Pictures For A Credit!
Absolutely ridiculous. I saw a message from a picture editor asking for “iconic images” for a publication, in exchange for which a byline credit or a small fee could be paid. This is for iconic images! It is this devaluing of photography which is killing the industry. Asking for the best of this work, “iconic imagery” as was said, and offering a credit or a small fee, is quite frankly insulting to all photographers. I’m sure a lot of this iconic photography has involved colleagues risking their lives and being away from their loved ones for weeks and months on end, and the offer of a credit simply does nothing to appreciate or respect this work.
I saw another message from a different publication asking for photojournalistic work from around the world, in exchange for the opportunity for the photographer to take these pictures; so, the photographer comes up with the story idea and pictures, to give this publication, and their payment is the opportunity to have done so! When questioned, the reply was “we are a non-profit publication”.
Let me clear something up for all those after free pictures, no matter what your excuse or reasoning is. We are for profit individuals, who need to make a profit to pay for our accommodation, meals, food, water, heating, transport and so on. Let’s not even start on how much equipment costs now days. Stop asking for free pictures.
