MicrostockGroup

Agency Based Discussion => Adobe Stock => Topic started by: grumble on April 25, 2014, 16:30

Title: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: grumble on April 25, 2014, 16:30
Important: you can opt out from DPC on fotolia web site My Account > My Profile > Contributor Parameters > Sell my files on DPC - click Modify (Make sure the text now reads "Don't sell my files on DPC") and Save parameters.
Rread this post and this forum thread to know why it is important to do.
Consider reading the following post on SS forum, too - http://submit.shutterstock.com/forum/viewtopic.php?p=2679199#2679199 (http://submit.shutterstock.com/forum/viewtopic.php?p=2679199#2679199)
___________________________________________________________________
Some of you already know about new Fotolia's child site Dollar Photo Club (http://www.microstockgroup.com/fotolia-com/fotolia-launches-dollar-photo-club/).
DPC offers High-res images and vectors, unlimited print runs, unlimited image use for just 1$ per image. Fotolia says that it's just another subscribtion plan and the licence is equal to FT Standart Royalty-Free license, and that this site is only for selected group of volume buyers. The reality is different: anyone can become a member of this "Club" just for 99$ a year which includes 99 high-res image downloads, unused downloads transfer year to year and you can buy a lot more additional images for just 1$ per image whith no runs limitation at all.
If you have portfolio on Fotolia, all your images are already represented on Dollar Photo Club(dot)com. And of course no opt-out.
According to the Fotolia's CEO Oleg Tscheltzoff interview they are going to invest big money into advertising. I guess soon can say "goodbye" to credit/on-demand purchases on FT, SS and more.
There are lots of discussions going on about this issue on Russian speaking forums. Many contributors don't agree to participate in the "Club".
So what we have to the date..
Today FT closed related thread on their forum http://us.fotolia.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=44095&p=2. (http://us.fotolia.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=44095&p=2.)
FT representative came to main Russian speaking forums and instead of answering contributors doubts and questions started to copy&paste standart FT support BS.
Today some volunteers started the developing of petition website boycottfotolia.org. There will be a collective petition to Fotolia requesting opt-out function from the DollarPhotoClub or at least introduction of 1) limited runs, 2) reduction of the available sizes from XXL до L, 3) raster copies instead of vectors. The site will also show number of people signed the petition and number of deleted images. English and Russian versions will be available. I'll try my best to update information regarding boycottfotolia.org developing.

Acording to this thread http://www.microstock.ru/forum/showthread.php?t=14084 (http://www.microstock.ru/forum/showthread.php?t=14084) today (April,25) Fotolia lost 5000+ images/videos and counting.
A lot more images will be deleted on May,1.
Today MicrostockSubmitter (http://www.microstockgroup.com/microstocksubmitter/) developers kindly introduced new free feature "Remove Fotolia images" (http://imageshack.com/a/img843/3853/e20d.jpg) (http://imageshack.com/a/img842/2186/2oiv.jpg)
It will help to save your time. You can delete any number of your files. Files are deleted sequentially, so you can cancel the process any time. You can choose to delete top or least downloaded files.
So, welcome to join Fotolia Deactivation Day - May, 1.

UPDATE: boycottfotolia.org petition website is up and running, both English and Russian versions are avaliable. Please, support and share. 846 contributors have already signed petition (as of April, 28). Thank you.
Consider reading this  important information (http://www.microstockgroup.com/fotolia-com/fotolia-d-day-%28deactivation-day%29-may-1/msg376639/#msg376639).
UPDATE (April, 30): read my Reply #379 (http://www.microstockgroup.com/fotolia-com/fotolia-d-day-%28deactivation-day%29-may-1/msg376926/#msg376926) in this thread.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on April 25, 2014, 16:40
The moderator in that thread says its a good thing and that the comments about Dollar club are wrong. He is a stock photographer himself, so whats the story? Is it a bad thing or not?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on April 25, 2014, 16:42
You would get more support translating this website to English

http://boycottfotolia.org/ (http://boycottfotolia.org/)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: grumble on April 25, 2014, 16:46
You would get more support translating this website to English
[url]http://boycottfotolia.org/[/url] ([url]http://boycottfotolia.org/[/url])

Developing started today, so it's only a draft of the site and as I said English version will be avaliable.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: tickstock on April 25, 2014, 16:54
.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: stocked on April 25, 2014, 17:43
The moderator in that thread says its a good thing and that the comments about Dollar club are wrong. He is a stock photographer himself, so whats the story? Is it a bad thing or not?

he is paid by Fotolia what do you expect? he will tell you that blue is red if Fotolia tells him to do so.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: stocked on April 25, 2014, 17:46
I think its even worse contributors only get paid for additional downloads the monthly/yearly fee goes to 100% to Fotolias hands.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mantis on April 25, 2014, 17:49
Mrs. Fotolia is sleeping with mr. Deposit Photos.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on April 25, 2014, 17:51
Having walked away from several sites over the lack of an opt out for partner deals and other anti-contributor options, if I were still with Fotolia I'd join your May day rally. As it is, I  can just cheer you on from the sidelines :)

Publicize this wherever you can ( including on Twitter, where they're promoting the Dollar Photo Club heavily). Getting the word out to designers that content is going away might make them less inclined to sign up.

Did you see the promotional video they made for Dollar Photo Club?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4E3SkLrkjoY (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4E3SkLrkjoY)

And as far as who owns it, on Twitter they're telling people that Fotolia is their parent company

https://twitter.com/DollarPhotoClub/status/459300955239223296 (https://twitter.com/DollarPhotoClub/status/459300955239223296)

Edited to add a link to a post a made a couple of months ago when this sad site first appeared - explaining how much more Fotolia will make of the total buyer price compared to their current plans. It's a a truly despicable attempt to screw everyone while making a little more money for themselves - at least in the short term.

http://us.fotolia.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=44095&p=2 (http://us.fotolia.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=44095&p=2)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on April 25, 2014, 17:57
For example, reply to tweets like this with a link to a web site explaining the boycott to get the word out

https://twitter.com/AzraelGroup/status/459761389897142272
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ruxpriencdiam on April 25, 2014, 18:11
Left FT years ago after reading about the unlimited print runs and more but for those leaving remember this from FT.

Quote from: FT
You can decide to remove your files from the database at any time. In this case, your files may remain online and available for sale for 3 months. They are definitely removed after this period of 3 months.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: fotoramka on April 25, 2014, 18:49
Hi All!
My name is Andy, i'm developer of boycottfotolia.org site.

At first - i'm very sorry for my possibly poor English - it isn't my native language. I won't use Translator because it can give unexpected results which can be wrong understood. Anyway, i hope all can will read my messages correctly.

It's a fact, that dollarphotoclub.com are subsidiary of project Fotolia.com. These projects are owned by same people.

I want to say thanks to grumblee, for starting this topic.

And now let me say some words about situation with dollarphotoclub.com

We're thinking, that if dollarphotoclub.com will get mass traffic from advertisment - it'll kill all "Single/Demand" sales from Shutterstock and other microstocks in near future.
Why? Because this project will create mass underbidding. And this will affect ALL microstocks. Owner of Fotolia.com wants to get mass piece of microstock's market. But have you thought - WHAT cost will you pay for this as contributor?
Simply compare licenses. Shutterstock standard license allow to create only 250k of copies. Fotolia.com standard license allow to create only 500k of copies. Dollarphotoclub.com allows unlimited qty of copies.

Shutterstock.com standard license for 5 images costs 49$.
Fotolia.com image cost varies from 2-3 $ for Small size up to 10-15$ for XXL size.
Dollarphotoclub.com sell your images in XXL size only 1$ / image.

Think about this. You not only will lose "Singles/Demands" sales on other microstocks. You'll lost even Fotolia.com Singles.

Please, think as your Customer. Why you need to pay 10$ for a XXL Image on Fotolia.com, when you can pay 10$ for 10 XXL images? Why you need to buy Shutterstock subscription when you can buy needed images for cheap price?

Are you ready to see "0,24USD, 0,24USD, 0,24USD, 0,24USD, 0,24USD, 0,24USD, 0,24USD, 0,24USD" in your stats in near future?

At this moment our requirements in petition changed to more hard

We require to completely done ONE of two actions from Fotolia.com:

1) Close dollarphotoclub.com until moment, when Fotolia.com will completely discuss with us all financial, legal and other questions and will listen to us

OR

2) Transform dollarphotoclub.com into project with voluntary participation
- Fotolia.com need to remove ALL materials from dollarphotoclub.com
- Fotolia.com need to include "I want to participate in dollarphotoclub.com project" option into settings of your account and this option should be DISABLED by default.
- Fotolia.com should make mass mails to contributors and invite it to open place for discussion about dollarphotoclub.com. This place shouldn't be moderated by Fotolia.com
- Fotolia.com should set Standard licensing rules on dollarphotoclub.com using same licence rules from Fotolia.com and disable all subscriptions, which cost less than 99$.

If Fotolia.com won't completely done one of this required actions - many Russian-speaking stockers will delete many/all of their works from Fotolia.com May, 1st to prevent mass underbidding and save their earnings.

I ask you to support our protest against stocker's income reduction. Only we together can prevent it.
Tomorrow we'll translate our site into English so you can participate in protest. Also we'll add FB/Twi/ sharing buttons.

Each participant which will be ready to delete part/all works from Fotolia.com May 1st is extremely important for us.

It's time to break "language, time and geo" barriers. Only together we can do this.

All notes, offers and questions about site you can send to me - [email protected]
All offers about main protest movement can be sent to our coordinator - [email protected]

Thanks for your time and i hope you'll support your foreighn colleagues.
We need to be together!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on April 26, 2014, 00:04
The moderator in that thread says its a good thing and that the comments about Dollar club are wrong. He is a stock photographer himself, so whats the story? Is it a bad thing or not?

he is paid by Fotolia what do you expect? he will tell you that blue is red if Fotolia tells him to do so.
Well, for what its worth I thought the guy had some integrity. If I look at it with neutral eyes, maybe Fotolia fed him the same garbage as they fed us.

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: stocked on April 26, 2014, 00:42
The moderator in that thread says its a good thing and that the comments about Dollar club are wrong. He is a stock photographer himself, so whats the story? Is it a bad thing or not?

he is paid by Fotolia what do you expect? he will tell you that blue is red if Fotolia tells him to do so.
Well, for what its worth I thought the guy had some integrity. If I look at it with neutral eyes, maybe Fotolia fed him the same garbage as they fed us.
you can have no integrity and backbone and still be a nice guy
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: stocked on April 26, 2014, 00:47
Hi Andy, I will support you action against Fotolia is long overdue. :D
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: roede-orm on April 26, 2014, 01:17
The deadline is too short.  Many contributors outside Russia know nothing yet from the D-day!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on April 26, 2014, 01:21
The moderator in that thread says its a good thing and that the comments about Dollar club are wrong. He is a stock photographer himself, so whats the story? Is it a bad thing or not?

he is paid by Fotolia what do you expect? he will tell you that blue is red if Fotolia tells him to do so.
Well, for what its worth I thought the guy had some integrity. If I look at it with neutral eyes, maybe Fotolia fed him the same garbage as they fed us.
you can have no integrity and backbone and still be a nice guy
? I didnt talk about being a nice guy. Its about why he keeps putting out contradicting information.

He says 3 things which are incorrect:
1. Licence is not unlimited - It is
2. Dollar club is not owned by Fotolia - It is
3. Dollar club is exclusive to some buyers only - It isnt

Why does he keep putting that out when clearly its wrong and he has been shown numerous times its wrong?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: stocked on April 26, 2014, 01:25


Why does he keep putting that out when clearly its wrong and he has been shown numerous times its wrong?
Money!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on April 26, 2014, 01:36


Why does he keep putting that out when clearly its wrong and he has been shown numerous times its wrong?
Money!
Fair enough, but I would have expected he would have walked away from this as he is a stock photographer. Telling your own colleagues its a good thing, knowing it isnt, is not cool. It cant be good for him either, unless they compensate his loss of earning with a pay check.

Anyhoo, this isnt about the moderator, this is about FT.

I have a question, how do we know a sale came from the dollar club?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: stocked on April 26, 2014, 01:46
It's a sub but if you optioned in for emails-notification for sales you you get your email-notice  from the sale from [email protected] instead [email protected] as a normal subsale.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on April 26, 2014, 01:57
It's a sub but if you optioned in for emails-notification for sales you you get your email-notice  from the sale from [email protected] instead [email protected] as a normal subsale.
Thanks, I was wondering if they changed their email address, but those are dollar club sales then. Ok, so its starting to happen.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: stocked on April 26, 2014, 02:09
It's a sub but if you optioned in for emails-notification for sales you you get your email-notice  from the sale from [email protected] instead [email protected] as a normal subsale.
Thanks, I was wondering if they changed their email address, but those are dollar club sales then. Ok, so its starting to happen.
I'm pretty sure it's an oversight on their part, they don't want you to see what a dollar club sale is they will probably change the email-adress from dollar club as soon they get aware of it. But for the moment enjoy your insights and keep your self reminded that every email from [email protected] could have been an EL at Shutterstock.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Pilens on April 26, 2014, 02:10
It's a sub but if you optioned in for emails-notification for sales you you get your email-notice  from the sale from [email protected] instead [email protected] as a normal subsale.
Thanks, I was wondering if they changed their email address, but those are dollar club sales then. Ok, so its starting to happen.

I don't know. Something is wrong. I get also credit sale e-mails from [email protected]. How can that be?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: stocked on April 26, 2014, 02:18


I don't know. Something is wrong. I get also credit sale e-mails from [email protected]. How can that be?
Sure? How much?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Pilens on April 26, 2014, 02:37


I don't know. Something is wrong. I get also credit sale e-mails from [email protected]. How can that be?
Sure? How much?

Sure! 3 out of my most recent 10 credit sale notifications (6 + 8 + 10 credits) came from [email protected].
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: stocked on April 26, 2014, 02:59


I don't know. Something is wrong. I get also credit sale e-mails from [email protected]. How can that be?
Sure? How much?

Sure! 3 out of my most recent 10 credit sale notifications (6 + 8 + 10 credits) came from [email protected].
Okay thanks in this case I have to apologize for the misinformation, the appereance of m.fotolia was in line with the appereance of the Dollar Photo Club and it's only sub in my case.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: jacoblund on April 26, 2014, 04:17
I'm willing to join in on this project!

But guys please get the site boycottfotolia.org translated into English if you want people to join in on this! I would share the site if it was in English!

UPDATE:
I just messaged Fotolia notifying them that I have stopped contributing images to their database until they give us an opportunity to opt out of the Dollarphotoclub partnership.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: servickuz on April 26, 2014, 07:28
Do you still sell your works on extended license for a subscription price? :)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: gillian vann on April 26, 2014, 08:28
there's no point asking designers not to embrace this, it's brilliant for them, I'm not sure if creating a stir won't just generate more business for them? What a nasty mess this one is, and I agree, it's bad for business for all of us.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: SNod on April 26, 2014, 08:47
Would have a bigger impact if you had an English version of the site
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: fotoramka on April 26, 2014, 08:55
Off course we'll have English version, SNod.
Some patience...
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: lisafx on April 26, 2014, 13:36
Off course we'll have English version, SNod.
Some patience...

Well, considering the target date is in 5 days, I don't think it is particularly impatient to be asking for an English version of the site. 
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Niakris on April 26, 2014, 13:41
They are working on the English version at the moment and the expected time of its launch is 19:00 GMT
Hope they'll be able to finish it in time :)

By the way, you can help spreading the word about this situation on twitter with #BoycottFotolia hashtag or by sharing the link to the boycott website once the English version is ready using share buttons there.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Anciients on April 26, 2014, 13:50
Prices are already low enough, 1$ for any usage it's a shame,these agencies are ruining photography's field. Boycott Fotolia now and DPC will burn out accordingly.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Niakris on April 26, 2014, 14:01
I'd like to clarify it:
1$ for any usage unlimited times for unlimited period of time.
It is effectively equal to Shutterstock's Enhanced license. For 1$. Every time someone buys your image on DPC, you could get 28$ on SS.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: marthamarks on April 26, 2014, 14:32
I pulled out of Fotolia in January as a protest against the DPC. So it's too late for me to participate in your D-Day. However, I will tweet about it once you let us know the English version of your site is up.

And if you need help getting the English right, you can bet that many of us native speakers will be happy to help. :)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: lionheart on April 26, 2014, 14:36
Apparently there are two different systems to get accepted as a buyer on DPC:
a.) you pay 99$ once a year and get 99 hires downloads in total. If one needs more downloads, further downloads are available each for 1 $.
Print run isn't limited, image use isn't limited (= VIP membership, guaranteed membership at once).
b.) you pay 10$ per month and get 10 hires DLs right away. Additional DLs 1$ each. Apparently only 30% of the aspirants
for a monthly subscription model get accepted. (= Membership on a monthly basis, approval time 48 h).

All my pictures are already available on DPC for download.
And yes - we should do something against this.
Just think of DPC becoming a success. How will the other agencies react?
Will the PPC (Penny Photo Club) be the next step?


Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: fotoramka on April 26, 2014, 15:24
Hi All!
Thanks for your attention!
We've translate our site into english.

Please, note! It's pre-release of text which can contain errors!

Your help is very appreciated!!! Please, send all corrections to my PM or to [email protected] - i'll fix it ASAP.

Links to English version -
http://boycottfotolia.org/en/main.html (http://boycottfotolia.org/en/main.html)
http://boycottfotolia.org/en/petition.html (http://boycottfotolia.org/en/petition.html)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: dpimborough on April 26, 2014, 15:44
I'd already deleted 150 photos I don't see why I should contribute to the further erosion of prices.

