This thread is started to gather the support of all members of ClubSnap against
exploitation of this website for free/cheap photography service.
This is not directed at people who, having the due abilities, offer free services out of
goodwill (for a best friend's wedding, for your family party, a donation drive for the less
fortunate etc.)
____________________________________________________________________________
On Asking for Free/Cheap services
Asking for free/cheap services when you do not come from a registered non-profit/charity
organisation is plain unprofessional. Do not give the noble reason of giving opportunities to
newcomers, it just means that the shoot is not really important and you're trying to cut cost
by finding someone free.
On Hobbyists
For hobbyists new to photography, or at least new to SLR photography, your act of having
fun trying to get yourself employed to try out your skill is damaging to the photography
industry in general. It lends little credibility to the photography community, especially if you
fail your assignment. If you really want to experience what professional photography work is
about, get yourself attached to one, or even work for one as an assistant, from there you'll
know that commercial photography isn't just about carry a camera around looking great like
a celebrity.
On New Photographers
For those who newly commit themselves to the industry, building up on portfolio may be
important, and a couple of 'free' services might be needed. If you're really offering free
services for a start, please take special care of the terms and conditions so that you don't
lose your rights to your pictures to even use them for your commercial portfolio. In a
competitive market like this, freebies don't last, sooner or later you'll need to start charging
and it's not the first time I've heard from new photographers (fulltime or freelance) finding it
extremely difficult to get their network of customers pay more for what one is worth when
they decide to start charging seriously. As long as you don't develop an efficient method of
work and a unique and desirable style, free services will only lead to more free services, no
one will appreciate your work for what they are worth, don't even try dreaming of stepping
out of Singapore.
____________________________________________________________________________
By signing your name in this thread, you agree not to directly/indirectly take part in the
exploitation of ClubSnap members, causing damage to the credibility of the photography
community here.
exploitation of this website for free/cheap photography service.
This is not directed at people who, having the due abilities, offer free services out of
goodwill (for a best friend's wedding, for your family party, a donation drive for the less
fortunate etc.)
____________________________________________________________________________
On Asking for Free/Cheap services
Asking for free/cheap services when you do not come from a registered non-profit/charity
organisation is plain unprofessional. Do not give the noble reason of giving opportunities to
newcomers, it just means that the shoot is not really important and you're trying to cut cost
by finding someone free.
On Hobbyists
For hobbyists new to photography, or at least new to SLR photography, your act of having
fun trying to get yourself employed to try out your skill is damaging to the photography
industry in general. It lends little credibility to the photography community, especially if you
fail your assignment. If you really want to experience what professional photography work is
about, get yourself attached to one, or even work for one as an assistant, from there you'll
know that commercial photography isn't just about carry a camera around looking great like
a celebrity.
On New Photographers
For those who newly commit themselves to the industry, building up on portfolio may be
important, and a couple of 'free' services might be needed. If you're really offering free
services for a start, please take special care of the terms and conditions so that you don't
lose your rights to your pictures to even use them for your commercial portfolio. In a
competitive market like this, freebies don't last, sooner or later you'll need to start charging
and it's not the first time I've heard from new photographers (fulltime or freelance) finding it
extremely difficult to get their network of customers pay more for what one is worth when
they decide to start charging seriously. As long as you don't develop an efficient method of
work and a unique and desirable style, free services will only lead to more free services, no
one will appreciate your work for what they are worth, don't even try dreaming of stepping
out of Singapore.
____________________________________________________________________________
By signing your name in this thread, you agree not to directly/indirectly take part in the
exploitation of ClubSnap members, causing damage to the credibility of the photography
community here.
