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Microstock Photography Forum - General => General Stock Discussion => Topic started by: WarrenPrice on April 13, 2011, 16:53

Title: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: WarrenPrice on April 13, 2011, 16:53: It has gotten very negative and totally depressing in MSG. Look back at all the recent threads; do you see anything good about microstock? About photography in general? I'm having a hard time believing that it is as bad as we seem to make things seem.

I'm starting this thread in hopes that you will think of something positive about your life in photography. I hope I am not the only one enjoying a good run.

Shooting a motocross race this weekend for a major publication. Shutterstock is going great. Dreamstime not quite so great but the RPD is up slightly. iStock has been a major disappointment but ... haven't we beaten that horse to death?

So, how about you?
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: trek on April 13, 2011, 17:20: I love this site. Three cheers for Leaf!
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: donding on April 13, 2011, 17:22: This is what keeps me positive... WATERFALLS ;D I'm going hunting again next week hopefully.

(http://image.shutterstock.com/display_pic_with_logo/70761/70761,1286410857,1/stock-photo-this-waterfall-is-called-dry-falls-and-is-located-in-north-carolina-united-states-of-america-the-62483479.jpg)

(http://image.shutterstock.com/display_pic_with_logo/70761/70761,1266880027,2/stock-photo-the-beauty-of-the-cascading-water-at-hidden-falls-in-east-central-alabama-usa-47272609.jpg)
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on April 13, 2011, 17:23: It's a strain to find something positive about microstock, but about photography in general, I love it when I can go back to a time, place and feeling by looking at a picture I've taken - sort of a poor man's space time machine.

As it's cold and wet and thoroughly icky in Western Washington at the moment, my recent images from the Turks & Caicos are a lovely place to which to be transported :)
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: cathyslife on April 13, 2011, 17:33: Quote from: jsnover on April 13, 2011, 17:23
It's a strain to find something positive about microstock, but about photography in general, I love it when I can go back to a time, place and feeling by looking at a picture I've taken - sort of a poor man's space time machine.

Same here.

But I don't know why people keep saying there are no positive threads when there are. Hint: if it says istock in the title or as a subject, just don't read it. That will take care of all of your negative feelings. ;)
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: sharpshot on April 13, 2011, 17:33: Perhaps the most positive thing for me about microstock is that my earnings have held up quite well, considering that I have either really cut down or stopped uploading to several sites. I have been enjoying building up my video portfolio on Pond5. I particularly enjoy doing time lapses but they aren't selling as well as my conventional clips. I'm having a better year with alamy and starting to increase my portfolio that's not on the micros.

I bought a Pinwide pinhole body cap and have had fun taking pinhole photos again.

(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Fd09x_8k-AM/TaYjygvoNJI/AAAAAAAAAKA/J-dSy0KOfL0/s320/P4080800.jpg)
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: cathyslife on April 13, 2011, 17:35: ^^^that's cool, sharpshot!
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: lisafx on April 13, 2011, 17:36: Well, I just dissolved my corporation, so I can go back to enjoying photography again, instead of spending much of my time on accounting and paperwork. I feel like a huge burden has been lifted from my back!! :)

Got a fun shoot planned for this weekend with an older couple who are very popular sellers and game for anything. Weather is supposed to be great too.

Love your pinhole photo Sharpshot!
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: Xalanx on April 13, 2011, 17:42: Quote from: lisafx on April 13, 2011, 17:36
Well, I just dissolved my corporation, so I can go back to enjoying photography again, instead of spending much of my time on accounting and paperwork. I feel like a huge burden has been lifted from my back!! :)

Got a fun shoot planned for this weekend with an older couple who are very popular sellers and game for anything. Weather is supposed to be great too.

Love your pinhole photo Sharpshot!

Yes, that's the spirit! And it's also the reason for which I'm not gonna turn microstock business into a company for myself, that burden.

ETA (on topic): here's something positive: a proton. :P
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: Blufish on April 13, 2011, 17:42: Thanks Warren. I'm still having fun. Going to take a drive through farm country next week and enjoy the peace with my camera. If I didn't love it, I'd quit. I do love photography, I just forgot for the last 20 years.
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: rubyroo on April 13, 2011, 17:43: I love chocolate!

I agree - great pic Sharpshot, and congrats Lisa in relieving yourself of that burden.

As for me: Shutterstock and DT are doing fantastically well at the moment. A real leap on both agencies.

Spring is here and lots of outdoor shooting awaits.

and...

I don't need a new lens cap! ;D
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: PeterChigmaroff on April 13, 2011, 17:47: ;)
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: madelaide on April 13, 2011, 17:53: I have just had a session playing with my lovebirds. :D
(http://www.mariaadelaidesilva.net/agapornis/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/Br%C3%A1ulio-e-L%C3%A9ia-no-meu-ombro-16-Mar-2011.jpg)
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: klsbear on April 13, 2011, 18:02: I received a very kind and encouraging message from another contributor here at MSG and have had Zero rejections from my last several uploads to multiple sites (knock on wood - I hope I didn't just jinx myself!)
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: Smiling Jack on April 13, 2011, 18:06: Remember "when you are over the hill even a bad day is a good day"

Smiling Jack
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: melastmohican on April 13, 2011, 18:07: I am going to my homeland for two weeks. It's going to be first Easter there in 10 years.
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: cthoman on April 13, 2011, 18:23: Quote from: sharpshot on April 13, 2011, 17:33
Perhaps the most positive thing for me about microstock is that my earnings have held up quite well, considering that I have either really cut down or stopped uploading to several sites.