FT were always too pissy and picky for the returns.
 :P
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: trek on April 26, 2014, 15:46
Dollar Photo Club's pricing and lack of opt out is unacceptable.  Removing most or all of my images appears to be the best option currently available.  Hopefully they will do the right thing and make an opt out possible.  If not, May 1st is a good day to start thinning the port. 
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Niakris on April 26, 2014, 15:58
To make it more comfortable I'll repost the links:

Main page: http://boycottfotolia.org/en/main.html (http://boycottfotolia.org/en/main.html)
Petition itself: http://boycottfotolia.org/en/petition.html (http://boycottfotolia.org/en/petition.html)

The signing form and the list of people who already signed are already translated by me and will be put to the petition page soon.
Please don't hesitate to send notes about any grammar errors you will find to the fotoramka using his e-mail ([email protected]) or his PM.
We are not native speakers and our grammar ain't good :(
Any help is really appreciated :)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Cesar on April 26, 2014, 16:08
big problem at fotolia is M Subscription, you pay 20€ for 10 images, we get only subs.

it is not acceptable!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ethan on April 26, 2014, 16:09
I deleted my entire portfolio from this place two years ago, so therefore cannot support the D-Day initiative, otherwise I would.

Good luck to everyone involved in this action.

I always thought they were a grubby little outfit, seems I might have been right all along :)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: marthamarks on April 26, 2014, 16:46
I've just sent on some edits of the English version, to make things a bit clearer. Hope they help!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: loop on April 26, 2014, 17:40
Other agencies will be affected and, maybe,in the long term, they will have to adapt, an that will be the last chapter of the race to the bottom.  I wish SS, or IS or DT give their contributors the choice of being on DPC or being in their agencies. It would be the only way to stop this.
I can't delete my potfolio because I'm no there. All I can do is spread the news to some FT contributors with big portfolios that I know.
Good luck.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: farbled on April 26, 2014, 17:47
Good luck to everyone. I quit them some time ago so I can't participate in this one except by moral support.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Goofy on April 26, 2014, 17:49
Mrs. Fotolia is sleeping with mr. Deposit Photos.

They better be careful because Mr Istock is coming home soon for a threesome  ;)

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: fotoramka on April 26, 2014, 18:10
I've just sent on some edits of the English version, to make things a bit clearer. Hope they help!

Thank you so much! I've fixed main page text.

And thanks to all for your support and cooperation!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: OM on April 26, 2014, 18:25
It's a sub but if you optioned in for emails-notification for sales you you get your email-notice  from the sale from [email protected] instead [email protected] as a normal subsale.
Thanks, I was wondering if they changed their email address, but those are dollar club sales then. Ok, so its starting to happen.

I don't know. Something is wrong. I get also credit sale e-mails from [email protected]. How can that be?

Me too. Some 3's and one 10.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mantis on April 26, 2014, 18:37
It's a sub but if you optioned in for emails-notification for sales you you get your email-notice  from the sale from [email protected] instead [email protected] as a normal subsale.
Thanks, I was wondering if they changed their email address, but those are dollar club sales then. Ok, so its starting to happen.

I don't know. Something is wrong. I get also credit sale e-mails from [email protected]. How can that be?

Me too. Some 3's and one 10.

I think the point is that IF DPC takes off and the word spreads those credit sales will begin to erode as customers transition to the even cheaper stuff. 
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: steheap on April 26, 2014, 21:14
I've never like Fotolia - the upload is hard, they don't like my travel shots etc. etc. but I have stuck with them. Without an opt-out, I will leave and take my 2800 images with me

Steve
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: jacoblund on April 27, 2014, 04:26
Let's get heard! We should spread the message on social networks. I guess the chance of making an impact on the people of Fotolia is bigger by spreading the word on social networks.

Retweet the newest tweet here: https://twitter.com/Ammentorp or make your own tweet or Facebook update!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: r2d2 on April 27, 2014, 04:58
The deadline is too short.  Many contributors outside Russia know nothing yet from the D-day!

i also think that we need more time to gather our forces!

Its a great project thank you for that and 100% support from me.
We are all strong together. Social Media we should also use.
We are many and together have more skills and labor force than any single agency.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: soundworks on April 27, 2014, 05:31
Another low for the industry. Shame on you, Fotolia! That's why agencies like Stocksy will experience growth in numbers and clients -- high value images and satisfied photographers is the way to go.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: soundworks on April 27, 2014, 05:35
What if one day Shutterstock decides to lower its prices/commission? What then?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: luissantos84 on April 27, 2014, 05:50
looking forward to see top contributors signing the petition, its looks like most small fish have no problem and will remove or stop uploading new content but and as usual the top guys will stick with it, that is why this won't go anywhere, every time we try and pull something the big ones have great excuses like massive expenses, mortgages, kids, dogs, cats and parrots!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Dook on April 27, 2014, 05:54
How will Fotolia benefit from this in a long run? I think if it's not good for contibutor it's not good for them neither. They are making a desperate move again.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: soundworks on April 27, 2014, 06:02
looking forward to see top contributors signing the petition, its looks like most small fish have no problem and will remove or stop uploading new content but and as usual the top guys will stick with it, that is why this won't go anywhere, every time we try and pull something the big ones have great excuses like massive expenses, mortgages, kids, dogs, cats and parrots!

I am not a big fish but microstock pays my loan (not big bug still 300 USD a month) and I even manage to tuck something away (I have a regular daytime job). Photographers should really come together or else the future does not look bright. Yes, I know -- crowdsourcing is doomed but we can still achieve something together.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: luissantos84 on April 27, 2014, 06:06
looking forward to see top contributors signing the petition, its looks like most small fish have no problem and will remove or stop uploading new content but and as usual the top guys will stick with it, that is why this won't go anywhere, every time we try and pull something the big ones have great excuses like massive expenses, mortgages, kids, dogs, cats and parrots!

I am not a big fish but microstock pays my loan (not big bug still 300 USD a month) and I even manage to tuck something away (I have a regular daytime job). Photographers should really come together or else the future does not look bright. Yes, I know -- crowdsourcing is doomed but we can still achieve something together.

which means you are out!

other will quit because they don't have rent or bills to pay ::)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: BaldricksTrousers on April 27, 2014, 06:26
I quit years ago when I completely lost trust in their honesty, so I can only wish you guys success.  If all the big-hitters pulled out then I guess a lot of buyers would migrate to other sites, that's a lot to hope for .... but, hey, they've already undermined "emeralds" earnings by demoting them in the search, haven't they? And if they succeed in boosting their market share with this subs system then they'll start * (wow! su ck ing is a banned word!) your earnings out of not just Fot but the other agencies, too. Maybe there wouldn't be any net loss in dumping them to preserve sales elsewhere.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: cathyslife on April 27, 2014, 06:32
looking forward to see top contributors signing the petition, its looks like most small fish have no problem and will remove or stop uploading new content but and as usual the top guys will stick with it, that is why this won't go anywhere, every time we try and pull something the big ones have great excuses like massive expenses, mortgages, kids, dogs, cats and parrots!


Thats what happened at istock. Most of those who didnt even take down photos but at least committed to not uploading any more were back to uploading shortly after.


I wish the best for this project, but there are too many millions of photographers who think its better to get a penny for a photo rather than nothing at all.


I bailed out of fotolia a couple of years ago because of shenanigans otherwise i would support this. Good luck, i hope it accomplishes something good for contributors.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: luissantos84 on April 27, 2014, 09:22
Thats what happened at istock. Most of those who didnt even take down photos but at least committed to not uploading any more were back to uploading shortly after.

exactly, another mission impossible where again the ones that keep on uploading will get advantage in the short run and perhaps all the way, they should at least thank us!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Dook on April 27, 2014, 11:36
I'm afraid no contibutor will get advantage here.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: MatHayward on April 27, 2014, 12:27
Hi All,

I can tell you with 100% confidence that the Fotolia team cares very much for the photographers and respects your opinions and feedback.  Your concerns about being in Dollar Photo Club have been heard and I’ve been told that soon an option for contributors to choose will be made available to all Fotolia contributors. In the meantime if you do not want your images sold through Dollar Photo Club send your request via a Fotolia customer support  ticket and you will be manually removed.

A couple of points of interest.  Contrary to what has been posted earlier in this thread, every dollar spent by a Dollar Photo Club member goes towards a download.  Every image downloaded at DPC is paid to the artist through Fotolia immediately.  Monthly members pay $10 per month and receive 10 downloads.  Annual members pay $99 and receive 99 downloads.  Each of those downloads pay a commission to the contributing artist. 
 
Something you may not have considered is that the Dollar Photo Club membership actually is more beneficial to the contributors than traditional subscriptions.  In a traditional subscription if the sub expires, unused downloads also expire. As a result, no commission is paid.  At Dollar Photo Club, even after a member cancels their subscription they can use their unused downloads. As a result, a higher percentage of money spent goes to the photographer. 

Another misconception is the license.  The license sold via Dollar Photo Club is a Standard license.  Members that need Extended licenses are referred to Fotolia to purchase them.  Soon an Extended License will be made available to Dollar Photo Club members at rates similar to those at Fotolia.
 
The simple truth of the matter is this.  The only way for Fotolia and/or Dollar Photo Club to be successful is for the contributors to be successful.  Regardless of what has been written in msg, the interests of FT and of the contributors are aligned.  The goal for all parties involved is to drive sales.  Dollar Photo Club has already proven to be successful and has resulted in many sales paid out to contributors.  The site will continue to grow and to push sales in a positive direction for all of us. 

-Mat Hayward
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Niakris on April 27, 2014, 12:53
Quote
Something you may not have considered is that the Dollar Photo Club membership actually is more beneficial to the contributors than traditional subscriptions.  In a traditional subscription if the sub expires, unused downloads also expire. As a result, no commission is paid.  At Dollar Photo Club, even after a member cancels their subscription they can use their unused downloads. As a result, a higher percentage of money spent goes to the photographer. 

Yeah, a higher percentage of money spent will go to the contributor. However, the amount of money spent will be way lesser than with the usual on-demand model.
And if you multiply 0.2X by 2 you will still get 0.4X vs traditional on-demand sales X.
So this model is by no means better for contributors.
And by the way, you can not call DPC model a subscription. It is on-demand because this "subscription" never expires and allows buyer to buy images whenever they want. This model is on-demand model with huge discount and nothing else.

Quote
Another misconception is the license.  The license sold via Dollar Photo Club is a Standard license.  Members that need Extended licenses are referred to Fotolia to purchase them.  Soon an Extended License will be made available to Dollar Photo Club members at rates similar to those at Fotolia.

Wrong. It is pretty easy to compare Standard Fotolia license and DPC license. There is huge difference between them.
DPC license is way more similar to Extended license than to Standard license.

Quote
The simple truth of the matter is this.  The only way for Fotolia and/or Dollar Photo Club to be successful is for the contributors to be successful.  Regardless of what has been written in msg, the interests of FT and of the contributors are aligned.  The goal for all parties involved is to drive sales.  Dollar Photo Club has already proven to be successful and has resulted in many sales paid out to contributors.  The site will continue to grow and to push sales in a positive direction for all of us. 

Wrong. DPC is an attempt to get greater share of the same market by dumping. It does not increase the market size.
You will receive more money on Fotolia with DPC, yes. But you will lose way more earnings on other agencies because noone will buy images there if they can buy same images for 1$ on DPC.
So contributors will lose money overall.

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: trek on April 27, 2014, 13:48

In the meantime if you do not want your images sold through Dollar Photo Club send your request via a Fotolia customer support  ticket and you will be manually removed.


I wrote fotolia support and was told that I would have to deactivate my images if I wanted them removed from Dollar Photo Club.  Has that policy changed?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Niakris on April 27, 2014, 13:53

In the meantime if you do not want your images sold through Dollar Photo Club send your request via a Fotolia customer support  ticket and you will be manually removed.


I wrote fotolia support and was told that I would have to deactivate my images if I wanted them removed from Dollar Photo Club.  Has that policy changed?

Please don't believe to this lie.
Some of contributors already sent such requests and their requests were not satisfied. They have received more of these ignorant lies that "DPC is for the great good of all contributors" and after 3 more e-mails their works are still available at DPC.

Also note that even if some of most active contributors will be able to get through this and remove their portfolio from DPC the overall situation will not become better and eventually we all will find the market dead because of this race to the bottom.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: mlwinphoto on April 27, 2014, 13:57
The site will continue to grow and to push sales in a positive direction for all of us. 

Who is "us"??
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: suzbah on April 27, 2014, 14:07
The site will continue to grow and to push sales in a positive direction for all of us. 

Who is "us"??

Who are you?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: MatHayward on April 27, 2014, 14:08

In the meantime if you do not want your images sold through Dollar Photo Club send your request via a Fotolia customer support  ticket and you will be manually removed.


I wrote fotolia support and was told that I would have to deactivate my images if I wanted them removed from Dollar Photo Club.  Has that policy changed?


Yes.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: MatHayward on April 27, 2014, 14:10
The site will continue to grow and to push sales in a positive direction for all of us. 


Who is "us"??


I am a contributor with a vested interest in overall sales growth.  Here are my FT portfolios: 

http://us.fotolia.com/p/19000 (http://us.fotolia.com/p/19000)

http://us.fotolia.com/p/200920505 (http://us.fotolia.com/p/200920505)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: mlwinphoto on April 27, 2014, 14:45
The site will continue to grow and to push sales in a positive direction for all of us. 

Who is "us"??

Who are you?

Who wants to know?

BTW: you can click on that little 'M' at the bottom of my post and see who I am, at least what I'm willing to share.  Your turn.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: mlwinphoto on April 27, 2014, 14:58
The site will continue to grow and to push sales in a positive direction for all of us. 


Who is "us"??


I am a contributor with a vested interest in overall sales growth.  Here are my FT portfolios: 

[url]http://us.fotolia.com/p/19000[/url] ([url]http://us.fotolia.com/p/19000[/url])

[url]http://us.fotolia.com/p/200920505[/url] ([url]http://us.fotolia.com/p/200920505[/url])


Nice port.  I was asking because I'm curious as to whether you think moves like this are good for the agency, the contributor, and/or the industry as a whole?
I can see it benefiting the agency but I have my doubts about the last two, particularly the industry as a whole.
I was considering joining Fotolia, not so sure now.....just asking questions to see where you guys are coming from.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mantis on April 27, 2014, 15:07

In the meantime if you do not want your images sold through Dollar Photo Club send your request via a Fotolia customer support  ticket and you will be manually removed.


I wrote fotolia support and was told that I would have to deactivate my images if I wanted them removed from Dollar Photo Club.  Has that policy changed?


Yes.

At this point Matt's response is accurate.  I just asked to be opted out and this is FT's response.

"Dollar Photo Club is an excellent way to drive traffic to your portfolio and increase sales. Sales on Dollar Photo Club result in an immediate subscription commission to your Fotolia account. That being said, we respect your decision to opt out at this time and your request in being processed.

Please allow up to 3 business days for your portfolio to be removed and be sure to let us know should you change your mind.

Kind regards,

Fotolia CS USA"


We'll see what happens, but this only happened because of the uproar, not because they were always crafting an opt out option. It is a small win for us artists at least.

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: adigrosu on April 27, 2014, 15:22
Same here - that was fast. Seems like that industry is not driven by robots after all.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Fairplay on April 27, 2014, 15:25
I sent my opt out request too!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Goofy on April 27, 2014, 15:26

In the meantime if you do not want your images sold through Dollar Photo Club send your request via a Fotolia customer support  ticket and you will be manually removed.


I wrote fotolia support and was told that I would have to deactivate my images if I wanted them removed from Dollar Photo Club.  Has that policy changed?


Yes.

At this point Matt's response is accurate.  I just asked to be opted out and this is FT's response.

"Dollar Photo Club is an excellent way to drive traffic to your portfolio and increase sales. Sales on Dollar Photo Club result in an immediate subscription commission to your Fotolia account. That being said, we respect your decision to opt out at this time and your request in being processed.

Please allow up to 3 business days for your portfolio to be removed and be sure to let us know should you change your mind.

Kind regards,

Fotolia CS USA"


We'll see what happens, but this only happened because of the uproar, not because they were always crafting an opt out option. It is a small win for us artists at least.

All great work for everyone on this matter! iStock got lucky to survive their 'D' day due to their size and someone that we all know very well to join them. Fotolia doesn't  have the same luxuries.  8)

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mantis on April 27, 2014, 15:40
Same here - that was fast. Seems like that industry is not driven by robots after all.

Yea, they started their response as, "Dear Peter".  My name isn't peter, but the email response did come to my Fotolia in-box.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Niakris on April 27, 2014, 16:21
It is great that we have ability to pull our ports from DPC now.
But it does not solve the issue completely.
Most of the contributors don't even know about that "awesome" deal and will keep taking part in it. So the future of the industry is still threatened.
We can't just let them to kill whole market of on-demand image sales by dumping.

We will know that we can sleep peacefully only when either DPC opt in will be disabled by default or the terms of DPC will be changed according to the demands listed in the petition.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Noedelhap on April 27, 2014, 16:25
I can write to Fotolia support and opt out of DPC?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: adigrosu on April 27, 2014, 16:27
The terms in the petition should stay! A few of us opting out doesn't solve anything.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mantis on April 27, 2014, 16:37
I can write to Fotolia support and opt out of DPC?

Yes.  A new revelation I suppose.  We'll see if it really comes true.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: jacoblund on April 27, 2014, 16:40

In the meantime if you do not want your images sold through Dollar Photo Club send your request via a Fotolia customer support  ticket and you will be manually removed.


I wrote fotolia support and was told that I would have to deactivate my images if I wanted them removed from Dollar Photo Club.  Has that policy changed?


Yes.

At this point Matt's response is accurate.  I just asked to be opted out and this is FT's response.

"Dollar Photo Club is an excellent way to drive traffic to your portfolio and increase sales. Sales on Dollar Photo Club result in an immediate subscription commission to your Fotolia account. That being said, we respect your decision to opt out at this time and your request in being processed.

