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Photography Question 

Tom W. Hauber
 

International Library of Photography


About a month ago, I submitted a photo to the International Library of Photography's photo contest, I just got a letter stating that I am now a semi-finalist, and my photo is going to be published in a book. Of course, I have the chance to buy the book, but it is stated that there is no obligation at all, and my photo will be published regardless of if I buy or not, is this for real? Thanks.


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August 17, 2001

 

John White
  I think you will find most photos are published. Send in a shocker and see. Not a bad way to sell books! We all love to see our photos published


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August 18, 2001

 
BetterPhotoJim.com - Jim Miotke

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  First of all, congratulations. No matter what, it is an honor to be picked.

I too was very happy when one of my shots became a semi-finalist. And I am still waiting to see if I become a finalist... In the meantime, I decided to save my money and not buy the book.

If you have the money and want the book, it's okay. Like John said, we love to see our photos published. The best way, though, would be to start sending your photos to various buyers and stock agencies. If you can get your work in a stock catalog that does not charge to be listed, you will both be published and potentially make some money.


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August 18, 2001

 

John A. Lind
  Took a bit of web searching. I had never heard of them and am skeptical also about their book. Sounds like the "International Who's Who of [fill in level of education or profession here]" books, and would definitely want to know more about it before buying one . . . such as selection and rejection percentages for publication and how many public libraries buy it. If you want to know more about them or their address, it's here:
http://www.picture.com/about/aboutus.php

An alternative idea if you want exposure to the fine arts community:
Some photo shows are selective about what they hang after the judging, even if it doesn't win anything. Just getting displayed can be an honor. Look for ones sponsored by fine arts associations; county and state fairs usually hang everything. If you're serious about your work, and want to see how well it stacks up, look for some of these in your region and start entering them. Most important is viewing the gallery when it opens to the public to see others' works. If it's a good show it will give you an idea of what excellent photography is, how to present it for display, and can generate ideas for techniques to use in the future. Yes, it does cost some money to make a large print and frame it properly. I select works I want on my home/office wall, to give to someone, or perhaps sell at the show itself.

-- John
[different one from the first who replied]


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August 18, 2001

 

Linda Perez
  I also entered the contest with The International Library of Photography, and am a semi-finalist. I did not buy the PRE-published price. In my mind, if they think my photo is good enough to be printed in a book, I should be recieving a complimentary copy! I viewed some of their previous books and found them to be nothing but glorified photo albums. I was disappointed with the whole reprsentation, putting my photo on a bunch of coffee mugs? I feel like it's just a scam. I am an amatuer photogapher, and the picture I sent is one of my favorite shots. The recognition from this organization does'nt make me proud, but insulted.


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August 19, 2001

 

robert G. Fately
  I too submitted a photo and was selected with the "special offer" to buy the book - and figured it's another Who's Who scam. So I didn;t order the book and I'm waiting to see if they still publish my shot in their upcoming edition.


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August 19, 2001

 

Debbie Groff
  I, too, was selected. I didn't buy the book either.


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August 20, 2001

 

John White
  Ive just recieved a letter with my photo in a window on the front!
I dont plan to buy the book. I already have a copy of the photo!


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August 20, 2001

 

Cheryll Williams
  My niece submitted a photo she took with a point and shoot amost two years ago, she also is waiting, she didn't order the book. I submtted a photo just a month ago, an I also recieved the same offer. So look on the web for other contests, that are more valid. We really need to get the word out about this contest! Be carefull of the ones that state you give up all rights to your photo. They are just looking for stock photo's they can sell for thier own profit. There is a contest in the Popular Photography Magazine each onth, for "Your Best Shot". Check that out. Good luck.!!! Don't be dissallusioned, keep shooting!


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August 21, 2001

 

Michelle Campbell
  I have had 4 pics published by them in the last 2 years. Each time I received a letter talking about how I was a finalist. One of the pics I submitted was a wonderful pic of my 2 year old daughter so I purchased a book to put in the little collection of things that I've assembled to give her when she either gets married or turns 21, whichever! And the book is a wonderful addition to that collection. I will never regret spending that money, but obviously, I had a different reason for doing so other than just the competition. It, is however VERY COOl to see a photograph that you did take in a hardback book. =0) Very encouraging!
Michelle


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August 21, 2001

 

Janice Unfried
  I have also submitted photographs to theis website. It was only pics that I took on my little point and shoot. At first I thought great but now I will not be submitting any more to them as they seem to accept everything and the books are like glorified photo albums (as someone previously said.


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April 25, 2002

 

Kevin T. McGuinness
  A friend of mine also received the same recognition for a photo. Do a little math. 250 page book with 6 photos per page. That's 1500 photos @ $100 = $150,000. That assumes you pay a little extra to say something about yourself and since this plays on your ego, most will pay the extra. Even if the copies cost $20 to produce, that's $120,000. Yes, some people won't buy a copy but it is still a 400% profit on each person that signs up. Hmmmmmmm, makes you want to start a contest.


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July 05, 2002

 

L. Gordon Stetser Jr
 
 
  FROGGY
FROGGY
This image was a Finalist in the 1999 Photographer's Forum Contest, plus it sold to At-a-Glance Calendar Co fot their desk calendar for 2001

L. Gordon Stetser Jr

 
 
Photographer's Forum Contest is completely legit. Yes, they charge $50.00 for the 9 1/4" X 12 1/4" hardback book with 169 pages of 8 - 10 color images plus 79 pages of B&W images. So what if they make a little money by selling the book. There is a LOT of TIME & Engery going into the layout & production. If you doubt the quality of the Photographer's Forum Magazine, pick one up and analize the quality of the images. I have been selling my images for twenty-five years to Calendar Cos, Book Publishers and National as well as regional Magazines, and it is still a thrill to be considered a finalist amoung over 4,000 entries. My image of a Frog in a tank was a finalist in the PHOTOGRAPHER'S FORUM BEST OF PHOTOGRAPHY ANNUAL 1999. ( The ONLY year I entered) I have kept tearsheets of every photograph and/or story I have EVER had published. You never know when they could be used in your resume.


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July 23, 2002

 
- Carol Engstrom

BetterPhoto Member
Contact Carol Engstrom
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  I have submitted three photos to International Library of Photography over the last couple of years. All three were semi-finalists and published in different books. I didn't buy the books. (I kind of wondered if they just publish everything they get--shows my confidence in my work doesn't it.)

I also had a picture selected as a finalist for the Photographer's Forum Best of College Photography Annual. I did purchase this book and got tearsheets. Not every picture I have submitted has made it here.
Carol


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August 22, 2002

 

Marlena A. Dougharty
  I am so glad I found this site.. I was wondering about this International Library Of Photography contest myself...
I also submitted a photo and just got a letter about becoming a semi-finalist. And was wondering the same thing that started this discussion.. Thanks for clearing this up for me. I think about along the sames lines of If my photo is good enough I should get the book.. I guess they like the $$$ as much as the photos!!!!

Marlena


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October 01, 2002

 

Kalisa S.
 
 
  Rough Life
Rough Life
My son Tanner at 2 months

Kalisa S.

 
 
I just received a letter today and am now hertbroken that it is really nothing special. It looks like everyone's pictures get accepted. I was considering buying the book b/c I thought it would be a wonderful keepsake. I have enclosed the picture I entered, I actually took the shot with my webcam, does anyone think it is worthy of any other kind of recognition? Where can I enter it for publication in a calendar or something?


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October 03, 2002

 
BetterPhotoJim.com - Jim Miotke

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  Hi Kalisa,

I think that you can feel proud for making the cut. Even if they pick a great number of "semi-finalists", your picture still made it that far and is thus something to celebrate.

I myself though would not celebrate by purchasing the book. You can do that if you want to, by all means. For me, it is enough to put their letter into my special file of keepsakes and mementos. This way, my wallet can celebrate at the same time :)


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October 03, 2002

 

John A. Lind
  Kalisa,
It is a good photograph; I like the lighting and very low key background.

I hope you will find some comfort that "bad news" never improves with age. How would you have felt if you had spent the money for the book and then discovered this? The book they publish is similar to the "Who's Who of [fill in level of education or profession here]." It is commonly called "vanity press" because it plays on people's vanity and willingness to pay for a book to see their name in publication (in this case, picture too).

I would encourage you to seek out local and regional art associations. Even smaller communities with populations of 25k have them. Many of these associations host annual juried photography shows. Prize money is minimal at best, barely enough to cover entry fees, and is usually reserved only for the first place photographs, but the recognition is there. Don't wear your heart on your sleeve entering one, though. Judges are fickle and the shows I've participated in are strong ones with superb submissions. Some are so competitive with limited display space that having a submission hung for the show that follows the judging is somewhat an honor. One show I participated in last year only displayed about 35% of the submissions.

As to entering it for a "calendar" most publishing companies select calendar images from stock agencies that have many thousands of photographs on file. Photographers submit images to the stock agency and receive a royalty if and when any are used by an agency client. The agency takes a cut of the royalty fee. Note that a photographer must present a portfolio of their work and pass muster with the agency before they will accept any images for their stock files.

-- John


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October 03, 2002

 

Bobby Chin
  Echoing sentiments already expressed, but I'm glad to have found this site via Google. Trying to see who else might sell ILP books besides themselves.

I too, received a letter yesterday about being a semi-finalist. I'll acknowledge the photo and send back the form, but will not make the purchase.

Kalisa, your photo is already worthy of being noticed here.

