Q and A - Where does an image end up?

A few weeks ago, one of our readers sent me the following question:
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How you choose which images to show on your website gallery and which to put on photo sharing websites? And then there are those that go to stock agencies... I guess my question is: how do you decide what goes where?
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This is an interesting question because much of the decision-making process is unconscious. I don't use any kind of checklist to determine which images will be added to my online portfolio, which will be posted online, and which will never leave my computer. I don't use a complicated method - I just go with what feels right.
My online portfolio is home to landscape photos, macro and detail shots, and nature images. You'll find the occasional small animal or insect there, but nothing that isn't natural. I am known, primarily, as a landscape photographer - so although I shoot all kinds of photos, you won't find stock shots or portraits in my portfolio.I do have a special "showcase" gallery on my website that is reserved for my favorite images - and there you'll find shots that have been published, or have won awards - or just make me particularly happy. It's the default gallery when you go to my site - so maybe you've already seen it.

When I want to post on a photo sharing or networking site, I'll probably choose some of my recent favorites. Something from a recent trip - so friends and fans can see what I've been working on.And then there are competitions. This is a whole different ball game. I choose competition photos for impact. A technically perfect image isn't enough - if you want to win, you need to choose a photo that jumps out and calls for attention.
So - there it is. Nothing mysterious here. I prepare a photo, decide if it's worth showing to the world, and if it is, I get it ready to add to my portfolio. When I feel like sharing something, I'll grab whatever catches my eye that day - and when I want something with some extra pop, I'll put a little more time into my selection process. It's as simple as that. :)

-Varina