If you require specialised imagery or images of specific subjects, you may need to investigate image sources or image creation technicians – that is, photographers – in your field of interest. As with online image libraries, the internet is a great starting point for finding such services.

Once you have identified a photographer, you should supply them with a detailed brief of what you want. Be specific. Suggested specifications to include in your brief or discuss with the photographer before starting work are:

• type of imagery (eg black and white photography, telescopic images)
• purpose (eg scenic, instructional, documentary)
• subject (eg particular species of plant or animal, medical process)
• setting (eg studio, laboratory, field)
• number of images
• how images will be used (eg A4 printed book, A0 poster, website – this determines the size and resolution of the images required)
• delivery or file format (eg negative films, TIF files on disc, plates or prints)
• licensing and copyright (who will own the copyright?)
• options (if any) to review the images and redirect the photographer if the images do not meet your stated needs.