Bobby


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October 08, 2002

 

Beth DeMars
  I too, have been wondering the same thing for 2 years. I submitted 2 photos, and was suspicious when I got exactly the same form letter telling me I was a semi-finalist, or whatever. I too, was a little disappointed.
I subscribe to a few writer's newsletters, one which gives warnings of scams. Last year, ILP was listed there not exactly as a scam, but an entity to be wary of.


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October 10, 2002

 

John A. Lind
  Beth,
I would not classify it as a "scam" either. You do get a product in return for your money (the book). What they don't reveal completely is everyone (or very nearly so) is a "winner" under their "contest" rules. They're really in the business of specialized book publishing, with direct retail sales of the books.

Considering the cost of limited quantity publishing runs compared to millions of copies of novels on the best seller lists, a higher price would be expected. It's called the "marginal cost of replication" with the cost of setting up the printing run having to be spread across the number of copies. The cost of that can easily be more than the actual publishing run. It's why college textbooks are so expensive. Even so, rest assured they *are* making plenty of profit selling the books or they wouldn't be doing it.

John's Litmus Test:
For publications such as this one, I call a *very* *large* public library with enormous holdings and find out if it's in their holdings, either in Circulation or as Reference. If not, then I call a large, major university library with the same question. If the answer to both is "NO" I conclude it's not a book marketed much to anyone other than those listed in it, making it a "vanity press" publication.

-- John


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October 10, 2002

 

Thomas Carlucci
 
 
 
Well--I think a lot of you are paranoid. As someone said earlier, so what if they make a little money? Whether they publish a lot of pics or not, being published in almost ANY book is a kudo. I don't honestly belive they publish every photo. There are some awesome photographs in those books--and some that aren't so awesome. Stop trying to be a photo critic. Instead, enjoy the photos. Buy the book; and the plaques, too. Use them to promote yourself. If you seek photo customers, brag about being in the book. Hang the plaque in your home or office. What little you spend on the books and plaques may come back to you tenfold, if you are serious about making some money in photography. And even if you don't make a dime--you have something to leave your descendents, who are now and will be proud of you. So chill. Being published in a photography book is not an everyday occurrence. You should be proud of yourself. I am proud of my 5 photos they are going to publish in the next 5 books. And I am not done, yet.


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October 11, 2002

 

Thomas Carlucci
 
 
 
Well--I think a lot of you are paranoid. As someone said earlier, so what if they make a little money? Whether they publish a lot of pics or not, being published in almost ANY book is a kudo. I don't honestly belive they publish every photo. There are some awesome photographs in those books--and some that aren't so awesome. Stop trying to be a photo critic. Instead, enjoy the photos. Buy the book; and the plaques, too. Use them to promote yourself. If you seek photo customers, brag about being in the book. Hang the plaque in your home or office. What little you spend on the books and plaques may come back to you tenfold, if you are serious about making some money in photography. And even if you don't make a dime--you have something to leave your descendents, who are now and will be proud of you. So chill. Being published in a photography book is not an everyday occurrence. You should be proud of yourself. I am proud of my 5 photos they are going to publish in the next 5 books. And I am not done, yet.


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October 11, 2002

 

Thomas Carlucci
  By the way, I submitted 8 photos. Only 3 were selected to be published. So, that alone says they don't publish every photo. It also makes me reflect on the ones that weren't selected and critique them. "What is not right with this photo?" I ask myself. "How could it be improved?" Humility is a virtue. I am humbly proud to have 5 of the 8 published. And I am going to use the books and plaques to promote myself. I have no doubt it will be quite worth it.


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October 11, 2002

 

Beth DeMars
  Well, well, well. I wouldn't call it paranioa. I can just as easily (AND FOR MUCH CHEAPER) "promote myself" by printing out an equally nice copy of my photo, frame it, hang it on my wall, and be just as proud of it. More people would see it that way anyway, than having to fish through a gazillion other photographs in a book. Are you telling me that if all the photos thaht were chosen are all in different books (like mine were), you are going to purchase each and every one? My coffee table isn't that big.


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October 11, 2002

 

Thomas Carlucci
  Yes, I will buy each one. Sure, framing your own photo is nice. But when you have SOMEONE ELSE print it and publish it, mount it on a plaque, I can tell you from experience as an entrepreneur and semi-professional photographer (who is quickly gaining enough business to seriously consider giving up my job next year and working as a full time professional), kudos from someone else is much better than patting yourself on the back. You can brag all you want to your potential clients--but when they see someone ELSE brag about you, well--that is the confirmation they look for before allowing a stranger to accept the responsibility of permanently recording their precious images, i.e., a wedding. Boasting all day, all week, all month, all year--just makes u a braggart. Let someone else give you some kudos. OH, I have met so many "wanna-be" photographers. Most think they are good enough to work for National Geographic, when in reality--they have a long way to go. Funny how so many amateur shutterbugs develop attitudes...pompous ones at that. Again--the best photographers are those that #1 remain humble and #2 keep in mind they are supposed to record the show, the event... not BE the event. Think about it. The best photojournalists get the shot without drawing attention to themselves. Be humble. Don't get too stuck on yourself as a photographer. This is good advice. Trust me.


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October 11, 2002

 

Thomas Carlucci
  One more thing, Beth. Buy a bigger coffee table.


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October 11, 2002

 

Lena Walker
  Yeah, they got me too. I did the math; I red flagged the "no obligation, but wait there's more" catch lines; and I even questioned if EVERY picture they received made it into the book. But in the end, I mailed off the little reply envelope and ordered a copy. Im proud of my photo, and I'm tickled that somebody wants to publish it. Does that make me a foolish consumer? Maybe. If so, so what. I could be blowing my money on a lot worse things. Bottom line is that I'm looking forward to the look on my Dad's face when I show him that his daughter got a photo published. That's going to be worth the 90 odd bucks anyday. Vanity Fee? Definitely. But it's still cheaper than a new hairdo and a manicure.


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October 11, 2002

 
BetterPhotoJim.com - Jim Miotke

BetterPhoto Member
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  I have removed the last two comments because things were getting a little nasty and no longer providing helpful answers to the above question.

I understand that this can become a heated topic but let's keep it friendly. We are not here to cut each other down - we are here to help each other learn.


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October 19, 2002

 

Thomas Carlucci
  I agree. :) However, I DO think some of what I submitted would be a great help to those just starting a photo business. I would be happy to share my ideas, if anyone wishes to email me.


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October 19, 2002

 

Terry L. Griffith
  I just received information on submitting a photo to this contest and was going to until I found this site and read all these comments and have decided otherwise. Thanks!
Terry G.
Oklahoma City


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October 20, 2002

 

Pooja Modani
 
 
  "Yoho! I'm the tribal Man!"
"Yoho! I'm the tribal Man!"

Pooja Modani

 
 
This is a gr8 site.. I too got the letter.. and was so thrilled and proud... I was planing on buying the book but my husband warned me and asked to atleast check more abt it... and i'm so glad that I found this site..Thank You! can somebody comment on this photography which i'd send to the contest...


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November 11, 2002

 

Kevin T. McGuinness
  Click on Lena! Recognized it for what it is and made an informed decision. Good for you! Next five books Thomas. You must be quite the photographer. Good for you! I wonder why they don't put more than one of your photos in the same book? Out of curiosity, what do they charge for a plaques?

Kevin M


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November 11, 2002

 

BetterPhoto Member
  I also got a letter just today. Decided to research the matter before I gave away $60. Looks like I made the right decision. Thanks for you help.
Sharon S
Columbus, OH


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November 15, 2002

 

Lena Walker
  Pooja...
Congratulations on a great picture. It makes me want to know more behind the story, and isn't that one of the benchmarks to a great composition? Look, guys - here's the bottom line -would you buy the book if your picture WASN'T in there? Don't get me wrong, I don't totally agree with the way this publication is being marketed, but we all have the ability to make our own choices. To those of you who have chosen not to purchase, good for you on making up your own mind. However, I'm a novice photographer who buys probably a new photography book monthly, and many of which don't contain HALF the photos this book contains. I guess my message is this... the ability to post these type of messages in this type of forum is one of the great things about the internet. However, you owe it to yourself to make your decision based on your own beliefs and opinions, not somebody else's.
Oh, and Kevin... Thanks.


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November 16, 2002

 

Jennifer L. N
 
 
 
I too recieved a letter and plan on buying the book. think about the million of people that submit photos and never hear anything about them. they cannot publish them all. as for those of you that feel this is a scam or a so called "vanity press" you may be right, but I think that someone wanting to publish my photo is an honor. what do you think?
I also have a question, does anyone know of any sights where photos can be subbmitted for any other contests? I would like to submit mine there also.


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November 17, 2002

 

Jennifer L. N
 
 
 
sorry picture did not show up


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November 17, 2002

 

Jennifer L. N
 
 
 
ok so it did not work again, I don't know what is wrong. the picture is at picture.com and my name is jennifer norvelle, so if you want to give me feedback on it, it can be viewed there. thanks


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November 17, 2002

 

Jennifer L. N
 
 
  little angel
little angel

Jennifer L. N

 
 
ok so I successfully posted it in the photo section so I will try it again, I hope it works this time


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November 17, 2002

 

Teresa D. Lambert
 
 
  Peace and Earth
Peace and Earth
Blue Butterfly on a dry river bed

Teresa D. Lambert

 
 
I just got my letter today! I like most people am just delighted that my picture was selected to even be published. I submitted it to the contest more for fun than anything else. Definitely was not looking or hoping to get rich off of it! If I'm lucky maybe someone out there might want to use it for a calendar or whatever. If they don't then I didn't lose anything to begin with. Photography is a hobby for me and well if someone wants to put it in print great and if theydon't that's fine too.
I think too many people enter on the pretense of being "discovered". If that be the case then they only set themselves up for disappointment. Enter contests for fun not and don't get your hopes up so high then you won't be so disappointed. Besides.....How many of your friends can say the have a photo that got published?