That's my experience as well. Considering I've eliminated Fotolia and stopped uploading at the other big 4, I'm fairly pleased that my income has remained steady or better than 2010. I may not always be positive, but I still enjoy doing this. I also am optimistic about the future and growing my business. I just consider all the recent changes a delay or rerouting of my plans.
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: pancaketom on April 13, 2011, 18:35: Positive at microstock - I can work when and if I feel like it and I still make money. Granted it isn't a lot, but it still is something. I am sure if I actually worked hard and smart at this I'd make more. Then again, if I wanted a real job I'd probably try to find one. Shutterstock is up this year, that is positive. DT earnings also seems to be recovering from the commission drop a year ago.

here is my latest "entertainment" that involved photography somewhat... a marathon day hike in the Grand Canyon - I even have got some pics to upload out of the deal.

http://www.electricant.net/grundyman/gchike2011.html (http://www.electricant.net/grundyman/gchike2011.html)
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: louoates on April 13, 2011, 18:41: My positive statement: This shot I made this afternoon of my granddaughter.
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: Elenathewise on April 13, 2011, 18:44: Quote from: louoates on April 13, 2011, 18:41
My positive statement: This shot I made this afternoon of my granddaughter.

What a cutie pie!!!
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: Elenathewise on April 13, 2011, 18:50: My positive - income is pretty stable, in spite of me slacking out for the last few months; some up some down but overall numbers are good. Being able to spend time with my teenage daughter is really nice. Shooting whatever comes to mind. Enjoying other people's amazing work. Convincing my partner that I absolutely need that new super expensive wide-angle lens. Having a dedicated studio to hide from my family from. Lots of good stuff actually:)
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: michaeldb on April 13, 2011, 18:54: Good thread IMO Warren. My positive thought: I used to make computer graphics just for fun, now I make money doing it. And a lot of people around the world find my efforts useful. What could be more positive than that?
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: lisafx on April 13, 2011, 18:58: Quote from: pancaketom on April 13, 2011, 18:35

here is my latest "entertainment" that involved photography somewhat... a marathon day hike in the Grand Canyon - I even have got some pics to upload out of the deal.

[url]http://www.electricant.net/grundyman/gchike2011.html[/url] ([url]http://www.electricant.net/grundyman/gchike2011.html[/url])

Oh my! Stunning photos! Looks like you had a perfect, and amazingly clear day. Love the one of you kicking back and enjoying the view :)
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: lisafx on April 13, 2011, 19:00: Quote from: louoates on April 13, 2011, 18:41
My positive statement: This shot I made this afternoon of my granddaughter.

Adorable! Cute as a button! And you can tell she loves her Grandpa. Either that, or she's just laughing at you ;D
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: cathyslife on April 13, 2011, 19:01: Quote from: pancaketom on April 13, 2011, 18:35
Positive at microstock - I can work when and if I feel like it and I still make money. Granted it isn't a lot, but it still is something. I am sure if I actually worked hard and smart at this I'd make more. Then again, if I wanted a real job I'd probably try to find one. Shutterstock is up this year, that is positive. Dreamstime earnings also seems to be recovering from the commission drop a year ago.

here is my latest "entertainment" that involved photography somewhat... a marathon day hike in the Grand Canyon - I even have got some pics to upload out of the deal.

[url]http://www.electricant.net/grundyman/gchike2011.html[/url] ([url]http://www.electricant.net/grundyman/gchike2011.html[/url])

Those are gorgeous photos. I have always wanted to visit the Grand Canyon. Drove through one time, but on a schedule, so couldn't stop. :(
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: donding on April 13, 2011, 19:46: Quote from: pancaketom on April 13, 2011, 18:35
Positive at microstock - I can work when and if I feel like it and I still make money. Granted it isn't a lot, but it still is something. I am sure if I actually worked hard and smart at this I'd make more. Then again, if I wanted a real job I'd probably try to find one. Shutterstock is up this year, that is positive. Dreamstime earnings also seems to be recovering from the commission drop a year ago.

here is my latest "entertainment" that involved photography somewhat... a marathon day hike in the Grand Canyon - I even have got some pics to upload out of the deal.

[url]http://www.electricant.net/grundyman/gchike2011.html[/url] ([url]http://www.electricant.net/grundyman/gchike2011.html[/url])

Those are beautiful...makes me want to go!!
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: madelaide on April 13, 2011, 20:38: Quote from: louoates on April 13, 2011, 18:41
My positive statement: This shot I made this afternoon of my granddaughter.
Oh, so cute, look at those biteable cheecks! ;D
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: Sean Locke Photography on April 13, 2011, 21:02: Quote from: lisafx on April 13, 2011, 17:36
Well, I just dissolved my corporation, so I can go back to enjoying photography again, instead of spending much of my time on accounting and paperwork. I feel like a huge burden has been lifted from my back!! :)

My corporation saved me enough in self-employment taxes to pay off my car. I think I'll keep it :) .

