SELLING PRINTS - The Uncomfortable Truth with Photography

[@the_useless_photographer]

OK if you're Peter McKinnon and can sell for $1300 a print but non names such as myself, no hope. I found that getting a well paid job and doing photography as a hobby only is better, easier and less stressful, making photography a joy rather than a pressure.

[@huwalban]

Completely agree with this view. Additionally, we cannot escape the fact that Adam (wisely and smartly) is using his KZbin channel as a marketing platform for his print sales. And fair play to him by the way! So each week we are going to see a "here is the new addition to the Continuum" to push the audience at a potential print sales purchase? Quite clever.

[@Imhotep397]

Definitely agree with this. Landscape photography sadly has never been a commodity for many collectors. It will be interesting to see how this develops.

[@remontheroad]

It's all about the name, it has always be and will always be. It's up to you if you want the easy way or ready to put yourself at risk. I don't go against your point of view, but it's all about what you want in life.

[@dieterthephotographer]

@@cmahoney_photo i can relate!

[@anta40]

@@Imhotep397 well... unless you are Ansel Adams... :D

[@GPadugan]

I've sold my prints to studios for prop pictures on the walls in movies and TV. I've also sold to art buyers for use in buildings and lobbies. As a designer, I've been on the other side of the table selecting the work that will go into a space. and it comes down to one thing. random luck. there is nothing you can do. your work is either going to resonate or it isn't and the reasons why or why not are simply infinity random. Don't try to sell. just produce what you want, how you want, and put it out there. No one is going to like what you think is good for any of the reasons you think it's good, and they are not going to not like what you think is bad either. they will buy or like based on something that has nothing to do with the actual image or how it was created. scarcity really only works once you have a name. remember, prints are the art and art is a silly thing. the mechanic down the street got an oil spot on a white canvas by accident. is it art? you bet. is it rare? sure is, only one like it. Is it worth anything? Funk no.

[@problemxhunter]

I agree with this all my work that would get me hired as a photography were things I wanted to shoot with no intention of originally showing it or making money

[@huntstyle]

I think you're right. My most profitable photo was a license deal I did, and the photo was nothing special. But it was exactly what they were looking for, and there weren't any others out there like it.

[@rickgray6960]

Love your honesty. I remain addicted to all aspects of photography. When I am behind the camera lens, nothing else exists! It is my meditation and passion. I sell very few which is perfectly fine.

[@IanSmithFotografi]

I live in Sweden and sell prints. I don’t think I have sold 1 print unless the individual is connected to the location in some way. It’s never random. For example my recents sales, were a couple that got married in the exact spot, a man who played on the rocks as a child and a photo that a grieving mother felt reminded her of her late son.

[@14reasons58]

that's the way it always is. even when it's 'not', it is. the subconscious mind dictates more than the conscious

[@timothyleatham536]

I am a member of a cooperative gallery in my home town here in New Zealand. This has enabled me to get exposure ( no pun intended ) of my photography. I sell my photography framed in the gallery and then this year made a calendar with a special series of images that I'm now working with. The framed images don't sell quickly, however the calendars sold out in a few weeks, I have also been working on the concept of making my images "limited editions". The fact that being in a actual gallery means people do really come in and look, this has led to some external work for me in the way of commission work for clients who otherwise would not know I existed. I guess we have to try to come up with alternate ways to get sales, trial and error till we find the formula that works.

[@KayGill]

Where about s in New Zealand are you? I’m here in little old Levin

[@montezkerr2403]

What I have come to realize about selling you prints is that the person making the image is more important than the image itself. A buyer wants to have a name behind an art piece. So it comes down to marketing. Cameras and software have really leveled the playing field in terms of creating images. You have to either be fairly well known, have a substantial following or created an emotional connection with a buyer. If you have not achieved one of those criteria you are in most cases going to fail.

[@petemellows]

That’s what Warhol realised. His art was nothing special, but his name was everything and everywhere.

[@bugsygoo]

When I studied photography at college, one of our teachers drilled into us that success as a photographer was mostly down to how good you were at marketing yourself. The best photographers in the class were probably not going to be the most successful. I'm crap at marketing myself, so I am not a professional photographer 😭

[@applebutter4036]

This is so true that it cannot be drilled in enough. Nobody buys something they don't even know exists and sometimes even knowing it exists isn't enough. Skilled persuasion is something companies pay a lot for.

[@Mindsi]

Boris J, bojo😂😂😂😂😂

[@sawlens]

I started selling prints last year in May and I sold 25 prints for the year. I attended only 5 events, 2 of which where I didn't sell any. I did luckily get a client who wanted several metal prints for his business. This last weekend I attended 2 day art show event and I sold 6 prints with requests for 2 more, so it's a good start to the year. I've only sold one print online so overall I've found that selling prints in-person is more successful than online. It was a big initial investment. I had to buy a table, table cloth, 10x10 canopy, pvc pipe which I used to make 2 frames to display photos, business cards, 2 portable lights for late night events, a business license, easels for displaying prints on table, totes for transporting prints, Square card reader, and finally the prints themselves. I frame my larger prints (16x24). I figure prints sell better when a customer does not have to go out to find and buy a frame for a print. No one has held up a frame and judged it, they only judge the print itself so I use cheap frames. I started off my prints at pretty low prices where I was not making much so I'm trying higher prices this year to see how they sell. If I was uncertain of how well a print would sell. I would start off with a small version to see how it would do. A print may not sell immediately but if it gets lots of compliments I would know it has potential to be sold as a larger print and at a higher profit.

[@BradHolkesvig]

Some photographers are also very good salesmen. Some artists are very good salesmen. Some salesmen can sell anything to anyone. It's not necessarily the product that people buy, it's the salesmen who get them to by the product. If you want to make a lot of money selling your photos, you also need to become a great salesmen which is another learning process that most people will not pursue.

