As attendees were gathering in Miami for last week’s conference of the Picture Archive Council of America, representatives of six trade organizations that unite more than 50,000 photographers and 800 American and European agencies met to discuss common goals. Though no specific agenda was outlined as a result, the meeting set the tone for global collaboration at what is broadly agreed is a difficult time for the stock and broader photography industry.
In addition to PACA, in attendance were representatives of the American Society of Media Photographers, Coordination of European Picture Agencies, British Association of Picture Libraries and Agencies, American Society of Picture Professionals and Stock Artists Alliance. Each outlined its mission and top concerns.
The groups unanimously agreed that information sharing was critical, particularly to promote uniform licensing practices at national and international levels and keep abreast of other developments affecting members. Discussed at some length were currently pending legal developments, including the Google Books settlement and orphan-works legislation. Another subject that received attention is the importance of joint education programs that focus on combating the “right-click and usurp” mentality of Internet users.
At this week’s PhotoExpo, ASMP, ASPP, PACA and SAA are also planning to meet with other trade groups that represent an additional 30,000 photographers to further explore the potential for collaboration.