Mobile PhotographySocial media defines the trends in imagery right now. People want images that look and feel like those streaming past second-by-second online. We think the best way to deliver that is to encourage mobile photography submissions from our contributors.

Today’s mobile devices give you access to what we like to call the telephonic-trifecta of creativity. Take a photographer’s visual talents, add a device that is always handy and can capture a good (or great) quality image, then give it the power and applications to edit, apply filters, and create a model/property release right there on the spot. You have a perfect storm for stock production.

Here’s why the time is right to take the cuffs off and bring mobile photography into the iStock collection in a big way:

• The overriding appeal of these images isn’t so much about retro filters and the low-fi aesthetic (which can be duplicated) – it’s the real and authentic feeling the best ones have. Authenticity is central to the current media conversation. The omnipresence, familiarity and spontaneous nature of mobile devices make them uniquely suited to capturing images that feel real.

• As more and more advertising takes place online there is an ever-growing market where absolute size and resolution has become secondary. Mobile devices are now more than capable of meeting these needs.

• You’re already taking these images. Probably in vast numbers. We want to help you broadcast the best and get paid for them.

Here’s what you should be thinking about when it comes to turning your mobile photography habit into a source for stock:

Spot SpontaneityMobile is perfect for capturing moments as they unfold. Think about social media images that have streamed past you recently, and the one-of-a-kind charm that made memorable ones stand out. Spontaneous doesn’t mean sloppy: it takes skill to anticipate, recognize and capture spur-of-the-moment occurrences. Use your instincts and be aware of potential image opportunities as they unfold – look to capture moments which convey the key concepts and messages our customers are looking for; e.g ; fun, connection, togetherness etc.

Friends & Family lend authenticityThe people you know make the best models. They’re real, relaxed and interact with their surroundings without reservation. A boys night out at the pub, birthday celebration or anniversary, or just a walk in the park with a loved one makes for perfectly salable subjects. Be sure to get those authentic expressions and unsuspecting moments. Mobile devices are perfect for capturing genuine moments that say ‘connection’, ‘security’, ‘protection’.

| Creative Brief Keyword Tag: MobileStock

Focus on the familiar.Focus on daily life. Capture slices of your own day - from your morning dog walk, to the evening commute home on your local public transportation system. Find real life situations, that look real.

Get the detailsThe size of mobile cameras allow you to get in close. Capture the details in everyday objects that you might otherwise overlook. There are some fantastic macro or telephoto add-on lenses for mobile devices that will help you change your perspective.

Add production valueGrabbing a few mobile shots during your larger production shoots can quickly add a new twist on your submission. Don’t hesitate to fire up the continuous light source and capture a few tight frames of your model, or challenge yourself with an all mobile still life shoot.

Tips to help you get your mobile uploads accepted

1. Get the exposure right - Brighter is better. Mobile cameras tend to have a fixed aperture and a narrow shutter speed range. Images taken in low light force the ISO to go up and introduce noise and artifacts. Some more advanced apps like Camera+™ and Camera Awesome™ have controls for setting focus and exposure separately giving you much better control.

2. Don’t over filter - Filter sets or editing apps can be great for adding some style or mood to an already great image, however you also risk adding additional noise or compression to your image.

3. Make copies - Some apps don’t save the original image versions or allow you to revert once a filter has been applied. Saving a copy before you edit can prevent a catastrophe.

4. Max your Resolution - Many photo apps capture or save only the medium resolution files to save your mobile storage and data costs when uploading. Check your app preferences and be sure you are saving the maximum image resolution possible.

5. Tag your uploads - Be sure to use the keyword tag MobileStock in your uploads and add an additional note in the image description about the image capture device/filters. This will let the editor know that your submission was captured on a mobile device and should be inspected accordingly. It also helps the customer know that they are viewing a mobile captured image.

iStockphoto Mobile Brief - August 2012