That's positive.
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: steheap on April 13, 2011, 21:12: I've just finished my taxes and find I owe $7000. Must have the wrong sort of corporation! Oops - wrong thread ;D

Steve
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: klsbear on April 13, 2011, 21:15: Quote from: steheap on April 13, 2011, 21:12
I've just finished my taxes and find I owe $7000. Must have the wrong sort of corporation! Oops - wrong thread ;D

Steve

If you owe that much you made even more, so that's a positive thing!
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: skdesigns on April 13, 2011, 21:41: All in all, despite the problems, I'm very glad I jumped in to being a vector contributor. I'm making additional income that is so nice, I can work on images whenever, it's another creative outlet that I especially enjoy, and I've met lots of nice people so far. I've been doing this just over 2 years now - exclusive istockphoto vector contributor. It's been a very good fit for me and an excellent business decision.
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: lola on April 13, 2011, 21:57: I love taking photos - like all of us here. I love climbing into some forsaken place, getting dirty, tripping over roots and stones, and finding a beam of light glowing on a tiny perfect flower in the middle of the chaos. I love that I get to have those moments. I love how photography helps me to see the world in a different way, and how it makes me appreciate the tiniest of things which go unnoticed by others. There is more joy to be found in the world when you really take the time to really SEE it.

I may not have a fancy car or house or job, and much of anything, but I love that a spiky lemon-colored caterpillar crawling on the ground can make my day. It's not easy to get everything you want in life, but it's easy to look around and appreciate what you already have.

(Okay, the above sounded a little preachy - sorry.)

Oh, and if I wasn't at least somewhat positive about micro, the fact that I'm new at this and have made all of $30.00 since I joined in Jan 2010 would have discouraged me to keep at it.

I also "did it my way" and had to answer to NO ONE - which I am loving more and more the more I work for others.
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: lagereek on April 14, 2011, 00:03: Agreeing!

My two Lure-coursing, racing dogs ( >Borzoi-Russian sighthounds) won a big race, 1st and 2nd place and with Certs. Been training them all winter. Im really proud, beats anything right now.

On the Micro front; SS, DT and FT, going great, up with at least 20%

Here are some pics of two of my doggies.(http://)
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: BaldricksTrousers on April 14, 2011, 00:14: Quote from: Smiling Jack on April 13, 2011, 18:06
Remember "when you are over the hill even a bad day is a good day"

Smiling Jack

That's odd, what I've found is that being over the hill has simply made life's gradient so much easier to travel on. :)
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: microstockphoto.co.uk on April 14, 2011, 01:02: I spent some time away from microstock, doing my own website, here it is:
http://www.thenewbrutalism.co.uk (http://www.thenewbrutalism.co.uk)
(many more pictures to add)

The positive thing is that nobody wants photos of British New Brutalist architecture anyway, so I don't even bother with watermarks, nor I care if they steal my pictures. And I don't care if people don't like horizontal scrolling. And I don't care if others use fancy tools, I made it with notepad. It's just my gallery. Promoting this much underestimated moment in modern architecture - under constant threat of demolition - is my mission, and an excuse for more travels.
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: Microstock Posts on April 14, 2011, 01:07: England will win the next world cup. Oh, that's optimistic, you want positive, um..England won the world cup in 1966.

Now for something positive on microstock

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SLzDonjglY0[/youtube]
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: lagereek on April 14, 2011, 07:52: Quote from: Komar on April 14, 2011, 01:07
England will win the next world cup. Oh, that's optimistic, you want positive, um..England won the world cup in 1966.

Now for something positive on microstock

[youtube][url]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SLzDonjglY0[/url][/youtube]

Brillant! its a model, right?
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: LSD72 on April 14, 2011, 08:24: Positive side... my family is still doing good. My Daughter is learning things fairly quickly. She was learning about Dandelions yesterday. Link to pic:

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5141/5618617995_9eddc0fddb_b.jpg (http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5141/5618617995_9eddc0fddb_b.jpg)
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: Blufish on April 14, 2011, 08:59: I love these threads. Lager, I'm in love with your dogs! Chubby cheek babies are very squishable and ^We all spin our wheels and sometimes, once in a while get somewhere.

I love getting to know little things about the people here. Although, most of us will never meet, it definitely satisfies my water cooler needs!
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: WarrenPrice on April 14, 2011, 09:16: UHmmm. I feel good.....
Like I knew I would...
;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: Blufish on April 14, 2011, 09:20: Nana nana na! So good! So good! I got you!
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: Microstock Posts on April 14, 2011, 10:43: Quote from: lagereek on April 14, 2011, 07:52
Quote from: Komar on April 14, 2011, 01:07
England will win the next world cup. Oh, that's optimistic, you want positive, um..England won the world cup in 1966.

Now for something positive on microstock

[youtube][url]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SLzDonjglY0[/url][/youtube]

Brillant! its a model, right?