Please allow up to 3 business days for your portfolio to be removed and be sure to let us know should you change your mind.

Kind regards,

Fotolia CS USA"


We'll see what happens, but this only happened because of the uproar, not because they were always crafting an opt out option. It is a small win for us artists at least.

I have received the same message from them this evening! Let's see if they are removing the images.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: marthamarks on April 27, 2014, 16:47
Three cheers for the petition organizers! Something appears to have changed… almost overnight.

Now, let's see what happens going forward. We all must remain vigilant and ready to push back more if needed.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Noedelhap on April 27, 2014, 16:59
Sent an email to support asking to be removed from DPC. Let's see what their response is going to be.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Monty-m-gue on April 27, 2014, 17:12
Niakris is right. A few dozen contributors here asking for an opt out won't prevent FT from doing serious damage to the industry and hastening the race to the bottom... FT might gain market share from this initiative but we will almost certainly lose income.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: trek on April 27, 2014, 18:55
I'm glad they changed their policy.  They agreed to remove my port from Dollar Photo Club. 

I hope they expand the opt out option to include all their partner sites. 
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: chellyar on April 27, 2014, 21:01
Opt-out or not, decided to remove my (small) portfolio from Fotolia.

Never did like their site much... :-)

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: DallasP on April 27, 2014, 22:46
The deadline is too short.  Many contributors outside Russia know nothing yet from the D-day!

i also think that we need more time to gather our forces!

Its a great project thank you for that and 100% support from me.
We are all strong together. Social Media we should also use.
We are many and together have more skills and labor force than any single agency.

Agreed that it's going to be tough to get everyone on board. But, I signed the petition and shared it on facebook, g+ and linkedin...

Hopefully, if everyone is being active in trying to get the word out we can have a pretty good effort.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: PhotoBomb on April 27, 2014, 23:55
I sent my request to have my portfolio opted out. Waiting to hear back.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: byman on April 28, 2014, 00:12
Today I sent request to disable port on Dollar Photo Club.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on April 28, 2014, 00:29
Press release from Fotolia saying they're expanding to other countries because of this stinker's success

http://www.bizcommunity.com/Article/196/16/112677.html (http://www.bizcommunity.com/Article/196/16/112677.html)

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: luissantos84 on April 28, 2014, 00:49
Press release from Fotolia saying they're expanding to other countries because of this stinker's success

[url]http://www.bizcommunity.com/Article/196/16/112677.html[/url] ([url]http://www.bizcommunity.com/Article/196/16/112677.html[/url])


SHAMELESS

that is what FT is, just unbelievable how they believe we are stupid, yeah we (the slaves) will keep on adding 150k pictures a week to be downloaded for 1$ each, what place do they occupy in the microstock industry? debt has put them on desperation mode after lowering commissions a few years ago!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Kamran on April 28, 2014, 01:32
Today I have deleted my 700+ files manually. I download and tried MicrostockSubmit free version, but did'nt found  "Remove fotolia images.

Anyway, for speed up manual deleting process, I used following method.

1. In firefox, open your fotolia "manage my files" web and set file view to 25

2. Zoom out 3 time using keyboard shortcut Ctrl++  so you can see "delete this file" button without scrolling. This command is in firefox View menu --> Zoom  --> zoom out.

3. Right click on delete link and open in new tab (I opened 25 tabs from first manage files page)

4. Click on delete this file button and use alt+tab to goto next tab. (shift+alt+tab will navigate in reverse order) 

5. Finally press ctrl+0 to reset page zoom to default. This command is under Firefox view menu --> Zoom  --> Reset


Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ploink on April 28, 2014, 01:37
Today I have deleted my 700+ files manually. I download and tried MicrostockSubmit free version, but did'nt found  "Remove fotolia images.

Anyway, for speed up manual deleting process, I used following method.

1. In firefox, open your fotolia "manage my files" web and set file view to 25

2. Zoom out 3 time using keyboard shortcut Ctrl++  so you can see "delete this file" button without scrolling. This command is in firefox View menu --> Zoom  --> zoom out.

3. Right click on delete link and open in new tab (I opened 25 tabs from first manage files page)

4. Click on delete this file button and use alt+tab to goto next tab. (shift+alt+tab will navigate in reverse order) 

5. Finally press ctrl+0 to reset page zoom to default. This command is under Firefox view menu --> Zoom  --> Reset

Why not just send them an e-mail asking to end your membership? It's also a good opportunity to tell them why you are doing it...  :)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Niakris on April 28, 2014, 01:45
Kaka2014

It is in the Service menu.

If anyone will have any issues with using that feature feel free to ask me for help.
This feature is more suited for removing part of portfolio (say, 1000 least popular images or 200 most popular)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: r2d2 on April 28, 2014, 01:58
Press release from Fotolia saying they're expanding to other countries because of this stinker's success

[url]http://www.bizcommunity.com/Article/196/16/112677.html[/url] ([url]http://www.bizcommunity.com/Article/196/16/112677.html[/url])


SHAMELESS

that is what FT is, just unbelievable how they believe we are stupid, yeah we (the slaves) will keep on adding 150k pictures a week to be downloaded for 1$ each, what place do they occupy in the microstock industry? debt has put them on desperation mode after lowering commissions a few years ago!


DP and ShotShop...
Getty and this free images...
Fotolia and DPC...

I'm sick of these agencies.
Consuming processes uplaod.
Rejections partly arbitrary.
They treat us not as partners.
Commission up to 85%

Why we do that?

I hope the 500 signers of the petition take a look at Symbiostock.
A great opportunity to get rid off this outrageous agencies.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: pictureman75 on April 28, 2014, 03:18
Guys,
thank you for your initiative!!! Great Job!
But until now there is only a vague announcement to some contributors and no final result ...
So ... the petition should become more and more powerful! We need everbody!
Please take part as good as you can and sign the petition!!!
Thanks,
outdoorfreak

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: jsfoto on April 28, 2014, 06:01

DP and ShotShop...
Getty and this free images...
Fotolia and DPC...

I'm sick of these agencies.
Consuming processes uplaod.
Rejections partly arbitrary.
They treat us not as partners.
Commission up to 85%

Why we do that?

I hope the 500 signers of the petition take a look at Symbiostock.
A great opportunity to get rid off this outrageous agencies.

I agree. Everybody who signed the petition should consider to open his own stock site with Symbiostock. A great opportunity to strengthen our independence and a strong signal towards the agencies ...

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: jacoblund on April 28, 2014, 06:06
We should do our best to get the big microstock contributors in on this!

I have sent emails to some of the big ones today including Pressmaster (http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=280047), MonkeyBusiness (http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=200599234) and Andres Rodriguez (http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=4234). Together they have more than 100.000 images on Dollarphotoclub.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: luissantos84 on April 28, 2014, 06:18
just stunning! Andres went exclusive at iStock almost 6 months ago and still has portfolio at SS, FT, DT and 123RF, I wonder if he removed a single picture from any agency :o

stock industry at it's best!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: marthamarks on April 28, 2014, 08:11
I agree. Everybody who signed the petition should consider to open his own stock site with Symbiostock. A great opportunity to strengthen our independence and a strong signal towards the agencies ...

Amen to that! We who are already on Symbiostock have fine web sites and a great, supportive community. Sales for some are good, for others (including me) not yet. But as the community grows stronger and we are better known, I do believe they will come. Meanwhile, I continue building my SYS site.

Others should come in and help build independence for everybody!!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: bolsher on April 28, 2014, 08:30
Are there agencies who built the symbiostocksites? I´m full-time photographer and have no idea in symbiostocksite building. Is there a service?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: byman on April 28, 2014, 08:34
Fotolia response to the closure of my portfolio at Dollar Photo Club :


""First, I would like to say that we appreciate your work and our collaboration.
Regarding our latest project "Dollar Photo Club", it is slightly a new business model, but basically it is just a new subscription model. The project is aiming to improve our contributor’s exposure and sales.

Our contributors are important to us and under no circumstances we will jeopardize our relationship with them, we share a common interest and goal with you!

Dollar Photo Club is not aimed for one-time image purchases, on the contrary, it is aimed for serious buyers, who need large numbers of images and need them often.

The membership in Dollar Photo Club is limited and it was done in the way that we could choose the customers, fitting our business model.
The project is monitored daily, every membership request from a potential customer is treated as a separate order. Only requests from serious buyers are admitted and validated.

With this new model we are selling more subscriptions and making sure the clients will return to us for future transactions.

Dollar Photo Club offers more exposure, distribution and the possibility to increase your revenue.
Dollar Photo Club is based on the Fotolia commission programme, so your royalties will stay the same, but your revenue will grow. Every image downloaded at Dollar Photo Club is paid to the artist through Fotolia immediately.

For now the license sold via Dollar Photo Club is a Standard license and will be limited to 500.000 copies as well. Members that need Extended licenses are referred to Fotolia to purchase them. Soon an Extended License will be made available to Dollar Photo Club members at rates similar to those at Fotolia.

As well I would like to mention that Dollar Photo Club subscription rate, $1 per image, is not the lowest one in the stock market. Daily subscription on and other agencies offer images from $0,33 per image, which is much cheaper then the price of Dollar Photo Club.

And Dollar Photo Club membership actually is more beneficial to the contributors than traditional subscriptions. In a traditional subscription if the sub expires, unused downloads also expire. As a result, no commission is paid. At Dollar Photo Club, even after a member cancels their subscription they can use their unused downloads. As a result, a higher percentage of money spent goes to the photographer. We’ve been seing some great results on the markets where Dollar Photo Club exists for some time and expecting to have even better in the nearest future.

Our goal is to double your revenue with Fotolia and Dollar Photo Club in next 3 years with the aim that in next 12 months you will see a 20% growth in sales. We kindly ask for your patience and trust.
If your revenue will not grow during the next 12 months, we will be glad to discuss again and find a solution. But we are certain it will.

Fotolia team cares very much for the photographers and respects your opinions and feedback. Your concerns about being in Dollar Photo Club have been heard and soon an option for contributors to choose will be made available to all Fotolia contributors. In the meantime if you do not want your images sold through Dollar Photo Club send your request via a Fotolia customer support ticket and you will be manually removed. Your new works will not appear on Dollar Photo Club.
As I mentioned before our contributors are very important to us and we do our very best that they will get the highest earnings possible in the current market situation.
Feel free to contact us regarding any of the above or other issues

Kind regards  ""


this is the official opinion of the Fotolia
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: jacoblund on April 28, 2014, 08:35
Just got a message from Andresr. He's in!

From Boycotfotolia.org:

28-04-2014 17:13:50 Name: Andresr
Will remove 34000 out of 34000 works on the 1st May.
Comment: The dollar photoclub is the worst thing that has happened to us, its time all these taking advantage of photographers stops.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: SNod on April 28, 2014, 08:44
Big respect for Andresr, what a nice surprise.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: r2d2 on April 28, 2014, 08:46
Are there agencies who built the symbiostocksites? I´m full-time photographer and have no idea in symbiostocksite building. Is there a service?


there is somthing like this:

http://www.microstockgroup.com/symbiostock-general/symbiostock-co-op-launched/25/ (http://www.microstockgroup.com/symbiostock-general/symbiostock-co-op-launched/25/)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mantis on April 28, 2014, 09:00
just stunning! Andres went exclusive at iStock almost 6 months ago and still has portfolio at SS, FT, DT and 123RF, I wonder if he removed a single picture from any agency :o

stock industry at it's best!

It just proves that they are cutting special deals, meaning "rules" are selectively applied.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Sean Locke Photography on April 28, 2014, 09:12
The membership in Dollar Photo Club is limited and it was done in the way that we could choose the customers, fitting our business model.
The project is monitored daily, every membership request from a potential customer is treated as a separate order. Only requests from serious buyers are admitted and validated.

Unless you pay for an entire year, then it is instant "acceptance".

Quote
For now the license sold via Dollar Photo Club is a Standard license and will be limited to 500.000 copies as well. Members that need Extended licenses are referred to Fotolia to purchase them. Soon an Extended License will be made available to Dollar Photo Club members at rates similar to those at Fotolia.

Backpedal!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: pixsol on April 28, 2014, 09:14
Fotolia response to the closure of my portfolio at Dollar Photo Club :
...
Fotolia team cares very much for the photographers and respects your opinions and feedback. Your concerns about being in Dollar Photo Club have been heard and soon an option for contributors to choose will be made available to all Fotolia contributors. In the meantime if you do not want your images sold through Dollar Photo Club send your request via a Fotolia customer support ticket and you will be manually removed. Your new works will not appear on Dollar Photo Club.
As I mentioned before our contributors are very important to us and we do our very best that they will get the highest earnings possible in the current market situation.
...

I got the exact same reply. I have removed the other paragraphs and have added bolded the phrase which says only the NEW works will not make it to DPC.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: luissantos84 on April 28, 2014, 09:19
Just got a message from Andresr. He's in!

From Boycotfotolia.org:

28-04-2014 17:13:50 Name: Andresr
Will remove 34000 out of 34000 works on the 1st May.
Comment: The dollar photoclub is the worst thing that has happened to us, its time all these taking advantage of photographers stops.


F joke!

he is exclusive at iStock for 6 months, another professional!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: PhotoBomb on April 28, 2014, 09:26

Quote
For now the license sold via Dollar Photo Club is a Standard license and will be limited to 500.000 copies as well. Members that need Extended licenses are referred to Fotolia to purchase them. Soon an Extended License will be made available to Dollar Photo Club members at rates similar to those at Fotolia.

Backpedal!

No where in their terms is any limit mentioned
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Monty-m-gue on April 28, 2014, 09:32
Fotolia response to the closure of my portfolio at Dollar Photo Club :


""First, I would like to say that we appreciate your work and our collaboration.
Regarding our latest project "Dollar Photo Club", it is slightly a new business model, but basically it is just a new subscription model. The project is aiming to improve our contributor’s exposure and sales.

Our contributors are important to us and under no circumstances we will jeopardize our relationship with them, we share a common interest and goal with you!

Dollar Photo Club is not aimed for one-time image purchases, on the contrary, it is aimed for serious buyers, who need large numbers of images and need them often.

The membership in Dollar Photo Club is limited and it was done in the way that we could choose the customers, fitting our business model.
The project is monitored daily, every membership request from a potential customer is treated as a separate order. Only requests from serious buyers are admitted and validated.

With this new model we are selling more subscriptions and making sure the clients will return to us for future transactions.

Dollar Photo Club offers more exposure, distribution and the possibility to increase your revenue.
Dollar Photo Club is based on the Fotolia commission programme, so your royalties will stay the same, but your revenue will grow. Every image downloaded at Dollar Photo Club is paid to the artist through Fotolia immediately.

For now the license sold via Dollar Photo Club is a Standard license and will be limited to 500.000 copies as well. Members that need Extended licenses are referred to Fotolia to purchase them. Soon an Extended License will be made available to Dollar Photo Club members at rates similar to those at Fotolia.

As well I would like to mention that Dollar Photo Club subscription rate, $1 per image, is not the lowest one in the stock market. Daily subscription on and other agencies offer images from $0,33 per image, which is much cheaper then the price of Dollar Photo Club.

And Dollar Photo Club membership actually is more beneficial to the contributors than traditional subscriptions. In a traditional subscription if the sub expires, unused downloads also expire. As a result, no commission is paid. At Dollar Photo Club, even after a member cancels their subscription they can use their unused downloads. As a result, a higher percentage of money spent goes to the photographer. We’ve been seing some great results on the markets where Dollar Photo Club exists for some time and expecting to have even better in the nearest future.

Our goal is to double your revenue with Fotolia and Dollar Photo Club in next 3 years with the aim that in next 12 months you will see a 20% growth in sales. We kindly ask for your patience and trust.
If your revenue will not grow during the next 12 months, we will be glad to discuss again and find a solution. But we are certain it will.

Fotolia team cares very much for the photographers and respects your opinions and feedback. Your concerns about being in Dollar Photo Club have been heard and soon an option for contributors to choose will be made available to all Fotolia contributors. In the meantime if you do not want your images sold through Dollar Photo Club send your request via a Fotolia customer support ticket and you will be manually removed. Your new works will not appear on Dollar Photo Club.
As I mentioned before our contributors are very important to us and we do our very best that they will get the highest earnings possible in the current market situation.
Feel free to contact us regarding any of the above or other issues

Kind regards  ""


this is the official opinion of the Fotolia

It is quite possible that DPC will increase FT earnings by 20% over a year if they manage to grow their customer base with this cheap offer. However, it might have the simultaneous effect of reducing SOD's at SS by 20%. Which scenario is preferable...?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: pictureman75 on April 28, 2014, 09:45
... that in next 12 months you will see a 20% growth in sales ....

They speak only about "growth in sales" - not about "growth in revenues" !!! ridiculous :) :) :)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: OM on April 28, 2014, 09:50
It's a sub but if you optioned in for emails-notification for sales you you get your email-notice  from the sale from [email protected] instead [email protected] as a normal subsale.
Thanks, I was wondering if they changed their email address, but those are dollar club sales then. Ok, so its starting to happen.

I don't know. Something is wrong. I get also credit sale e-mails from [email protected]. How can that be?

Me too. Some 3's and one 10.

I think the point is that IF DPC takes off and the word spreads those credit sales will begin to erode as customers transition to the even cheaper stuff.

Of that I have no doubt but my point in posting that 'm' emails also contain sales and not just subs was to make clear that you can't rely on 'm' emails to distinguish between DPC subs and FT subs because DPC doesn't do anything other than subs and I've had both subs and sales in 'm' emails.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: jsfoto on April 28, 2014, 09:52
Are there agencies who built the symbiostocksites? I´m full-time photographer and have no idea in symbiostocksite building. Is there a service?


there is somthing like this:

[url]http://www.microstockgroup.com/symbiostock-general/symbiostock-co-op-launched/25/[/url] ([url]http://www.microstockgroup.com/symbiostock-general/symbiostock-co-op-launched/25/[/url])


That's true: Steve, an early bird from the Symbiostock network is offering this service for people with limited time or experience.
And as Martha mentioned above there is also a very helpful community at http://www.symbiostock.org/community/ (http://www.symbiostock.org/community/) for all those who wish to join without using the service of Steve.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Christos Georghiou on April 28, 2014, 09:53
....In the meantime if you do not want your images sold through Dollar Photo Club send your request via a Fotolia customer support  ticket and you will be manually removed.....

