Making Money as an Artist: How to Repurpose Your Images

If your goal is to make money as a photographer or artist, it is good to be able to use your images for a variety of purposes. (Obviously this will not work if you sell exclusive images or photos).

I usually put a lot of effort into getting an image just right so I am always looking for ways to get more out of my efforts. Here is an example of what I am talking about:

First I created an image making sure it was at least 3 to 4 MP

Then I created some cards to submit to Greeting Card Universe

Next I submitted a design to Dreamstime and Bigstock Photo

Next I used the quick create tool in Zazzle and made a whole bunch of products to sell in my store. 

Orange Flower in Vase Note Books by Lorenedesigns
Make your own customizable notebooks at Zazzle

Orange Flower in Vase Planner by Lorenedesigns
Look at Poppy Planners online at Zazzle.com

Gimp Tip: How to Give Text a Shiny Raised Appearance

Here is a quick, easy way to give text a shiny raised appearance.

First, type your text. Then right click on the text layer and choose alpha to selection. From the menu, choose select and then shrink. Shrink your selection till about the inner one fourth of the letters are selected.

 Then feather the selection by about 10 px (menu>  select>  feather) Next create another layer and name it "highlight." Fill in your selection with white paint and reduce the opacity to about 57 or whatever looks good.

How to Sell Your Images Online: Getting Started as a Newbie

"I want to start selling my images (designs, photos, illustrations etc.) online. How do I get started?"  This is a common question.

One way is to sell your designs is by submitting them to microstock websites such as Fotolia, Dreamstime, or Bigstock Photo etc.

If you are just starting out, it may be difficult to get your images accepted.  One reason is that you may not be sure what they are looking for yet or as in my case, you're just not that proficient at creating images that sell.

The first place I submitted my photos and artwork to was Dreamstime.  I think I submitted over 20 files before they finally accepted one (I don't give up easily :) I don't regret it though because I learned a lot from their comments (even though they were rather vague). 

But if you are not inclined to take that route, here are some places you could try to start selling your images without the intense review period.

Redbubble- I have an account but so far have not put up anything for sale with them. One thing I've read is that if you want to sell anything you have to do your own marketing.

Yaymicro- I cannot recall ever having any of my artwork rejected by them, however sales are minimal. I think a person would really have to market themselves to make any money. Another thing that I don't care for is a new a rule they've implemented-  files have to be at least 6 megapixels. I don't usually create files that big.

Mostphotos - there is no image review process, instead photos are rated by other contributers

Stockfuel- All my images were accepted and put on their website but... so far no sales.

Zazzle- I have only been contributing designs to them for a short while but they seem to be pretty easy-going  and have not rejected anything I've uploaded so far.

Imagekind- Upload images that are suitable to be framed or printed on canvas.  If you have any photos on Flickr- they can automatically be brought into Imagekind.  No harsh reviewing process required :)

I hope you found this post helpful. Can you think of any other websites to put in this list? Please leave a comment and let us know.