On occasion, I purchase stock photography for clients and build web pages and images based upon them. For example, I built this front page banner based on an image from Getty images, using a search like this (I think, as I don’t see that image there, but you get the idea). I’ve gotten tremendous mileage (pun fully intended) out of this speedometer image, as seen on Above All’s home page (among other places).
Since buying a digital camera a year ago, I’ve gotten into the habit of taking ‘stock photography’ shots. These photos aren’t necessarily of a compelling subject or a person I know, but are intentionally generic. Trees, for example, or peppers. These aren’t going to win any awards, but they may be useful for future commercial Web work. I’ve recently used my first stock image: the current banner on this home page comes from a photo I took at my friend’s birthday party. Locals may recognize it as part of the Aquarius buildings in Yaletown.
I wonder if I’m an unusual case, or if this make-your-own-stock-photography is making a dent in stock photography vendors’ revenue? I’m a total hack Web designer, so maybe professionals don’t stoop to these levels?
DarrenBarefoot.com 
I also use my own photography when I need a stock photo. 🙂 I’m no pro, but I can take a picture that looks good enough once mucked with in photoshop.
and hey, I recognize that building! I used to live there! 🙂
Does anyone know if you can use photos from the internet if you change them in a drastic way? I can’t afford a decent camera (yet) so I’m stuck trying to find “free” photos on-line.
Terry: Technically speaking, that’s still a breach of copyright. Practically, no one’s likely to come after you.
Thanks Darren,
I’m just starting out (mostly free stuff for friends) and don’t want to get them in any trouble. Going forward I will eventually build my own stock photo repository. Know anyone who needs an entry level designer?
Another way around the issue of not having a digital camera is to take the photos with a regular camera and use the developed prints. I scan ’em, and crop the pictures as required for greeting cards that I make for personal use.
I have had good luck with trading images at istockphoto.com. A decent selection of photos of varying quality, but they be super affordable.
Cool, thanks for all the input.
MJ: Interesting, I didn’t know about that aspect of istockphoto.com. For others who don’t know, I did a bit of looking around, and information on uploading images is here:
http://www.istockphoto.com/app_tutorial_13.php
Terry, you might try some of the online sites that have free stock photography:
Public Domain Photos
Open Photos (Creative Commons licensed photos)
Stock XChng
I have a big problem finding good photos for my web sites and brochures. I have tried to take photos myself, but I am NOT good 🙂 But Darren, given that the picture came from MY party, I may borrow some of your shots!