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November 18, 2002

 

Kathryn C. Chandler
 
 
  Sunset on the Gulf
Sunset on the Gulf
Sun setting on the Gulf of Mexico. Picture was taken in Sarasota, FL, from Siesta Key Beach.

Kathryn C. Chandler

 
 
hmmm . . . I had wondered about the contest myself, and when I received the "LETTER" stating that I had been selected as a Semi-Finalist, and my photo was going to be published in their book ~ was I excited? You better BELIEVE I was! I've taken pictures off and on for YEARS, and to have someone like this want to publish my photo is a LARGE honor in my opinion. It also helped to raise my self-confidance in my photo-taking. Like everyone else, my husband and I went back and forth between buying, and NOT buying the book, and in the end ~ yep, we purchased it! If it never gets any further than this, I'll always be able to say "See, I did this". Is it ego? Well ~ yeah, but I'm going to enjoy it anyway!


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November 19, 2002

 

Neva
  I got the semi- finalist letter too. I also got a letter wanting me to register to an online data base to sell my photo
was just going to check it out
I can't afford to spend any money, but if it's free and legit, hey what have I got to lose?
I am just snap-happy and was lucky to get a shot of a dolphin on the top of the water.
Getting picked for this may not be a big deal, but hey it beats rejection, right?
my pic, "Dolphin Watch".


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November 25, 2002

 

Cathy Kuczynski
  My neighbor entered and won....being a little jelous , I entered and also won. She bought the book...I did not...I was smart and borrowed hers! I was mortified when I saw a picture of the ear of an old woman with three stiches in it. Boy was I proud that my picture ended up in a book with a picture like that...(sarcasm)I do think they print about anything in their books.
Cathy K.


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November 26, 2002

 

Melissa A. Raymond
 
 

BetterPhoto.com Editor's Pick  
Morning Break
Morning Break
My son Carsen

Melissa A. Raymond

 
 
I also sent in an awesome picture of my son, and well if this is a scam I don't think that I am comfortable with them exploiting my son! I have filed a complaint with the better busines bureau in Maryland and and hoping to have my money refunded. I am humiliated! My family was so proud of me and now I have to tell them that it's a hoax! I feel so robbed!


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February 21, 2003

 

Jason R. Cook
 
 
 
Hi,

I just called ILP and they said my book will be sent out 4/30/03. They also said that the reason their website is giving a Microsoft NT page is, because of the snow storm, some of the snow leaked into the fiberoptic wires. The NT page is the default page of their server.

The whole thing sound sketcy to me. I'll never enter their constests again!


Jason


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February 21, 2003

 

Jason R. Cook
  Hi,

I just called ILP and they said my book will be sent out 4/30/03. They also said that the reason their website is giving a Microsoft NT page is, because of the snow storm, some of the snow leaked into the fiberoptic wires. The NT page is the default page of their server.

The whole thing sound sketcy to me. I'll never enter their constests again!


Jason


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February 21, 2003

 

Mona K. Makela
  Hi;

My pic was a semi-finalist early 2000 and I decided not to buy the book. Never heard of them again. Now, yesterday I discovered that they are selling the rights to use my pic on ephotograph.com and picture.com. Well, all I remember signing for was that they can use my pic in their book. What should I do?

:)
Mona


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March 08, 2003

 

Janice Unfried
  Hi Mona, I sent 4 photographs to these peeple and was sent, each time, a post back form that I had to sign giving them permission to publish each photograph. Then a few weeks later I would be sent another form requiring my signature if I wanted my photograph to be offered for stock. I would recive 10% for the sale of any pic. I authorised 3 of them. As far as I can see they have not offered the one for sale that I didn't authorise.

If you did not authorise your pic then contact them and tell them you do not wish your pic to be offered for sale and tell them that you did not authorise it...


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March 08, 2003

 

Denver Osborn
 
 
  Big Yawn for a Little Person
Big Yawn for a Little Person
newborn @ 1wk

Denver Osborn

 
 
Glad I found this post! I too entered the contest online and became a semi-finalist. Didn't have any plans to buy the book. Figured if they want to publish the photo, by all means do. It's still my photo and I own the rights to it! :)

I finally gave the semi-finalist letter a good look today (came in the mail Dec 2002). My initial thought was junk mail where someone wants to sell me something... by responses I've seen here, that seems about right.


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March 18, 2003

 

Laura Hurley
 
 
  water baby
water baby
my niece Tiffany in the pool

Laura Hurley

 
 
Well, I also got my 3 photos declared semi-finalist's for the contest and when I got the first notice I was totally flattered but then I saw all this stuff written about them and I didnt get too excited about the others after that. Also, I have noticed that they have not even posted the winner of last year's contest so I wont hold my breath. Still, I have decided to buy one of the books because it was a photo of my little niece and I thought it would make a nice christmas gift to her and the family (...if it actually gets published...) Wish me luck ! ;)


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April 28, 2003

 

Shirley Guilliano
  My photo also made it into the semi-finalist in the Nature category however I am far from being a photographer. Imagine my surprise when I received my letter in the mail. In either event, I will not be sending any money. I will however acquire a copy of the book through Amazon.com after it is published.



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June 02, 2003

 

Pamela Purl
  I have had about 4-5 pics published in different books through them. I ordered the book the very first time & it took A LONG LONG time to receive it...in fact I ended up contacting the company several times before I finally received the book.


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July 01, 2003

 

Theresa A. Bish
  I have had 16 photos published in 2yrs with a second place winning for "Human's! They Make Me Laugh". I asked about the monetery amount for 2nd and was told there was none. That the photo would be online for 1yr and an online copy of Forum magazine. If 1st gets $1,000, how can 2nd not get anything? I've gotten numerous Editors Choice Awards, and 1 royalty payment of an astounding $5.00! There was to be a one-time use for the book, but after these copies are sold, they publish again under different titles. They've also published a photo in their calendar and used my 2nd place photo for ads in Popular Photography, American Photo, Outdoor Photographer, and even the ads in the Sunday paper that used to be in the comic section at one time. My attorney says this is copyright infringement, and that there could be a case with them. I photo was to be used in "Best Photos of the Millenium". I stupidly purchased this book for $102.00 with artist profile, and when I got it, the pic wasn't there. It took me 6 months to try to get in touch with these yahoos. I was told that there was a mistake in printing and it was accidentally not published. It took them 3 more months to reinburse me for the check. None of the photos on that site seem to be protected in any way while online, I found out. If the BBB seems to think that this company is on the up and up, then someone should be checking out the BBB! I think everyone could have some serious lawsuits against ILP. I am addressing my local newspaper with this issue, also. Good luck to everyone who also has issues with them. You can't get in touch with ILP no how, and if you do get someone on the phone, it's the same person all the time. A guy with an accent who makes you seem like you are the fool. Thanks all for taking the time to read this.
Theresa


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July 29, 2003

 

Cat Lee
  I was also a semi-finalist and ordered 2 books. It took forever for me to get them (over a year and half), but I did get them. So I would say that they're legit in that aspect. The beef I had was when I looked at the other pictures in the book. Now I'm not saying I'm this great photo critic or anything (and there were alot of very good pictures), but there were alot that were not good at all. Meaning that they were out of focus, under/overexposed...just plain not good. And it was obvius that they didn't look that way b/c of a "creative" eye. So, I do believe that anyone that submits a picture becomes a semi-finalist. But I think they are legit, in that they do (eventually) provide what they offer. But I don't think you gain anything as a photographer simply b/c there doesn't seem to be any criteria for them accepting pictures in their books. So I don't think being a semi-finalist, and getting published in their books really mean much. At any rate, you can get a refund on the books. I believe it tells you on the order form. And there is a number you can reach them at...you're just on hold forever.
Kyra L.


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August 19, 2003

 

Lena Walker
  Hi again, y'all. After reading the last few posts on this thread, I'm beginning to feel a little nauseous. I got my letter and gave them the ok in Sept 02 - still waiting for my book. Has ANYONE received theirs yet? I really don't wanna have to start tracking these guys down.....
Thanks.
Lena R


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September 14, 2003

 

Theresa A. Bish
  Good luck in tying to 'track' this company, if you have to. The only way is to write to them snail-mail it appears. Most of the time you can't get an answer by phone. The company sounds very impressive, but I see that Popular Photography, Outdoor Photographer and American Photo don't seem to place their ads anymore as they used to. Wonder if they know smonething that we don't.
Theresa B.


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September 14, 2003

 

Phillip A. Flusche
  I too submitted photograph and was "selected to be a semi-finalist. I submitted another and guess what it was picked too.

No today I got a letter from them and was informed that, "you have been selected by an international panel of top photographers to receive....
"The outstanding Achievement in Amateur Photography Award for 2003".

I was also told that I would have the opportunity to speak about the story behind my photo and my photography at the most prestigious gathering of professional photographers ever assembled.

I get to go Washington DC and to compete as Amateur Photograper of the Year.

Bottom line is I get a silver cup a free Vivitar Digital Camera and get to attend some semenars all for over $500 dollars plus lodging. The letter and slick brochur had even mmore info.

needless to say I am not going.


