We are locked into old-fashioned pricing. We need a new model built around use and value received. Corporate clients using an image on an ad or a billboard get much more value than someone using the same picture on their blog.
The Internet, as well as mobile applications, has caused an explosive rise in image use. Soon, other consumer technologies, such as surface computing and high-def televisions, will have similar effects.
The stock-image industry faces a daunting challenge. While there is general consensus that online use of images is among the hottest growth opportunities, little is known about the buyers driving the trend. Larger agencies can gain some image-specific insight from analyzing transaction data or commissioning in-house research; however, much general information is freely available online.
Sausalito-based ImageSpan has added new features to its LicenseStream platform, which facilitates content distribution, syndication and acquisition. The technology company also announced the rollout of a custom LicenseStream portal for the Wedding and Event Videographers Association.
Ofer Media just funded a community-based Web site YouLicense.com, which joins other micro-payment audio and music Web sites by giving amateur musicians a platform to sell music to advertisers and entertainment producers.
Jupitermedia's Q2 2008 revenues were $35 million up from $34.5 million in Q1 2008. Second-quarter revenue was up slightly from $34.7 million in the same period in 2007.