Corbis and Microstock

ajn · #1 (**permalink**) 06-02-2007, 03:22 AM

Many of you may have already seen this, but I thought it would be interesting for the group.

Corbis to take 'microstock' plunge | CNET News.com

They're cooooming...

I think a big player with no exclusive deal is always a good thing... they sure have the money to invest on advertising and Microsoft's programming force behind.

What are your views on this?

Karimala · #2 (**permalink**) 06-02-2007, 03:43 AM

As a former administrative assistant, I'm excited about this prospect.

Whenever I would design a newsletter, flyer, brochure, e-mail announcement, Powerpoint presentations, etc., I would always turn to Microsoft first for imagery because of the easy integration with their programs. Admins just don't have the time to sift through all of the micros to find stuff for a quick little project, and so far the micros have missed the boat and haven't tapped into their buying power. It's all been focused on publishing and graphic design buyers. With Microsoft involved now, you can bet that admins will finally hear about microstock and start asking their bosses for subscriptions instead of another useless CD that will grow stale after a few years.

As a photographer, I'm not so sure. We'll have to see how it plays out.

CJPHoto · #3 (**permalink**) 06-02-2007, 08:08 AM

Microsoft already have a deal with istock. it will be interesting to see if this gets renewed once this corbis site is established. It might seem a bit of self interest changing over to corbis (Microsoft already has enough monopolistic/anti competitive behaviour issues without starting a new one - especially with a independant company which just happens to be owned by your majority shareholder).

Has anyone actually found any real details - I am gonig to start looking on Google now, but if they plan to lauch in July, the info might not be out yet.

ca2hill · #4 (**permalink**) 06-02-2007, 02:28 PM

Thanks for posting.

I think it's great news... as I can see them joining the ranks of my top 4 (IS, SS, DT, SX) and perhaps competing with my top 2. (IS & SS) We'll have to see though.

I found it intersting that Corbis identified that microstockers (for the most part) are not exclusive. Thus meaning they could join the market without buying an existing agency.

Anyways, I think it is definitely good news.

fotogal · #5 (**permalink**) 06-02-2007, 03:52 PM

The more the merrier, I say! I don't think the microstock market has been tapped out yet, so there's lots of room for more players, and Corbis is already a known entity. If anyone learns when they are open for business, please post here.

Karimala · #6 (**permalink**) 06-02-2007, 05:57 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by CJPHoto

Microsoft already have a deal with istock. it will be interesting to see if this gets renewed once this corbis site is established. It might seem a bit of self interest changing over to corbis (Microsoft already has enough monopolistic/anti competitive behaviour issues without starting a new one - especially with a independant company which just happens to be owned by your majority shareholder).

Has anyone actually found any real details - I am gonig to start looking on Google now, but if they plan to lauch in July, the info might not be out yet.

Ooh...you're right. I forgot all about that (remember...I'm a FORMER admin assistant. It's been a while since I've had to design anything other than a set for photo shoot. :-D ).

http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/ma...CE010306041033

http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/clipart/default.aspx

rinderart · #7 (**permalink**) 06-02-2007, 06:33 PM

I'll join.