What makes a picture sellable?
I have had several discussions with photographer friends about the difference between contest winners and "sellers". For contests in the US, PSA (Photographic Society of America) rules often are a critical factor as well as a unique subject or "angle".As far as selling photos, you have to consider the various uses and how you will market your images (web site, "art" show,etc.). A photo that may be purchased as a "stock" photo for advertising would probably not be the same that is sold for use as "art" in a home or business. Those are as varied as human taste. Quite often, something in the photo that is stunning or unusual will attract attention. If you are selling at a "show", matting and/or framing can be the deciding factor, as well as size. You may find a local restaurant that will use your photos as decor with a card attached for contact.
I know this is a bit rambling, but there is no one answer.
If you do figure it out, please share.
Shoot, learn and share. It will make you a better photographer.
fineartamerica.com/profiles/john-g-schickler.html?tab=artwork
Having a buyer
There is a buyer for everything. As you gain experience and market yourself correctly, you, your photos and your sales should evolve. 
Thank you for making PhotographyTalk.com your photography community of choice.
Alex wrote: "What makes a picture sellable?"
Having a buyer
Nicely said
Latest Reviews
The Olympus Pen E-P7 is an affordable micro four thirds mirrorless camera with 4K video capabilities, a 20.3MP sensor, and 121 focus points, making it a solid entry-level camera for beginners.
The Panasonic G9 II is a 25.2-megapixel micro four thirds camera with numerous features that make it punch out of its weight class, like 779 AF points, 5.8K video, and weather sealing.
The Fujifilm XT5 is a 40MP mirrorless camera capable of 6.2K video at 30p. With those specs, it’s an ideal choice for photographers needing a camera to pull double duty for imaging and video.
The Canon EOS R100 is an entry-level mirrorless camera introduced in 2023. But just because it’s an entry-level camera doesn’t mean it’s a bare-bones camera. Find out why in this review!
Forum Top Posters
-
1
Scotty 9 posts -
2
Roman Omell 4 posts -
3
Ruby Grace 4 posts -
4
TCav 4 posts -
5
Roger Lang 3 posts -
6
Nefarious 3 posts -
7
Jim Photo 3 posts -
8
CharleyL 3 posts -
9
ShutterPal 3 posts -
10
Pat White 3 posts
 |  |
 |  |
Latest Articles
Upgrade your kit in 2024 with the best intermediate camera on the market! The question is, what camera fits the bill? We’ve got three top options for you to choose from in this buyer’s guide.
The best photography jobs right now are a mix of tried-and-true gigs like wedding photography and new jobs highlighting AI’s capabilities, travel, and videography.
The Olympus Pen E-P7 is an affordable micro four thirds mirrorless camera with 4K video capabilities, a 20.3MP sensor, and 121 focus points, making it a solid entry-level camera for beginners.
Starting a photography business is one thing; sustaining your business over a long period of time is another. Use the tips in this professional photography guide to build something with longevity!
The Panasonic G9 II is a 25.2-megapixel micro four thirds camera with numerous features that make it punch out of its weight class, like 779 AF points, 5.8K video, and weather sealing.
Cinematic photography is an interesting genre that combines photographic and videographic skills along with effective storytelling techniques. The result? Highly impactful images!
Newborn photography requires skill, the right gear, and a lot of patience. This beginner’s guide discusses critical topics that will help you be more prepared for before, during, and after the shoot.
To fill the frame means to expand the footprint of the subject in your shot. Get in close, zoom in, crop the image, or use other techniques to bring the subject to the forefront.