Dec 11 2008
Beware of Photography Scams!
Times are hard now so I always try to find ways to make extra bucks. Like this one, thank you TODAY.com! Rebates, freelance writing, online coupons, etc. There are so many scams online. I just cannot believe how ingenious some of them are.
Someone commented in my gallery that I should sell my photos online, try stock photos or join photo contests. I found a few trusted sites but I came across a lot more that are NOT. They look legit and all but after thorough research, I found out that they are big scams!
There are 2 ways to get scammed:
- They offer a contest with big prize. They ask you to upload your photo and then you get an email saying you were chosen for the grand prize and asks you to pay a certain amount for a book with your photo on it and framed artwork then you’ll never hear from them again. Like this website — http://www.photolaureates.org I’m embarrassed to say but I almost … almost submitted my photo here. Good thing I Googled them and I found a lot of complaints.
- They ask you to upload your photo and if you don’t read the terms and agreement carefully, you’ll be surprised that you have been stripped off any rights to your own photo. They can sell it and do whatever they want to do with it, without giving you a single cent.
Bottom line, be careful! Read before you submit your photo or join any contest. Google the website and see what comes up. That always works for me.
