Illinois-based Commercial Research Image Archives has launched CriaImages.com, which offers more historical and contemporary images at flat rates on a royalty-free basis. The archive was founded by author and historian Jay Robert Nash and thus has a distinctly editorial feel, featuring notable people, things and events throughout history.
While the industry is familiar with microstock and budget pricing, content such as that offered by CriaImages.com remains unusual at price points from $5 to $35. Nash maintains this is “far below industry norms.” Most images are accompanied by detailed background information written by historians and accredited researchers. CRIA staff photographers continuously augment historical material with contemporary coverage.
CriaImages is the exclusive representative of several collections, such as the Derek Fell Collection that contains more than 150,000 images. Nash himself has amassed over 6 million images, a large selection of which is available online at launch and more will be added over time.
CriaImages offers single-image sales and pre-paid accounts, which offer discounts as with any subscription scheme. Business subscriptions are also available.