The Rude Awakening

Yesterday I was reading in one of my photography magazines, and I came upon a little piece that said something to the effect of "To sell your photographs, try an online stock agency like istockphoto.com". So I thought to myself, hey... that sounds like an idea, maybe I could put some of my photos on there and maybe someone is looking for something that I have, and buy it, and that would help bring in a little money.

So I went to the site, signed up, and then you have to read through this tutorial thing, and after that there's a little quiz you have to take based on what you read..... well needless to say I skimmed thru the reading and failed the quiz the first time.... but went back and passed the second time. The next step is to upload 3 sample images, and then they review them and get back to you as to whether or not they'd like to have you submit to their stock photo site.

Here's where the rude awakening comes in.... this is the reply I got:

Dear Christopher (cesigmon),

Thank you for taking the time to apply as a contributor with iStockphoto.com.

The iStock administrators have asked that you upload new samples based on the feedback provided below. You're welcome to return in 3 days, upload some new samples and we'll re-process your application.

Comments from the iStockphoto Administrator:

At this time we regret to inform you that we did not feel the overall composition of your photography or subject matter is at the minimum level of standard for iStockphoto. Please take some time to review training materials, resources and articles provided through iStockphoto. The photographs provided in your application should be your best work. Try and impress us, we want to see how you stand out from the crowd.

We welcome you to return in the number of days specified and upload 3 fresh samples of your work and we will re-process your application.

Thank you for your time and effort.

Best Regards,

iStockphoto.com

So yeah.... I guess my hopes of photography actually paying back are just hopes for now. I kinda knew in the back of my mind that I wasn't "good enough" to sell photos yet... this just kinda confirmed it. Oh well.....