-Mat Hayward

Mat, could you please clarify the opt out that is being offered? Can we have our whole portfolio manually removed by contacting customer support as you stated in this post or just stop new uploads appearing on the site, as the replies to individual contributors seem to imply?

We need to know what options are open to us before we can make a decision. Do we have to delete our whole portfolio from Fotolia if we want to opt out of DPC or not?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on April 28, 2014, 10:04
Just to remind people that the PR spin emnating from the nether regions of Fotolia is what you'd expect from those regions...

"Dollar Photo Club is not aimed for one-time image purchases, on the contrary, it is aimed for serious buyers, who need large numbers of images and need them often."

It's not for high volume buyers - see this contributor who was offered the membership. Someone who had never purchased a single image from Fotolia

http://www.microstockgroup.com/fotolia-com/fotolia-launches-dollar-photo-club/msg365559/#msg365559 (http://www.microstockgroup.com/fotolia-com/fotolia-launches-dollar-photo-club/msg365559/#msg365559)

"For now the license sold via Dollar Photo Club is a Standard license and will be limited to 500.000 copies as well. "

They've taken the text about unlimited print runs off the front page this morning (it was there last night), but if you click to see the pricing details, they're still saying unlimited print runs:

(http://www.digitalbristles.com/temp/Dollar-club-terms.jpg)

They have all the credibility that DepositPhotos has - which is to say none at all.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: fotoramka on April 28, 2014, 10:09
Hi all!
Thanks for your kind support in our protest!
Please, remember - our position specified in petition won't be changed!

I've made big text with some math tables which shows that if DPC will get mass traffic - EVEN Fotolia contributors will lost their income. At this moment it's translating to English so we need some time.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Noedelhap on April 28, 2014, 10:26
I received the same reply.

They stated the license will be limited to 500.000 copies. That sounds a lot better than unlimited copies.

However, still not convinced. The thing that bothers me most is that unused downloads will not expire, and contrary to what Fotolia states, this is not good for contributors, because this will result in customers choosing a DPC subscription rather than single credit downloads.

On the other hand, I believe customers will not instantly flock towards DPC because Shutterstock also provides a good service, and not every customer is looking for the cheapest bargain possible.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Christos Georghiou on April 28, 2014, 10:28
....It's not for high volume buyers.....

I was also offered "preferred admission" via email, I have only purchased one image from Fotolia I think. The email was from their Wilogo site, I opened an account with them a couple of years ago and never used it.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: cidepix on April 28, 2014, 11:24
I too sent them an email requesting the removal of my images from the dollar photo club..

we will see what happens.. I am in for the D-Day if they don't honor my request..

my feelings about fotolia is just a notch better than my feelings for istock and that is not a compliment :)

so a last straw will be more than enough for me..
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: byman on April 28, 2014, 11:28

I sent the email again to deactivate my work on DPC.
wait for their response.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: brisoca on April 28, 2014, 11:38
....It's not for high volume buyers.....

I was also offered "preferred admission" via email, I have only purchased one image from Fotolia I think. The email was from their Wilogo site, I opened an account with them a couple of years ago and never used it.

Jo Ann is right. The DPC is clearly not directed to high volume buyers, but to On Demand customers, not only from Fotolia itself but mainly from other agencies. I was also offered "preferred admission" via email and I have never purchased an image from Fotolia. I only downloaded a couple of free images a few years ago. The email said:

Quote
Dollar Photo Club from Fotolia is the next wave in stock photos offering 25 million RF images for one easy price.

$1 for any high res image and any vector – guaranteed!

Discover downloads that NEVER expire - cancel your membership and purchased downloads will STILL be there when you need them, always...

Don’t ever pay more than $1 for professional stock images and vectors!

Join Dollar Photo Club today!
P.S. Fotolia customers like you can get preferred admission to Dollar Photo Club; just choose “Fotolia” when asked which stock agencies you currently use – but hurry, places are strictly limited!

(My bold)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: bolsher on April 28, 2014, 11:41
these *insult removed*....
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: pictureman75 on April 28, 2014, 11:58
Increadible - nearly every new posting gives us more arguments to fight against DPC!!!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: roede-orm on April 28, 2014, 12:14
A big thank you to the Russian colleagues who manage to organize resistance to Fotolia. Maybe it results in a permanent organization against the intolerable conditions in the microstock world
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: gbalex on April 28, 2014, 12:17
Big respect for Andresr, what a nice surprise.

I am not surprised, Andresr has always been a man to be respected.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: DallasP on April 28, 2014, 12:18
Increadible - nearly every new posting gives us more arguments to fight against DPC!!!

I almost don't even care, I'll probably delete my portfolio anyway. Getting those .13 sales is pretty depressing, and add on the fact that I'm getting 0 traffic and that the jerks want to try and pull a maneuver like this, without even taking our opinions into account ... If contributors aren't worth anything to them then we might as well be elsewhere anyway.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: fotoramka on April 28, 2014, 12:20

Jo Ann is right. The DPC is clearly not directed to high volume buyers, but to On Demand customers. I was also offered "preferred admission" via email and I have never purchased an image from Fotolia. I only downloaded a couple of free images a few years ago. The email said:

Quote
Dollar Photo Club from Fotolia is the next wave in stock photos offering 25 million RF images for one easy price.

$1 for any high res image and any vector – guaranteed!

Discover downloads that NEVER expire - cancel your membership and purchased downloads will STILL be there when you need them, always...

Don’t ever pay more than $1 for professional stock images and vectors!

Join Dollar Photo Club today!
P.S. Fotolia customers like you can get preferred admission to Dollar Photo Club; just choose “Fotolia” when asked which stock agencies you currently use – but hurry, places are strictly limited!

(My bold)

When you've receive this email?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: luissantos84 on April 28, 2014, 12:20
Big respect for Andresr, what a nice surprise.

I am not surprised, Andresr has always been a man to be respected.

really? would you mind telling us why? have you noticed he still has portfolio at all agencies after being iStock exclusive for 6 months?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: tickstock on April 28, 2014, 12:23
.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: brisoca on April 28, 2014, 12:33

Jo Ann is right. The DPC is clearly not directed to high volume buyers, but to On Demand customers. I was also offered "preferred admission" via email and I have never purchased an image from Fotolia. I only downloaded a couple of free images a few years ago. The email said:

Quote
Dollar Photo Club from Fotolia is the next wave in stock photos offering 25 million RF images for one easy price.

$1 for any high res image and any vector – guaranteed!

Discover downloads that NEVER expire - cancel your membership and purchased downloads will STILL be there when you need them, always...

Don’t ever pay more than $1 for professional stock images and vectors!

Join Dollar Photo Club today!
P.S. Fotolia customers like you can get preferred admission to Dollar Photo Club; just choose “Fotolia” when asked which stock agencies you currently use – but hurry, places are strictly limited!

(My bold)

When you've receive this email?

I received two of them. The first one on 6th March and the second on 10th April.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: gbalex on April 28, 2014, 12:34
Big respect for Andresr, what a nice surprise.

I am not surprised, Andresr has always been a man to be respected.

really? would you mind telling us why? have you noticed he still has portfolio at all agencies after being iStock exclusive for 6 months?

Have you deleted your port?  Have you seen Andres badmouthing his contemporaries on any board ever?

Andres walked the walk and because of that he created opportunities for himself which most of us do not enjoy. It is clear you resent that fact immensely. 

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: luissantos84 on April 28, 2014, 12:42
Big respect for Andresr, what a nice surprise.

I am not surprised, Andresr has always been a man to be respected.

really? would you mind telling us why? have you noticed he still has portfolio at all agencies after being iStock exclusive for 6 months?
He's not doing anything wrong.  If he got a deal with Getty good for him, no need for you to be jealous. It doesn't affect you at all does it?  He has two portfolios, one exclusive and one not exclusive on iStock.  Are you even sure he got a special deal or maybe he has a different business arrangement for each portfolio?

of course he hasn't and I happy to see you as an exclusive happy with it as well!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: luissantos84 on April 28, 2014, 12:47
Big respect for Andresr, what a nice surprise.

I am not surprised, Andresr has always been a man to be respected.

really? would you mind telling us why? have you noticed he still has portfolio at all agencies after being iStock exclusive for 6 months?

Have you deleted your port?  Have you seen Andres badmouthing his contemporaries on any board ever?

Andres walked the walk and because of that he created opportunities for himself which most of us do not enjoy. It is clear you resent that fact immensely.

saying the true is hard I know, I am sure he is fine by leaving his portfolio at all agencies and so do you! anyway I am not badmouthing but stating facts, I would say what I will do with FT but I guess you can find that out Mr Anonymous
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: tickstock on April 28, 2014, 12:48
.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: luissantos84 on April 28, 2014, 12:50
Special deal or not I wouldn't be mad at Andresr  (from what I can tell his exclusive content is only on iStock).  I don't think he has done anything wrong at all.

who said I mad at him? you guys love to put words on others mouth, I just said it is stunning that he and Yuri managed this shameless deal, again I am thrilled to see people enchanted by this fact
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mantis on April 28, 2014, 12:52
Special deal or not I wouldn't be mad at Andresr  (from what I can tell his exclusive content is only on iStock).  I don't think he has done anything wrong at all.

Agreed, Tickstock. In my opinion, the frustration lies in the double standards game certain agencies play.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: MatHayward on April 28, 2014, 12:59
....In the meantime if you do not want your images sold through Dollar Photo Club send your request via a Fotolia customer support  ticket and you will be manually removed.....

-Mat Hayward

Mat, could you please clarify the opt out that is being offered? Can we have our whole portfolio manually removed by contacting customer support as you stated in this post or just stop new uploads appearing on the site, as the replies to individual contributors seem to imply?

We need to know what options are open to us before we can make a decision. Do we have to delete our whole portfolio from Fotolia if we want to opt out of DPC or not?

Yes, you can opt out of Dollar Photo Club sales via a customer support ticket.  These requests may take several days for the process to complete but Customer Service is responding as quickly as possible.  To clarify, this removes your entire portfolio (including existing and future uploads) from Dollar Photo Club while keeping your images active in the rest of the database. 

-Mat 
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: MatHayward on April 28, 2014, 13:21
FYI:  The license agreement has changed to limit the print run to 500K as it is at Fotolia.  "Run limit: The Member may not cause or allow any given Work (including modifications thereof) to be reproduced more than 500,000 times"

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on April 28, 2014, 13:42
FYI:  The license agreement has changed to limit the print run to 500K as it is at Fotolia.  "Run limit: The Member may not cause or allow any given Work (including modifications thereof) to be reproduced more than 500,000 times"
So your initial assessment of the licence was wrong and yet you kept advising contributors that they were wrong when they pointed it out to you, in fact they were right?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: MatHayward on April 28, 2014, 13:57
FYI:  The license agreement has changed to limit the print run to 500K as it is at Fotolia.  "Run limit: The Member may not cause or allow any given Work (including modifications thereof) to be reproduced more than 500,000 times"
So your initial assessment of the licence was wrong and yet you kept advising contributors that they were wrong when they pointed it out to you, in fact they were right?

I understand your point Ron.  Up until about a month or so ago, the Standard license at Fotolia allowed unlimited print runs.  The differentiator between the Standard license and the Extended license was when an image was to be used on an object in which the primary value  was found within the image.  For example, tee shirts, coffee mugs, greeting cards, etc. 

The Standard license changed recently at Fotolia to include the print run of 500K but that change did not carry over to DPC.  All of the other relevant differentiators remained in place.  Having listened to contributor feedback this week, management realized that this was an important issue and made the correction in the license agreement for Dollar Photo Club. 

-Mat
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Sean Locke Photography on April 28, 2014, 14:18
FYI:  The license agreement has changed to limit the print run to 500K as it is at Fotolia.  "Run limit: The Member may not cause or allow any given Work (including modifications thereof) to be reproduced more than 500,000 times"

Since it's so ridiculously cheap, how about 100k times, I mean, since we're changing things.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: PhotoBomb on April 28, 2014, 14:45
FYI:  The license agreement has changed to limit the print run to 500K as it is at Fotolia.  "Run limit: The Member may not cause or allow any given Work (including modifications thereof) to be reproduced more than 500,000 times"

So how does that work Legally.
If I bought a $99 package last week am I now limited to the 500k size print run? or can I go by the old terms when I bought my package that I thought was unlimited.
And how are you going to police that?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: dpimborough on April 28, 2014, 15:04
FYI:  The license agreement has changed to limit the print run to 500K as it is at Fotolia.  "Run limit: The Member may not cause or allow any given Work (including modifications thereof) to be reproduced more than 500,000 times"

So how does that work Legally.
If I bought a $99 package last week am I now limited to the 500k size print run? or can I go by the old terms when I bought my package that I thought was unlimited.
And how are you going to police that?

As it's a contract between FT and the end user it is most likely that FT would have to honour the contract.

I can't see that once the sold images under the "unlimited print run" clause they could then rescind that.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: MatHayward on April 28, 2014, 15:21
FYI:  The license agreement has changed to limit the print run to 500K as it is at Fotolia.  "Run limit: The Member may not cause or allow any given Work (including modifications thereof) to be reproduced more than 500,000 times"

So how does that work Legally.
If I bought a $99 package last week am I now limited to the 500k size print run? or can I go by the old terms when I bought my package that I thought was unlimited.
And how are you going to police that?

As it's a contract between FT and the end user it is most likely that FT would have to honour the contract.

I can't see that once the sold images under the "unlimited print run" clause they could then rescind that.

That is correct.  If an image was purchased prior to the change of the license the original license will be valid for that particular file. 

-Mat
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: gostwyck on April 28, 2014, 15:51
Hi All,

I can tell you with 100% confidence that the Fotolia team cares very much for the photographers and respects your opinions and feedback.  Your concerns about being in Dollar Photo Club have been heard and I’ve been told that soon an option for contributors to choose will be made available to all Fotolia contributors. In the meantime if you do not want your images sold through Dollar Photo Club send your request via a Fotolia customer support  ticket and you will be manually removed.

A couple of points of interest.  Contrary to what has been posted earlier in this thread, every dollar spent by a Dollar Photo Club member goes towards a download.  Every image downloaded at DPC is paid to the artist through Fotolia immediately.  Monthly members pay $10 per month and receive 10 downloads.  Annual members pay $99 and receive 99 downloads.  Each of those downloads pay a commission to the contributing artist. 
 
Something you may not have considered is that the Dollar Photo Club membership actually is more beneficial to the contributors than traditional subscriptions.  In a traditional subscription if the sub expires, unused downloads also expire. As a result, no commission is paid.  At Dollar Photo Club, even after a member cancels their subscription they can use their unused downloads. As a result, a higher percentage of money spent goes to the photographer. 

Another misconception is the license.  The license sold via Dollar Photo Club is a Standard license.  Members that need Extended licenses are referred to Fotolia to purchase them.  Soon an Extended License will be made available to Dollar Photo Club members at rates similar to those at Fotolia.
 
The simple truth of the matter is this.  The only way for Fotolia and/or Dollar Photo Club to be successful is for the contributors to be successful.  Regardless of what has been written in msg, the interests of FT and of the contributors are aligned.  The goal for all parties involved is to drive sales.  Dollar Photo Club has already proven to be successful and has resulted in many sales paid out to contributors.  The site will continue to grow and to push sales in a positive direction for all of us. 

-Mat Hayward

I have to say I'm really disappointed that this post from Mat was marked down so many times it has been made 'invisible'. Mat's only trying to help us here by clarifying the issues and I appreciate his efforts in doing so.

Let's not 'shoot the messenger' so to speak just because we disagree with FT's somewhat desperate new policies.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: gostwyck on April 28, 2014, 16:00
Press release from Fotolia saying they're expanding to other countries because of this stinker's success

[url]http://www.bizcommunity.com/Article/196/16/112677.html[/url] ([url]http://www.bizcommunity.com/Article/196/16/112677.html[/url])


Shocking. It seems to me that FT have accepted that they have lost the battle to dominate the microstock market ... so they thought they'd use our images to invent the "nanostock" model.

The use of the phrase "disruptive offering" means exactly what it says. Having lost out to SS they are now, quite literally, trying to destroy microstock itself.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Savo on April 28, 2014, 16:10
Hi All,

I can tell you with 100% confidence that the Fotolia team cares very much for the photographers and respects your opinions and feedback. 

-Mat Hayward

I didn't notice much about that. You don't even care about to inform us about changes. Is it so difficult to send E-Mail to the photographers? Nobody cared about our opinion about opt out for subscriptions. It was similar story as now: Fotolia promised 20% more downloads.  :o  Bad joke guys.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: lima on April 28, 2014, 16:29
Fotolia answer my email:


"We respect your decision to opt out of Dollar Photo Club and will begin to process your request immediately. Please allow several days for the changes to take place. Should you change your mind in the future, please let us know.

Kind Regards,

Fotolia CS USA"
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mantis on April 28, 2014, 16:43
Hi All,

I can tell you with 100% confidence that the Fotolia team cares very much for the photographers and respects your opinions and feedback.  Your concerns about being in Dollar Photo Club have been heard and I’ve been told that soon an option for contributors to choose will be made available to all Fotolia contributors. In the meantime if you do not want your images sold through Dollar Photo Club send your request via a Fotolia customer support  ticket and you will be manually removed.

