Stock Images (followup to "Writers Who Are Photographers)

Just a quick follow-up to my post about Writers Who Are Also Photographers.

As I was processing my pictures this morning, I realized that I forgot to mention the importance of keeping some stock pictures on hand. If you're going to take the time to learn a little about photography and submit photos with your articles, you may as well start carrying the camera with you and take shots of different events, especially things that occur only occasionally or seasonally.

For example, I took a slew of fireworks photos last night. I really only need one, but I was already there, had the camera set up, and having a bunch to choose from may come in handy when I need a fireworks shot and there are no fireworks. I do the same for other events and activities. I always try and keep some seasonal photos on hand too, such as the leaves changing color in fall, and flowers poking through the snow in early spring.

Although I'm sure there are some that will remain unused, I've used many of these "stock" photos to supplement articles, and it's been worth the time to take them. Just remember if there are people in your photos who are recognizable to get them to sign a photo release so you can use the image commercially. (You can find a sample photo release form just by searching the term "photo release form".)

I'd encourage freelance writers to try and keep some photos on hand the same way they keep a notebook of story ideas on hand.