Evan Nisselson, founder of Digital Railroad and its CEO until this week, has quietly handed over the company's leadership to Charles Mauzy. The former company president, is also stepping up to the post of CEO. Nisselson will continue as chairman of the board, focusing on building alliances and representing Digital Railroad at events and conferences.
Nisselson founded Digital Railroad in 2003 as a pro photographer's alternative to the large agencies. Instead of offering representation, Nisselson offered technological support to those who wanted to cut out the middle man and sell images directly to the end client.
Providing hosting and image-search services for a monthly fee, Digital Railroad quickly became popular. By the end of 2006, it had more than 700 photographer-members and 35 photo agencies worldwide. It also amassed thousands of image buyers and secured $10 million in the second round of venture capital financing, leading to the launch of the Digital Railroad Marketplace in April of 2007.
According to Nisselson, Digital Road is now entering a new chapter in its growth toward becoming a mature company. Nisselson said this transition of leadership has been in the works since Mauzy joined the company. He adds Mauzy's industry experience, technological leadership and integrity will lead Digital Railroad into the future.
Mauzy has worked in the industry for over 30 years, including 20 as a professional nature and natural history photographer. His images have appeared in the National Geographic, Newsweek, Time and Forbes, as well as ad campaigns and marketing materials for clients including Boeing, Nike, Ford and Fuji. He has served as the director of photography at Allstock and director of media development at Corbis. Prior to joining Digital Railroad, Mauzy was Microsoft's general manager of strategic relations, policy and standards, focusing on digital imaging technologies.
Today, Digital Railroad faces competition from companies like PhotoShelter. Founded in 2005, PhotoShelter went live with a new photographer-targeted sales platform last week. Nisselson remains unconcerned. "There are similar services to ours popping up, and imitation is the sincerest form of flattery and validation of the opportunity we've identified. Digitalrailroad.net began a revolution and will continue providing more opportunity and greater access to globally unique professional photography."