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September 17, 2003

 

Theresa A. Bish
  In their letters, they inform photographers that 'the photographer retains all rights'. This is a very nice deceptive game they play while trying to keep things legal. When you sign the so called "release form" you are giving up your rights to your own photo it would appear.
If you did retain rights, they could not use your photo over and over and over again using different titles for the same book. In reality, you are paying them to publish and republish your work for $74-$102.00, payable by you and for free for their own use.
My attorney has been looking into this, and a lot of people could get a lot of reinbursement from copyright infringement. I certainly hope this "establishment" gets all that they (he) deserves.


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October 28, 2003

 

Lena Walker
  Well, my book has finally arrived, almost a full year after I paid for it. Good points, the book is a good to better quality hard cover with a huge quantity of exceptional photographs. Bad points, no cover sleeve, and there is an awful lot of mediocre to bad shots included as well. (Trust me, this is not photosnobbery speaking - a few of them are truly awful - out of focus, stuff growing out of peoples heads, etc.) Also, the "artist profiles" that cost slightly more to include are all listed at the back of the book, by name - making the extra cost hardly worth it. Since ordering the book, I've had two other pictures published with my permission. Neither of them paid me for it, but neither of them charged me either. Given my time back, I probably wouldn't have ordered it - but, live and learn, right? To anyone considering ordering one of these publications, I would think long and hard before doing it.


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October 29, 2003

 

Lawrie D. Murray
 
 
 
I also was a simi-finalst with Natures Pot Of Gold and I did order the book the most important thing is that it was the sixth time I had won a contest and every time is one more thing to add to your portfolio and also the same picture was the weather channels photo of the week 11/16/02 what matters is that you keep trying. And have fun!!


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October 29, 2003

 

Bob Cammarata
  Boy!!...What a can of worms was opened here!
Speaking as yet another "finalist"...I was relieved to see that most photographers saw through this scheme as I did.
I sent in my reply card, but did not order the book. Its worth 37 cents to me to see if they will STILL publish my photo...(I'm not holding my breath.)


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October 29, 2003

 

Christina A. Brooks
  Thank you Jim Miotke for being so kind in your response. You could have said that we are fools if we purchased anything from ILP before really looking into it. I received my letter last week. I truely love photography and felt honored that I was chosen. I think I even jumped up and down a little. :-) The picture was of my son so I was even more thrilled to have it published so of course the very next day I wrote out a check for the book. I said to myself I should probably check this out but so wanted to believe it. Anyway, I read all these comments today. I agree if the BBB thinks they aren't misleading people then I am not sure about the BBB. I just hung up with my bank to put a stop payment on the check. Thanks for all the responses letting everyone know. Hopefully all other "semi-finalists" will stumble across this discussion before they send any money.


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November 03, 2003

 

Donna W. Neal
 
 
 
I too was a semi finalist. But did not buy their book. Sounds like a money making scheme to me. Thanks Jim for starting this thread, and for your web site. I love it.


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November 05, 2003

 

Stephen Hill
  Hi, everyone. I guess you already know why I'm responding, yes, they want to publish one of my photos too. This is the first year I ever entered any type of competition so it's all a learning experience to me. It was just last week I sent my check but I'm not going to cancel it. I have no aspirations of becoming a National Geographic photographer, it's a thrill (maybe a once in a lifetime thrill for me), to see my photo in a book that can be purchased by anyone.
I would like to pose a couple questions and would appreciate responses. You can email me directly if you want at minoltadoc@cableone.net or respond here.
Does anyone know how many photos get submitted to this contest? I'm sure it's growing exponentially with each contest thanks to the internet. As someone else calculated they publish roughly 1200 photos per book and I would guess they receive well over 100,000 entries per quarter (wild guess). If so, than less then 2% of the pictures end up in the book. That should count for something.
Another thing I am curious about, has anyone compared an earlier publication with a recent one? If you look back over the years at contest entries and winners at this website there is a noticeable improvement in the quality of the entries. It's very likely ILP is going through some growing pains and still has a lot of bugs to work out. It would be nice if this company were to work out these problems and provide everyone with another respectable means of displaying their art in the future.
I am also curious if anyone knows an actual contest, cash-prize winner or if anyone has tried to contact one of the winners to get their opinion of the contest and company? ILP seems to be one of the few contests out there that offer a significant cash prize and it would be nice to know if anyone is actually receiving these awards.
The thing that disturbs me the most is if ILP is selling photos without crediting and compensating the owners. Those of you who have had this happen probably should get with Theresa and form a class action suit against them.
I also wanted to thank everyone for the input on this thread, and wish everyone luck in future. Thanks.


Steve


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November 06, 2003

 

Stephen Hill
  Hi, everyone. I just wanted to add that I have the ILP book titled "A World of Memories" 1999. I did a search on ABEBooks.com which gave 10 hits, I of course bought the cheapest one at $8.95 so I could get a glimps at what "my" book will be like when I eventually get it. I just wanted everyone to know that if you were supposed to have a picture published in this issue I would be happy to look through it and let you know if it is there. Just email me your name and title and I'll use their index to find it. I am curiouse to see if your photos were published in all copies. Someone suggested that each book may be unique, taylered to include your photo which may not appear in another copy. I would like to see if it is true. My email is minoltadoc@cableone.net. If I get some responses I will let everyone know the results later. Thanks.

Steve


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November 06, 2003

 

Theresa A. Bish
  I just sent a formal letter to ILP with some not so positive statements along with quite a few questions that I would like the answers. I've also gotten in touch with the Libray of Congress regarding the ISBN# of all the books my photos are in and the records show - there are no records.- That was one of my questions to ILP, to explain that.
As you know, when they send you the photographers release to sign, all they want is your initials. Initials to release photos are not legit if it's not your full signature anyway. Anyone can put in initials and say hey you signed away your life. lol! I wonder what they would do if 200 of more people jumped their a---- about this and threatened them with 200 more people. ATTORNEY people that is.
Don't know if any of you had placed a copyright along with your name on your photos, but I am going to try to make a case with that. Good luck everybody.
There's scams then there's scam 'artists'. And they certainly do specialize in their field.


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November 06, 2003

 

Wes A. Jones
 
 
  Daddy Can I?
Daddy Can I?
My daughter that changed my life.

Wes A. Jones

 
 
"Daddy Can I" is now "Daddy, you got scammed".
Yes I too got the letter. Lucky for me, I paid by credit card. The card company told me I can reverse the charges at any time since the so called purchase is flagged and I have it in writing. Anyway, Here is the pic they said got to be a semi-finalist. Hope you enjoy it. She is my daughter. Don't let the cuteness fool you. She is a handful. More of her pics can be found at http://fireblazer.com/ashley and because of her, I have started up a new company called Be On The Look Out For! (http://beonthelookoutfor.com) We are about to launch this month, and our goal is to help find missing kids and work closely with the Amber Alert System as well as Homeland Security.
It's really amazing at what a child can do for a person. I used to hate kids. Now I am attempting to help them (and their parents). And now thanks to ILP, I'm going to be including SCAMS on our kiosks. Not only will our system be showing missing kids, but companies that scam as well. Feel free to jump on the web site. Not much happening yet, but next few days it will be runing at peak performance.


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November 06, 2003

 

Stephen Hill
  Hi everyone. I first have to apologize for a previouse post in not having my facts straight. I went to the ILP website to see what info I could find and came up with a couple interesting facts. Turns out it looks like they started publishing books in '98. They published 6 different books in '98, 12 in '99, 52 in '00, 27 in '01, 17 in '02 and so far only 11 in '03. Seems the cat is out of the bag and production is dropping dramatically. Hopefully, they will be out of business in a couple years.
Also based on their figures about 10% of the pictures submitted ended up in the books, not such a great ratio. Seems this place is receiving the bad reputation it deserves.


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November 07, 2003

 

Theresa A. Bish
  The letter I submitted to ILP last nite came back as 'unknown recipient-name not recognized'. I am not great on puter lingo, but anytime I get a return, it usually says daemon failure. This came back reading FROM: administratorTo me it seems as though someone there received it, but sent it back as though they did not. Resent it again now, and it came back the same way.
Also, there is not answer at the phone #410-363-4800 unless they are out. But such a large corporation should be able to afford an answering service or at least a $10.00 machine with all our money.


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November 07, 2003

 

Miles E. Jacobson
  Save your angst, energy and by all means Money !!!
I've enjoyed doing the daily picture puzzle on Picture.com for a number of years. Just recently, I could not access their' puzzle and searched their' site for a place to email them.
There is No way to email them.
They are a sophisticated marketing scam just the same as Poetry.com.
Everyone wins, and all get published for a fee. If you want to see your work in print, that's great and you'll have to wait till they accumulate enough MONEY and marerial to print it.
If you expect anything else for your $70.00 plus dollars, forget it.
If however, you have a graet scam that you want to market, contact these people.They would be an expert source for taht !!!!!!!


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November 08, 2003

 

ROBERT GONZALEZ
  Does anyone know how to get a hold of these picture.com people. If they are selling our photos without our concent. I want some of the money they are making off of us.


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November 08, 2003

 

John A. Lind
  I'm wondering if this thread holds the record for being the longest here . . .

Found the following about the ILP on the Canadian CBC site from October 2002 (surprising a news/media site has maintained a page that old):
http://www.cbc.ca/consumers/market/files/scams/photo_contest/

Note carefully under their submission guidelines that rights are granted to publish the photograph (under its owner's copyright). This is a "right of use" and not a reassignment of copyright ownership. There is also a quarterly magazine, "In Focus," and quite oddly there *zero* information about subscription. Increasing circulation is a periodical's primary goal, but apparently not for this one!

