The Ordinary, Explained
benchmark
I got a few emails stating the confusion over my previous post “The Ordinary”. What I had meant to convey was the low cost legal image vending potential inside very plain, unadorned images for multiple focus end user purchases. But the use of the word “ordinary” seemed to overdeliver conveying ugly or unattractive connotations. I realize now some examples might prove my point better.
Webmasters and editors make the decisions about what the image is supposed to mean. Visual interpretation can only go so far. So it should be left up to the purchaser what use the image will be. The micropayment photographer does not have to burden themselves with the problem of what the client will use it for. They just have to provide the product and vend it in an organized manner.
Above is a perfect example of how “ordinary” can become a microstock image career maker. In this image during editing, the border has been applied to form a boundary between an all white site and the image border. This step can be left out, but it can also function to bring up the blue color elsewhere in the shot.
This image has a lot going for it, including high resolution and raw stock caliber of image quality. It has the necessary focus and clarity required for the micropayment site requirements, and the subject is somewhat arresting due to the suggested loneliness and emptiness of the park bench. The keywords will play to this mood, enhancing search results inside the microstock site.
Now, a park bench is the very definition of ordinary. But what things might be happening inside the photograph? Why is the bench and surrounding area empty of people? Photo essays force observers or an image to “fill in” the blank”. Why are there no people? What conditions have led to the circumstances shown?Â
The photo suggest by its absence of people, sitters at the bench, or pedestrians through the park the theme of the picture is solitude, reflection, retirement, or introspection. But these intangibles cannot be said to be “in” the photo. Text or products that support this lifestyle or conditions that exists around it will likely be difficult to find “pictures” for.
These are exactly the type of intangible “mood” shots people are looking for. By identifying your image markets and honing in on related images, the microstock photographer can upload and enjoy revenue from the “ordinary” world. And leave the specificity to the new owner of the image.
