Abstract

Characterization of the stock photography sector in the context of the information ecosystem. Its main features are described in relation to three key axes of dichotomy: contracted vs. stock photography; the editorial vs creative sector; and copyright- protected vs. royalty-free licenses. Finally, a brief review of open repositories and Creative Commons licensed images is offered.

Abstract

The advent of the internet, the impact of digital photography and the ability to scan large volumes of images has revolutionized the stock photography agencies. The transformation from analogue to digital photography has involved a substantial change in daily work processes, providing a large number of images online. The present work will reveal the profile and the basic features that any stock photography agency must offer on issues such as image retrieval, on-screen visualization, and storage for many diverse editorial activities.

Abstract

Digital images are all around and their number increases every day. However, this growing volume contrasts with a poor description in the vast majority of cases. The value of a picture to illustrate the original event, or to be used in other contexts or situations, is based on an appropriate description. The purpose of this paper is to reduce the difficulties encountered in describing images by categorizing them and the agencies, specifying uses, and exemplifying descriptive differences. The implementation of these recommendations improves the quality of records, helps in successful retrieval, and increases positive evaluations of web sites by clients and users.