A "WhoIs" query to Network Solutions about the domain name "picture.com" returned the following about the registrant (owner) of that domain:
--------------------
Registrant:
Circa Press, Inc (PICTURE-DOM)
3600 Crondall Lane
Owings Mills, MD 21117
US

Domain Name: PICTURE.COM

Administrative Contact:
Jones, Mark (MJ3491) mjones@CIRCAPRESS.COM
Watermark Press
3600 CRONDALL LN
OWINGS MILLS, MD 21117-2233
US
(410) 356-2000 fax: (410) 356-9931

[remaining, redundant information edited out]
--------------------

A similar search for the "stock" service, "ephotograph.com" returned the exact same data about that domain name (not too surprising).

A search for information about "Circa Press" and "Watermark Press" found the following 1995 "Baltimore" magazine article about their parallel publishing of poetry (amazing that the photo contest is the same "formula" in pictorial form):
http://www.joabj.com/Balt/9501PoetryFactory.html
Now, 8 years later, instead of using the mail to send it to them, you can submit your poetry via the http://www.poetry.com/ web site. Saves the cost of a postage stamp (and saves them the cost of transcribing the poems)! Note the article mentions the "Who's Who" directories I mentioned above! Oh . . . and BTW, a similar inquiry about "poetry.com" with Network Solutions got, yes, you guessed it, the very same information about the domain name as above.

Last, but not least, apparently they don't need all the office space in their building. If you live in the Owings Mills area, and are a professional photographer or poet, you can cozy right up to them by leasing some of the 5,000 square feet of office space available in their building (the whole building is 40,000+ square feet):
http://www.baltimoreshoppingcenters.com/mmc/properties/watermark.html

-- John


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November 09, 2003

 

Theresa A. Bish
  I was wondering if anyone has any of these titles, as I have 18 photos 'published' with them and would like to see if they are in your books as well. I will do the same for anyone else who may have these and would like to know if their photos are in my books. "Priceless Treasures", "Timeless Treasures", "Portraits of Life", "Reflections From the Past", "Sifting Sands", "Web of Memories".
The latest one of mine was Images of the Mind. When I bring up one of the photos, it says that the book is out of print and you can order the new one, "Journey Into the Imagination". Well, all 18 say the same thing, leading you to believe that all 18 are in this one book. I know that can't be.
I clicked on ephotography site and all of mine are there, also as someone else said that their's was also.
In the books, it does state that rights remain with photographer. A few paragraphs down it says 'all rights reserved under International and Pan-American copyright conventions.' Nothing can be reprinted without permission of the "publisher?"
There are so many of us here, maybe we can check with each other if our photos are in books bought by others. What do you say? Maybe we can bring at least one type of scam artists to justice and get back money we all deserve. If they think they have the rights to reproduce in other books and on another website, who's to say that they don't sell to stock.


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November 09, 2003

 

Lena Walker
 
 
 
Theresa...
Im game. I have a recently (finally!) delivered copy of Images of the Mind on my computer desk. If your photos are published under "Bish, Theresa" then there are no photos listed in this edition under your name. Also, a quick check through the alphabetical Index of Photographers doesn't show any names with more than one page nubmer next to it - indicating to me that each photographer is limited to one picture per edition.
I'll be happy to check anyone else's name if anyone is interested - I check this thread pretty regularly.
Also, inside the front cover is the following
"Address all inquireies to Jeffrey Franz, 3600 Crondall Lane, Suite 101, Owings Mills, MD 21117."
I know this address is above, but I haven't seen Jeffrey Franz's name on this thread before.
Just one more note - We gave ILOP permission to use our photos. But I can't find any clause on the original paperwork they sent me that limits them to only using it once.


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November 09, 2003

 

Stephen Hill
  Hi, Theresa. Some additional info you might be interested in. I searched thru www.ABEBooks.com for all possible listings on books published by ILP and found a couple of yours. They have "portraits of Life" for $15.97. You can search for this title and also put in the author's name "Rick Shaub". They also had "Priceless Treasures" but it was more pricy at $45.00. The author is Melissa Mitchell. Other names I came across are Robert A. Hall, Rachel A. Hall, Russell Hall, Johnathan W. Thompson, Gregory P. Rago, Natalie Batovski, and Jennifer Przydzial (let me see you pronounce that one 3 times fast:o)>). Each person has the title of editor or senior editor. Seems there are about 15 or so different book titles you can find at this web site ranging in price from $12.00 to $65.00. I found 2 of the title "Windows of the World". I am going to buy them both and compare them. There also seems to be a lot of their poetry books available also if anyone is interested.


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November 09, 2003

 

Laura Hurley
  I'm still waiting ... I posted above in April that I bought the book with my neice's picture in it (water baby) to give as a christmas present. They told me it would be published in September - now they're saying November ... Its supposed to be in the "Wandering Spirits" issue but I checked online and didnt see it there :( Is anyone else waiting for this publication ?


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November 10, 2003

 

Theresa A. Bish
  Thank you Lena and Stephen for your help. Wondering how so many people can have titles of editor/sr.editor. lol! To Laura, I'm afraid you'll be waiting a long time. You'll have time to buy some new Xmas paper for the year 2005 to wrap it in. They have a habit of extending that publication date.
In one of my other responses, I said about the line in the book that says no one can reproduce without the permission of publisher. I haven't found any publications that say that. They all state that nothing can be reproduced in any way without the permission of the copyright holder, not the publishers.
When the BBB tells you that you have been a victim of a scam and acts as though you are wasting their time because you have been the stupid one, that's where the problems are. It seems that they stick up for the criminals because they were the smart people and we are the dumb a---- who got caught up in it. I've found other photo sites discussing this even more than this site.
I'm tired of the scam artists getting off with just reports on them that they are scammers and to stay away. Why just stay away and let them continue in their buissness?! I have copies of all my transactions and associations with ILP and listings of all the discussions at various sites of people experiencing problems. I've sent letters to Ritz Camera, Snapfish and a few others who have advertised ILP and gave them some 'facts' about who they are sponsoring. I haven't seen any ads for ILP recently on these sites since I notified them.
No more BBB complaints from me...I think one very good attorney has some better answers that comes in the form of $$$. Many, many $$$ for many, many people.
Tomorrow, I am going to try to phone ILP. I have a list of some questions I was told to try to get answers to from them. If the answers aren't sufficient, then it will go beyond BBB and discussion sites.
Sorry to be hogging up the discussion site, but I'm boiling about the freedom crooks seem to have over us.
Has anyone gotten thru using the email, info@picture.com? I've tried 4x's, they are still coming back as unknown recipient.They used to answer, but not now. They also put out an Editors Choice Calendar in 1999. Oops, that wasn't worth using capitols letters for, lol!


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November 10, 2003

 

Stephen Hill
  Hi, Theresa. Can you tell me what other sites are discussing this topic? I tried sending an email to them at custserv@ephotograph.com and it also got returned. They have some FAQ's at the following link:

http://www.ephotograph.com/faq.html

They make some interesting statements here. "Royalties in the amount of 10% of the retail price of the product for each usage are paid to the artist. This royalty rate is the highest rate currently being paid in the stock photography industry for use on products of this type."
"If someone wants to make use of your photo for anything other than the products we carry, we contact you within 48 hours with the name and address of the individual or publication wanting to use your photo. We will also provide you with industry guidelines to help you to negotiate directly with them for the use of your image, and will arrange for digital transfer of your image to them. "
It all sounds nice if they actually followed these rules. Seems you should be able to use this against them. They use any photo they want to to make calanders, greeting cards, puzzles, sweatshirts, & mousepads. Has anyone you know ever received a royalty besides your hefty $5.00? I don't blame you for being so upset.


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November 10, 2003

 

Lisamarie Busch
  wow
i just happened to stumble upon this topic I wanted to read about release forms for models but it evolved into this. I too made semi-finalist and was so proud! me ! published! now it seems like they pick everyone. I bought 2 books (one for my parents for christmas) who knows when i'll get that. I am thourghly discouraged now. I want my picture back I want my $$ back. I dont like the idea of them using my pic w/o my knowledge and making $$ off of it in the process. I think we all need to do a group lawsuit and sue the pants off of them. I just feel bad for all the ones to come along thinking its a good idea. u see library of congress isb #'s and international blah blah blah and think its legit. stupid stupid stupid. btw heres my pic


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November 10, 2003

 

Lisamarie Busch
 
 
  Down That Road
Down That Road

Lisamarie Busch

 
 
k lets try this again... w/a pic


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November 10, 2003

 

Christopher Howeth
  Theresa,
Use as much of this discussion site that you need. Please continue to keep us informed of your findings.

I have 2 photos that are suppose to be published and was checking on the release dates for "Wandering Spirits" and "Journey Into The Imagination" (which I ordered, one for each photo)and noticed the publication dates continue to change. Not only do the publications dates change but according to statements above each photo, they both are to be featured in "Journey Into The Imagination". Now why would I buy two seperate books if both photos are going to be published in one book! The more I read about this subject dealing with ILP, the more my "spirit starts wandering" and my "imagination starts taking a journey" thinking about legal actions to take if I don't get my 2 books.

Picture.com was the first photo contest I entered and I've learned a lot. I think at this point, if I get my books, I could settle and never deal with them again. However, I did register my photos for sale and IF I find out they sold my photos without notifying me then that opens a completely different can of worms.