[@JohnDrummondPhoto]

You're right that most print buyers are non-photographers and they tend to buy prints that have personal meaning to them. While on vacation in touristy areas, I've visited art and photo galleries owned by local artists, who sell their work to tourists. There are also those who market their art through art galleries that sell for them and take commissions. I guess one other option is outreaching to corporations or organizations whose missions match your genre. You see interesting art or photography in a lobby or office hallway, they bought it from somewhere. Find out where, and maybe try to drum up interest from that vendor.

[@Firstmanphotography]

that’s an excellent point John. Finding businesses that want to be seen to be supporting the arts are definitely worth tracking down.

[@NathalieAnnoye]

I don't know if this exists in your country, but in Belgium, many shopkeepers (perfumeries, restaurants, hotels etc.) regularly invite photographers to exhibit their work on their walls. This allows them to decorate their walls for free, while making the photographers believe that they will sell something, but this rarely happens. So be careful with this. If the shopkeeper really buy, it's perfect

[@adam.foster]

Great video Adam and great idea with the continuum prints, I think you're onto something. Did it work?

[@NickBarang]

I love what you're saying re supporting each other. The challenge comes with space. I love printing my own work... and I only have a small apartment with maybe half-a-dozen slots for prints (without overwhelming the space). I love to buy other people's photobooks, because they fit in my life, but prints? I just don't have room for them. I can't tell you how much pleasure I get from having images on my walls, I wish I had more space...

[@howardrankin7119]

That’s a very real constraint. I would love to buy more prints ( and print more of my work) but space is finite. I know one can collect prints and keep them in boxes or folios but that is not making the most of the art imho.

[@ernie548]

Its difficult, to say it mildly, but possible. Look at the high paid leaders starting with Peter Lik. There is a solid dozen up in that range. Its art and its not straight forwards. Sometimes too hard too far for many of us. Musicians, painters, printers, dancers, writers, it goes on. I think in my own work, and after being a product marketing manager in a silcon valley tech company for 13 years, I have settled my nerves. Nothing wild, but I have learned what folks talk about and what they will pay for are two different things. What that has taught me is the truth, is not obvious to find and not easy. Its is usually fraught with unspoken things that are 'gray' and very hard to make tangible. Ergo, the great salesman.

[@seasterl]

You are an incredible artist and have the mind of a true photographer. To me, this is what photography is all about. Thanks for sharing your work and thoughts and being an inspiration.

[@derekwillson2538]

Brilliant idea Adam, I'm sure images 1 and two will be snapped up instantaneously. I first came across your work 6 years ago when you put out "How to do Water drop photography" and have followed you ever since. Your constant willingness and drive to put out new ideas and be supportive of others is brilliant, thanks for all you do, Derek

[@GPadugan]

this isn't a new idea. it's literally how art galleries work. you sell a limited 10 pieces / prints. first one sells for 1X. the second sells 2X and so on. Every time a sale is made the price is raised. This creates value and buzz. the last person paid the most, but the next time that artist has a show, the initial price will typically start higher. so when you see a piece of art selling for a million, that's how it got there (assuming it wasn't created by someone already famous) that pushes things up quicker.

[@MrQuirke9]

A lesson I've learned is similar to what you were saying about not loving the image on the day. I've often felt that way, even after the fact, but often find once I start an edit I start to appreciate the image a lot more

[@PMCN53]

An interesting concept Adam, As an example of this, I did a photography tour to Lofoten in Feb 2020 (before Epidemic). Traveling from Australia was long but worth the effort and $$$. The assistant on the tour was a Local landscape photographer who was trying to make his mark as a landscape photographer. He captured an image from a location in Rein in Autumn, the same location I did in Winter. I wanted to support him so I spent $600+ AUS for an A2 print. It then cost me another $300AU to have it mounted & framed. Yes it was quite expensive but I wanted to promote & support a good fellow photographer, now the print sits proudly in my living room. Doing this kind of thing continuously is unaffordable. Your concept would be so much more achievable and affordable. Looking forward to seeing how it works out. Cheers.

[@pamchandler1321]

Also, I have had great luck selling local photos locally because I live in a tourist area. I also participate in local art shows. Doing this has given me the opportunity to make great local connections and have regular clients. Best of luck.

[@TheAegisClaw]

It's always been difficult to sell landscape work. I used to do lots of aspects of photography and made most money from freelance newspaper work and weddings. Next best income stream was portraits and the worst of all was landscapes. Although they're what I spent most time on and enjoyed most.

[@CoffeeandPhotographyTalk]

Very truthful presentation. The root of the issue is that no one, no matter what they think, can ever really OWN anything digital because; 1. they can't own the software that displays it, 2. they can't control the manufacturers of the hardware that stores it and 3. they cannot control the formats changing over time. It just cannot be controlled; all of those issues are collective, not individual. A print is a THING that you can possess and as such, the traditional concept of ownership applies to it. Great vid once again!

[@Z_EOS]

Why dont we think about images like we think about paintings. Spend more time on each image, push your limits and sell only one copy... In a month.. If you now sell one image in a month it is no different... But the quality and feeling of buyer is changed... I think the biggest problem of today in landscape photography is that there is to many images around and big percentage of it is nothing special. The easiest way how to help ourselves and others is by producing less quantity and focus on quality.

[@carlreid4161]

That’s a great image Adam well worth being out in the cold and what a marvellous way to start the day. The blue and the gold in the water are a really nice contrast.

[@Firstmanphotography]

Thanks 👍

[@photobizmethod]

I went to your link, and it's gone. How did this new approach work?

[@hartsphotography]

What a fascinating idea and good to see someone trying something new, i hope you tell us how it goes, either good or bad in a future episode.

