Protecting Your Images
Q: I have a theory on how to prevent the stealing of photos from my webpage. I have purposely put un-sharp pictures on my page. This will prevent any unauthorized use of them.A: I wouldn't worry about theft. Tales of theft are often exaggerated hearsay -- theft by markets that matter is almost nonexistent. You do yourself, your work, and your promotion efforts a grave disservice by not putting your best subjects and best quality out there for potential customers to see.
Pete Turner put his best up... so why not you also?
Q: To ensure the quality image I put on my webpage will not be taken -- should I watermark?
A: No -- not at all. I think you'll see less and less of this watermark thing. It only says to a potential customer: "I don't trust you." So what if a college kid or small newsletter steals a photo -- is it that much of a loss to you -- especially when you think of potential buyers that could be seeing your excellent photography? You're pretty safe. Professionals have little to gain and a lot to lose (their reputation and integrity) by "borrowing" your image.
Q: Should I caption my web photos?
A: Yes, put extensive captions on your photos. Put yourself in the place of a photobuyer: If they are looking for a birch bark canoe, they don't look for "boat" or "canoe" -- they look for "birch bark canoe." If your photos are properly captioned -- they'll find you, and pass over other photographers who don't realize how important it is to give time to captioning their photos with thoroughness.
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