Yes, I think it's a model. I had a little search on youtube trying to find something positive on microstock , this made me smile, so I guess that is positive.
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: luissantos84 on April 14, 2011, 10:54: I wake up today at 3pm :)
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: Microstock Posts on April 14, 2011, 10:56: Quote from: luissantos84 on April 14, 2011, 10:54
I wake up today at 3pm :)

..and so does Kelly.
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: luissantos84 on April 14, 2011, 11:00: ;D ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: leaf on April 14, 2011, 11:04: my positive 2 cents about istock is that their site is the fastest to load of any. In the morning I click on a folder in firefox which opens 15 webpages. iStock is always the first page to finish loading.
Title: Featured on two sites this week
Post by: chrisroll on April 14, 2011, 11:26: I realized this morning that one of my image was on the banner of Cutcaster (vintage picture of a young child in nature) and another one on Shutterstock (abstract 3d background with reflective black blocks) :D
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: kjorgen on April 14, 2011, 11:49: I love the fact that people actually want to buy my pictures ;D
I also love that I don't have to work full time - because I'm making money on my hobby as well ;D
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: Microstock Posts on April 14, 2011, 12:05: Quote from: kjorgen on April 14, 2011, 11:49
I love the fact that people actually want to buy my pictures ;D
I also love that I don't have to work full time - because I'm making money on my hobby as well ;D

Well money doesn't make me happy. ;)
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: donding on April 14, 2011, 12:37: Quote from: LSD72 on April 14, 2011, 08:24
Positive side... my family is still doing good. My Daughter is learning things fairly quickly. She was learning about Dandelions yesterday. Link to pic:

[url]http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5141/5618617995_9eddc0fddb_b.jpg[/url] ([url]http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5141/5618617995_9eddc0fddb_b.jpg[/url])

I love it...she is so cute and imagine what was going through her mind.. ;)
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: corareed on April 14, 2011, 13:18: My positive thought: I love my job!
:D
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: visceralimage on April 14, 2011, 13:23: I love being back in USA (after 9 months in Siberia); I feel like a reptile in the heat here in Florida (not sure how long I can last here; from -20 to 90 degrees, a 110 degree change). Have been working full-time getting my studio setup-that has been fun (with no money-it is fun to figure out how to make light stands from buckets of concrete, reflector stands from 1/2's, etc. Will be ready to shoot by this weekend.

I have also started a new book; illustrated bad jokes. I got the idea here on MSG when we were discussing doing similar shots to Yuri (girl with scale) in the Weird Al Yankovich style. Here is one of the planned shots: Harley bike in the background parallel to background; bald harley dude with tats leaning against seat facing camera-wearing black leather: all out of focus. In foreground, cute girl in french maid outfit (mini-skirt type) bending over while changing the bag of a vacuum cleaner. Harley dude looking at girl.
This part of joke on the top of the photo: "What is the difference between a Harley and a Vacuum Cleaner"
Punch line on the bottom: "Location of the dirt bag"

My apologies to folks that love Harleys, I believe we can all laugh at ourselves. There always seems to be a thread of truth in bad jokes, it is part of what makes them believable.
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: lagereek on April 14, 2011, 13:49: Quote from: corareed on April 14, 2011, 13:18
My positive thought: I love my job!
:D

Sounds good! maybe I should join your site, all others seam to hate their job, well at least one major site.
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: ProArtwork on April 14, 2011, 13:50: Positive for me is I will be going to Sandals Emerald Bay this coming saturday for a week. :)
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: Anyka on April 14, 2011, 14:22: The Easter holidays are coming - 5 days off!
We're planning a shoot with 5 models for Christmas images, so I'm decorating the Christmas tree on Good Friday :D
So I'll be the only one who can say Merry Christmas and Happy Easter on the same weekend!
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: lisafx on April 14, 2011, 14:54: Quote from: sjlocke on April 13, 2011, 21:02
Quote from: lisafx on April 13, 2011, 17:36
Well, I just dissolved my corporation, so I can go back to enjoying photography again, instead of spending much of my time on accounting and paperwork. I feel like a huge burden has been lifted from my back!! :)

My corporation saved me enough in self-employment taxes to pay off my car. I think I'll keep it :) .

Probably in your income bracket it makes a much larger difference than it did in mine. After paying off the accountant, the state employment taxes, state use taxes, etc. the savings was less than 5k. It cost me WAY more than 5K in aggravation.

Not to mention I can't even get my refund because the micros 1099d me on my personal Social Security (darn thing keeps changing S S to Shutterstock)# and I claimed the money on my S corp. Now the IRS sends me a letter telling me they have to "look closer" at my returns. In 45 days I will learn whether I am being audited or get my refund. And since I already bought a new car with the (anticipated, but not received) refund, you can imagine how delighted I am.

Last straw. Camel lying dead on the ground..... :P

Ooops - this is the happy thread.

I'm still REALLY happy that I will be un-incorporated! 8)
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: lagereek on April 14, 2011, 14:58: Quote from: lisafx on April 14, 2011, 14:54
Quote from: sjlocke on April 13, 2011, 21:02
Quote from: lisafx on April 13, 2011, 17:36
Well, I just dissolved my corporation, so I can go back to enjoying photography again, instead of spending much of my time on accounting and paperwork. I feel like a huge burden has been lifted from my back!! :)

My corporation saved me enough in self-employment taxes to pay off my car. I think I'll keep it :) .