[@Firstmanphotography]

definitely

[@Neil-Aspinall]

I think another way of presenting prints is to putting attention into framing. Whilst black or white frames always work there is so much scope in alternatives. I search markets for old frames, clean them up or paint to suit the image. Most photographers will not go to this effort, if you do this yours will stand out at exhibitions and gallery's. The frame in my opinion is part of the art.

[@josephjspencer]

This is a great idea. Adds a lot to the creative process and therefore the final product.. nice idea!

[@pamchandler1321]

I really enjoyed this video and respect his analysis of selling prints, he has given us another brush stroke that helps paint a picture regarding sales. We need different angles, and I am sure that we will find and share other angles as well.

[@ThatGamingGuyfromthe70s]

For me when it comes to one off pieces of photography, especially landscapes, these are intrinsically tied to memories of a place, by buying someone else's depiction of a scene it's equivalent to buying someone else's memory. My photo will be less technically proficient but it will be the scene as I saw it. I am much more likely to purchase an abstract or similar to hang on a wall. For other photographers work I buy books which have been carefully curated to tell a story of a place.

[@peterfritzphoto]

100%

[@findermanimages]

Totally agree with this. I have many framed photos on my wall which I have taken. They are not of a professional standard but they are mine and I can recall where I stood, how it felt and why I took them. They are more than just images; they are reminders of a time gone by and the feelings I felt in that moment. I have many coffee table photo books that I used as reference material for days where inspiration and motivation is lacking. They are great value for money too :-)

[@huntstyle]

Totally agree. I haven't bought a single photo from another photographer for this very reason. And if I go visit a location and don't come away with an image I feel worthy of putting on my wall, I simply don't have an image from that trip on my wall! I don't buy another photographer's work, even when it's really incredible, simply because I wasn't there in that moment. That was a different moment and different experience than what I had. I just can't connect to it the same.

[@markjutsum6187]

Really strong truths. In the field feelings for a scene can be so different when at the PC both positive and negative so just take the shot, what is there to loose? MJ

[@GirdHerd]

I couldn't "see" that image when you were talking about it in the video but the print is beautiful.

[@DanRaines]

I agree that a community should exist.

[@MBDronePhoto]

Love the idea of scarcity and time.

[@petemellows]

I like the idea of selling a limited run - it’s something I have recently started doing myself. I also like the idea of the “reproduction” where a lesser quality print is available cheaply, much like Lino cuts and screen prints.

[@anngibson1874]

Brilliant you are spot on that our community needs to come together and support each other.

[@justinmeaden6281]

Very interesting video and a lovely location resulting in a gorgeous photo. Well done. I also think this is a great idea for selling prints, wish I was quicker off the mark watching though as editions still available just way outside my price range so now I am aware, will definitely be watching your videos as soon as their released, which can’t be bad for your KZbin algorithms too.

[@brianbeattyphotography]

This is very valid regarding the flooding of the market. I've found that my best selling prints are abstracts and unusual locations/subjects. Any of my images from Yosemite, Rocky Mountain National Park, etc. generally don't get any attention. I'm sure the primary reason for that is that there are just so many images and prints of these locations... plus I'm not nearly as good as the greats! haha

[@jdg6336]

I think thats true. Most my work is from Japan. I didnt really try to sell photos in Japan because they were not so exotic or eyecatching to Japanese. I returned to USA due to covid. I went to the photo print place. All desert sunsets ect on the wall. Hopefully my work will stand out here. Or I think cities like New York or Berlin would be better markets. See what happens.

[@ScottRae]

Spot on again Adam... good video and great idea - always got to try to float something new in the marketplace! Ahhh selling prints though.... I talk a great game - can talk myself into anything! :D I was lulled into a false sense of relevance by a few lucky sales off a local facebook page all around the same time, making me cocky and giving me grand ideas of taking this hobby to the next step, selling prints, and not just my photography actually starting to pay for itself, but maybe..... doing it professionally. I talked myself into buying the large format A1 printer when the big commercial print shops repeatedly failed to deliver undamaged prints, and the local ones couldn't give me the quality I wanted. I'd priced everything, but, when push came to shove, I was too scared to push it. Lack of self confidence the biggest factor, but also the number of good photographers who just undervalue their work - not even selling it at cost. A local landscape photographer has opened a high street gallery in the last year - which might also have dampened my enthusiasm as someone got there before me (hahaha, sure...!) It's an incredibly brave thing to do, especially now, and his work is excellent - you might just have talked me into buying from a fellow tog! Because he DOES deserve the support! (and maybe I'll try selling printing as a service? (I've got all that priced up too!) Or maybe selling him my printer... :'D

[@yuriajones]

Great video... you touched on several good points and covered them well. I don't sell as much as I would like. It does take quite a bit of work to market prints to different groups of people, including home décor professionals, large institutions (hotels, hospitals, etc) and individual buyers. I also loved how you created scarcity with this new series. Good luck to you!

[@Firstmanphotography]

thanks. much appreciated

[@blazejbch]

Many interesting thoughts in the video and comments. Thanks for that. I look at the topic from two sides - I studied photography and worked professionally a bit. I also enjoy art and craft and am happy to decorate my home with stuff I admire. I just hope it won't sound harsh, but my thought is that landscape photography is a great hobby and not so great art. Mostly it does not provoke any emotions beyond being "a nice shot of a nice place". We have it everywhere now. In magazines, commercials, instagram, hotels, chain restaurants. Landscape pictures are "safe" and do not offend anyone, so they kind of serve the same purpose as elevator music. Also, this type of pictures are currently too perfect. And perfection can kill emotions, make things boring. So I'd rather buy an imperfect drawing that has something unique and touching in it, than a perfectly exposed and composed picture. Because I can take one myself (just maybe not so ideal). I bet that's why some people explore pinhole or lomo... to run away from this overwhelming technical perfectionism that floods us, but has very little to do with our personal experiences, thoughts, desires. When I see a good landscape picture, I feel like I'd love to take it, I'd love to be in this place - but I don't think about buying it, because it has nothing to do with my own past, my own life. Then there is also a nostalgic and documentary aspect of landscape photography - pictures of places that changed drastically over time. Those will be very valuable in few decades, but maybe hard to sell now. All the best!

