Photo: Flags 7
Location: San Diego, CA
Date: April 28, 2017
Camera & Lens: Sony A7R ii & 24-240mm lens
About This Photo: Β This post might have been titled “About these” because the topic is not just about the above photo but about all the photos in this post. Β Shooting stock photography means anticipating trends, I try to shoot trends that are annual in nature and not just popular today but gone tomorrow. Β Why spend time shooting subjects that are only trendy and only generate money now? Β Why not shoot subjects that will generate recurring income. Β It might be a better plan to shoot subjects that will hopefully generate revenue for the long haul and holidays like Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas aren’t going away soon. Β Neither are Veterans, Memorial, Armed Forces and Independence Days, there’s plenty to shoot besides flags by themselves. Β However, one thing I try to do when possible is shoot the US flag with other subjects in hopes of crossing over in to another genre. Β The above photo, shot in a marina, could attract buyers who are sailing hobbyist, or enthusiasts, but also people who like the southern California or SoCal vibe. Β What I like about this photo is that it’s not overtly patriotic, the flag is such a small part of the overall photo. Β Aside from the boats and marina as subjects, the water and wind play a role as well.
Advertisers start gearing up for these patriotic holidays not long after we’ve put the Christmas trees away. Β The above photo, taken in April, started selling almost immediately as it was taken in time for the patriotic holidays. Β However, most photos taken during an actual holiday won’t likely sell until following year, like I said, advertisers gear up early and by April most ad campaigns for the holidays are likely winding down. Β All the photos in this post have been top sellers. Β The below photo, top left, with the tuba was taken at a Navy Band Southwest performance in San Diego, CA. Β Hopefully this photo would appeal not only toward those looking for patriotic photos, but also by military folks as there is a sailor in the reflection on the tuba. Β Also, musicians in general may like this, maybe music stores having a 4th July sales. Β It goes without saying that the below, top right photo, could summon emotions from September 11th but could attract buyers in the law enforcement community as well. Β The photo at the very bottom was taken at a car show in Haymarket, VA and is one of several flags with classic cars taken that day. Β Obviously, looking toward not only car enthusiasts but also people looking for something retro in nature.
What is the point of this post? Β Well, if you’re taking the time to go out and shoot, spend time editing photos, consider shooting cross genres if you can! Β That one day at the car show in Haymarket, VA yielded not only some great car shots but also decent patriotic themed photos as well. Β When I started shooting stock photography a few years ago, I would set out with a goal to shoot one subject only and had blinders on the to rest of what was around me. Β My whole approach is different now, keeping in mind that these flag photos may be the real money makers. Β Car shows, flower shows, air shows and other events can also be great locations for patriotic stock opportunities. Β The lesson here is that patriotic photos such as these sell, sometimes a lot, and can generate income year after year. Β If you’re already traveling somewhere to shoot stock at an event, why not take some photos of the US flags and their surroundings if you’re already there? Β You never know, they just might sell more than the photos you originally came to shoot.
A US Navy Band performing in Southern California.
A New York City Police Officer standing in Time Square at the lighted American flag sign on the Armed Forces Recuiting Center.
The wind blowing an American flag over a classic American fifties car at a Virginia show.
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