A couple of points of interest.  Contrary to what has been posted earlier in this thread, every dollar spent by a Dollar Photo Club member goes towards a download.  Every image downloaded at DPC is paid to the artist through Fotolia immediately.  Monthly members pay $10 per month and receive 10 downloads.  Annual members pay $99 and receive 99 downloads.  Each of those downloads pay a commission to the contributing artist. 
 
Something you may not have considered is that the Dollar Photo Club membership actually is more beneficial to the contributors than traditional subscriptions.  In a traditional subscription if the sub expires, unused downloads also expire. As a result, no commission is paid.  At Dollar Photo Club, even after a member cancels their subscription they can use their unused downloads. As a result, a higher percentage of money spent goes to the photographer. 

Another misconception is the license.  The license sold via Dollar Photo Club is a Standard license.  Members that need Extended licenses are referred to Fotolia to purchase them.  Soon an Extended License will be made available to Dollar Photo Club members at rates similar to those at Fotolia.
 
The simple truth of the matter is this.  The only way for Fotolia and/or Dollar Photo Club to be successful is for the contributors to be successful.  Regardless of what has been written in msg, the interests of FT and of the contributors are aligned.  The goal for all parties involved is to drive sales.  Dollar Photo Club has already proven to be successful and has resulted in many sales paid out to contributors.  The site will continue to grow and to push sales in a positive direction for all of us. 

-Mat Hayward

I have to say I'm really disappointed that this post from Mat was marked down so many times it has been made 'invisible'. Mat's only trying to help us here by clarifying the issues and I appreciate his efforts in doing so.

Let's not 'shoot the messenger' so to speak just because we disagree with FT's somewhat desperate new policies.

I agree. I mentioned something along these lines earlier. Honestly Matt is doing us a favor by communicating with FT and cycling it back down to us.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: bunhill on April 28, 2014, 16:44
The use of the phrase "disruptive offering" means exactly what it says. Having lost out to SS they are now, quite literally, trying to destroy microstock itself.

Jon Orringer has variously used the term disruptive and / or talked and blogged about disruption. (ETA: as his goal). It's an old silicon valley term which is about promoting your business (or stock price more importantly) by destroying otherwise viable existing business models. It's the business equivalent of scorched earth.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: bolsher on April 28, 2014, 16:48
Hi All,

I can tell you with 100% confidence that the Fotolia team cares very much for the photographers and respects your opinions and feedback.  Your concerns about being in Dollar Photo Club have been heard and I’ve been told that soon an option for contributors to choose will be made available to all Fotolia contributors. In the meantime if you do not want your images sold through Dollar Photo Club send your request via a Fotolia customer support  ticket and you will be manually removed.

A couple of points of interest.  Contrary to what has been posted earlier in this thread, every dollar spent by a Dollar Photo Club member goes towards a download.  Every image downloaded at DPC is paid to the artist through Fotolia immediately.  Monthly members pay $10 per month and receive 10 downloads.  Annual members pay $99 and receive 99 downloads.  Each of those downloads pay a commission to the contributing artist. 
 
Something you may not have considered is that the Dollar Photo Club membership actually is more beneficial to the contributors than traditional subscriptions.  In a traditional subscription if the sub expires, unused downloads also expire. As a result, no commission is paid.  At Dollar Photo Club, even after a member cancels their subscription they can use their unused downloads. As a result, a higher percentage of money spent goes to the photographer. 

Another misconception is the license.  The license sold via Dollar Photo Club is a Standard license.  Members that need Extended licenses are referred to Fotolia to purchase them.  Soon an Extended License will be made available to Dollar Photo Club members at rates similar to those at Fotolia.
 
The simple truth of the matter is this.  The only way for Fotolia and/or Dollar Photo Club to be successful is for the contributors to be successful.  Regardless of what has been written in msg, the interests of FT and of the contributors are aligned.  The goal for all parties involved is to drive sales.  Dollar Photo Club has already proven to be successful and has resulted in many sales paid out to contributors.  The site will continue to grow and to push sales in a positive direction for all of us. 

-Mat Hayward

I have to say I'm really disappointed that this post from Mat was marked down so many times it has been made 'invisible'. Mat's only trying to help us here by clarifying the issues and I appreciate his efforts in doing so.

Let's not 'shoot the messenger' so to speak just because we disagree with FT's somewhat desperate new policies.

I agree. I mentioned something along these lines earlier. Honestly Matt is doing us a favor by communicating with FT and cycling it back down to us.

But why is fotolia not communicating directly with us?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: bolsher on April 28, 2014, 16:54
The dollarclub, the mini abo whats next, fotolia?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on April 28, 2014, 17:11
Matt's comments on this have not been consistent, starting out by saying this was an API partner not Fotolia. I think it's unclear whether he!s just a contributor or a spokesperson. He should get a badge if he's official.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on April 28, 2014, 17:16
Matt's comments on this have not been consistent, starting out by saying this was an API partner not Fotolia. I think it's unclear whether he!s just a contributor or a spokesperson. He should get a badge if he's official.
There has been a lot of inconsistencies and plain incorrect information. So I dont understand why people defend his comments as they have been contradicting from the start even when proof was provided, we were told we were wrong.

As for the badge, yes, he should be identified as Fotolia employee.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: PhotoBomb on April 28, 2014, 17:46
Notice also that FT deleted the original DPC thread in their own forum a couple days after locking it.

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: PhotoBomb on April 28, 2014, 18:06
Matt's comments on this have not been consistent, starting out by saying this was an API partner not Fotolia. I think it's unclear whether he!s just a contributor or a spokesperson. He should get a badge if he's official.

Well I just got an email from Mat that seems to contradict his protestations for all these years that he isn't an employee of FT.

Hi,
 
Just wanted to let you know that I’ve received your message requesting to opt out of Dollar Photo Club.  I’ve started the process for you.  Please allow several days for the process to complete and be sure to let us know if you change your mind.

Mat Hayward
Senior Customer Service Agent USA
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ShadySue on April 28, 2014, 18:12
Interesting that a Customer Service Agent would be working on contributor requests.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: microstockinsider on April 28, 2014, 18:35
Hi All,

I can tell you with 100% confidence that the Fotolia team cares very much for the photographers and respects your opinions and feedback. 

-Mat Hayward

I didn't notice much about that. You don't even care about to inform us about changes. Is it so difficult to send E-Mail to the photographers? Nobody cared about our opinion about opt out for subscriptions. It was similar story as now: Fotolia promised 20% more downloads.  :o  Bad joke guys.


Fotolia probably does care about their content producers, they would be incredibly foolish not to, but I suspect (with 100% confidence...) that they are MORE interested in making a nice balance sheet for KKR.

One of the reasons we see FT "falling off a cliff" (a description I heard from someone at microstockexpo) is the fact that they continue to not only effectively cut royalties to contributors they also took a huge gouge out of referral marketeers - ultimately cutting revenue by at least 70%, in a single movement they effectively wiped out a huge volume of links, apps and such referral advertising that was promoting FT.

This has become almost a carbon copy of istock a few years ago, as investment money gets involved too much stuff starts getting chipped away and nobody who is managing the mine realizes what's happening until the roof falls in.

I suspect they are whittling away at all their expenses, if it follows the istock pattern infrastructure problems/downtime/broken site features might be the next issues to surface.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: marthamarks on April 28, 2014, 19:21
But why is fotolia not communicating directly with us?

Well... yeah! That's what I've been wondering too.

And I wondered the same thing back in January when I TWICE wrote to Fotolia asking to have my portfolio removed. Only after I started bitching on this forum about FT's lack of responsiveneess did I hear from Mat that my wish was about to be fulfilled.

I thought: Great, but couldn't FT bring itself to communicate that information directly to me?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Kone on April 28, 2014, 21:38
Count me in

Kone
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: gillian vann on April 28, 2014, 22:29

The site will continue to grow and to push sales in a positive direction for all of us. 




I am a contributor with a vested interest in overall sales growth.  Here are my FT portfolios: 

[url]http://us.fotolia.com/p/19000[/url] ([url]http://us.fotolia.com/p/19000[/url])

[url]http://us.fotolia.com/p/200920505[/url] ([url]http://us.fotolia.com/p/200920505[/url])


seems to me he should have disclosed at that point he was also an employee.  that doesn't really help with the trust issue we all seem to be having with FT.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on April 28, 2014, 22:46
I am a contributor with a vested interest in overall sales growth.  Here are my FT portfolios: 

[url]http://us.fotolia.com/p/19000[/url] ([url]http://us.fotolia.com/p/19000[/url])

[url]http://us.fotolia.com/p/200920505[/url] ([url]http://us.fotolia.com/p/200920505[/url])


Are you employed by Fotolia?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: emblem on April 28, 2014, 22:49
I am a contributor with a vested interest in overall sales growth.  Here are my FT portfolios: 

[url]http://us.fotolia.com/p/19000[/url] ([url]http://us.fotolia.com/p/19000[/url])

[url]http://us.fotolia.com/p/200920505[/url] ([url]http://us.fotolia.com/p/200920505[/url])


Are you employed by Fotolia?


Yes Mat are you?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: byman on April 29, 2014, 00:26
"""Hello Byman

We respect your decision to opt out of Dollar Photo Club and will begin to process your request immediately. Please allow several days for the changes to take place. Should you change your mind in the future, please let us know.

Kind Regards,

Fotolia CS USA"""""

It seems that it can close the port DPC.
Wait 2-3 days to see if I have something on DPC as they said.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on April 29, 2014, 02:17
I am a contributor with a vested interest in overall sales growth.  Here are my FT portfolios: 

[url]http://us.fotolia.com/p/19000[/url] ([url]http://us.fotolia.com/p/19000[/url])

[url]http://us.fotolia.com/p/200920505[/url] ([url]http://us.fotolia.com/p/200920505[/url])


Are you employed by Fotolia?
He's been a moderator at Fotolia for at least 2 years, and now he is also apparently senior customer service agent working at/for Fotolia. Maybe he is working as freelance and not on their employee payroll, but he certainly is working FOR them.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: bolsher on April 29, 2014, 02:23
But he is not an official fotolia speaker, so they have say nothing.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: pixsol on April 29, 2014, 06:32
FT have added the option to OPT OUT OF DPC. You can find it on the 'My Account' Page under 'Actions'. The 'default' value is 'OPT IN'. I have modified to change it to 'OPT OUT'.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Beppe Grillo on April 29, 2014, 06:38
FT have added the option to OPT OUT OF DPC. You can find it on the 'My Account' Page under 'Actions'. The 'default' value is 'OPT IN'. I have modified to change it to 'OPT OUT'.


You have been faster than me ;)

(http://img841.imageshack.us/img841/9092/j8qj.png) (http://img841.imageshack.us/i/j8qj.png/)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: grumble on April 29, 2014, 07:28
FT have added the option to OPT OUT OF DPC. You can find it on the 'My Account' Page under 'Actions'. The 'default' value is 'OPT IN'. I have modified to change it to 'OPT OUT'.
Yeah, but it is not a fulfillment of petition conditions. Everyone is opted-in by default. And if you click on it, you get pop-up message with confirmation and attempt to persuade you not to opt-out: "If you remove your files from DPC (Dollar Photo Club) you will not earn any revenues from this new and fast growing website. If you later decide to sell your files on Dollar Photo Club, it may take up to two weeks for them to be added."
But if you'll click on it once more accidentally, you will automatically be opted-in again without any pop-up. Fotoliastyle..
Still no official announcement to contributors about this "revolutionary and profitable" product.
Meanwhile D-day is coming, 975 contributors have already signed the petition at boycottfotolia.org, which is now avaliable in English, French and Russian. Please support and share. Thank all of you for your participation and support!
And please let Mat alone, this thread is not about him, some people just have to do their job. ;)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: gostwyck on April 29, 2014, 08:02
FT have added the option to OPT OUT OF DPC. You can find it on the 'My Account' Page under 'Actions'. The 'default' value is 'OPT IN'. I have modified to change it to 'OPT OUT'.

Thanks for pointing this out. Done.

Let's see how long it takes for my portfolio to be removed from the "wonderful opportunity to grow your revenue" (... whilst potentially destroying it everywhere else).
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Dirima on April 29, 2014, 08:09
I have changed it to "opt out" too.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: sdeva on April 29, 2014, 08:14
Have just sent in my opt out request from the Dollar Photo club as well.

I agree that this kind of venture is only helping to accelerate the downward slide in microstock, both due to the low rate as well as liberal terms of use.  Most certainly do not want my port to be part of it ...
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: dirkr on April 29, 2014, 08:23
Opted out as well.

No I am waiting for an opt-out possibility for their mini-subscriptions...
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: BaldricksTrousers on April 29, 2014, 08:29
FT have added the option to OPT OUT OF DPC. You can find it on the 'My Account' Page under 'Actions'. The 'default' value is 'OPT IN'. I have modified to change it to 'OPT OUT'.


You have been faster than me ;)

([url]http://img841.imageshack.us/img841/9092/j8qj.png[/url]) ([url]http://img841.imageshack.us/i/j8qj.png/[/url])


So it's "DPC" a set of initials that will mean nothing to most people, and the option is to "modify" not to opt out. My guess is that most people won't have a clue what it is about .... my second guess is the Fot know jolly well that most people won't see it and won't understand it if they do.

I wonder how long it will take for the option to "modify" to disappear, and for everything to be defaulted back in, something akin to iStock's behaviour over TS.

Even if they leave the opt-out there, I'll bet that more than 80% of the collection will appear in the "dollar club" purely as a result of inertia.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Dook on April 29, 2014, 08:36
In my opinion, part of my job as stock photographer is to stay informed. The reason I come to this forum daily is to be informed. I hope the others do the same.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on April 29, 2014, 09:01
Never mind
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Dirima on April 29, 2014, 09:19
In my opinion, part of my job as stock photographer is to stay informed. The reason I come to this forum daily is to be informed. I hope the others do the same.
I agree, although for those who do not speak English to native level  as me, sometimes is difficult kept well informed when the discussion is more technical, and, therefore, complicated.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: brisoca on April 29, 2014, 09:21
FT have added the option to OPT OUT OF DPC. You can find it on the 'My Account' Page under 'Actions'. The 'default' value is 'OPT IN'. I have modified to change it to 'OPT OUT'.


You have been faster than me ;)

([url]http://img841.imageshack.us/img841/9092/j8qj.png[/url]) ([url]http://img841.imageshack.us/i/j8qj.png/[/url])


So it's "DPC" a set of initials that will mean nothing to most people, and the option is to "modify" not to opt out. My guess is that most people won't have a clue what it is about .... my second guess is the Fot know jolly well that most people won't see it and won't understand it if they do.

I wonder how long it will take for the option to "modify" to disappear, and for everything to be defaulted back in, something akin to iStock's behaviour over TS.

Even if they leave the opt-out there, I'll bet that more than 80% of the collection will appear in the "dollar club" purely as a result of inertia.


Once you confirm it, it doesnt show you you are opted out. [...]


When you opt out, the text "Sell my Files on DPC" changes to "Don't sell my Files on DPC", so it does show you that you are opted out.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: jacoblund on April 29, 2014, 09:24
Good news: I just got a reply on the mail I sent to Pressmaster. It's answered by Pavel Orekhov from Pressmaster. He's writes that they are in on this and that they requested Fotolia to remove their 45.000 files from DPC.

It's great to see that we actually have the power to change things when we stand together. Thanks to our russian "colleagues" for making the initiative for this!

 
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on April 29, 2014, 09:27


When you opt out, the text "Sell my Files on DPC" changes to "Don't sell my Files on DPC", so it does show you that you are opted out.

I see what you mean
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: luissantos84 on April 29, 2014, 09:33
they shouldn't come up with an opt out button but bury the all DPC site, don't they have subs already at FT? the all 1$ per file announcement makes me sick!

we can all opt out but they will still end up with Millions of files which means we won't achieve much, we can protect our files but the buyers won't care and buy what they find there which is more than enough!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Noedelhap on April 29, 2014, 09:55
Now that the limit is set to 500.000 like the standard Fotolia license, what are the other disadvantages compared to the normal Fotolia subscription?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on April 29, 2014, 10:01
Now that the limit is set to 500.000 like the standard Fotolia license, what are the other disadvantages compared to the normal Fotolia subscription?

That you can buy into the cheap image program at so low a level of investment.

The reason subscriptions work at all (from the contributor side of things) is that the buyer commits to a large volume of purchases in order to get the cheap prices. When you let a buyer get in the door for as little as $10 - versus $249 for a month a Shutterstock - you're getting the worst of both worlds.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ginasanders on April 29, 2014, 10:04
On german site, opt-out button is never online.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: brisoca on April 29, 2014, 10:05
Now that the limit is set to 500.000 like the standard Fotolia license, what are the other disadvantages compared to the normal Fotolia subscription?

For starters, the customers do not buy in volume. The monthly membership includes 10 files for $10 and the annual membership 99 files for $99. If the customers want more files, they just buy them for $1.00 each. It is like selling our files "On Demand" and receiving subscription royalties.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: bolsher on April 29, 2014, 10:09
Yes, german opt out is away. WE DONT NEED MORE "SUBSCRIPTION" Sites, we need a good Midstock.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Savo on April 29, 2014, 10:09
On german site, opt-out button is never online.

It was there for a short time and dissapiered again.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: BaldricksTrousers on April 29, 2014, 10:17
Now that the limit is set to 500.000 like the standard Fotolia license, what are the other disadvantages compared to the normal Fotolia subscription?

For starters, the customer does not buy in volume. The monthly membership includes 10 files and the annual membership 99 files.