[@alastairtheduke]

I agree. I think this is why 'artsy' photography is inherently more valuable than landscape photography as it can serve as art on its own. Even something like street photography represents a moment in time that will truly never be duplicated. Think of the iconic soldier kissing the girl in NYC after the war. We all know that photo. It has scarcity built into it. Even street photography that captures some funny or odd moment is inherently more valuable than landscape photography. Landscape photography moves the photographer, not necessarily he viewer and rarely the buyer.

[@timscanlanphotography]

Hi Adam. You've nailed this issue here, particularly around the NFT bubble. Selling prints is a tough old game and I'll never make enough money to allow my mrs to retire! :)

[@Firstmanphotography]

ha yeah. photography is certainly not something someone should take up for the money.

[@salmonfly6186]

Brilliant idea mate. I cant sell my photos, my family members have bought 1or 2 but that’s it. I won’t give in though, I love landscape photography so I will just enjoy it but it’s costly, fuel, erly mornings but when I’m there looking at the seen that’s good enough for me.

[@davefrancis2581]

Hows the model working after a year?

[@carlinschelstraete682]

I think your sales idea is great. This could shift perception. You're right on regarding the print market.

[@Firstmanphotography]

appreciate the comment. thanks.

[@norlmerk]

Brillant....I know for a fact "they" buy You the artist along with quality emotional presentation. I would Han purchased one sooner but what's available is out of my range. I'm a photographer also and I do believe we need to support and VALUE our effort and skill. I would collect images that please me more often if it were easier to navigate . Photographers giving a hand up. One thing I have learned is that there may be a billion cameras clicking now a days but each one of us is unique and our own style...ther is plenty of room for each of us to shine and find our ow followers!

[@terrynewmanphotography]

Very interesting and admirable initiative Adam. I’ve just started printing primarily for my own enjoyment. I’ve been drawn in to setting up a website and offering prints etc. For a gift, I made my own mounted print and bought a decent quality frame and asked a couple of family members what they would expect to pay and they both said lower than the production cost. Herein lies the issue, photographs have become a commodity where the expectation of price is so low, many expect a price that in reality is below cost. There’s also as you said the feeling of an image, often different from a photographer’s eye to that of a consumer. Then the feeling of value. Plenty are interested in a framed photo on their wall but some have a low budget or quite happy with a £7 frame from the high street and an expectation of low price print on the assumptions that you’re printing on £150 all in one office inkjet. For pros, I guess that’s why there’s diversity in your offerings; videos, workshops, tutorials, subscriptions, sponsorships etc.

[@scotty4418]

Thought the image turned out great Adam and like your idea for creating scarcity and hope it is a success for you. I know buying printed images will differ in terms of buying a book with images in them but taking your book as an example the opportunity of seeing all your images in a printed format in your book was excellent value for money in my opinion

[@Firstmanphotography]

Thanks mate.

[@PrimalShutter]

Flickr used to give the sense of support from other photographers in the beginning

[@Pixelpeeps-69]

The internet and the digital era has destroyed a lot of photography careers

[@Firstmanphotography]

And made quite a few. The disruption from technology is gonna continue strongly over the next 10-20 years. Reckon it’s key to continually try and put yourself out business before someone else does.

[@willyonamountain]

The frosty reeds in the foreground of the pond photo are beautiful.

[@LightspeedVideo]

Well thought out. I might try something in this vein if that’s okay. Just starting with prints.

[@Firstmanphotography]

You definitely don't need my permission. Go for it!!

[@Dahrenhorst]

I also think that scarcity is one of the major drivers to motivate someone to buy a photograph. However, you can make your work as scarce as you want, if you don't happen to be on the right time at the right place and meet the right person, you won't sell much nevertheless. Scarcity alone is not the solution, creating opportunities to show your pictures is at least as important.

[@davehandelman2832]

The biggest problem as a photographer that loves their images is wall space... I have ZERO room in my apt for any new photos.... The struggle is real!

[@Firstmanphotography]

lol indeed. I have an art box or two that are like glorious and massive photo albums.

[@jairovanegas8856]

Try rotating the images every 3 or six months like museums with temporary exhibitions and put them in storage until the next time.

[@petertragardh4571]

I am incredibly interested in how this will unfold. Will it work? I really hope you keep us updated. This is a really innovative way to do business.

[@williamcurwen7428]

The assumption that just because someone has the gear and calls themselves a fine art photographer while thinking they can make prints that will sell without achieving the kind of cultural acknowledgment that takes years and years of hard work and dedicated commitment to articulating a uniquely intelligent vision is simply untenable. It is not going to happen, and it is harder now than ever before.

[@Firstmanphotography]

Happily it is the market that decides who succeeds. Personally I believe that if more of us started buying photography it would become a meritocracy again and the cream would rise to the top (not the case with social media). Everyone should be entitled to participate though without being discouraged by the negative energy of others. You’re right though, hard work and skill play a big part.

[@anorak211]

You should do what Jean Michel Jarre did in the 1970s. He recorded an album, made 1 vinyl lp of it and sold it, then destroyed his master tapes so only 1 copy existed. Try that with a photo, make 1 print, delete the file and sell the print for £1000.