Probably in your income bracket it makes a much larger difference than it did in mine. After paying off the accountant, the state employment taxes, state use taxes, etc. the savings was less than 5k. It cost me WAY more than 5K in aggravation.

Not to mention I can't even get my refund because the micros 1099d me on my personal Shutterstock number and I claimed the money on my S corp. Now the IRS sends me a letter telling me they have to "look closer" at my returns. In 45 days I will learn whether I am being audited or get my refund. And since I already bought a new car with the (anticipated, but not received) refund, you can imagine how delighted I am.

Last straw. Camel lying dead on the ground..... :'(

Bloody hell! sounds as if youre having a ball of a time.

best.
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: leaf on April 14, 2011, 15:54: Quote from: lisafx on April 14, 2011, 14:54
Quote from: sjlocke on April 13, 2011, 21:02
Quote from: lisafx on April 13, 2011, 17:36
Well, I just dissolved my corporation, so I can go back to enjoying photography again, instead of spending much of my time on accounting and paperwork. I feel like a huge burden has been lifted from my back!! :)

My corporation saved me enough in self-employment taxes to pay off my car. I think I'll keep it :) .

Probably in your income bracket it makes a much larger difference than it did in mine. After paying off the accountant, the state employment taxes, state use taxes, etc. the savings was less than 5k. It cost me WAY more than 5K in aggravation.

Not to mention I can't even get my refund because the micros 1099d me on my personal Social Security (darn thing keeps changing S S to Shutterstock)# and I claimed the money on my S corp. Now the IRS sends me a letter telling me they have to "look closer" at my returns. In 45 days I will learn whether I am being audited or get my refund. And since I already bought a new car with the (anticipated, but not received) refund, you can imagine how delighted I am.

Last straw. Camel lying dead on the ground..... :P

Ooops - this is the happy thread.

I'm still REALLY happy that I will be un-incorporated! 8)

thanks for the back story. I was going to ask why you dissolved it as I am starting to think that becoming a corp. would be a smart business choice. So far I am still just a sole propieter.
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: WarrenPrice on April 14, 2011, 16:54: http://www.wikihow.com/Spread-Laughter (http://www.wikihow.com/Spread-Laughter)

LOL LOL LOL
:o ;D
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: cathyslife on April 14, 2011, 16:59: Quote from: lisafx on April 14, 2011, 14:54
Quote from: sjlocke on April 13, 2011, 21:02
Quote from: lisafx on April 13, 2011, 17:36
Well, I just dissolved my corporation, so I can go back to enjoying photography again, instead of spending much of my time on accounting and paperwork. I feel like a huge burden has been lifted from my back!! :)

My corporation saved me enough in self-employment taxes to pay off my car. I think I'll keep it :) .

Probably in your income bracket it makes a much larger difference than it did in mine. After paying off the accountant, the state employment taxes, state use taxes, etc. the savings was less than 5k. It cost me WAY more than 5K in aggravation.

Not to mention I can't even get my refund because the micros 1099d me on my personal Social Security (darn thing keeps changing S S to Shutterstock)# and I claimed the money on my S corp. Now the IRS sends me a letter telling me they have to "look closer" at my returns. In 45 days I will learn whether I am being audited or get my refund. And since I already bought a new car with the (anticipated, but not received) refund, you can imagine how delighted I am.

Last straw. Camel lying dead on the ground..... :P

Ooops - this is the happy thread.

I'm still REALLY happy that I will be un-incorporated! 8)

Oh no, what a pain! Didn't your mother teach you never to count your chickens before they hatch? :D

Glad you are happily soon-to-be unincorporated. :)
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: Phil on April 14, 2011, 17:10: Quote from: luissantos84 on April 14, 2011, 10:54
I wake up today at 3pm :)

so do my kids on school holidays :) - Yes I did lots of study today - yeah right

picked the moment and my boss agreed to send me to a conference I want to go. I dont think he's realised but that will be 3 for the year :)
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: luissantos84 on April 14, 2011, 17:12: Quote from: Phil on April 14, 2011, 17:10
Quote from: luissantos84 on April 14, 2011, 10:54
I wake up today at 3pm :)

so do my kids on school holidays :) - Yes I did lots of study today - yeah right

picked the moment and my boss agreed to send me to a conference I want to go. I dont think he's realised but that will be 3 for the year :)

I am a grown up kid with 27 :)
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: Phil on April 14, 2011, 17:14: Quote from: louoates on April 13, 2011, 18:41
My positive statement: This shot I made this afternoon of my granddaughter.

so cute :)
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: Phil on April 14, 2011, 17:18: Quote from: lola on April 13, 2011, 21:57
I love taking photos - like all of us here. I love climbing into some forsaken place, getting dirty, tripping over roots and stones, and finding a beam of light glowing on a tiny perfect flower in the middle of the chaos. I love that I get to have those moments. I love how photography helps me to see the world in a different way, and how it makes me appreciate the tiniest of things which go unnoticed by others. There is more joy to be found in the world when you really take the time to really SEE it.

