-portrait.jpg) (http://www.istockphoto.com/file_closeup.php?id=6563388)

(http://www1.istockphoto.com/file_thumbview_approve/6563456/2/istockphoto_6563456-maltese-bride.jpg) (http://www.istockphoto.com/file_closeup.php?id=6563456)

(http://www1.istockphoto.com/file_thumbview_approve/6563467/2/istockphoto_6563467-maltese-bride.jpg) (http://www.istockphoto.com/file_closeup.php?id=6563467)

(http://www1.istockphoto.com/file_thumbview_approve/6563477/2/istockphoto_6563477-priest.jpg) (http://www.istockphoto.com/file_closeup.php?id=6563477)

OK... I'll stop now.
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: vonkara on July 10, 2008, 19:39
Wow and they were standing there letting you take pics of them. What a great event LOL. And how did they do with the releases? They was giving you them at the end?

The discussion on Alamy is very entertaining also. Thanks for linking!
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: leaf on July 11, 2008, 00:56
They sent us the releases after the event.... and lots of them

30 model releases for hired models / actors
30 model releases for a set of guards (these were combined into one)
48 model releases for attending people

a lot of work, and a lot of people that we had a chance to shoot.
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: michealo on July 11, 2008, 14:30
If any one is interested here is a lightbox of my images from Ref5esh - 12 so far

http://www.istockphoto.com/file_search.php?action=file&lightboxID=4379218
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: vonkara on July 11, 2008, 14:57
LOL they was good actors and to pass from sexy to angry to anxious. Do you guys were picking your models and then goes to a special place or they was already in place and waiting the photographers?
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: michealo on July 11, 2008, 15:18
For the lifestyle shoots it would generally be a creative director to help with setup and lights, 3 to 5 photographers and you would wander around the city with the models and find a place you wanted to shoot. It was pretty flexible, limited only by your imagination!
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: vonkara on July 11, 2008, 15:27
For the lifestyle shoots it would generally be a creative director to help with setup and lights, 3 to 5 photographers and you would wander around the city with the models and find a place you wanted to shoot. It was pretty flexible, limited only by your imagination!
Wow I can't imagine. It's like in my dreams LOL
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: faber on July 21, 2008, 10:19
-> michealo
hey, I see first downloads of your Malta images - congrats!!
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: michealo on July 21, 2008, 11:09
Thanks, I am well on the way to covering the cost of the trip ;-)
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: JoanVicent on July 22, 2008, 18:52
Hi Malta friends. Nice to meet you here. I'm still investigating this site, but I like it.

And remember... CISK!!!!
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: leaf on July 24, 2008, 02:32
Hi Malta friends. Nice to meet you here. I'm still investigating this site, but I like it.

And remember... CISK!!!!

welcome here.
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: kparis on July 24, 2008, 08:48
hello everyone :)

cIsk! :P
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: faber on July 24, 2008, 11:03
Hello and welcome JoanVicent and kparis :)

For all of those who wonder about CISK -> http://www.cisklager.com/

Cheers!

Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: JoanVicent on July 25, 2008, 10:55
Thanks for the wellcome! Did you derefreshed well? Uploading a lot of images? Only 5 for me... hehehehe... I think I was too much busy doing other things!!
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: michealo on August 01, 2008, 04:21
So at the end of July I have 38 files online from Ref5esh

My trip cost was €350 flights + €250 event ticket + €200 hotel, these are the incremental costs as I would have to live at home anyway, the dollar equivalent is approximately $1250

I have had 3 sales for a total commission of $2.01

You can see the images here

http://www.istockphoto.com/file_search.php?action=file&lightboxID=4379218
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: michealo on September 01, 2008, 05:45
Now have 95 files online, will probably get to 100 so that will be a production cost of approximately  $12.50

I have had 13 sales for a total commission of $13.60

You can see the images here

http://www.istockphoto.com/file_search.php?action=file&lightboxID=4379218
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: leaf on September 01, 2008, 05:56
only 5 sales and under 50 files online for me so far.

I need to get editing!!  summer holidays and other stock images have unfortunately taken priority... but i am almost caught up now so perhaps I will squish in some more time for istock :)
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: leaf on October 15, 2008, 02:47
well i FINALLY finished editing all the files and ended up with 240 images.  Perhaps I was too liberal in my editing, but I guess I will find out when I see how many get accepted.  240 images = 12 weeks up uploading = 3 months .... ouch!
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: michealo on October 15, 2008, 05:28
111 accepted uploads
25 dls
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: leaf on October 15, 2008, 05:55
you're doing well.  I'm only at 71 files and 13 downloads.
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: faber on October 15, 2008, 06:21
111 accepted uploads
25 dls

Congrats!

