HT Games
1. Research Your Target Market
* Identify Suitable Manufacturers: Research jigsaw puzzle companies that align with your photography style. Consider their target audience, puzzle sizes, and production methods. Some popular manufacturers include Ravensburger, Springbok Puzzles, Ceaco, and White Mountain Puzzles.
* Analyze Their Catalogs: Study their existing puzzle designs to understand their preferences and identify potential gaps in their collections.
2. Prepare a Compelling Portfolio
* High-Resolution Images: Ensure your photographs are high-resolution (at least 300 DPI) and well-composed.
* Diverse Themes: Showcase a range of subjects, including landscapes, cityscapes, animals, abstract art, or anything that could appeal to puzzle enthusiasts.
* Professional Presentation: Organize your portfolio into a clear and user-friendly format (website, online portfolio, or printed book).
3. Tailor Your Approach
* Direct Contact: Reach out to manufacturers directly through email or phone.
* Submit Through Online Platforms: Some companies accept submissions through their websites or through online platforms like PhotoShelter, SmugMug, or Shutterstock.
* Attend Trade Shows: Networking at industry events can provide valuable connections.
4. Crafting Your Proposal
* Clear and Concise: Briefly introduce yourself and your photography style.
* Highlight Relevance: Explain how your photographs align with the manufacturer's target audience and product line.
* Technical Specifications: Provide details about your images, including resolution, dimensions, and file format.
* Royalty Agreement: Be prepared to discuss royalty rates and ownership rights.
5. Negotiating the Contract
* Licensing Terms: Understand the licensing terms for your images, including exclusive rights, usage fees, and duration.
* Royalty Rates: Negotiate a fair royalty percentage based on the market value of your work and the potential sales of the puzzle.
* Ownership: Clarify who owns the copyright and how it will be used.
Additional Tips:
* Build Relationships: Develop long-term relationships with manufacturers by consistently submitting quality images and engaging with them.
* Market Your Puzzles: Promote the puzzles featuring your photographs on your website, social media platforms, and through press releases.
* Stay Updated: Keep abreast of industry trends and emerging technologies to stay competitive.
Key Considerations:
* Copyright: Ensure you retain ownership of your images and are protected by copyright law.
* Legal Agreements: Carefully review and understand any contracts before signing.
* Patience: The process of getting your work accepted can take time. Be persistent and don't give up easily.
By following these steps, you can increase your chances of selling your photographs to jigsaw puzzle manufacturers and sharing your creative vision with a wider audience.