They are also stressing very strongly  in their blurb that the license will not expire when your "membership" expires, so there is no requirement to repurchase or to maintain a subscription in order to use the same files in future projects. I don't know fotolia's subscription terms, but most sites require that you have an active subscription at the time you use a downloaded file in a project.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: pixsol on April 29, 2014, 10:21
FT have added the option to OPT OUT OF DPC. You can find it on the 'My Account' Page under 'Actions'. The 'default' value is 'OPT IN'. I have modified to change it to 'OPT OUT'.
I just checked FT site and the 'OPT OUT for DPC" is GONE :( I tried logging out and logging in again, but still cant see the option. Can anyone else also check this in FT ?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: pixsol on April 29, 2014, 10:25
FT have added the option to OPT OUT OF DPC. You can find it on the 'My Account' Page under 'Actions'. The 'default' value is 'OPT IN'. I have modified to change it to 'OPT OUT'.
I just checked FT site and the 'OPT OUT for DPC" is GONE :( I tried logging out and logging in again, but still cant see the option. Can anyone else also check this in FT ?

OK. It has been moved to a different place. It is currently under 'My Profile' and in that under 'Contributor Parameters'
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: gostwyck on April 29, 2014, 10:25
FT have added the option to OPT OUT OF DPC. You can find it on the 'My Account' Page under 'Actions'. The 'default' value is 'OPT IN'. I have modified to change it to 'OPT OUT'.

Thanks for pointing this out. Done.

Let's see how long it takes for my portfolio to be removed from the "wonderful opportunity to grow your revenue" (... whilst potentially destroying it everywhere else).

I'm pleased to report that the 'opt out' facility appears to work very quickly. My images are still appearing in the searches (presumably until the database re-indexes) however they are not clickable or able to be downloaded.

The bad news is that A LOT of excellent images from other contributors are still available. We need to get the word out to all our friends in the business.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Noedelhap on April 29, 2014, 10:27
Now that I've clicked "Dont sell my files on DPC", there is no acknowledgement of the action.

Edit: oh, wait, there is.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: grumble on April 29, 2014, 10:28
On german site, opt-out button is never online.

It was there for a short time and dissapiered again.
They just hided it deeper
us.fotolia.com/Member/Modify/Contributor
 >:(
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Dr Bouz on April 29, 2014, 10:32
 I think that all of you fellows should REALLY START TO DELETE your images starting on deadline date.

 So right order of acting should eventually be - fotolia to ask every single one of you manually - would you EVENTUALLY be interested to participate in that mess.

 I am quite sure that things would be settled down in hours in that scenario.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: disorderly on April 29, 2014, 10:33
OK. It has been moved to a different place. It is currently under 'My Profile' and in that under 'Contributor Parameters'

Thanks for telling us.  I just turned off DPC for my portfolio. 
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: lionheart on April 29, 2014, 10:42
The "My Profile" link did work. Even here in Germany. Well, in fact i switched from German language to US English and could find the appropriate button  ;D
Thanks for describing the "how to".
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on April 29, 2014, 10:56
... We need to get the word out to all our friends in the business.

I added a note on Facebook, Google+ and sent out a Tweet - not to that large of an audience, but if we all do what we can to get the word out...
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Noedelhap on April 29, 2014, 10:57
Now that I click on random search results on the DPC site, most of them can't be enlarged because they're opted out, but the small preview images still appear in the search results. Ergo, it has now become a terrible user experience. Win-win situation for us!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: lionheart on April 29, 2014, 10:58
Wow, this went fast! I opted out of DPC and seconds later all my files are blocked on DPC. One can still see them, but when clicking on the file preview nothing happens.
And interestingly a lot of files all over the site don't show a preview any more. Apparently the message arrived!
Now think what would/could happen if all FT contributors push their buttons for the opt out ...
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: gbalex on April 29, 2014, 10:59
Has anyone thought of making a facebook page with a link to the petition?  It would be an easy way to promote it to all of our stock friends.

If it already exists does anyone have a link to the page?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: lionheart on April 29, 2014, 11:00
Noedelhap, that's funny. We just posted almost the same results at the same time. But nevertheless there seems to happen something  :)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Painter on April 29, 2014, 11:04
Just checked my profile and it was set to "Don't sell my files on DPC". I asked them to remove my images from DPC yesterday, first they tried to convince me to stay, when I sent a second request they answered: "You have been opted out of Dollar Photo Club. Please allow a number of days before all changes are applied." Seems they have done it, can´t find my images on DPC anymore.

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: bolsher on April 29, 2014, 11:06
I have a mail from fotolia:


    
 
       
    
Dear contributor,
 
You probably heard that we have launched Dollar Photo Club . We would like to share with you what we aim to do at Fotolia with Dollar Photo Club (DPC) and how it works. Lots of information have been circulated and first we would like to lay out the facts, so you can take the best informed decision. Whatever that decision might be we will always respect it and should you wish to opt out from DPC or stay, you now simply need to select the right option here.
 
Here are the facts about Dollar Photo Club
The offer
Dollar Photo Club is a subscription model. Clients register and pay with their credit card, subscribing for a monthly or yearly rolling contract. Renewal rate so far has been close to 90% meaning people use it as a real subscription
Price per image is $1 for a standard license, which means up to 5x times higher than the daily-quota or monthly-quota subscriptions sold by main actors on the market nowadays
Payouts
Dollar Photo Club payouts are the same than any subscription at Fotolia and basically depend on your rank. Payouts range from 25 cents to 40 cents, which is well in line with the market
Dollar Photo Club sales count towards your ranking at Fotolia, increasing your level of commission. Being part of Dollar Photo Club will increase both your sales AND your commission level
At Dollar Photo Club, contrary to standard subscriptions, unused downloads never expire. That is a very different model than standard subscriptions, where agencies get all the money from unused downloads. As a result, DollarPhotoClub is a subscription model where a higher percentage of money spent goes to the photographer.
Licensing
Photos at Dollar Photo Club are sold under a standard commercial license, with a recent update limiting the print-runs to just 500k, inline with the market. Full licence terms can be seen here: http://r.fotolia.com/redirect/h3w0hrn3yzm2bcpdrmcfzf/us.dollarphotoclub.com/Info/RoyaltyFreeLicense (http://r.fotolia.com/redirect/h3w0hrn3yzm2bcpdrmcfzf/us.dollarphotoclub.com/Info/RoyaltyFreeLicense)
All Dollar Photo Club licenses are mono-seat and do not grant any extended rights
Extended license (to come)An extended license will be added shortly that should be very similar to Fotolia’s in term of pricing, and payments to contributors.
Why did we launch Dollar Photo Club?

At Fotolia, our aim is to take microstock to the next level: going after the millions of companies around the world who don't purchase yet any license for the images they use, especially in new markets.  We estimate to millions of downloads a day what could be the market tomorrow. That's why we have launched DPC and we spend lot of time, efforts and money in educating markets and promoting your images.  We truly believe that the stock market is only at an early stage and we need you to build a sustainable win-win business profitable to all of us.
From monitoring of customer spend on Dollar Photo Club since we began trading three months ago we have confirmed that client spending has been consistently higher, than traditional on-demand client spend in an entire year. We firmly believe this proves how a simple affordable offer helps to increase usage and spend, all of which is good for the market. By converting illegal users of images to paying clients, the microstock market ten times bigger – imagine that! This is what Dollar Photo Club wants to achieve.

Please be assured that we highly appreciate your trust and are absolutely aware that this business would be nothing without the hard work, creativity and trust of all of you.

You have been one of the first to put your trust in the microstock model; hopefully you will trust our belief in the potential of the microstock market to grow and flourish to ten times its current size.

Thank you
 
The Fotolia Team
 
 
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: bolsher on April 29, 2014, 11:08
So i think most of the petition is done. Only the 99$ condition.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Niakris on April 29, 2014, 11:23
There is also "disabled by default" part of the petition that was completely ignored.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mantis on April 29, 2014, 11:35
FT have added the option to OPT OUT OF DPC. You can find it on the 'My Account' Page under 'Actions'. The 'default' value is 'OPT IN'. I have modified to change it to 'OPT OUT'.


You have been faster than me ;)

([url]http://img841.imageshack.us/img841/9092/j8qj.png[/url]) ([url]http://img841.imageshack.us/i/j8qj.png/[/url])


 I don't see an opt out yet on the USA site under my account. Anyone else see it?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Pixart on April 29, 2014, 11:40
It is now at My account / my profile / contributor parameters

Don't forget to be in contributor mode

Would be nice if there was a confirmation once you it the button too :)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mantis on April 29, 2014, 11:43
It is now at My account / my profile / contributor parameters

Don't forget to be in contributor mode

Would be nice if there was a confirmation once you it the button too :)

Thanks. You think they could bury it any deeper?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: sdeva on April 29, 2014, 11:52
I'm been pretty confused with the developments.

First sent message to Fotolia to remove my port from DPC.
Meanwhile found button under My Account - My Dashboard and de-listed myself.
Shortly after found that the DPC button had disappeared from My Dashboard.
Re-found the button under My Profile - Contributor Parameters.
It now reads "Don't Sell My Files on DPC".
THIS IS IT - I'm opted out..

OR am I ?

Went to DPC site - found one of my images there.  Clicked on it (as if to download) - but it doesn't seem to pull up for download.

Hopefully I'm opted out :)

Thanks much everyone who made all the clear posts on this site.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: sdeva on April 29, 2014, 12:00
Meanwhile have now received a message from Fotolia

(Quote)
Your account has already been set to Opt Out. Your images will be removed from DPC shortly.

Kind regards,
(Unquote)

So happy to see the trend that actually lets contributors decide on opt in/ outs.  Much prefer this approach to one where any agency forces its decision with no opt outs possible.  This may not resolve all the issues but is a clear step in the right direction.  :)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: grumble on April 29, 2014, 12:05
Did anyone who watched from the sidelines (meaning didn't delete images, didn't write to FT support and didn't know/didn't touch the opt-out button) received "You probably heard that we have launched Dollar Photo Club" message from FT?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Niakris on April 29, 2014, 12:08
My wife didn't receive any e-mails regarding DPC from Fotolia and she didn't request opt out by e-mailing support.
So I guess only those who e-mailed support received them.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mantis on April 29, 2014, 12:25
My wife didn't receive any e-mails regarding DPC from Fotolia and she didn't request opt out by e-mailing support.
So I guess only those who e-mailed support received them.

The reality is they they in no way will publish an opt out option to 100% of their contributors. Just like they didn't publicize when they defaulted EL to 10 from 100.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Noedelhap on April 29, 2014, 12:27
That's why we should spread the word. Twitter, Facebook, Google+, every contributor you know should be aware of this.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: MatHayward on April 29, 2014, 12:34
I am a contributor with a vested interest in overall sales growth.  Here are my FT portfolios: 

[url]http://us.fotolia.com/p/19000[/url] ([url]http://us.fotolia.com/p/19000[/url])

[url]http://us.fotolia.com/p/200920505[/url] ([url]http://us.fotolia.com/p/200920505[/url])


Are you employed by Fotolia?



Hi everyone,
 
Yes, after volunteering as a moderator in the Fotolia forum for many years I made the decision to leave the restaurant business I had been in for more than 25 years and turn my focus to my true passion of photography.  The timing was fortuitous as an opening came available on the Customer Service team at Fotolia that I happily accepted this past September. 
 
Working in this position has allowed me the opportunity to see firsthand the passion and commitment the team at Fotolia has towards increasing business and revenue for all involved including photographers.  Going into the job I have the unique perspective of looking at it from the view of a contributing photographer.
 
As much as I love to talk about myself (NOT!) I would like to reiterate a couple of solid points that some people in this forum are attempting to brush off as irrelevant.  The license at Dollar Photo Club has changed as a direct result of the urging of contributors.  The license at Dollar Photo Club has always been a Standard License but now it has been made more clear.  Customers cannot use the images in items that will be resold where the primary value comes from the image (tee shirts, coffee mugs, etc.) and there is now a limit of 500K on the run.   As it has been pointed out here, the only difference between buying an image at any stock agency  with a subscription plan and buying it at Dollar Photo Club is the fact that the customer can continue to use their purchased downloads even after cancelling their membership.
 
The fact that a customer can continue to use their available downloads without them expiring means that again, a higher percentage of overall spending goes to the contributor.  If a member of Fotolia or any stock agency buys a subscription and allows the subscription to expire before using their available downloads, those downloads expire and no commission is paid to the photographer. 
 
Dollar Photo Club is hitting a previously untapped market and is driving sales at  fast rate.  I recommend you think it through with logic rather than passion before deciding if you want to be a part of the growth or simply a witness to it.  As has been mentioned, you now have the option to opt out or opt back in manually in your account settings.  If you have any questions or concerns my email address is [email protected] and I will be happy to start a dialog with you one on one.

-Mat Hayward
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: chromaco on April 29, 2014, 12:43
Mat thanks for chiming in. I appreciate that you are willing to discuss this with us.
Perhaps I can offer another suggestion.
How about a collection of on-demand images that draw a reasonable price and pay a reasonable commission?
For example if I were given the option of only selling my vectors via a collection that paid 50% off of a $20 sale you would probably start getting all of my images instead of none of them. My images sell well on demand and you would only need to sell about 8% as many of my images to make the same profit. This scenario gives you access to my best product (for a better product offering to your customers) and we both make more money. Why on earth wouldn't you be going after the best products and selling them for a reasonable rate? I just don't get it.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: bolsher on April 29, 2014, 12:49
Hello Mat,

i think there are some msitakes.

First of all there is no new market, Fotolia target an existing market.

The customer can download the images on demand and thats no sub, ok. But we get sub paid. And the different to daily subs is immense. The custome load images he dont need, so he loads many images, at the dpc he loads only what he needs,...for on dollar and one sub sale.

Thats a big difference.

We need a midstock! Not more cheaper and cheaper.

Sorry for bad english.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: jacoblund on April 29, 2014, 12:53
I just got blocked from DPC's Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/DollarPhotoClub?fref=ts) for helping out a customer with his problems.  8)

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Me on April 29, 2014, 12:55
I am a contributor with a vested interest in overall sales growth.  Here are my FT portfolios: 

[url]http://us.fotolia.com/p/19000[/url] ([url]http://us.fotolia.com/p/19000[/url])

[url]http://us.fotolia.com/p/200920505[/url] ([url]http://us.fotolia.com/p/200920505[/url])


Are you employed by Fotolia?



Hi everyone,
 
Yes, after volunteering as a moderator in the Fotolia forum for many years I made the decision to leave the restaurant business I had been in for more than 25 years and turn my focus to my true passion of photography.  The timing was fortuitous as an opening came available on the Customer Service team at Fotolia that I happily accepted this past September. 
 
Working in this position has allowed me the opportunity to see firsthand the passion and commitment the team at Fotolia has towards increasing business and revenue for all involved including photographers.  Going into the job I have the unique perspective of looking at it from the view of a contributing photographer.
 
As much as I love to talk about myself (NOT!) I would like to reiterate a couple of solid points that some people in this forum are attempting to brush off as irrelevant.  The license at Dollar Photo Club has changed as a direct result of the urging of contributors.  The license at Dollar Photo Club has always been a Standard License but now it has been made more clear.  Customers cannot use the images in items that will be resold where the primary value comes from the image (tee shirts, coffee mugs, etc.) and there is now a limit of 500K on the run.   As it has been pointed out here, the only difference between buying an image at any stock agency  with a subscription plan and buying it at Dollar Photo Club is the fact that the customer can continue to use their purchased downloads even after cancelling their membership.
 
The fact that a customer can continue to use their available downloads without them expiring means that again, a higher percentage of overall spending goes to the contributor.  If a member of Fotolia or any stock agency buys a subscription and allows the subscription to expire before using their available downloads, those downloads expire and no commission is paid to the photographer. 
 
Dollar Photo Club is hitting a previously untapped market and is driving sales at  fast rate.  I recommend you think it through with logic rather than passion before deciding if you want to be a part of the growth or simply a witness to it.  As has been mentioned, you now have the option to opt out or opt back in manually in your account settings.  If you have any questions or concerns my email address is [email protected] and I will be happy to start a dialog with you one on one.

-Mat Hayward


So why are you emailing existing FT buyers and seemingly trying to convert credit buyers into sub buyers?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: bolsher on April 29, 2014, 13:04
I just got blocked from DPC's Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/DollarPhotoClub?fref=ts) for helping out a customer with his problems.  8)


I read some posts at their facebook site. It is hard to believe what fotolia say in the mail.

The advertisement on the facebooksite has only one message: 1$=1high res why you pay more?

Is this the exclusve sales for exclusive members what fotolia means???? Or is this an attack on the mass market?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: somethingpretentious on April 29, 2014, 13:10
I am a contributor with a vested interest in overall sales growth.  Here are my FT portfolios: 

[url]http://us.fotolia.com/p/19000[/url] ([url]http://us.fotolia.com/p/19000[/url])

[url]http://us.fotolia.com/p/200920505[/url] ([url]http://us.fotolia.com/p/200920505[/url])


Are you employed by Fotolia?



Hi everyone,
 
Yes, after volunteering as a moderator in the Fotolia forum for many years I made the decision to leave the restaurant business I had been in for more than 25 years and turn my focus to my true passion of photography.  The timing was fortuitous as an opening came available on the Customer Service team at Fotolia that I happily accepted this past September. 
 
Working in this position has allowed me the opportunity to see firsthand the passion and commitment the team at Fotolia has towards increasing business and revenue for all involved including photographers.  Going into the job I have the unique perspective of looking at it from the view of a contributing photographer.
 
As much as I love to talk about myself (NOT!) I would like to reiterate a couple of solid points that some people in this forum are attempting to brush off as irrelevant.  The license at Dollar Photo Club has changed as a direct result of the urging of contributors.  The license at Dollar Photo Club has always been a Standard License but now it has been made more clear.  Customers cannot use the images in items that will be resold where the primary value comes from the image (tee shirts, coffee mugs, etc.) and there is now a limit of 500K on the run.   As it has been pointed out here, the only difference between buying an image at any stock agency  with a subscription plan and buying it at Dollar Photo Club is the fact that the customer can continue to use their purchased downloads even after cancelling their membership.
 
