Author Topic: getting accepted to istock (Read 9695 times)

beison · « **on:** September 02, 2009, 15:54 »

Hey guys,

I'm trying to get accepted to Istock. I haven't applied yet, but I hear they're pretty tough with approving images. I was hoping you might be able to give me some suggestions as to whether the 3 I chose to use might have a chance to be approved or not. I know the shots are too small to notice noise or artifacts or perfect focus, so I'm more asking advice on the composition/aesthetic quality of the shots.

Thanks for any advice you got!

gostwyck · « **Reply #1 on:** September 02, 2009, 16:04 »

I'd expect the flag to be rejected due to the blown out sun and lens flares __ they don't usually like those. The violin looks fine although not the most interesting comp/crop. The railway track looks OK too but again might be considered unadventurous in the comp. I can see it being useful as an 'end of the line' concept though.

I might be being too harsh as I've been submitting there for nearly 5 years and I don't really know the standard they require from new photographers nowadays. I'd say you must have a very good chance if you choose the right files. Don't even think about submitting anything with lens flares though.

beison · « **Reply #2 on:** September 02, 2009, 16:09 »

sounds good. thanks for the info on lens flair.

for a replacement of that one then, what about these two...

goldenangel · « **Reply #3 on:** September 02, 2009, 16:11 »

I agree with gostwyck's review. I would try with at least one image with a model. I thinki it would be the best to get someone to post the candidate pictures on IS forum for some comments. After you get positive comments on at least 3 pictures, use them to apply. That helped me, at least.

a.k.a.-tom · « **Reply #4 on:** September 02, 2009, 16:13 »

Hey, welcome to the gang beison!!

Nice images... I'm sure you will get tons of response to your question... from my standpoint... they look find on my screen.... [ modified: I have to agree with the others on that lens flare...possible rejection]
all the agencies are different in what they are looking for, what will catch their attention with new apps. The key, as you seem to know, is technical perfection.
istock is big on artifacting/noise.... (i know, they just shot down 6 of mine this week and I've been with them for years).
and like any other agency, it depends which way the wind is blowing on any given day as to if an image is accepted or not.
the key is... dont give up. I was fortunate to get into IS on the first shot, purely luck of the draw.... obviously as even now they shoot me down on some in every batch. LOL

[the following is just a joke based on my last batch uploaded to IS] However they may ask for a property release on that flag, even if you have your own personal sovereign state, it looks too much like an american flag.... and the violin, did you make it, you may have to send in a property release, and of course, i am betting you dont own that railroad?!?..... [again, just a joke based on my experience with my last batch of rejects.... some of the old timers wouldnt believe what they wanted a property release on... LOL. it's gettting sillier and sillier by the day.... ]

Key to survive in this biz? Dont take rejection personal. I've always said, photos are like nachos... you can always go out and make more.

Welcome again and wishing you success with IS.

=tom

lisafx · « **Reply #5 on:** September 02, 2009, 16:23 »

Great advice above! Particularly about taking the prospective pictures to the istock critique forum.

In addition to the lens flare on the flag picture, I think the railroad tracks will not be likely to pass. I don't see any stock value in that one. Maybe keep the violin and the lovely cityscapes you posted.

You have a great eye for composition and your images are contrasty and colorful, which is popular in stock, so you have great potential

Also, take Tom's advice about not giving up to heart. Many of us tried multiple times to get accepted. I got in on my third try, and that was in 2005 when it was easier. I am very glad I stuck with it!