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There have been a number of great discussions and blog posts lately around stock photography and microstock. There’s a mix of doom and gloom and optimism, but the final verdict is that there’s still a solid opportunity in stock, but that photographers will need to adapt and get smarter and more efficient about their work. There is more competition and more opportunity than ever. I think these statements apply across both macro & micro stock.

Make sure to read the comments on the posts – there are a ton of them and represent a diverse spectrum of opinions.

Ellen Boughn (@ellenboughn) – Success for Stock Photographers
“The vote is in. Based on the many comments on Shannon Fagan’s guest post made by stock industry leaders and photographers, the majority do not believe that the stock business is dead, perhaps sleeping but far from a vegetative state. Millions of dollars are still being generated by the photography licensing business in all models even though to the individuals whose income has decreased by up to 50% it doesn’t seem so. The best time to review the tried and true is when you are searching for the new. Here’s a quick recap of some best practices in stock photography.”

Jack Hollingsworth (@photojack) – I am Stock
“What [does it take] to make money in stock today? It’s deceptively simple. Many will confess. Few will embrace. Raise your game. Pace yourself. Think concepts, not subjects. Stop imitating, start inventing. Research before exposure. Storytell. Learn video. Play to your strengths. Sell direct and through distribution. Be frugal and thrifty in your spending. Focus on diversity. Test the micro waters. Balance speed, volume, yield. Pay attention to RPIs. Think world. Shoot your passions. Have fun.”

Shannon Fagan (@shannonfagan) – What’s your position on Global Positioning? (guest post on Ellen Boughn’s Blog)
“And now I’ll argue, why purchase exclusive RM rights for your client, when the licensing crowd at large is perfectly fine with RF non-exclusivity? Why license premium royalty free when your client can obtain it for low cost or no cost in micro payment? Ask yourself these questions. Your stock agencies are.”

John Lund (@stockphotoguy) – Positive Indicators in Stock Photography
“Yes, being a stock photographer has never been easier; and yes, making a living at it certainly has its challenges. But what business isn’t facing such challenges? The corner grocer has Costco down the street to deal with. The neighborhood coffee shop has Starbucks across the way. We stock photographers just have one hell of a lot of competition, but the possibilities are greater than ever. If we can maintain a positive attitude we are far more likely to find and utilize those possibilities!”

All of the individuals above are insightful, accomplished and have a lot of great things to say about the world of stock photography as a whole.