My numbers: 26 Uploads, 5 DL (including 3 DL of a Valetta mailslot, my Ref5resh-bestseller ;)), $ 8,30

This amount covers roughly 1,5 packs of Marlboro..... :D
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: leaf on October 15, 2008, 06:45
111 accepted uploads
25 dls

Congrats!

My numbers: 26 Uploads, 5 DL (including 3 DL of a Valetta mailslot, my Ref5resh-bestseller ;)), $ 8,30

This amount covers roughly 1,5 packs of Marlboro..... :D

well you gotta start somewhere.  I think I have covered at least a bottle or two of Ginny or whatever that weird tasting pop was called again!  ;)
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: faber on October 15, 2008, 08:31
leaf, I´m deeply shocked about your ignorance....the name of this world-class product is -> Kinnie http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kinnie. And I really liked it......ok....maybe I´m weird too.. :D
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: leaf on October 15, 2008, 08:45
ahhhh.. yeah.. kinnie  :)  of course.    Well I liked it too, just couldn't remember the name - I was close though!
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: michealo on March 25, 2010, 05:17
Just started using Lookstat recently and out of interest created a collection for my Malta images

$1.25 Avg dl
141 Number of dls
$176.89 grand total

Cost of trip $1250
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: FD on March 25, 2010, 07:34
$1.25 Avg dl
141 Number of dls
$176.89 grand total
Cost of trip $1250
Thanks for that report. Travel for microstock alone is, certainly at current low prices, not a sustainable cost. It can be very viable at marginal cost, when you have to be somewhere for other reasons, and the shots just cost the click and the depreciation of your equipment. My China photos (some editorial on a business trip in factories) are still highly profitable, but I didn't go there for photography.

The Lypses could be profitable for IS exclusives since they have a higher commission than non-exclusives that can't make up on other sites since the shots can only be uploaded to IS. If I would participate in any event, I would prefer the Vegas shoots since you get a proper training there by one of the best, plus you can upload the yield to all sites, and break even faster.

Another idea would be a non-agency bound gathering, for instance in one of the cheaper European countries, where everybody brings his own light (cheap bus lines allow much more weight than planes, some can use their car) and where models and hotels are not expensive. If I remember well, Dolgachov proposed to organize such event a couple of years ago, and also a prominent stock shooter from Belgrade.
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: leaf on March 25, 2010, 11:28
Yeah, being able to upload to multiple sites is a bit of a necessity for non-exclusives.  I had fun at Ref5esh and would probably do it again but have only just recouped my costs.  I spent a total of $1400

From the  images I shot at the ref5esh event I have earned $416 through iStock
I also went a couple days early and took some landscape shots and other malta shots I could sell on all the agencies.  Those images have sold for $110 on Dreamstime which is about 10% of my total income so say around $1000

So after just over a year I have maybe broken even on my direct costs - so not counting equipment, time spent etc.etc.

Compare that to the PhotoPlus GTG shoot (http://www.microstockgroup.com/microstock-gtg/microstockgroup-gtg-shoot-new-york-oct-20-21-2009/) .... GTG used very lightly as I was the only one shooting .. haha - two others did show up to assist though, which was good times, and one more almost showed up :)  .. but anyhow I spent $1300 in model fees plus let's say 50% of my flight and hotel, another $600 - so total of $1900.  With my 10% DT figure again I am a few hundred in the plus, so I have earned around $2200 or so with those images from all the sites.  It probably makes a bit of difference that I was shooting alone as well, but being able to upload the images to 10 sites makes it quite a bit more profitable for non-exclusives.
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: michealo on March 26, 2010, 08:53
Yeah, being able to upload to multiple sites is a bit of a necessity for non-exclusives.  I had fun at Ref5esh and would probably do it again but have only just recouped my costs.  I spent a total of $1400

From the  images I shot at the ref5esh event I have earned $416 through iStock
I also went a couple days early and took some landscape shots and other malta shots I could sell on all the agencies.  Those images have sold for $110 on Dreamstime which is about 10% of my total income so say around $1000

So after just over a year I have maybe broken even on my direct costs - so not counting equipment, time spent etc.etc.

