Whether you are looking for ways to get extra money coming in each month, or perhaps looking for a complete change in career direction; selling your photos online could be something to consider. Finding out how to sell your photos online is not too difficult either, with many stock photography websites available to choose from.

The success of these websites was driven by the need for more affordable photography services; as the profession became increasingly expensive through the eighties and nineties. Pioneers of this new online service launched gettyimages back in 1994, and many more have followed.

If you are confused whether you have “stock” photos; do not be. They can be simply defined as images that the photographer, (you), has willingly agreed to license for use by a third party, in exchange for a one off fee.

In most cases, the photographer keeps ownership of the image and essentially rents it out for use, thus charging a one off fee for its use. These differ from Royalty-free photos in this regard.

These stock photo websites act as introduction agencies in many ways; bringing together those who need photographs, and those with photographs, in seamless fashion. Resultantly, if you have photos to sell, you could be in contact with thousands of potential buyers willing to pay you for your photos.

The first step for the photographer is to join one of these sites of course. A simple process, once approved, they can start uploading their images straight away. Potential profits depend on many things, resolution and image size amongst them, though some sites do allow for freehand pricing in some instances.

Pricing structures are quite consistent, though there are considerable variants regards fee charged, commission generated. And in all cases, these are subject to the site’s own terms and conditions.

While it is important to understand, and be satisfied with the pricing of these sites, it is also important to track the performance of each site. It may initially be tempting to go for the higher rate sites, though these often have smaller client bases, so profit may not be as significant as first appearing to be.

Popular sites presently include iStockphoto, which allows the selling of photos, illustrations, videos and more. Working on a credit system for the purchaser, 20% of the fee earned is passed directly to the photographer, and is doubled for exclusive images.

Also very popular is Dreamstime, who sell images on an individual basis. With a higher basic commission of 50%, this is slightly put into perspective by a smaller client base.

These are of course only the best known sites you can use. Many professionals use them, which while a good indicator, may not be great for the amateurs amongst you; you will be competing for business after all. Others to consider include ShutterStock and BigStockPhoto, but there are many more for you to consider.

When you sell your photos online, you open up a world of possibilities; not just in money made, but also in exposure and getting your name, work and expertise out there. Happy snapping!