The value of publicity

[Steve Axford]

I recently had a request to feature my fungi photos on a website called thisiscolossal. I'd never heard of it, but I agreed as I am always keen to get more exposure for my fungi photos (or any photos for that matter). I'm glad I did as it has generated well over 1 million hits on my smugmug and flickr sites plus many requests for paid use of the photos, interviews, book covers, etc. I am actually quite stunned at the level of response.

The photos can be seen at http://www.thisiscolossal.com/2014/0...-steve-axford/

[CherylK]

Wow Steve I just had a look at thisiscolossal.com and I can understand why you got soooo many hits on smugmug and flickr.
Over 1 million hits and everyone so well deserved and you shouldn't be stunned, just very proud. Brilliant photography!!!

[Steve Axford]

Thanks Cheryl. I've never gone viral before, cept when I catch a cold. Perhaps I'll get enough from this little bit of publicity to pay for my next toys. Some sort of tracking mechanism would be good, but we'll wait and see.

[Cris]

Just had a look, They are all great shots, the kind of fungi shots anyone would aspire too. Well done and any credit you receive is very well earned and deserved.

[blkmcs]

Simply amazing stuff, little wonder people are flocking to your sites.

[Steve Axford]

Thanks guys. I'm actually most pleased because it is the fungi and it will help to put them in peoples minds. It's good to get some recognition, and for something that I am so interested in.

[Cargo]

What a great accolade Steve and well deserved
Cheers Cargo

[Mary Anne]

Well Done Steve..

[snappysi]

Nothing better than getting recognition for something that your passionate about, sometimes its worth more than money...congrats

Simon.

[Wandapics]

Good on you Steve. Well deserved accolades.

[Cage]

Steve, I've been an admirer of your fungi shots since I've been on this site.

You're only getting what you deserve.

[CandidTown]

Looks like miniature Pandora.
James Cameron should visit your page for inspiration...
Great images.

[Glenda]

Stunning photographs and you deserve all the interest shown in your work. Well done.

[billy4030]

Just had a look, unbelievable photos. Good on you.

[Steve Axford]

Thanks Guys.
Simon, that's the point. I does generate quite a bit of money too.

[arthurking83]

I guess the moral of the story is that, properly targeted giveaways can result in exposure which help generate sales.

In an industry that seems to have become swamped with calls for not giving away your IP for free .. this totally goes against that grain.

Good to see and well deserved too.

[Steve Axford]

Thanks Arthur - and you hit the nail on the head. There are two very distinct ways that you can approach making money from photography. First is the old method of being exclusive and the second is the modern internet way of being popular. I remember reading about how little John Travolta was paid for doing Pulp Fiction, yet it resurrected his career and made him a lot of money in the end. I know an actor who makes a small living from his acting roles and lots from advertisements and appearance money. I wouldn't suggest that I could make a living from anything I earn from this, but it does show that exposure isn't just giving your photos away.

[enseth]

Add one more "Hit" to the list Steve. Sensational stuff. We all know that there is an incredible amount of photography out there but your work proves the old adage that cream rises to the surface. I shall now continue on my whey.

[OzChopper]

Beautiful shots. They make me want to find a rainforest and go 'shroom searching

[Steve Axford]

Thanks Enseth. OzC - that's one of the reasons I try to get my stuff out there.