I'm going to monitor this discussion and look forward to everyone's input. I also will be trying to contact ILP asking some of my own questions and will post my findings in hopes to benefit all.


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November 10, 2003

 

Theresa A. Bish
  Hello everyone. Boy have I got news today about ILP. I just got off the phone with a Mr. Reed after being on hold for 25min and some very retarded stereo system trying to play classical music for me. lol! Some of my questions were, 1."for all the money you are making off of us, could you at least afford a good stereo?" -2. cannot find ISBN registered at Library of Congress and he called me a liar. 3.-said that when I click on all 18 of my books and says that the copy is out of print and that Journey into the Imagination will be out to replace it, it's leading me to believe that they will all appear in that book. His response was," oh, the website is inaccurate". My response was,"oh, so you mean it is false representation?" No answer from him. 4.-Told him about the thousands of pages I found having to do with them and fraud and he said that on the web you can find all kinds of misleading info. I told him,"yes, you've certainly proved that point". Asked him why they seem to be #1 at the top of every list? 5.-Asked why emails all come back? He said they were never received because they are having problems with backed up mail. Told him they were received because the returns came back from circapress, not a daemon failure to deliver. No answer from him. Then he said "lady, why don't you find another website to harrass, I don't need this". Then I asked to talk to J. Bryan and he said he's not available, I handle his calls. I then demanded and he put me thru to his answering service asking to leave my name, #. Had 8sec to respond so I said "I will not leave my name, # or anything else if I can't speak directly to you. If I can't then you can speak to my attorney and the few thousand others who will be pressing charges".
I don't know how much space this is taking up, but I spent 8hrs digging up different discussions on them and scam annoucements. I won't post them now unless you are interested.
I have gone to 5 different papers in our area and placed ads about them and later today am calling the local news consumer alert person with this story. I also ran across a name of Mark Jones who was there as of Oct.2002. I sent an email with no message just to see if that would be returned, and it wasn't. mjones@circapress.com. Fax:410.356.9931, phone:410.356.2000.
Also found a website that boasts of a photo on the cover of Endless Journeys from a publication called International Library of Photography based in Washington, D.C. I have much more if anyone wants it. If I can rid the world of at least 1 scam artist, I hope this will be the one. This is pathetic that in this country we can be taken like this and allright to do so. That means that any one of us can build us a site, put up our photos or others and just start selling. I thought it was a good thing to use these as tearsheets, but now I would be ashamed for any of my clients to know I was ever suckered like this.
Sorry Mr. Miotke for using so much space.


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November 11, 2003

 

Randy S. Corbin
 
 
 
while it is nice to be published, this is not the way....I got the "finalist letter, etc. " the image has already been published in a magazine (digital camera mag, UK) issue #13....titled "fountain".....I will not be sending back the authorization card....and I better not see the image used anywhere!! that would be expensive for the ILP...............


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November 11, 2003

 

Christopher Howeth
 
 
 
Theresa, great info!
I'm posting 2 photos of mine that ILP has. If any one has seen these photos published in magazines,book,web,etc... please let me know. If anyone else should post their photos, I'd keep an I out for you as well.

Randy, you may already know this but if ILP has told you your image has already been published and they are asking you to release it for publication after the fact, you have a opportunity to take legal action. According to this web page,http://www.ephotograph.com/media.html, ILP is to contact you prior to sale because you have the final say as to use and pricing of your photo. Hope this helps you.


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November 11, 2003

 

Theresa A. Bish
  Sorry I didn't respond to your question about the other site discussions sooner. Here is some info: 1.www.photo.net
2.http://www.news.deviantart.com/article/10804/
3.http://www.acecam.com/photography/3453.html
4.http://www.ephotozine.com
5.This site says about a book "Endless Journeys" to be released from ILP-Washington, D.C.
www.wittensportsphotography.com/pages/1/
6.www.cbc.ca/consumers/market/files/scams/photo_contest/ This one says the name of a man that was there in OCT.2002, Eric Mueck.
7.http://www.sfwa.org/beware/contest.html
If you go on a Yahoo search and type in 'photography contest scams', you'll be amazed who comes up the most often. Also, try 'problems about International Library of Photography'.


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November 12, 2003

 

Randy S. Corbin
 
 
BetterPhoto.com All Time Best Photo Contest Editor's Pick BetterPhoto.com Photo Contest SECOND PLACE Winner   fountain
fountain

Randy S. Corbin

 
 
My advice....I recently recieved the "finalist letter for the people category"....along with the little photocard, to send back....I was about to, when I came upon this site. The image has already been published in a major magazine (digital camera magazine, UK issue #13)...before I entered it in the contest.

I've been published about a half dozen times this year, so although excited, it doesn't bother me to deny them the right. I will not be sending the card back in......

It's a shame that this sort of thing happens.

here is the image in question....


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November 12, 2003

 

Kelly T
 
 
 
First of all, thank you so much for starting this thread!! I'm another "semi-finalist," but I was immediately reminded of the Who's Who books that have been mentioned repeatedly.

I am not going to sign the release card for my photo to be published. And I am certainly not buying a book based on all the problems you all have had. Thanks again for sharing your stories.

Does anyone know how long they keep our photos on the web site? I am going to try to upload my photo so you all can be on the lookout for it (although, it's on iStockPhoto.com, so you might see a legitimate use of it!! LOL).

Thanks again!!


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November 13, 2003

 

Kelly T
 
 
 
Ooops...forgot to upload my image. Thought I was submitting it for another contest so I bailed!! LOL


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November 13, 2003

 

Kelly T
 
 
  Bridge in Afternoon Light
Bridge in Afternoon Light
bluewater bay marina bridge

Kelly T

 
 
Dang it!! Last try, I promise!


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November 13, 2003

 

Theresa A. Bish
  Kelly, I really your photo. I like how you placed the angle of the bridge. Makes you want to start walking to see whats at the end, lol.
I've had photos on there since 1999 and there doesn't seem to be a way to delete other than to call those idiots. I'd suggest using a cell phone that you have a lot and lot of free minutes to use, coz you're going to be on hold for quite a span. Hope you can put a scare to them, too. Don't let that Mr. Reed jerk intimidate you. Good luck with all your photography in the future.
Most of mine were sent in via puter, but when I first started, I sent them in as 5x7 and 8x10's regular post. Don't know what they do with them when they have a actual print.


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November 13, 2003

 

CAROL F. MOORE
 
 

BetterPhoto.com Editor's Pick  
St.  Louis Arch
St. Louis Arch

CAROL F. MOORE

 
 
I just received the same letter. Like all of you before would love to have a copy of the book but would like to know what stores it can be purchase in. I have taken photos all my life and looked this shot for several years. Thinking it would be a neat one. It was taken underneath the Eads Bridge on the plateform of the Metro link. What is uniquic is this bridge was the first to connect the railroad from the East Coast to the West Coast, joining the country as one. With the Arch in the background being the symbol of the Gateway to the West...it was only fitting that the picture be taken this way.

I am going to send my approve in but I do have my photo maked copywrite by Carol Moore..the orginal...

I will keep my eyes out to see if I can find the book in a store.

Carol Moore


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November 21, 2003

 

CAROL F. MOORE
 
 
  St. Louis Arch
St. Louis Arch

CAROL F. MOORE

 
 
Sorry wrong picture of the Arch..let me see if it will post the correct one....

Carol Moore


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November 21, 2003

 

Laura Hurley
  Hi
Has anyone ever gotten their money back from them ? I'm going to ask for a refund if I dont receive my book by christmas ! grrrr
~L


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November 21, 2003

 

Theresa A. Bish
  I received a refund from them for $102.50 when they said my photo was to be in the book "The Best Photos of 2000". It wasn't, and when I questioned it, they said there was an error and the photo didn't get placed. Well, it took almost 1 year to get the money back. I can almost guarantee you that you won't get the book by then. I would make a copy of the letter where it states that if you are not satisfied, you will receive a 'prompt' refund. If you don't get it in a timely manner, then you have that to hold over their heads. Good luck.


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November 21, 2003

 

Stephen Hill
  Hi, everyone, I just wanted to let y'all know I have 3 different issues of these ILOP photo anthologies. "Windows of the World", 1988; "Life's Gallery", 2002; and "A World of Memories", 1999. If anyone was supposed to have their picture published in one of these just email me (minoltadoc@cableone.net) with your name and title and I'll be happy to check for you. Seems each book is of the same quality as everyone has mentioned. Some quality shots mixed in with a bunch of common snapshots.
I did decide to put a stop payment on the check I sent in. My picture does show up on their web site under my name but I have not heard a peep out of them.
Just as a side note, I realized today that, for all you Minolta or Konica fans, MinoltaUSA web site has a weekly photo contest. Right up my alley :o)>


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November 21, 2003

 

Toni A. Martin
  A couple of years ago I was contacted about two of my photos as being chosen as semi-finalists. First I went down to the local big chain book store to see if these books were on their lists. No, they were not. Next stumbled across a forum on this topic on one of the other very big photo sites. There I read that your photo was not actually published in the book unless you bought the book. So I truly would like to know if my photo was published at all. The book was something about "Reflections". I cannot remember the whole title. If you want to see your photo published, just work at it. If it is good enough, you won't have to pay to have it published!


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November 21, 2003

 

Theresa A. Bish
  Toni, the book I have is "Reflections From the Past". Maybe that's it. I looked for your name in that one, but the closest I found was Toni Martinez and Nadene Martin.