[@Firstmanphotography]

I actually love that idea. if I can somehow incorporate lasers too, it’ll definitely work.

[@danielbruhin6171]

But what about the uses of this picture by the photographer for his own books, calendars and others? Could make much more money that the sale of last enlargement.

[@christheking1]

@@danielbruhin6171 that’s the conundrum. Besides how can you be sure that an artist isn’t selling that same photo again down the road. It’s not like you can scour the net endlessly to make sure that unique print isn’t being used again. I think that is what NFT is trying to do by legitimately making 1of1 and nothing more. However NFT I believe are and will kill the art in general and photography in particular. I would understand buying a unique piece of art but I just read that a guy made a fortune selling NFTs of his emotionless face. Seriously! What has value nowadays?

[@jdg6336]

Wu Tang did that with that album Martin Skrelli bought for $1M

[@DanielePauletto]

Good video, thanks. But I think that limited serieses are ok for "well known" artists. I mean, I do sell my prints, to my friends and their friends. As gifts and so on, and as I am no one, limiting my little sell it's actually bad for me 😅 I know that is not applicable to everybody, but I tried and that's my thought! That said, I (we) don't make enough money just on selling, sadly.

[@wanderingambience799]

I love your videos and your personality resonates with many people. Thanks for talking about this topic in particular. In my experience the print selling only makes the host websites or online sellers money, fees we pay to place our images on their sites. Year after year, we sell nothing but pay subscription fees. Very sad. I like the Squarespace idea nd your model...

[@lv8pv]

If youtube had a filter to filter out all the CRAPSPACE sponsored videos. I would not watch one of them again period!

[@lorinbacke4702]

As a working photographer for some 40 years, it’s sad to see things have come to this. He mentioned he admits he has not spent much time in marketing. The business side of photography is highly underrated among some “fine art photographers“. This is a good example of how to starve as an artist. Over my career I’ve had to shift gears and adapt over and over again. The foundation of my work has undergone three completely different Business models. I have recently embraced the third major shift in my work. It is always a bit uncomfortable and requires faith in yourself and courage as an independent entrepreneur. I’m not sure this person is old enough to have ever shot film professionally. I shot film for a good 20 years. Switching over to digital was not even one of the fundamental changes that I have had to adapt to. No Doubt that it has brought many other challenges. I remember the days when people wanted to buy negatives from me. The introduction of digital photography has brought in actuality many wonderful benefits. I spent a lot of money on film, processing, and Polaroids. Just as an observation, if one were to be specializing in landscape photography, and wanting to stand out from the rest, I would stress the importance of having the very best equipment at your disposal as a tool. What I saw in the video was simply a Prosumer camera body. And this is the very thing he is complaining about, anybody can go out and duplicate what he’s doing with very little training and a camera body that cost about $2500. Now I’m not saying a great photographer can’t produce stunning images with a Prosumer device. But in this era you must be doing things that can’t be done by a weekend warrior or soccer mom. Where I live in Southern California and Earn a living as a photographer there are probably 200,000 professional photographers. I would add that only about 200 of them are doing it full-time. Marketing, business expertise, and equipment sophistication separate us from the rest. Using Prosumer devices such as affordable camera bodies and inkjet printers is not the path I would think will endure. My goodness, do you really believe someone would part with hard-earned money for a 1 of 6 copies of an image of weeds growing at the edge of a pond? Snap out of it.

[@boristahmasian1644]

I agree with all the points you are making 100%. I am an old-timer too from the film era. I was also one of those 200k photographers in SoCal!! I shot weddings back in 2004-2007. I had moved from the East Coast to Cali and needed to make money so I did weddings. Although I was not a wedding photographer and prided myself as being a landscape photographer. When digital took a foothold and people started asking me to do it for 1/3 of what was customarily charged for the work, I stopped doing weddings and went back to some commercial work but mostly as a "paper pusher" marketing guy. For weddings, I used "prosumer" cameras and they did the job but I noticed that people charging more, had the more expensive cameras which in my case had better focusing systems and better overall image quality. Not that my images lacked quality but their stuff looked better. I still spent thousands upon thousands of $$$ for double bodies, good lenses, lighting, computer equipment, software and the list goes on. I went out yesterday and shot some pics in a popular spot near Vegas which is where I live now. I tried a new angle/approach if you will to see if it would work. I am sure thousands of pictures have been taken of this place but I think I got something I have not seen as much. Is it unique enough to be liked or noticed by a prospective buyer? Who knows? We are in the era of NFTs where unusual (read weird) is the norm. Good luck Adam. You are right. It is all about marketing. It has always been about marketing. The old adage applies here, success formula = 10% photography, 90% marketing.

[@SeriousIndividuals]

On his Twitter, he claims to have sold 5 of the 6 prints of "an image of weeds growing at the edge of a pond".

[@kaneclements7761]

Hi Lorin. I’m interested that you describe the 5D Mk IV as a prosumer camera. Maybe it is function of where you are and the market segment you work in. Sure that model is or was a high end aspirational camera for the experienced enthusiast. It has also been a staple for many, many successful working photographers. I’ve taken a look at your web site and you have many happy clients. Looking at the pictures online I can’t see how one couldn’t achieve the same results with that Canon or a Fuji X-T 4 or a bunch of other equipment. My lovely preowned Sony A7R IV would eat that sort of work. Not that I’d necessarily be up to the task. I know I’m challenging bits of your argument. I just get the feeling that you have rushed to judge Adam and by implication a load of other people. I’m aware of a successful pro who has shot for years for all the life style and interior mags and uses 5D Mk II (not III I am sure) and Fuji X-Pro 1. It is a big wide world and lots of people out there are making amazing images with all sorts of gear.

