Thanks for all the kind feedback about the latest Rangefinder article on securing your images for online portolios and online proofing.
Frequently in interviews and computer science classes the rhetorical question gets asked, “Would Windows be so successful if it was more secure from the start?” I think that’s a great question, one deserving more contemplation rather than declaring abolsutely whether it’s true or not. If Windows was more secure, would it have been user friendly enough for adoption by the masses? (UAC annoyances anyone?) Of course now that Windows is on practically every desk and lap in the world, there is a bit more to worry about if we don’t address the security issues.
Now, I wonder if there are any parallels to the way photographers share their images online. What is there to be afraid of? Are you afraid of the embarassment that others will poke fun that your work isn’t relevant or compelling? Are you afraid that someone might get away without paying for a couple hacked up 5×7 prints? Are you afraid that your clients will get mad if their images are passed around online without their permission?
Well then, start by addressing all your fears one by one instead of going the opposite extreme and locking them down tight. Stop using gaudy borders and don’t watermark your images to death. Take away all of the distracting elements and let a person focus on the quality and crafstmanship of your photography. Go to a couple workshops to improve your digital imaging or photographic skills and get yourself inspired! Make sure your clients know in advance that you own the copyright to your images (of them) and that you may at your own discretion use the work in a public forum for portfolio and publicity of your photography business. Restrictions in usage rights due to model release and negotations for privacy should be an exception rather than the rule if you are to keep your business moving forward. Because if you can’t show your work, you can’t sell your services as a photographer.
So lighten up on your heavy handed use of watermarks and JavaScript to lock down your images. Really spend the time to think about how you can turn your strategy upside down by creating business oportunities through the way your images are displayed and shared online.