I may not have a fancy car or house or job, and much of anything, but I love that a spiky lemon-colored caterpillar crawling on the ground can make my day. It's not easy to get everything you want in life, but it's easy to look around and appreciate what you already have.

(Okay, the above sounded a little preachy - sorry.)

Oh, and if I wasn't at least somewhat positive about micro, the fact that I'm new at this and have made all of $30.00 since I joined in Jan 2010 would have discouraged me to keep at it.

I also "did it my way" and had to answer to NO ONE - which I am loving more and more the more I work for others.

tiny dwarf green frog on one of my rose bushes this morning, its only 8am but certainly made my day

reading this thread has also made me feel good :)
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: Jonathan Ross on April 14, 2011, 17:39: Hi All,

This is my kind of post positive stuff gotta love it. The inspiration that we can all share to help keep our chins high on those sour days. I am loving my work more than I ever have. Passive income is strong I have had a huge learning curve starting a new stock agency that is now poised to really produce income. I got to sit with one of my biggest inspirations in photography Phil Borges at his house and look at his newest book on Tibet even before it hit the presses, I was in awe. It is moments like that where I step back and say " is this job real or just some wonderful dream ".
There have been some moments of struggle but it is those moments that make the victories even sweeter. Every one of my days as a photographer even the worst, beats any day driving a fork lift or climbing telephone poles ( both past professions of mine ) Here is to the camera, my best friend just like a good dog always there for you and just wants to go out and play ;)

Cheers,
Jonathan
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: epantha on April 14, 2011, 19:13: My new favorite thing to do is watch Eagle cams ;D

http://www.ustream.tv/decoraheagles (http://www.ustream.tv/decoraheagles)
(This pair has three eaglets)

I'm very happy that despite the cuts at IS . . . SS, DS and FT have picked up the slack, and my earnings are still increasing after three years. I'm also glad that I have a good full time job so I don't have to worry about how much I make on the photos. I LOVE spring so much watching the leaves come out on the trees and new flowers coming up every week. I never get over how beautiful nature is. :)
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: Pixart on April 14, 2011, 19:46: After a long and brutal winter, spring is here. I live on a (little) lake and the geese have been back for about three weeks, but today when I went outside there was a duck out there somewhere chatting away. The relentless Quack Quack Quack Quack Quack Quack Quack Quack Quack made me smile. When I was a kid my dad would sometimes accidentally kill a nesting duck or pheasant with his big farm machinery and he would bring home the orphan nest. We would rig them up in a box with a heat lamp, I'd turn them a few times a day and often hold them to my ear to listen for evidence of life. A taptaptap is such an exciting sound! A pheasant won't fall in love with you the way a duck will. If you are there the moment they hatch, it is love at first sight. One duck in particular loved me soooooo much. He would follow me around everywhere chirp chirp chirping. I think I was about 6, and would have to go to school and it would follow me out the lane and my mother was flabbergasted when every day it knew what time the schoolbus was due to arrive home and it would head out to the road to wait for me. When fall came around I was really stressed out about migration and my brother offered to clip his wings, but when I realized what that involved I decided he could fly south for the winter. 3 summers that bird came back to the pond out by the barn. Was never entirely tame again though. My first true love.

His name was Homer. Yes I thought about him a lot when the Simpsons came to tv as well.
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: Blufish on April 14, 2011, 20:08: What a wonderful story. I had a duck too. An orphan from a storm. ^We lived in an apartment so after a couple of months ^We found a farm with a lake to take him. Quackers. Thanks for the reminder.
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: WarrenPrice on April 14, 2011, 20:16: I too enjoyed that story. I also live on a lake. Ducks are here year round. In summer, they come into the backyard because they know we will feed them. This morning, I discovered that they have a nest in one of Jane's (wife) flower beds.

Oh... mallards.
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: Jonathan Ross on April 15, 2011, 01:51: Hi Pixart,

That is such an incredible story, a short novel in the making. Thank you so much for sharing that is the best thing I have ever read on any forum.

Best,
Jonathan
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: Phil on April 15, 2011, 05:17: brilliant pixxart

even beats 3/4 through rtjhe bottle of vodka watching rocky horror with my middle 2 kids *(there 1st tiome seeinhg it) :):):)
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: Mellimage on April 15, 2011, 08:48: I just sold my 1000th image on Dreamstime. It is an image from my playful concepts series that I had shot last weekend and approved this week.
(https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/217105_10150263195572907_737952906_9355466_2784333_n.jpg) (http://mellimage.blogspot.com/)
My laptop broke a few weeks ago, but now I have a new one, all set up for new work - just in time for new spring images to be shot and posted.
(https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/206365_10150261460452907_737952906_9341023_7560799_n.jpg) (http://mellimage.blogspot.com/2011/04/daily-mel-field-of-snowdrops-leipzig.html)

And in unrelated news: I just received an academic award. :)
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: Pheby on April 15, 2011, 09:48: Quote from: Mellimage on April 15, 2011, 08:48

And in unrelated news: I just received an academic award. :)

Hey, congratulations! I read somewhere (probably here) that you were concentrating on that last year. I'm still trying to complete mine.
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: Mellimage on April 15, 2011, 09:53: yeah, still trying to complete my project - the award shall help covering costs involved. :)
So thanks and good luck to you too!
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: Pheby on April 15, 2011, 10:04: Thanks!