The fact that a customer can continue to use their available downloads without them expiring means that again, a higher percentage of overall spending goes to the contributor.  If a member of Fotolia or any stock agency buys a subscription and allows the subscription to expire before using their available downloads, those downloads expire and no commission is paid to the photographer. 
 
Dollar Photo Club is hitting a previously untapped market and is driving sales at  fast rate.  I recommend you think it through with logic rather than passion before deciding if you want to be a part of the growth or simply a witness to it.  As has been mentioned, you now have the option to opt out or opt back in manually in your account settings.  If you have any questions or concerns my email address is [email protected] and I will be happy to start a dialog with you one on one.

-Mat Hayward


You really should have been much much more clear about this.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ArtesiaWells on April 29, 2014, 13:14

We need a midstock! Not more cheaper and cheaper.

Sorry for bad english.

Sounds like good English to me;-)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: bolsher on April 29, 2014, 13:29
dollarphotoclub only want to be one big thing:

the cheapest image marketplace at the net

i say only one sentence from their advertising:

Why pay more?

That declared everything of this new business modell!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Monty-m-gue on April 29, 2014, 13:38
I've not been in Microstock long enough to harbour the resentment that many here hold for FT. I have my portfolio with them because of the reasonably healthy Credit sales. With their new DPC offering they threaten to decimate that market - not just at FT but also at the agencies that currently produce most income for me and most other contributors. 
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: r2d2 on April 29, 2014, 13:43
I just got blocked from DPC's Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/DollarPhotoClub?fref=ts) for helping out a customer with his problems.  8)


I read some posts at their facebook site. It is hard to believe what fotolia say in the mail.

The advertisement on the facebooksite has only one message: 1$=1high res why you pay more?

Is this the exclusve sales for exclusive members what fotolia means???? Or is this an attack on the mass market?


we should make these greedy and destructive agencies superfluous.



Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mantis on April 29, 2014, 13:44
I've not been in Microstock long enough to harbour the resentment that many here hold for FT. I have my portfolio with them because of the reasonably healthy Credit sales. With their new DPC offerin they threaten to decimate that market - not just at FT but also at the agencies that currently produce most income for me and most other contributors.

I will be watching my ft sales closely and if they begin to tank, and I can attribute that to DPC I will close my account there. Not worth the lies, deceit, shady business practices that they have instilled on their "valuable" contributors. And they have EARNED their reputation.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: brisoca on April 29, 2014, 13:51
A comment from a buyer in the Dollar Photo Club’s facebook page:

Quote
Initial impression is....WOW! Great prices for some good resolution photos. I've been an istockphoto.com user for years, even their low price stuff still runs a few bucks for the smallest resolution. Look forward to giving you a try on my next project!

And like this person, many others are commenting on how much money they will save using DPC compared to what they are spending now elsewhere.

Is this the “previously untapped market” that DPC is hitting?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: bolsher on April 29, 2014, 13:56
A comment from a buyer in the Dollar Photo Club’s facebook page:

Quote
Initial impression is....WOW! Great prices for some good resolution photos. I've been an istockphoto.com user for years, even their low price stuff still runs a few bucks for the smallest resolution. Look forward to giving you a try on my next project!

And like this person, many others are commenting on how much money they will save using DPC compared to what they are spending now elsewhere.

Is this the “previously untapped market” that DPC is hitting?


Exactly this "new" market they means!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: bolsher on April 29, 2014, 13:57
The petition must say close this stupid
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ferdinand on April 29, 2014, 14:08
The petition must say close this stupid

yes - even with opt out "solution" - this is very dangerous move ft did -
it could  destroy ms forever...
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: dirkr on April 29, 2014, 14:12
I am a contributor with a vested interest in overall sales growth.  Here are my FT portfolios: 

[url]http://us.fotolia.com/p/19000[/url] ([url]http://us.fotolia.com/p/19000[/url])

[url]http://us.fotolia.com/p/200920505[/url] ([url]http://us.fotolia.com/p/200920505[/url])


Are you employed by Fotolia?



Hi everyone,
 
Yes, after volunteering as a moderator in the Fotolia forum for many years I made the decision to leave the restaurant business I had been in for more than 25 years and turn my focus to my true passion of photography.  The timing was fortuitous as an opening came available on the Customer Service team at Fotolia that I happily accepted this past September. 
 
Working in this position has allowed me the opportunity to see firsthand the passion and commitment the team at Fotolia has towards increasing business and revenue for all involved including photographers.  Going into the job I have the unique perspective of looking at it from the view of a contributing photographer.
 
As much as I love to talk about myself (NOT!) I would like to reiterate a couple of solid points that some people in this forum are attempting to brush off as irrelevant.  The license at Dollar Photo Club has changed as a direct result of the urging of contributors.  The license at Dollar Photo Club has always been a Standard License but now it has been made more clear.  Customers cannot use the images in items that will be resold where the primary value comes from the image (tee shirts, coffee mugs, etc.) and there is now a limit of 500K on the run.   As it has been pointed out here, the only difference between buying an image at any stock agency  with a subscription plan and buying it at Dollar Photo Club is the fact that the customer can continue to use their purchased downloads even after cancelling their membership.
 
The fact that a customer can continue to use their available downloads without them expiring means that again, a higher percentage of overall spending goes to the contributor.  If a member of Fotolia or any stock agency buys a subscription and allows the subscription to expire before using their available downloads, those downloads expire and no commission is paid to the photographer. 
 
Dollar Photo Club is hitting a previously untapped market and is driving sales at  fast rate.  I recommend you think it through with logic rather than passion before deciding if you want to be a part of the growth or simply a witness to it.  As has been mentioned, you now have the option to opt out or opt back in manually in your account settings.  If you have any questions or concerns my email address is [email protected] and I will be happy to start a dialog with you one on one.

-Mat Hayward


Mat,

thanks for joining in the discussion as the official voice of Fotolia. It's good that there is at least some sort of communication - with Fotolia historically that has not really been the case.

To the "facts":

You write "Dollar Photo Club is hitting a previously untapped market ".

How does that fit with the earlier announcement that if would target "big buyers"? Those are anything but "untapped market"? (and by the way, targeting "big buyers" would allow a significantly higher threshold than 10$ per month as a starting point).

And if it is a new market, why would you want to educate them that images have to be cheap instead to demanding a reasonable price?

And how will you prevent the conversion of existing credit buyers into DPC buyers, thus eroding the complete On-Demand business that happens at more then 10 times higher prices (on FT)?

All of that does not make sense.
What will happen is that an ever increasing share of buyers will simply pay less.
It does not make sense for contributors, and for FT it makes only sense as a very agressive way to poach market share from their competitors. Something no contributor can support.

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: brisoca on April 29, 2014, 14:13
Did anyone who watched from the sidelines (meaning didn't delete images, didn't write to FT support and didn't know/didn't touch the opt-out button) received "You probably heard that we have launched Dollar Photo Club" message from FT?

I did not receive the "You probably heard that we have launched Dollar Photo Club" message from Fotolia. (I didn't start deleting images yet, I didn't write to FT support but I already opted out.)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: gostwyck on April 29, 2014, 14:40
I've just compared my statistics for March and April 2014 to the same months in 2013. In both cases I have sold about 15% more images this year that last ... but made less money. Great. The "Dollar Photo Club Effect" in action I guess.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: marthamarks on April 29, 2014, 14:41

We need a midstock! Not more cheaper and cheaper.

Sorry for bad english.

Sounds like good English to me;-)

+1

Yep. I understood it perfectly and wouldn't have changed a single word of it! :)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: marthamarks on April 29, 2014, 14:42
we should make these greedy and destructive agencies superfluous.

SYMBIOSTOCK!!!!!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: DallasP on April 29, 2014, 15:04
Mat,

I think it's total crap that they want to give away the vector for a measly dollar. I wouldn't mind them deciding to branch them off and sell the small image for the same price as fotolia (since I've been collecting those little sub sales since I started) ... But, to give away the larges and the vectors for a buck ... You people are effing crazy to think that that is going to increase our revenue. You'd better check the water cooler over there at ft, you'd have to have been drugged to think this is a good idea.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: roede-orm on April 29, 2014, 15:09
I think somehow, this is a historic day - the first time that Fotolia responds to the wishes of contributors 8)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on April 29, 2014, 15:13
we should make these greedy and destructive agencies superfluous.

SYMBIOSTOCK!!!!!

I wouldnt recommend Symbiostock at this point either, and you know why.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: bolsher on April 29, 2014, 15:15
we should make these greedy and destructive agencies superfluous.

SYMBIOSTOCK!!!!!

I wouldnt recommend Symbiostock at this point either, and you know why.


But why?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Goofy on April 29, 2014, 15:25
we should make these greedy and destructive agencies superfluous.

SYMBIOSTOCK!!!!!

I wouldnt recommend Symbiostock at this point either, and you know why.


But why?

Don't go there let's stay focused on the issue with Fotolia! We all need to nip this in the bud before it spreads like cancer to the rest of the industry...
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Tone on April 29, 2014, 15:36
This is a blatant attempt by FT to claw back market share. Done in true FT style by undercutting competition and driving prices even lower (just when I thought we'd hit the bottom). It's bad news for the industry. I deleted my whole portfolio yesterday, I didn't want to opt-out and then watch my files at FT sink in their search. I've been with them since they started and put up with all their other bad moves. This was a step too far though.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Dirima on April 29, 2014, 15:38
we should make these greedy and destructive agencies superfluous.

SYMBIOSTOCK!!!!!

I wouldnt recommend Symbiostock at this point either, and you know why.


But why?

Don't go there let's stay focused on the issue with Fotolia! We all need to nip this in the bud before it spreads like cancer to the rest of the industry...

+1
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on April 29, 2014, 15:42
I think somehow, this is a historic day - the first time that Fotolia responds to the wishes of contributors 8)

It's the second (that I know of). When they first introduced subscriptions (I think in 2006 but I'm not certain of the date) the deal was crap in terms of royalty and the subs sales did not count towards your silver/gold/emerald level. A number of us withheld uploads as a protest - subscriptions live on a a steady stream of new content or people don't renew.

Fotolia upped the royalty and made 4 subs downloads count as one credit download for level purposes.

The only bad news about them making a change this time is it seems to signal they're not in a great position financially (if they thought they were strong they'd tell contributors to stuff it).
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on April 29, 2014, 15:43

Don't go there let's stay focused on the issue with Fotolia! We all need to nip this in the bud before it spreads like cancer to the rest of the industry...
Agree.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: roede-orm on April 29, 2014, 15:50
The only bad news about them making a change this time is it seems to signal they're not in a great position financially (if they thought they were strong they'd tell contributors to stuff it).


This could be true. Coul be a sign for a kind of financial maldevelopment.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: roede-orm on April 29, 2014, 15:50
The only bad news about them making a change this time is it seems to signal they're not in a great position financially (if they thought they were strong they'd tell contributors to stuff it).


This could be true. Coud be a sign for a kind of financial maldevelopment.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: DallasP on April 29, 2014, 15:52
we should make these greedy and destructive agencies superfluous.


SYMBIOSTOCK!!!!!


I wouldnt recommend Symbiostock at this point either, and you know why.


Hey Ron,
I think I got mine working ok. http://www.symbiostock.org/community/viewtopic.php?f=5&t=1449&p=13405#p13405 (http://www.symbiostock.org/community/viewtopic.php?f=5&t=1449&p=13405#p13405)

But, there are a herd of e-commerce applications available that let you sell digital goods. To be quite honest though, without paying for one and the support involved you'll be running into more problems anyway. The support of the Symbiostock community is probably one of a kind, I wouldn't be so quick to judge.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: gostwyck on April 29, 2014, 15:56
^^^ Shut up about Symbiostock. Keep this on topic. Fotolia and the DPC.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: DallasP on April 29, 2014, 16:03
^^^ Shut up about Symbiostock. Keep this on topic. Fotolia and the DPC.

+1 Agreed, I just didn't want the high traffic of this thread taking that opinion to heart.

As far as Fotolia, I'm thinking my portfolio will be gone May 1 anyway ;)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mantis on April 29, 2014, 16:09
I've said this before, but I think FT is a sinking ship and DPC is one strategy they hope to use to patch the holes/s. 

1. DPC is not "for a special/select group" - anyone can sign up.
2. The purpose of DPC is NOT to serve an unserviced market segment. They can spin it however they want, but DPC is ONLY to expose a cheap visual asset outlet: SUBS. Shutterstock is known as a successful sub site, but Istock/Getty wasn't so IS had to do something to gain share (probably gain back share they lost to SS). So what did Istock/Getty do? They created a separate SUB entity called Thinkstock in an attempt to steal share from SS. And this is exactly the reason FT created DPC.  They tried to differentiate themselves by offering all those licensing features (unlimited print runs, no expiration, etc) but the reality is that these are very weak hooks.  The biggest hook is that those images cost $1.....ANY SIZE, Vector or Photo. That single differentiator is the kiss of death for the FT contributor and simply adds grease to an already slippery micro stock hill to the bottom. I condone Mat for coming in here to defend FT, but he (FT) really doesn't have a good argument as it relates to contributors' financial health.  I've said it earlier in this thread.....If DPC is successful it is successful ONLY for FT, not the contributor.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: gostwyck on April 29, 2014, 16:13
Just got a message from Andresr. He's in!

From Boycotfotolia.org:

28-04-2014 17:13:50 Name: Andresr
Will remove 34000 out of 34000 works on the 1st May.
Comment: The dollar photoclub is the worst thing that has happened to us, its time all these taking advantage of photographers stops.


Looks like Andres' images are no longer available on DPC. Result.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Niakris on April 29, 2014, 16:14
I recevied many requests to implement some improvements to the StockSubmitter's tool that helps with removing images from portfolio on Fotolia:
- option to skip videos and let them stay in the portfolio (since DPC does not contain videos)
- option to remove oldest and newest images first (for those who are going to remove only part of portfolio yet)

These options are now implemented. Hope it will help those who signed the petition and going to remove some of their images at 1st May.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: MxR on April 29, 2014, 16:21
Shutter has two options to combat DPC:

announce exclusivity I'd see no wrong. (mass exodus)
Create crap like the dollar photo club ... by Bigstock
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: gostwyck on April 29, 2014, 16:22
I've said this before, but I think FT is a sinking ship and DPC is one strategy they hope to use to patch the holes/s. 

1. DPC is not "for a special/select group" - anyone can sign up.
2. The purpose of DPC is NOT to serve an unserviced market segment. They can spin it however they want, but DPC is ONLY to expose a cheap visual asset outlet: SUBS. Shutterstock is known as a successful sub site, but Istock/Getty wasn't so IS had to do something to gain share (probably gain back share they lost to SS). So what did Istock/Getty do? They created Thinkstock in an attempt to steal share from SS. And this is exactly the reason FT created DPC.  They tried to differentiate themselves by offering all those licensing features (unlimited print runs, no expiration, etc) but the reality is that these are very weak hooks.  The biggest hook is that those images cost $1.....ANY SIZE, Vector or Photo. That single differentiator is the kiss of death for the FT contributor and simply adds grease to an already slippery micro stock hill to the bottom. I condone Mat for coming in here to defend FT, but he (FT) really doesn't have a good argument as it relates to contributors' financial health.  I've said it earlier in this thread.....If DPC is successful it is successful ONLY for FT, not the contributor.

I think you must be right because the DPC will also destroy FT's own original business model. That's an incredibly risky strategy ... unless the original model really isn't working.

If FT are struggling to build their current business at selling images say an average of $3 then they are going to need some serious volume to make it work at $1.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: bolsher on April 29, 2014, 16:22
announce exclusivity I'd see no wrong. (mass exodus)

Thats my first idea, too and i think this is the next big step.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: marthamarks on April 29, 2014, 16:32
deleted
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: U11 on April 29, 2014, 16:38
announce exclusivity I'd see no wrong. (mass exodus)

Thats my first idea, too and i think this is the next big step.
exclusivity is a way to stagnation
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: fotoramka on April 29, 2014, 16:40
Hi all!
Here's my translated text, which i posted on Russian microstock forum and livejournal.

Please, read it carefully. Also some conditions was changed from Fotolia side, but 99% of my post are very actual for you all!

---------------- START --------------------------------

So guys, it's time to give a personal comment.

DISCLAIMER 1: Let me make it clear. All this text is point of view of only one person and shouldn't be considered as any different person position except mine. This personal opinion may not match the position of boycottfotolia.org.

There will be a lot of text, but I want to describe the situation in the most convenient way, the way that even people who never heard about DPC can easily form a clear judjement about this project and about people, who made it. I also want to show some examples, where DPC promotion leads.

Considering Oleg Tscheltzoff's position shown in already published correspondence, I have to say:

DISCLAIMER 2: All my participation in boycottfotolia.org project, including creating and maintaining a website, and also writing of the original version of the petition is voluntary and gratuitous. I'm not a microstocker. I'm independent of microstock business and I'm not affiliated with any photobank, microstock or any other organization that competes with fotolia.com or represents the interests of of third-parties competing with fotolia.com. I don't receive any material or other benefits in any form from this project or its participants and any third-party organizations. In my work I represent the interests of my friends microstockers and all these people, who cast their votes in support of petition.

Let's see how it started.

The dollarphotoclub.com project (hereinafter referred to DPC) was launched in January this year. Well, but so what? Just a project that has been declared as new Fotolia's partner. But after that an interview with Fotolia's co-founder Oleg Tscheltzoff was published: Russian news site (http://www.sostav.ru/publication/sozdatel-fotolia-1-za-izobrazhenie-vysokogo-razresheniya-9599.html)

So, let's make it clear what kind of thoughts could be learned from this interview by common reader? I'll provide some excerpts from the article with my comments:

1. "This service designed for professionals who are constantly in need of images, for those who are engaged in the design personally or works in the agency."