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November 22, 2003

 

Toni A. Martin
  Theresa, thanks. The two images in question were the praying mantis head very close front on image and the yellow butterlfy on the red zinnia.


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November 22, 2003

 

Brian Nielson
 
 
 
Hi guys, another fellow semi-finalist (me) has joined the fun. It is very interesting about the problems with this company but I haven't seen one thing addressed yet


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November 30, 2003

 

Brian Nielson
 
 
 
Sorry bout that (got busy).
Has anybody actually won their 1,000 and 10,000 dollar awards? Or any of the awards promised to be given out? It seems to be illegal if no one has ever won any prize that is pronmised. I have emailed my uncle (he's a copyright and patent lawyer) tonight to try to get things moving. I'm thinking a class action lawsuit, but who knows right now. If you'd like to get in contact w/ me I'm at bnielson_4@yahoo.com.
My wife decided to enter a few of my pix into various contests. This is the pic. for this contest. It's a foo-foo feel good pic but, if you'd all like to critique it, feel free. No holds barred.
Take care all.
-B


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November 30, 2003

 

Brian Nielson
  My computer is OBVIOUSLY broken! Anyway, I'm on their web picture.com. Lokk under Brian William Nielson. thx


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November 30, 2003

 

Lisamarie Busch
  well once again I was selected as semi finalist- thats 2 for 2 folks! luckily I wasnt stupid enough again to pay for 2 books which I still havent gotten. (now a summer 2004 release instead of a winter 2003 release -so much for my parents christmas present!) can we please put these ppl out of business!


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December 01, 2003

 

Lisamarie Busch
  just to update everyone my second pic that got published is supposedly in the same book as the first pic. so im curious to know if they will put in the second pic. why would I buy 2 books ( actully 3 since I bought 2 books the first time) of the same title (endless journeys). I think when I send back my "ok to publish" form i'll write a letter saying I already bought 2 books the first time of this title and will my second picture be in the book? I doubt i'll get a reply back. i'll keep everyone posted.


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December 02, 2003

 

Theresa A. Bish
  No, Lisamarie. Either one or the other will be in it, not both. Their answer, if they will answer you, will no doubt be that it was an error and your photo will appear in such & such book title instead. They almost always answer you back with an "error at the publishing dept." response.


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December 03, 2003

 

Lisamarie Busch
  thanks theresa
interesing how they seem to cover their tracks ... one lie after another. im tired of messing around w/them im going to ask for my money back. any idea how to do this? write them? or call? or email?


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December 03, 2003

 

Stephen Hill
  Lisamarie, if you look back at Theresa's message on 11/11 she provided a phone number. You can also get therir address from the web site.

Has anyone been playing their puzzle game? I solved the hard puzzle yesterday in 31 moves, but they picked a winner that took 37 moves to solve it. I guess I'm on their sh*t list. :o)>


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December 03, 2003

 

Lynn Joyce
  Well, I guess you guys can add me to the list as well. I was sent the letter that I had been selected as a semi-finalist and that they wished to publish my photo, "Perfect Peace" in their upcoming publication, Endless Journeys. I didn't buy the book (thankfully) but DID register my photo for sale on their items (you know, the callendars, coffee mugs, mouse pads, etc...)....my question now is "How do we know if anyone purchases an item???" I mean, aren't we supposed to receive 10%? I was all excited and so proud, as I'm just an amatuer getting started and was thrilled that I was going to be published! Talk about bursting my bubble! Geeeeesh!! I'm just glad I at least did not send them any $$.


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December 04, 2003

 

Kristin E. Reid
 
 
 
Christopher- My picture is also supposed to be published in Journey Into the Imagination. It was the first contest I entered and have learned a lot since. My brother also entered a photo and is supposed to be published. It is discouraging when you realize they aren't all they say they are. I haven't told my brother because I don't want him to feel bad, but I have known for some time that it wasn't a huge deal.

Now I wonder if I will ever get my book. If anyone starts a lawsuit against them, let me know! KReid26@msn.com

I am posting my photo as well and if any of you see this anywhere other than here on Better photo, please let me know. This picture means a lot to me and I will be furious if it is used without my knowledge.



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December 04, 2003

 

Kristin E. Reid
 
 
 
Ok, now why didn't the photo go up? Let me try again....


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December 04, 2003

 

Kristin E. Reid
  Welp. didn't work but it is listed in my member gallery, it is the sepia of the baby titled "Sleepy Angel".


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December 04, 2003

 

Jennifer L. N
  i have subbmitted 3 photos, and all 3 have been selected. I did buy the book 'forever in a moment', but only because my son is in it 'little angel' and I wanted to have it for him. I want to know if anyone has any books with my photos in the, they would be under jennifer norvelle, or norvelle-abramshe.


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December 04, 2003

 

Jennifer L. N
  oh also, they will put more than one of your pictures in a book, I was looking through the index and found quite a few instances in forever in a moment where they did this :)


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December 04, 2003

 

Stephen Hill
  Jennifer, You can search any of their books at their website Picture.com. I searched through your book "Forever in a Moment" but did not see your picture "Little Angel". Seems like you may have a custom book like everyone else that buys a book will get. Chances are your picture will not show up in any other copies of the same book. If you know the titles of the other books your photos might be in you can search for them on there website, just click on their "FIND PHOTOS" tab on the top right and a list of all there Anthology books will pop up. You can search the book by clicking on it.


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December 05, 2003

 

Jennifer L. N
  stephen. the problem I see with my picture only being in the 2 that I ordered is that they would cost a lot more than they did. when they put a book into publication, they run off so many copies, and that is what determines the price, but it would be costly for them to personalize each book with a photo for whomever ordered it, so I am sure that the picture is in other books with the same title. my question is, it was supossed to be in wandering spirits at first, but then I got this book, and I wanted to know if anyone had wandering spirits yet as the scheduled release is the same date as the book I already had, and I want to know if my picture was in that book as well. :) jennifer


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December 06, 2003

 

Stephen Hill
  Hi, Jennifer. Under normal circumstances what you are saying is true, but these people are not typical or honest. I have the Anthology "Life's Gallery" published in '02. I compared it to the copy they published on their website and only about 100 out of 1500 photos were the same. There is no doubt in my mind that every copy of "Life's Gallery" or your book "Forever in a Moment" is not the same. They must have some program that stores all the photos and sorts the ones from people who paid for a book and deletes those who do not pay. Your picture may show up in a few copies but they are definitly not in all copies. I agree that doing this in America would not be cost effective, that is why my book says "Made in China", where labor is cheap. Also, this is why it takes them so long to issue an Anthology. They have to make sure everyone that pays for a book gets a book with their picture in it.
You can check for yourself on their website. You can search their Anthology "Wondering Spirits" page by page to see if your photo is there, but I doubt you will see it. It may actually be in some copies that were published, but not all.


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December 08, 2003

 

Lisamarie Busch
  hi
i sent the library photo ppl a letter asking for my money back on the 2 books I bought in august 2003. I sent the letter in nov 2003 and they already cashed my check. does anyone know how long it takes to get a refund? do I need to do more than just write a letter?
thanks


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December 29, 2003

 

Laura Hurley
  I posted up above in April 2003 after submitting some of my pix and I had decided to buy the publication since I was going to make a gift of it to my niece ... well, it did not arrive on any of the constantly changing dates and I just now received it (AFTER christmas of course) and I am very dissappointed ! Not only did I spend too much money on it and not only did it not arrive on time - but it is certainly not what I expected. For one thing its gigantic ! Way too large for a coffee table book - its more like the encyclopedia titanic ! And some of the pictures they put in it are just plain ridiculous. Also, I was under the impression that the written caption that they let me post online would also be in the book and it wasnt. And the book I bought titled ''Wandering Spirits'' has a so-called winning photo which is a closeup shot of a cats nose ?!?! Who the heck was in charge of choosing that ? And then worst of all, the photo I took of my niece is almost on the very last page - like an afterthought or not worthy of being in the front of the book like the cat nose. What a waste ! I've decided to chalk it up to a loss - there is no way I would ever present this as a gift to her. I encourage anyone who has not yet received their book to request their money back - its not worth it!


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January 05, 2004

 

Elaine Forrester
  Congratulations for having them to choose you. My answer is going to sound redundant. I too was picked for the same contest. It just did not feel right for me to purchase a book of which my picture would be in. So, I proceeded to send 3 other pics as well. Funny how they all won as well. If it was that true of a contest, a copy would have been sent to me at their cost and all of the pics would not have made it. And I have to agree with the comment that Laura H. just submitted on January 5. Some of the pics were rediculous and would have been an embarrassment to submit. Another scam I would say.


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January 17, 2004

 

Janice Unfried
  HI all, I haven't posted anything for a long time but have been watching avidly.

I think the bottom line is that someone needs to stop this scammer. Does anyone actually win any money from this site as advertised. I thought that there were quite strict laws on competitions. It would be interesting to know..

I haven't been to the comptition site in a long time but supect my pics are still there. I have one that my husband took of my son on the beach that I did not authorise to be published or used in any way just to see what happened. Haven't seen it anywhere yet but will upload it another time as we moved and I just got my computer up and running again.