ETA: That actually reminded me of one of the most positive things that ever happened to me: I'm actually "funding" my PhD solely with my microstock earnings. And I have a higher income and much more freedom than PhD students holding a position at University.
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: Mellimage on April 15, 2011, 10:16: no surprise with such mouthwatering gorgeous images!!
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: Pheby on April 15, 2011, 10:23: ooops! Thank you very much!
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: Pixart on April 15, 2011, 11:27: Quote from: Jonathan Ross on April 15, 2011, 01:51
Hi Pixart,

That is such an incredible story, a short novel in the making. Thank you so much for sharing that is the best thing I have ever read on any forum.

Best,
Jonathan

Thanks. He was the bestest duck ever... they say you never forget your first true love :)
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: lisafx on April 15, 2011, 12:07: Really enjoyed your duck story Lorraine! Very very sweet :)

Congrats Mell on your award and your 1k photo sold at DT!

Warren, so glad you started this thread! I am really enjoying reading it.
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: Mellimage on April 15, 2011, 14:53: thanx Lisa. :)
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: lola on April 15, 2011, 17:11: Pixart - wonderful, and meaningful story! :D I don't know if I could have let him/her go - that took a lot of maturity on your part - it must have been very difficult. How did you know it was YOUR duck when he/she returned - was it more friendly? That first realization that that was your duck, back at your house, must have been the most amazing thing!
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: jm on April 15, 2011, 17:22: Positive is that I have bought another camera - Lumix LX5 today so I can have camera with me all the time. I can't wait to try it outside.
Even more positive is that my (almost) wife didn't kill me.
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: donding on April 15, 2011, 17:38: Warren...this is the best thread on here and I find my self ignoring the rest and only coming here....Thanks for doing this. It sure helps to put a smile on all out faces.... ;D
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: WarrenPrice on April 15, 2011, 19:49: Quote from: donding on April 15, 2011, 17:38
Warren...this is the best thread on here and I find my self ignoring the rest and only coming here....Thanks for doing this. It sure helps to put a smile on all out faces.... ;D

Thanks. I'm flushed with joy. LOL
Also, just arrived in Jefferson to meet with the boss and shoot a feature for a motocross magazine.
And, all the way at the bottom of this column:
http://www.racerxonline.com/2011/04/15/racerhead-15 (http://www.racerxonline.com/2011/04/15/racerhead-15)
is another reason to smile; a 30 year old image that just keeps on selling. ;D

And the beat goes oooonnnnn. 8)
PS: Cutcaster made $55 for me last night while I was sleeping.
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: Jonathan Ross on April 16, 2011, 17:22: Kudos Warren ;)

Best,
J
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: thesentinel on April 17, 2011, 03:54: I've not being doing much stock for the past year or so whilst I'd devoted my 'spare' time to the rock band I sort of manage ( Pallas ) when we'd been recording and designing the stuff for the new album which was released earlier in the year. Now we're gigging again and just spent a quick 2 days in Germany and The Netherlands.

It was a fun thing to find Lisa's work advertising a Seniors Dance Cafe at the old industrial buildings converted into a cultural centre at the Zeche Carl venue in we played at in Essen.

Being in the stock community, even with all our differences and sometimes heated debate we are lucky to be united by the constant possibility of seeing our work in action almost anywhere in the world.

And, to use a word I seldom do, that's pretty awesome.

Here's a montage of that weird juxtaposition, and having some non stock fun with my cameras and lenses including the miraculously insane and cheap Samyang 8 mm and the quick and easy, but non stock quality in-built sweep panorama in the Sony A55 !

(http://www.pallasxxv.com/montage.jpg)
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: Karimala on April 17, 2011, 04:57: Quote from: louoates on April 13, 2011, 18:41
My positive statement: This shot I made this afternoon of my granddaughter.

I may be having a bad day, but Lou's granddaughter sure makes up for it. She's incredible! :D
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: raclro on April 17, 2011, 08:19: All is not well, but it is way better than my wildest dreams a few years ago when starting out. People actually pay real money for my photos? You are kidding, right?
Now back to learning how to use my new tilt/shift lens (courtesy of iStock). That's positive, (perspective), get it?
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: lisafx on April 17, 2011, 16:46: How cool is that?!! Sentinel, your band's stage setup looks great. Would love to hear them. Do you have a youtube video up, or are the available on itunes?

So strange to see those cute seniors ballroom dancing in that atmosphere! :D

Thanks very much for posting, and for the clever montage!

BTW, the pics from the Samyang look great.
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: Stu99 on April 17, 2011, 18:27: My positive action of the day was making it in and out of B&H Photo this morning having only spent $200! Oh boy that place is a dangerous when you are carrying credit cards. On a side note it was an extremely busy day for them as they will be closed for Passover, they coped admirably! Well done B&H!!
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: madelaide on April 17, 2011, 19:07: I don't get tired of photographing my lovebirds. ;D

(http://www.mariaadelaidesilva.net/agapornis/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/Edwiges-42-meses-16-Abr-2011.jpg)
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: WarrenPrice on April 17, 2011, 23:51: Just back from the Vintage Motocross in Jefferson. I started to insert a picture from my hard drive but not so sure that can be done?

