A few months ago, the Illinois Office of Tourism contacted me about their interest in using four of my images (3 from Galena, Illinois) for promotional materials. We went back and forth a few times, worked out a deal, and everyone is happy. Travel2dot0.com recently published a post about 3 Strategic Website Lessons. The background used in the image below is one of the images that the Office of Tourism is using.
Galena | Invest in Great Photos
The article is short, but provides some very good information. The second point they bring up is “Invest in great photos”. My favorite part is this: “I have no idea what is in Galena, but I want to go there. Simply because of that photo“. It’s hard for me to express how that sentiment makes me feel when they’re talking about my image. I am regularly contacted by companies, websites, individuals, etc requesting to use my images, and it seems that nobody has a budget anymore. People just don’t see the value in images because there are SO MANY and everyone thinks that because their phone can take a picture, they shouldn’t have to pay for any image.
I’m glad there are a few out there who still realize that it takes an eye, talent, dedication, and knowledge to make great images. The words above mean a great deal to me; and they give me hope that someday people will be lining up for me to photograph for them. And the fact that they were from a complete stranger makes them all the more meaningful. I truly, truly appreciate them.
Tagged: 3 strategic website lessons, aepoc, balloon, galena, hot air balloon, I have no idea what is in Galena but I want to go there, illinois, invest in great photos, office of tourism, photograph, photography, travel2dot0, travel2dot0.com
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Hey Jason,
Thanks for the link and kudos on the photo. I agree with your comment, too many people undervalue great photography. Yes, your iPhone can take a photo, and yes, that is wonderful…but it is not a substitute for high-quality, well-planned and well-executed photos.
Like your shot of Galena.
Well done sir.
– Troy
You’re welcome for the link, it’s the least I can do. Thank you, I’m glad the photo has received everything it has so far. I love it, but not my favorite from the day :) Here’s the rest of the set: http://www.flickr.com/photos/aepoc/sets/72157632979512074/
Very true, it’s awesome that most of us have devices that can capture moments of our lives. But when someone needs an excellent headshot, a team photo, or wedding images… why chance it to someone who can’t produce consistent, professional results?
Thank you Troy, I appreciate it more than I can state.