[@lorinbacke4702]

@@kaneclements7761 Hi Kane, well just so you know where I’m coming from, I have been using Canon’s one series cameras for about 20 years. First the 1 DS Mark 2, and currently the 1DX. I have also shot with a 5D Mark 4. I have compared the images from the 5D to my other cameras. The color is comparable and so is the resolution. I would still give my 1 series cameras The nod on image quality even though the 5D has 30 million pixels. At that concentration of pixels the lens that you are using makes more difference than pixel density. The lenses can only resolve so much detail. So the extra megapixels is meaningless, I’ll give you that the color is OK, but again I think the one series somehow ekes out a little more color fidelity. Two different teams developed these camera systems. The one series is heads and shoulders above everything else Canon is making. The build quality is simply incomparable. I know lots of people consider the 5D a workhorse, in my view it is a little laughable having handled the 1 series for so long. Canons other bodies are like toys in comparison. It’s just a fit finish and feel. It just seems you have to spend about five or $6000 to get the kind of camera body and sensor to do heavy lifting. It is a lot of money no doubt, but when I consider the fact that I used to spend that much every year on film and processing it really puts it into perspective. My brother, who is an amateur, just purchased a Fuji GX 100s ( I think) to the tune of $5000 for the body and another $5000 on lenses. 100 megapixel sensor. He’s serious about the imaging capabilities. My other brother who is also an amateur owns a 5D and a whole pile of L series lenses. Now if amateurs can do this, don’t you think us professionals should have what is considered truly professional gear to achieve absolutely peerless results? Gear is not everything, but it is telling. Back in the film days, professional camera gear was really a step apart from what consumers were using. I photograph quite a few very successful people. Some of them are amateur photographers. Many of them have mentioned owning five D’s. When they see my camera they know that I’m photographing them with the very best gear. That’s part of what they’re paying for. Expertise and business acumen are crucial for professional photographers. My other comments I admit might’ve been a little harsh. But like I said in those comments I have had to shift the foundation of my work three times in my career to keep food in my house. It hasn’t been easy. We are living in very challenging times thanks to the iPhone.

[@kaneclements7761]

@@lorinbacke4702 Hi Lorin. Thanks for the response. I can understand your rational for the 1DX. It is a very fine piece of kit. I think there is a point in your brother's choice of the GFX 100S. I would get one like a shot for the resolution, however my needs are no doubt different to his in other ways. As a keen, and when the stars are aligned competent amateur, I have selected a kit that enables me to photograph landscapes, plants, formal gardens, ancient buildings and ruins and wildlife (the stuff on the ground, not birds). It is the latter, although only 20% of what I shoot, that has largely influenced my kit. I need from time to time to crop heavily and print up to A3+. For that to work I need over the 40 MP and the Sony with 60 works very well. And this where other factors come it. The Sony ecosystem has a very good range of glass and in three lenses I can cover 24mm to 600mm. That is a kit that I can carry up mountains, big hills, through mud etc. You get the picture. For the stuff I do and Adam as a professional landscape photographer the issue of the client judging us by our kit doesn't exist. A hansom deer doesn't care about the brand of camera. There is relief no doubt that it isn't a rifle. Anyway, nice to have a civilised conversation on the internet. Go well. K.

[@STUDIO388_]

FINALY someone with knowledge in blockchin/ Crypto / NFT... Thanks for the input. I m getting back into photography, new gear, new me...and this time i would like to find a way to put it out there other then instagram. But i get what your bringing to the table, it is a market thats saturated. I might go on a more personal local way with my ideas. Like agriculture , maby thats what it will force Photographer to do...

[@arbee1958]

"Do what you love and you'll never work a day in your life". Many believe this and tend to automatically try to make a living from their passion. For myself I see that ANY passion turned into a business is primarily a *business*. ... not an art. for some time you will be CEO, CIO, Accounts and Marketing exec managing bookings , postage , insurance , tax compliance , HR if you have employees... all pulling you away from shooting - as well you open your photography to commercial pressures. If you love the cut and thrust of business life (as many do) then this isn't that great an issue - but if you are not that way inclined -you will find upwards of 70% of your time is spent managing the business.

[@gregoryoutdoors]

Dobrze powiedziane Adam, fajny pomysl. Super zdjecie! Pozdrowionka z Edinburgha

[@Firstmanphotography]

Thanks mate. Much appreciated.

[@gregmolchan1202]

Innovative idea indeed. I'm excited to see how this plays out.

[@samuelcarr3209]

My first view of your videos and I am now subscribed. You make some great points and I like your marketing idea and hope it works well for you. Locally I find it difficult to sell framed images because the cost of presentation (framing, matting and printing) and the gallery fee (upwards of 40-45%) mean there is little remaining for my time to make it worthwhile. I have had better luck with smaller matted only prints and sell quite a few note cards of local interest, most likely because of price point that they are impulse and not an expensive thought out purchase. Unfortunately for professionals who are trying to make a living selling their prints I am an avid non-professional who enjoys the experience and selling my work, so I may be art of a bigger problem. I do however value my time and don't want to sell my images or prints for next to nothing.

[@GeorgeLoch]

Looking forward to the next Continuum print. I like to frame my images and want to start framing prints of other photographers and want to get one of yours for that purpose. Totally agree that having a connection with a location or an image is a key to selling prints. I also wonder about images that speak more to aesthetics like colors, patterns, and textures that could mesh with interior design styles. It's not an approach every landscape photographer will love, but it could be another space to explore.

[@danielbruhin6171]

I have been making a living out of my photography since 1987 to this day making printed postcards, magnets and books for our visitors.I also make prints and have sold a few, but only a few. I do not have yet a website, maybe soon. Will see if this will make any differences. Of course, in this case, I will put some publicity of my photographs in my future books. This should help a lot. But I do not make myself any ilusion as the local market is not interesing at all (Chile), living myself far away from big cities and for overseas, the freight is too expensive.