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January 17, 2004

 

Michael E. Miller
  Hello All and thank you all for this information.It was just last night and I had found this site(that everone is refering to) was reading over it and allmost did the unthinkable of sumitting some photos but decided to pass and come back to it later the same night I come across this site and was reading on many subjects and finding the kind of information I had been looking for. Well you may not be able to stop the other website but by finding this information you have stoped one more person from being taken advantage of.
Thanks Again


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January 19, 2004

 

Charlotte L. SHARPE
  Thanks to everyone for your comments. I too submitted a photo and because of it's "unique perspective" and my "artistic vision", the entry has been selected for the semi-finalist in the People category. I got on the internet to research these people and found this web site. Many thanks to all of you for saving me $96.00.
Charlotte


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January 20, 2004

 

Leanne M.E. Boyd
  I also entred a photo, was selected as a semi finalist, and got a silver medallion out of it. But, I did not buy a book. Whether it was ever published or not, who knows?


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January 21, 2004

 

Erin R. Giove
 
 
 
Chalk me up as well...I just got my "artist proof" and order form in the mail notifing me of my semi-finalist position. The "amount" of money being asked sent up an alarm, and I found this site. I'm glad I haven't sent out the check.
Hey Jim, can you take a gander at my pics and tell me if I really do have "the artist's eye"? hahaha! I don't know what to believe anymore, and would love a compliment or a criticism from someone who knows...either way I won't feel like someone has just blown smoke up my tailpipe!
The first pic is the one that got "selected", and the other are ones I'm also proud of.
Thanks for any help and/or criticism.


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January 21, 2004

 

Erin R. Giove
 
 
 
Chalk me up as well...I just got my "artist proof" and order form in the mail notifing me of my semi-finalist position. The "amount" of money being asked set off an alarm, and I found this site. I'm glad I haven't sent out the check.
Hey Jim, can you take a gander at my pics and tell me if I really do have "the artist's eye"? hahaha! I don't know what to believe anymore, and would love a compliment or a criticism from someone who knows...either way I won't feel like someone has just blown smoke up my tailpipe!
The first pic is the one that got "selected", and the other are ones I'm also proud of.
Thanks for any help and/or criticism.


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January 21, 2004

 

Erin R. Giove
 
 
  "sunset"
"sunset"

Erin R. Giove

 
  "Tube Full Of Fun"
"Tube Full Of Fun"

Erin R. Giove

 
 

Erin R. Giove

 
 

Erin R. Giove

 
  "Father & SONset"
"Father & SONset"

Erin R. Giove

 
 
I don't know what happened...my pics didn't load. I'll try again.


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January 21, 2004

 

Kristin E. Reid
  Erin, I just wanted to let you know I think they are beautiful!!! IMO you do have an "artist's eye".:)


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January 21, 2004

 

Elaine Forrester
  Erin, you did a wonderful job!


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January 21, 2004

 

Erin R. Giove
  Thank you for your wonderful comments! Complements coming from people who are much more experienced than I makes me feel...well...elated! I really was expecting some criticism there. I know I lack ALL the knowhow, and think I got lucky with some pretty sunsets. I only wish I knew where to go from here. I don't have thousands of dollars to drop on a better camera, and I doubt seriously that I could sell pictures taken with the one I have. I have no formal photography training, and wonder if a single simple class would do the trick. Any suggestions here? Are the on-line photography classes worth the money? Thanks for anything you can offer!!


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January 22, 2004

 

Kristin E. Reid
  Erin- Feel free to contact me any time you want to, my info is below! I love to talk about photography.:) These people here have been so wonderful and taking the online courses they have here would be a great start!


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January 22, 2004

 

Daniel S. Whiteley
  I realize that I am coming in on this conversation a couple years too late, but for anyone truely interested in the ILP, they are directly linked to the International library of poets and poetry.com, A company that has been pulling this scam on writers since 1983. They send you a letter saying that you are a semi finalist and have been chosen to be in their anthology, if you purchase the book, the publish your work, on the first page, if not, well the book is nearly impossible to get any other way, so you'll never find out. Do a google search for International Librabry Scam, and you will come up with hundreds of results. The ILP, does provide a service, "vanity publishing," but if you would just like to see your photos in a hardbound book, you can make a twenty page book yourself for about the same price as the ILP book. Go to Mypublisher.com


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June 30, 2006

 

Donna M. Lindsay
  I never thought to google this outfit. They have been chasing me since 2003. I have several photos on picture.com. They wanted ME to fly to D.C. to have the photo displayed on some huge "thing" and to receive all the awards (only would cost me close to $200 to get them). Then the cost of round trip fare plus food and lodging would be more expense as would shipping the "awards" made of heavy silver. No way was I going to do that. The rose they keep after me about is one of my better photos (I'm just an amateur with this digital work). It's under D. Lindsay along with others at pictures.com. It's a beautiful yellow rose hanging over a steel fence post in early a.m. I didn't see that fence rod until I worked with the photo. It appears as if it's a sunbeam going "up there." :) They went after me for same photo and trip to Las Vegas last year. Now they want me to pay for a photo of some azaleas. The offer is to join them (I pay, of course). Ha! When you win, THEY pay is my rule. I get ticked off at them. I won't post more on the site and quit long ago. They removed the rose when they thought they had me for the awards and trip to D.C. I keep some of my photos in albums on Webshots.com under my name as lindsay9 if anyone wants to trip over there! I figured this was a rip-off; I just never pursued looking into them! I'm sorry some of you got hurt financially and otherwise. I also thought IF my photos were in some photo book I would one day find it on the web or in a store. I never bothered to look! But they do have great taste as I look at the photos there! Scams are everywhere! People are losing all their savings in some of them and children are being abused and on and on. So beware any offers until you know from the get-go what is really going on.

D. Lindsay


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August 23, 2006

 

Alyson Moy
  I'm joining in on the discussion a little late (as a few other people have judging by post dates) and my only real concern is how exactly does International Library Of Photography choose their contest "winners"? I submitted one photo after browsing their annual grand finalist (or whatever they called it) previous winners and their selections seemed to be chosen for good reason- making me think the contest was at least a bit more substantial. I continued to search around through the photos and discovered, besides the 70% of photo links that don't work, that MANY of the "winning" photographs were just badly taken point and shoot pictures taken of peoples kids. They were blurry, pixelated, gross in some cases, and NOTHING you'd expect to be published in a book for photography. It was really dissapointing to then realize that they either randomly select "winners" or just publish all of it(?). I am in no way a real photographer, but the quality of their selections for anything other than the Annual Grand Prize Winners was just badly lacking.

--Alyson M


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August 30, 2006

 

Joshua
  i enterd ilp was selected but never replied w/ the artist proof intl form
dose anyone know if it can still be used the proof says the book will be called endless journeys but also says that is subject to change


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September 01, 2006

 

Donna M. Lindsay
  My experience has been that the picture.com folks will spot one of my photos and tell me about books, etc. And I end up at a place to buy the book, mug, calendar, mouse pad or whatever. The title of the book is there with ISDN number and so on.

Maybe a year or so later a photo is then found by the ILP and they begin the letters regarding how a photo is a winner and all I have to do is go to some distant city (one was to D.C., and I'm in Oregon!) at my expense. I am also told I will be presented with a bunch of awards such as a silver engraved bowl (huge, heavy thing) and some other stuff OR I can just pay about $160 for these "awards" to be sent if I cannot attend the displaying of my photo (not displayed unless I get there). I have to pay ALL of my expenses. NOT! I'd love to know how much money they make on these "scams." I know if I am to get anything sold or shown it will be with my own effort in a gallery or some wall somewhere or by placing the photos (tiny enough to not be worth them snitching) on a website I make.

I've had to put ILP on my spam list to avoid their constant "awards" and asking for my money to pay them to publish, show, or whatever. Yeah, right. Like I'm going to pay them. It costs enough to do a small gallery showing which I am not yet ready to do (still quite amateur and need lessons).

It's just another "gig" on the Internet and they are appealing to our need for kudos and so forth. It would only mean something to me if it were to happen here in the Portland, OR area and by my own efforts!


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September 02, 2006

 

Ole M. Olson
  Man, O'-Man, this is an old topic and judging by the dates on this forum topic, a "dead" subject....
I went straight to the BBB' and reported this site (Picture.com), (Intn'l Library of Photographers) or whatever they
like to call themselves; it was handled properly as I had requested a refund for two books. The BBB sent a copy of a letter from someone there at the above mentioned perpetrators, stating the refund would be sent as soon as the books were returned.....They said I had spoken with them, but the last I knew the book was to be released Feb. 2006. This was all in July 2006. Well, the books were sent and received, and as well, the refund check was generated and sent so I guess I got lucky....they got my picture ,but I got published, two editions of "Impressions of Yesterday", AND $135.00, my original payment!!!!!!! Now I know I should share my good fortune with all of you, so get on it and do something about it or you'll lose both!! --Ole'


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September 18, 2006

 

Donna M. Lindsay
  I see that some junky photos are sent award letters. But the one they are chasing of mine is a real beaut and it should be one I am putting out there to sell! I think I mentioned I have a yellow rose in my "roses album" on Webshots. I'm lindsay9 if anyone wants to check in. There are some great amateur photos there. I get asked if someone can buy a photo, and I will often just give it, but I have sold. but anyone can just right click and take it if they know how. I've asked Webshots to at least slow them down with that code that tells people they can't, and they can't! But I could take a screen shot (just go full screen) and print on photo paper if I wanted. I have done it ONLY to examine the photos of a few people I chat with. I'd never ever try to use it in any other way, but then I grew up under a more ethical society. ;)

I'm not sure if anyone else is chatting here but me. If I don't see anything after 2002 soon, I'm done. ;) I think this goes to another page because I'm seeing some 2006 entries to this chat now!

Lindsay


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September 19, 2006

 
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