The current disparity of prices is the greatest in the history of stock licensing. Some images are available for $1 for perpetual use; others command thousands while imposing time, distribution and medium restrictions. Somewhere between the extremes is the new buzzword midstock, a concept that attempts to bring some order to the chaos of image pricing.
TNS Media Intelligence reports that the second quarter of 2007 is the first time since 2001 that ad spending declined for two consecutive quarters. Though the overall decline is only 0.3% ($190 million) compared to the first half of 2006, some industries are seeing more significant declines. The biggest hit is the B2B mag category.
The Visa pour l'Image festival saw the launch of Noor, a new agency established by nine documentary photographers of global acclaim. The launch received much attention at the Perpignan-based photo festival. In addition to its exhibits and awards, Noor also promised to be a trendsetter.
a21, the Jacksonville, Fla.-based owner of SuperStock, Purestock and ArtSelect, is consolidating and restructuring to improve profitability and prepare for upcoming growth initiatives.
The Brentwood, Tenn.-based microstock Web site Dreamstime.com has launched a workshop program. The first one-on-one workshop and stock shoot will be hosted by well-known stock photographer Ron Chapple in Maui, Hawaii.
"Open Your Eyes" is Image Source's new global marketing campaign that unites a microsite, direct mail, advertising, sales promotion and 200 image distributors. Focusing on alternative ways of seeing Image Source's collection of lifestyle, beauty and business imagery, the campaign offers a 30% discount off the price of two or more image collections.
Few corporate moves have met with as much criticism and outright opposition as Getty Images' recent announcement of price changes for online image licensing. Now, six industry groups - which represent over 12,000 professional photographers in the U.S.A. and the U.K., including many Getty Images' contributors - have written an open letter demanding change.
Corbis has launched Creative Boutique, a new online service for advertising, marketing and media pros. The resource will showcase new imagery and provide an assortment of free content, including search tips, wallpapers and articles.