[@kajanan_nithiyananthan]

Yeah I love the idea of Continuum, creating scarcity with your prints is a good way to approach this issue. And I love that I can be rewarded by purchasing a print quickly. The only issue is that because I know you’re selling a print for £35 at the cheapest, I might not be willing to pay £200-300 so you might always sell 1 or 2 of a print but not the 3-5 (if that makes sense)? Also love the idea of supporting other photographers, I can’t wait to have an actual job with an income so I can support my favourite artists

[@Firstmanphotography]

You’re right. Part of the experiment is price discovery for what other photographers will pay for photography…….well, mine at least.

[@lindedesigns]

@@Firstmanphotography will you be sharing the results of your sales after a while? I'm very curious how this will work out!

[@davidscottblacksmith]

Trouble is most amateur photographers are not half as good as they think they are. However other photographers feel obligated to compliment their efforts. Everybody today think they’re a worthy photographer.

[@Firstmanphotography]

I agree. So let’s put our money where our mouth is and starting raising up those that have genuine value (I don’t mean me).

[@timothylabrecque8589]

This os a great project Adam, if we dont start supporting each other less and less work will make it into the physical realm. Great topic and inspiring. Im going to start suggesting this on my channel as well. , ofc will give credit where due. Beautiful photo by the way

[@Firstmanphotography]

Definitely. The more this model is replicated the more it will build a community of people buying physical prints and artwork.

[@alchemist_x79]

I gave up on the idea of selling prints long ago. I sold one in a year. Though admitedly marketing isn't my strong suit, and apparently social media isn't either, considering I can't get any traction going on Twitter or Instagram... But I don't have space or the extra cash to have my own high-end printer, and dealing with packaging, shipping,, returns, etc. just seems like a drag that I don't want to do. I have a photolab I go through for my own personal prints for around my home (Mpix) maybe I should look into selling my prints again, and just ordering from the lab and having it shipped directly to the buyer.

[@Firstmanphotography]

I feel you. I always hated shipping stuff too. When I released my book I finally got my head around it and, thanks to Royal Mail click and drop, now find it a pretty seamless process. Social media isn’t much fun either. I’ve been enjoying photography twitter though recently. Some great photographs and interesting people and conversations. Easy to ignore the daily shilling of NFTs too.

[@MrCochise71]

This is spot on! I shoot for Cabela's here in Utah and other outdoors retail places here. While I'd prefer only my prints that's just not going to happen. Great vid bud. But it does allow me to be outdoors shooting either way.

[@orion7741]

it really is simple though. If a person is not selling many prints, that just means that their prints are not that good or special..... it really is that simple. if the work is good enough, people WILL find it, even if it is not promoted well. Great art really does sell itself!

[@malcolmrendle6622]

Very good video Adam and deals with a subject many other photographers don't want to admit to. I fully agree with your observations about why it is hard to sell images....Everyone is a "photographer" these days and therefore the value of a good photograph is not understood.....I have often wondered how professionals finance themselves when you see a Vlog of somebody driving for several hours to a location... getting out their £5000+ new mirrorless camera take a couple of good landscapes then go home... to presumably sell for what must be a huge price to just cover the expenses of the day let alone make a living.....always amazes me how they do it...... I can only assume that they support themselves with running courses.....Glad to see that you are still with the 5DmkIV

[@Big-C]

I have always wondered why prints are not sold by frame size? Keep up the great videos

[@Firstmanphotography]

personally I make the mat/mount to fit the frame.

[@Big-C]

@@Firstmanphotography sound good thanks for doing that

[@paulhanson6008]

The disclaimer from the outset is contained in the title “The uncomfortable truth”, notwithstanding; the video is produced. Aside from a hobby, there is no money to be made in selling prints at this price point (which isn’t denied). The only revenue from this exercise is that generated from uploading the video to social media.

[@capturelightmedia]

Wow. Just wow. What a great idea. I’m in. I’m in any way I can be.

[@Firstmanphotography]

Incredible. Thanks.

[@Vahagraphy]

Very good video. Very educational for sure. Thank you for sharing.

[@f1pitpass]

love the idea ! love the Roseberry Topping stuff ( I flew and filmed it last November) and as a Boro' lad I always try and support other North East enterprises. Subbed

[@Firstmanphotography]

Thanks mate. UTB.

[@paulcomptonpdphotography]

What an amazing way to sell. Good Luck I am sure you will do great with this.

[@teamdata]

Respect your honesty.

[@Firstmanphotography]

Thanks. I try.

[@andybaden9276]

Another great vlog, Seems like a good idea to try and sell some prints, the price jump may put a few people off, I wonder how many others will copy this idea.

[@Firstmanphotography]

If it works, I hope many.

[@shot2death876]

I used to sell stuff and some of that stuff was images. I noticed that young children or simple images such as horses or dogs sold well. If I was going to sell images today I would take a specific few images make a hundred or so copies and hawk them around fancy goods wholesalers. Admittedly the selling price has to be extremely keen but if you can get your foot into a few fancy goods wholesalers (UK) you could sell thousands with repeat orders. Why do I not do it? Don't need the money.

[@aslater4385]

I like your thinking and I hope it goes well.

[@PatrickDodds1]

Thanks for this video Adam - very helpful and honest.

[@Firstmanphotography]

My pleasure!

[@johnhjic2]

Hallo, Yes I agree with you about every one and his... are taking snaps with there phones and some with there cameras. But I still do not see many of thought been printed. I must admit that I do not print ally images. But when I do, I try an but to gather a series of images and then find some where to exhibit them and may be sell some I try to keep the costs down to sell from £50 unframed to £350 framed I normally get 5 to 6 sales per show. But that fine for me as I just enjoy what I do. Keep well, keep safe and do find time for fun!