Had great time, visited with guys I haven't seen in 28 years, and even got paid for having so much fun.

Life is GREAT. ;D
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: Phil on April 18, 2011, 00:37: Quote from: madelaide on April 17, 2011, 19:07
I don't get tired of photographing my lovebirds. ;D

([url]http://www.mariaadelaidesilva.net/agapornis/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/Edwiges-42-meses-16-Abr-2011.jpg[/url])

they are great, how many do you have?
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: Red Dove on April 18, 2011, 02:53: Manchester City beat Manchester United 1-0 in the FA Cup Semi-Final. Get in.
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: lagereek on April 18, 2011, 03:44: Quote from: Red Dove on April 18, 2011, 02:53
Manchester City beat Manchester United 1-0 in the FA Cup Semi-Final. Get in.

AND yore telling me this when Im an ARSENAL supporter!!!!! sigh!
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: Microstock Posts on April 18, 2011, 04:50: Quote from: lagereek on April 18, 2011, 03:44
Quote from: Red Dove on April 18, 2011, 02:53
Manchester City beat Manchester United 1-0 in the FA Cup Semi-Final. Get in.

AND yore telling me this when Im an ARSENAL supporter!!!!! sigh!

haha, I'm a Liverpool supporter, but when they played Arsenal last night, I was supporting Arsenal. I think you know the reason why. I couldn't believe we got a penalty in the last second and a large part of me wanted Kuyt to miss, but he scored. Sorry about that.
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: lagereek on April 18, 2011, 05:42: Quote from: Komar on April 18, 2011, 04:50
Quote from: lagereek on April 18, 2011, 03:44
Quote from: Red Dove on April 18, 2011, 02:53
Manchester City beat Manchester United 1-0 in the FA Cup Semi-Final. Get in.

AND yore telling me this when Im an ARSENAL supporter!!!!! sigh!

haha, I'm a Liverpool supporter, but when they played Arsenal last night, I was supporting Arsenal. I think you know the reason why. I couldn't believe we got a penalty in the last second and a large part of me wanted Kuyt to miss, but he scored. Sorry about that.

Yeah! God * it !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: lagereek on April 18, 2011, 07:57: All my rotten words are edited away, arent we allowed to use foul language anymore? or shall I try another language, Swedish perhaps?
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: Jonathan Ross on April 18, 2011, 10:50: Hi Reddove,

You just made my day even better ;D

Cheers,
Jonathan
An Arsenal Fan
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: WarrenPrice on April 20, 2011, 10:40: Oh Happy Days. Just back from my favorite sporting event ... Vintage Racing. I spent the entire weekend sniffing gas fumes and loving it.
"Don't you just love the smell of Napalm in the morning," Apocalypse Now!
For me, it is the odor of 2-stroke engine exhaust and that heavenly pre-mix.

Here's a link to my blog article on the race.
http://www.warrenpricephotography.com/2011/04/19/vintage-motocrossa-weekend-at-the-races/ (http://www.warrenpricephotography.com/2011/04/19/vintage-motocrossa-weekend-at-the-races/)

Honest ... it is NOT spam. Just sharing the joy of being around motorcycles. It's my Passion. ;D
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: lagereek on April 20, 2011, 11:10: My horses are dead, crashed with a truck Ive got uploaded on IS, there was a plane crash nearby, an earthquake in the village to the right and would you believe a killer-pike nicked a baby this morning, all in all a very positive day.
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: madelaide on April 20, 2011, 14:58: Something positive? I'm at the bus going home right now, looking forward to the Easter holiday ahead. And a two-week vacation coming in one month. :D
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: RacePhoto on April 21, 2011, 01:20: Ditto on the thanks for Leaf and MSG.

Otherwise, racing starts in one week. The van/camper has a flat over the Winter, not bad, the mechanic is picking it up next week and it will be checked out for the season. The car now runs without changing spark plugs every other day. (that's been since Nov. so also good news)

I took a 10 day break from the BB and the negativity and I feel refreshed.

I took hundreds of photos and not one had Microstock as the intended destination. If something happens, that's good, if not, I had a good time doing what I love and enjoy, capturing images, making photos. Yeah Baby! I shoot for myself not for some reviewer, agency suit, or potential buyer and I think I can recover from the Microstock addiction.

(http://img835.imageshack.us/img835/9260/birthdaycakeweb.jpg)

Not Suitable for Stock. But suitable for memories and friends.
Title: Re: Say something Positive Thread
Post by: Slovenian on April 21, 2011, 02:42: I'm going to have my second consecutive BME on SS and perhaps on IS as well (don't post to other sites, except for just starting to build my port at Alamy). My acceptance ratio is almost 100%. After that being said I just started 11 months ago, so I guess it's normal to have a BME from time to time. Earnings are not quite what I aimed for, but still I'm not far off my first target and I'm really enjoying having sessions and usually retouching photos while listening to good music as well.