Compare that to the PhotoPlus GTG shoot ([url]http://www.microstockgroup.com/microstock-gtg/microstockgroup-gtg-shoot-new-york-oct-20-21-2009/[/url]) .... GTG used very lightly as I was the only one shooting .. haha - two others did show up to assist though, which was good times, and one more almost showed up :)  .. but anyhow I spent $1300 in model fees plus let's say 50% of my flight and hotel, another $600 - so total of $1900.  With my 10% DT figure again I am a few hundred in the plus, so I have earned around $2200 or so with those images from all the sites.  It probably makes a bit of difference that I was shooting alone as well, but being able to upload the images to 10 sites makes it quite a bit more profitable for non-exclusives.


Nice to know you recouped the cost, it will be interesting to watch how it works out for you over time. :-)
And it was great to meet you there. Are you planning on going to Cannes?
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: leaf on March 27, 2010, 17:07
Yeah, being able to upload to multiple sites is a bit of a necessity for non-exclusives.  I had fun at Ref5esh and would probably do it again but have only just recouped my costs.  I spent a total of $1400

From the  images I shot at the ref5esh event I have earned $416 through iStock
I also went a couple days early and took some landscape shots and other malta shots I could sell on all the agencies.  Those images have sold for $110 on Dreamstime which is about 10% of my total income so say around $1000

So after just over a year I have maybe broken even on my direct costs - so not counting equipment, time spent etc.etc.

Compare that to the PhotoPlus GTG shoot ([url]http://www.microstockgroup.com/microstock-gtg/microstockgroup-gtg-shoot-new-york-oct-20-21-2009/[/url]) .... GTG used very lightly as I was the only one shooting .. haha - two others did show up to assist though, which was good times, and one more almost showed up :)  .. but anyhow I spent $1300 in model fees plus let's say 50% of my flight and hotel, another $600 - so total of $1900.  With my 10% DT figure again I am a few hundred in the plus, so I have earned around $2200 or so with those images from all the sites.  It probably makes a bit of difference that I was shooting alone as well, but being able to upload the images to 10 sites makes it quite a bit more profitable for non-exclusives.


Nice to know you recouped the cost, it will be interesting to watch how it works out for you over time. :-)
And it was great to meet you there. Are you planning on going to Cannes?


Yeah, I just heard about Cannes from Lee.  I don't know how these things pass by me without hearing about them :S  I guess I don't follow the istock forum enough.  So anyhow, yeah, after hearing about it, is is mighty tempting. I would say I am at about 80% confirmed :)  you?
Title: Re: Anyone going to Ref5resh in Malta?
Post by: michealo on March 28, 2010, 05:28
Yeah, being able to upload to multiple sites is a bit of a necessity for non-exclusives.  I had fun at Ref5esh and would probably do it again but have only just recouped my costs.  I spent a total of $1400

From the  images I shot at the ref5esh event I have earned $416 through iStock
I also went a couple days early and took some landscape shots and other malta shots I could sell on all the agencies.  Those images have sold for $110 on Dreamstime which is about 10% of my total income so say around $1000

So after just over a year I have maybe broken even on my direct costs - so not counting equipment, time spent etc.etc.

Compare that to the PhotoPlus GTG shoot ([url]http://www.microstockgroup.com/microstock-gtg/microstockgroup-gtg-shoot-new-york-oct-20-21-2009/[/url]) .... GTG used very lightly as I was the only one shooting .. haha - two others did show up to assist though, which was good times, and one more almost showed up :)  .. but anyhow I spent $1300 in model fees plus let's say 50% of my flight and hotel, another $600 - so total of $1900.  With my 10% DT figure again I am a few hundred in the plus, so I have earned around $2200 or so with those images from all the sites.  It probably makes a bit of difference that I was shooting alone as well, but being able to upload the images to 10 sites makes it quite a bit more profitable for non-exclusives.


Nice to know you recouped the cost, it will be interesting to watch how it works out for you over time. :-)
And it was great to meet you there. Are you planning on going to Cannes?


Yeah, I just heard about Cannes from Lee.  I don't know how these things pass by me without hearing about them :S  I guess I don't follow the istock forum enough.  So anyhow, yeah, after hearing about it, is is mighty tempting. I would say I am at about 80% confirmed :)  you?


Yep I'm going so see you there :-)