[@ChesterTugwell]

That's a great image. V much enjoyed this video Adam.

[@Firstmanphotography]

Awesome, thank you!

[@gAIno-music]

Very interesting video, Adam. Good luck with this endeavour, and I would love if you could keep us updated on how this goes for you.

[@FabienMathey]

Superb video and a superb idea for business. Lets hope it works out great! Thank you!

[@Firstmanphotography]

I hope so too! thanks

[@pun1shment]

that is an awesome idea Adam! I would love to get in on this idea! les see how that can happen!

[@SimonBoothPhotography]

It’s an amazing offer for those that buy but having sold prints, factoring time to produce and package them into the price means the the cost inevitably creeps up. I’m certainly a interested in your book Adam but it’s a strange thing a print with me. I have two up in my house and it’s as though they don’t exist? I get bored of my images ((print or digital) and those of other photographers within a very short period and I now wonder if this is why photographers don’t buy them…are they all like me? Opening a new print and seeing it for the first time blows my mind but once on the wall, it’s forgotten?

[@branislavboba1699]

That's because nearly all of these people who started doing photography in the digital era produce "stunning" work which however is totally empty. So perfect and yet completely sterile and devoid of any meaning whatsoever. It's like that perfectly looking girl who is so nice to look at but at the same time is so empty, you get bored and disinterested veeery quickly. So that's why. Pick up a book like A new history of photography from Könneman and you'll bewildered for 600 pages guaranteed. Or buy monographs of the masters of the pre-digital era and see the difference for yourself.

[@SimonBoothPhotography]

@@branislavboba1699 Perhaps, On your thoughts, my photography started post digital and I feel the same about those. Perhaps it’s just me or perhaps the images in my house are there for others to enjoy rather than me? Defining meaning in photography is a difficult one . Guy Tal refers to significant which I rather prefer.

[@yopispo5]

Nice shot, the one of the lake.

[@garyclaytonphotography5708]

Adam I think your idea has a great deal of promise, I hope it works well for you.

[@Firstmanphotography]

Thanks GAry

[@rosssayer6524]

Thanks for sharing your ideas Adam, I find my calendars work very well each year and they are limited to 100 copies, then I’m not trying to make a living out of photography. Good luck with your initiative and I thought the image you captured was very sellable 🙌👏👏

[@howardrankin7119]

Very interesting and generous approach Adam

[@robertwhitemoto]

@4:40 looked like a beautiful Comp. I am lucky that my photography does not rely on income. It's a passion and a love of mine, but I don't sell. I share. CPA supports the addiction ;-)

[@stevemarson9665]

I collect etchings and have a house plastered with them on the walls ...... and drawers full of them as well. The difference is that they have definite recognised monetary and artistic value which invariably appreciates with time. Contemporary photographic prints for the most part only have decorative value for the general public, with a small niche of 'recognised' photographers where their work has become 'collectable'. I've a few Prints from photographers .... but they are all in boxes somewhere as I have neither the space nor inclination to stick them on the wall. Books are another matter entirely .... low edition numbers make them both desirable as a record of the photographers work and collectable as prices inevitably rise. The 'Collectors' editions with extras such as prints soon appreciate in value and are often beautiful items to own and look at. By all means produce high end low edition number prints .... but in a market that is saturated with digital devices and images the only folk making much money from paper prints will be the owners long after you're dead ..... I print loads of my images for my own amusement and the need to have something tangible that I can hold and look at. On the rare occasion someone has wanted one they've had it for nothing as it's just nice to have some recognition. Making money as a photographer is a whole different ball game ..... Continuum is an interesting concept ..... and probably the only way online print selling is going to gain any momentum ..... I hope it works out for you !

[@TimLaytonDarkroomDiary]

Very smart and clever marketing plan. I wish you well and hopefully this works well for you. I will be following along in your journey.

[@Lynettelucasphotography]

The photo turned out really good.

[@vincentkeith5259]

I gave up trying to sell after several years. This is NOT meant to discourage anyone - just some things to think about and find solutions. I still sell the occasional piece, but it's no longer my goal. WHY? 1. I suck at self-promotion - and I didn't get better as time when on. I like to blame this on being an introvert - but I'm not very good at being one of those either. Although I do suck at being an extrovert. The truth is, I really don't enjoy this part at all - so I didn't put much effort into it. 2. The competition 10 -15 years back for gallery space was brutal - I imagine it's worse now, with so few galleries surviving. ( I watched 5 in the Seattle area disappear in that time) 3. Photography is, to my knowledge - the ONLY art form in which the practitioner can create a near masterpiece (or an absolute masterpiece) by sheer luck - I got a camera - everything was on auto - was in the right spot at the right time, and autofocus worked. What this does to the prospective buyers is get thing thinking - Hell, I've got a camera, I could do that - and they're not wrong, just excessively optimistic about how often they'll succeed. The end result is that they put less value on your work. (Opinion: success in abstract painting is based far more on who you know than skill - as proven by any number of chimps, gorillas, and elephants - none of whom attended art school.) 4. The final straw was listing to people complain about my $150 prints and then finding out they spent $400 framing them - with no complaint at all. (see #3 above)

[@erniebrandt9762]

Interesting plan. I think it could be a good idea, and hope it works out for you. So far photography has been just a hobby for me, and will continue to be primarily so. I don’t intend to quit my regular job, because then I think it would be more stressful than enjoyable for me to take pictures. However, I have been considering selling some of my work, and maybe doing local family portraits for a fee, which I think has the potential for generating more income. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and experience on the business side of landscape photography!

[@Redserpent2000]

Hey Adam, I wish you the very best with "continuum".