So that is, Oleg imagines the audience of the project as already established market created by his and other microstock agencies. He is definitely not talking about all this "new infusions from the side". Professional designers and agencies already have a corporate subscription plans from Fotolia or other microstock agencies. And given the need for images, even semi-professional studio consumes a lot of pictures and subscription plan is more profitable than being a "club member".

2. "We launched a pilot version of the project in the United States three months ago. I participated in the launch of more than 50 start-ups and to be honest, I've never seen such growth: after the first quarter, we already had a multimillion business, although we have only begun to advertise."

It should be noted that part of this multimillion business is contributors' direct losses on other microstock agencies and Fotolia itself (Suddenly, right? I'll explain later.) So what will happen with the project becoming fully operational as inherent in their business plan?

3. "Members who, for example, previously shopped at Shutterstock, write us about it."

Just as required, people ran for a freebie, and you all have lost part of your extended and on demand sales.

4. "The site itself cost us a small amount of money. It's about a few hundred thousand dollars. But we plan to invest a lot of money in advertising."

5. "Since we've done 18-month turnover in three months, I'm also thinking about advertising im mass media."

It's all at your expense, dear contributors.

6.
"- What audience do you expect in Russia, at least for the first year?
- I think if we have 20-30 thousand members by the end of the year, it will be a good result. And if we grow up to 20% market share next year, it will also be good. I see no problem if it doesn't happen, because we have the biggest accessible and legal database of photos, and it is also the cheapest on the market today."

That means Oleg expects minimum monthly payments of $200.000-300.000 for the smallest subscription or 20% of market share, which is actually more. It reduces the entry price (I will explain below how).

7.
"- Price is really important advantage. What do you think, will competitors follow your lead?
- It won't be easy for them, we have great opportunities for maneuver. Shutterstock is a public company, which should show higher profits to shareholders, they can't cut prices either. iStock has a lot of debt. They took a bank loan, which must be paid, so their hands are tied. Smaller companies don't have the opportunity to compete with us."

And, unfortunately, it's the bitter truth. Promotion of DPC will lead to dire consequences for the whole market.

Interview received a huge amount of negative comments and provoked a strong wave of discussions on the forums. People began to demand from the support to remove their content from DPS, but they received only formal reply that the only way to remove content from DPC is removing it from Fotolia.
This caused even more stormy wave of perturbations and one forum user known as frbird decided to move forward and I helped him by creating our common boycottfotolia.org site. I'm also grateful to all of you who supported us and helped with translations. Without you guys none of this would have happened and community would have continued to be silent about all that crap Fotolia literally feeding us.
By that moment Fotolia closed topic related to DPC on its own official forum. At the moment of this publication (April 27, 16:00 GMT) Fotolia still haven't sent some official representative to
community forums (except copy-paste bot) and they haven't made any public announcements regarding DPC. And this happens despite the fact that all your images were moved to DPC without any notice and without the possibility of quick and convenient refusal (as of this writing).

One day passed and realizing that something goes wrong, Fotolia started to send to angry microstockers emails inviting to contact Fotolia's representative in Russia. After that, when finally crap hits the fan, letters have changed dramatically.

So what exactly are the DPC:
1. DPC position itself as CLOSED club (according to Fotolia's representatives, but also was refuted by several people after test purchases), when Fotolia selects the major market players and examines each application for membership. But there are two tariffs on acquisition page: 10 USD/month with allegedly consideration (disproved) and 99 USD/month for INSTANT membership without consideration.
2. DPC license differs from Fotolia's one. So Fotolia's Standard License has limitation of copying for 500 000 pcs. For DPC it's UNLIMITED. Moreover, the main page, which says "Unlimited edition - Unlimited Use" misleading bona fide purchaser. Do you really think he's going to read license terms about prohibited printing and reselling? REMARK: Maybe I could have won the court case, if I print a photo on a mug, because of misrepresentation of this "Unlimited Use" advertising.
3. Unused part of subscription plan is TRANSFERRING to the next month. I'll explain this highlighting below.

And now attention!
This is the most crucial and important part of my treatment. To those who still thinking about cooperation with the DPC and Fotolia in particular.
Just maths, just hardcore!

Let's try to find out if DPC is really so beneficial for contributors.
An experiment.
I made two cases and four spreadsheets

FIRST CASE
We assume that some design studio or agency monthly needs 1, 5, 10, 50, 100, 250, 500, 750 (And only so much! Nothing more or less!) images of M and XXL size. I did it for you to assess the extent of the changes. Also assume that all of you have "Gold" status. It could be "White", but "Gold" is better for averaging and non-exclusive prices. Here we go!

Explanation to the spreadsheets:
"Contributor Estimated Income (CEI)" is calculated under the condition that the buyer didn't download more than previously described number of images.
"Buyer Entry Price" is amount that buyer must pay to join Fotolia and download images, which that would be also obtained by photostock.
"Club Benefit Indicator": positive amount if the buyer saves and negative if he loses.

Table 1. Size M. Price of demand in points for "Gold" is 6 (31%). Price of subscription in points for "Gold" is 0.31.

(http://f6.s.qip.ru/18ZobUKem.png)

Table 1. Size XXL. Price of demand in points for "Gold" is 12 (31%). Price of subscription in points for "Gold" is 0.31.

(http://f6.s.qip.ru/18ZobUKen.png)

Here is a summary.

1. What we see:
Contributor Estimated Income is a value which shows exactly how much you will get from the specified value of the downloaded images theoretically. In fact this is how much you will get from subscription as with DPC, and without it. As you can see, CEI is the same everywhere except of situations with demand and size M. So in fact, participation in DPC robs you of even such a * demand! Essentially, it's more beneficial than any demand, since the minimum recharge amount on points is 14 USD.
Now you can forget about demands on Fotolia. You can also forget about any other microstock agencies' demands. Just think of how much it costs a minimum "on demand" package on any other microstock agency which you use. Draw an analogy. They are gone. At all. Once clients of other microstocks will learn about DPC.

2. Buyer Entry Price is a buyer paid price to enjoy pictures. As you can see, with a minimum of 14 USD it dropped down to 10 USD and remains there up to 25 USD point. Now ask yourself, if you have a sales? Do you have a sales at all, for God's sake??? So where . did they come? Yep, right, it's because the buyer has paid the price for entrance to download your pictures. And besides other microstock agencies' price is HIGHER. But people pay! And they are your customers.
Do you think these people want to pay 25 USD for 10 pictures in M or 40 USD for XXL, when DPC entry price is 10 USD? Just think about it, these people were paying 25 USD and 40 USD before. There is no new market. Here is just a huge DUMPING. DPC will entice those who already purchasing pictures for more money in other microstock agencies, so you will lose your demands EVERYWHERE. Not right now. Not in a week. Just wait until DPC becomes famous. If you could get at other microstock agencies some HUGE wad of money, or fat wad, or even tiny one for demand before, so after that you have to be satisfied with your "Gold" 0.31 USD on DPC. I don't even want to comment "White"/"Bronze" levels. By the way, forget about all the extended licenses that are bought for large circulation, too.

3.Club Benefit Indicator.As we see here, DPC is advantageous for size M up to 50 images/month and up to 100 images/month for XXL. Are they those "major buyers", which Tscheltzoff talk about? Are they not-for-everybody (oh, really?) private club members who buy up 100 images monthly in their own elite way? DPC becomes equivalent/unfavorable to buyers since 100 M and 250 XXL pics. If people want to buy more, they'll pay more than the standard Fotolia's license.

After that, do not forget, that DPC subsciption are transferring between months. Tscheltzoff skillfully presses on mentality. If I want 5 pictures, another 5 will stay. So I'd rather prolong my subscription, let it be 15 next month. He wants to get a stable flow of monthly low/mid subscriptions this way, which will be prolongated. But it's not a fact that people will "spend" these pictures. Somebody can pay 10 bucks to Tscheltzoff, but you won't get anything from it. Maybe it will accumulate by the end of the year.

Do you realize now that any bulk purchases out of the question? Tscheltzoff wants to entice mid/low budget buyers. Large agencies sitting on subscriptions will not change partners to disreputable microstock. Especially because in the actual large scale all the prices almost the same on the market.

Latest news promise to give us the ability to disable DPC. Some people on forums are screaming "thank you" and your morale partially decreased. I have no right to ask you for something. Neither moral nor of any other. I understand that. Really. You have a family, kids. Pictures on Fotolia sell well and you don't want to lose some revenue. But I ask you. Just ask not to pick up a bone, thrown by Tscheltzoff. I expected this and it was the worst scenario. Now you are at the mercy of doubt. There shouldn't be a doubt. Only two options: either fulfillment of the petition requirements or deletion of portfolios. I will not change the text of the petition. I wrote it myself, then all of you have corrected it. Please don't think that I put myself above others. I'm not. frbird kicked this idea, it's only to his credits. All who help us, who translate, communicate, repost, post, phoning microstocker friends did a good job. But like everyone else, I have the right to vote on an EQUAL basis with all of you.

Now to the movers and shakers who feels good and comfortable and those people who don't believe in this initiative, who's laughing at us. I'll show you an example, more close to reality, how you'll crap your pants with the introduction of DPC not only for low/mid market share, but also on bulk downloads.

SECOND CASE

Previous case successfully showed us that theoretically DPC ALREADY pulls ALL low/mid buyers to Fotolia, which brings loss to On Demand and Extended sales (in terms of the number of copies) on other microstocks. Now let's imagine that buyers don't want to lose unused subscription pictures and they're pumping out entire subscription to the last penny. Agree that it's a much more real case. Two spreadsheets again. But I introduced some additional points for ease of understanding.

Table 3. Size M. Price of demand in points for "Gold" is 6 (31%). Price of subscription in points for "Gold" is 0.31.

(http://f6.s.qip.ru/18ZobUKeo.png)

Table 4. Size XXL. Price of demand in points for "Gold" is 12 (31%). Price of subscription in points for "Gold" is 0.31.

(http://f6.s.qip.ru/18ZobUKep.png)

And what do we see here? Due to the fact that you have lost all other microstocks' demands, position UP TO 10 images is slightly more profitable than Fotolia and also equivalent to other microstocks (don't forget that one On Demand sale can be as big as CEI for 10 images).

But since 51 pictures (in fact 11, but I'm just already angry and tired, I don't like to write all the numbers) becomes much more interesting. First of all, pay attention to the CEI, as well as on the microstock income flow. Let me remind you that CEI is a money, which drips into your pocket, and microstock income flow is how much microstock received from all of this.
Draw conclusions from Table 3: from 51 to 100 images CEI grows from +0.31 USD up to +15.5 USD. For the insanely gifted I'll explain: EACH downloaded "FOR THE FUTUTRE" image brings to our pocket ADDITIONAL 0.31 USD in case of old Fotolia's subscription, but not DPC.
100 pictures is a turning point.
After 101st picture because of the need to take a "25 a day" subscription plan CEI increases from 0.31 USD up to 201 USD (for 750 pictures).
AGAIN. In case when number of images exceeds 100 and buyer purchases from 1 to 649 images more by standard SUBSCRIPTION plan for the future use, your wallets are replenished for the total amount from 0.31 to 201 (!) bucks. In contrast to the DPC, where people have to pay for each additional picture and think a hundred times to download something useful but not for right now.
Now pay attention to the income flow of the microstock agency. As you can see, starting with the 101st picture standard subscriptions become extremely disadvantageous to them. While DPC brings a stable 0.69 USD multiplied by the number of images in case of paying to "Gold" mickrostocker. Figuratively speaking, Fotolia's income from DPC starting from 1st picture increases linearly, and this fact allows them not to think about buyer to choose all the pictures of subscription plan or not. This kills the second rabbit: Fotolia will try to entice high-budget buyers to DPC, to pay you less.
Now take a calculator and count CEI numbers for 125 or 200. Come on. Done? Do you realize now how much much weight will lose your asses, even if you are Fotolia supporter because it gives you a lot of money? So finally tear it off the chair! What is happening is a global price collapse for your work. Buyers can be enticed by low prices in one month. But it takes years to explain why he have to pay more for your work and success isn't guaranteed.
I really wanted to write a lot more: about trade union, global perspectives and unprofitableness of subscriptions for all microstocks... No way. I tortured this text in 9 hours. Are you be able to understand it? Excellent. Not? So what trade unions we're talking about? It's a turning point. All microstock market waiting for our reaction. If we don't win the dragon, wait for the dragons from the other side. I'm just sad that we can squander everything achieved these days because of pathetic sop.
Don't be fooled. All business is about doing profit for owner.
Sorry for my harsh tone sometimes.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: bolsher on April 29, 2014, 16:43
+1
Title: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on April 29, 2014, 16:59
SS gas said repeatedly that they have no interest in exclusivity. Not sure why a failing agency's dumb program would change their mind
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: kingjon on April 29, 2014, 17:20
Well, sign me up for D-day! Fotolia hasn't been relevant for me for the past 3 years anyways. No big loss.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Dook on April 29, 2014, 17:25
SS should introduce exclusivity immediately and solve the problem.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: bolsher on April 29, 2014, 17:26
@ fotoramka: Some of the receivables are satisfies.

Some not, is there a way to mark the unfulfilled at the website? Some of the contributors think almost is ok now, so there were an actual status optimal.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: fotoramka on April 29, 2014, 17:36
@ fotoramka: Some of the receivables are satisfies.

Some not, is there a way to mark the unfulfilled at the website? Some of the contributors think almost is ok now, so there were an actual status optimal.

Off course. On May 1st, we'll write on our site - if fotolia fullfilled petition or not. You should unserstand that we CAN'T require people who signed for petition to do anything. It should be it's choice. Otherwise Fotolia can take legal actions against us.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: bolsher on April 29, 2014, 17:45
Thank you guys for your work! That was really great, big thank you to all of you.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ShadySue on April 29, 2014, 17:52
SS should introduce exclusivity immediately and solve the problem.
Be careful what you wish for.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: steheap on April 29, 2014, 17:56
Well I've taken my 2800 images out of DPC. It seems pretty clear they are planning to destroy the entire market in order to grow their own revenue and they are making use of the fact that most of us have our images on all sites. I wondered why I only had 1 ED on Shutterstock this month - normally 3 - 8 each month. I think I may have the answer. I know it is statistically unreliable to reach a conclusion based on one month results, but this could be the start of a tsunami...

Steve
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on April 29, 2014, 18:15
Are you employed by Fotolia?

Yes, after volunteering as a moderator in the Fotolia forum for many years I made the decision to leave the restaurant business I had been in for more than 25 years and turn my focus to my true passion of photography.  The timing was fortuitous as an opening came available on the Customer Service team at Fotolia that I happily accepted this past September...

Thanks for the clarification, Mat. I hope you realize that this was misleading, though, by earlier emphasizing the point that you are a contributor but never mentioning that you are an employee as well.

I also hope you realize that misrepresenting yourself only adds to the mistrust we already feel towards many agencies these days. Since you are a contributor, you know as well as all of us that it isn't easy being in the microstock business, especially recently. Many companies look to exploit every angle and opportunity to get the most profit from our work while paying us the least amount possible.

So you coming in here acting like a regular joe, hawking the DPC product and expecting us to buy into it all while under the employ of the very company that sells the product is pretty shady.

Frankly, it doesn't speak well to what Fotolia is about today. We need more honesty in this business, not less. I'm opted out of DPC, not just because I think it's a bad deal for artists but also because I'm concerned about the direction Fotolia seems to be going in. If you are truly intent on doing a good job for Fotolia and representing the company here and as a customer service rep in a positive way, I hope we can expect to see some better contributor relations going forward. That needs to include some real transparency and disclosure.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: cathyslife on April 29, 2014, 18:17
^^^ Shut up about Symbiostock. Keep this on topic. Fotolia and the DPC.

^^Totally agree.

On topic...glad you guys are seeing results by at least getting the opt out. The only way to stop them is to keep deactivating images.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: fujiko on April 29, 2014, 18:23
Working in this position has allowed me the opportunity to see firsthand the passion and commitment the team at Fotolia has towards increasing business and revenue for all involved including photographers.
[...]
Dollar Photo Club is hitting a previously untapped market and is driving sales at  fast rate.

Lies and more lies.

It is not about untapped markets or increasing revenue of photographers it's about going to the depths of the lowest pits of cheap. The cheapest of cheapest.

It's not about untapped markets, it's about existing buyers and existing market.

According to Dollar Photo Club's CEO, Oleg Tscheltzoff. "Customers are tangled up in plans they don't need, use, or even understand. The majority of subscription deals end up being wasted."

“We want to target big buyers, and provide them with exclusive offers,” said co-founder and CEO Oleg Tscheltzoff

“This pricing is very disruptive compared to everything else that exists, including Fotolia,” Tscheltzoff said.

Untapped market? LIES!
The only reason is to be the cheapest because they don't care as long as the next bonus they get for screwing it is bigger!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: cidepix on April 29, 2014, 18:29
if they thought they were strong they'd tell contributors to stuff it

so true..

that sounds more like fotolia  :)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: loop on April 29, 2014, 18:32
I said earlier and I will repeat it now. Contributor's resistence is great, but we would need the help of the other agencies (which would protect themselves at the same time). SS, IS, DT etc should not accept images that are in DPC too. That really would decimate the DPC potential and database. It is legal and can be done, in a similar way as Amazon KDP is doing something similar from three years ago, a move that kept them afloat of their competitors.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Shelma1 on April 29, 2014, 18:33
I was planning to remove the few files I had there for years (that were making no money), but when I logged in yesterday my account was blocked. After I wrote to them asking why, my account disappeared. Can't find any of my images on the site. Fine with me.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: MatHayward on April 29, 2014, 19:07
Are you employed by Fotolia?

Yes, after volunteering as a moderator in the Fotolia forum for many years I made the decision to leave the restaurant business I had been in for more than 25 years and turn my focus to my true passion of photography.  The timing was fortuitous as an opening came available on the Customer Service team at Fotolia that I happily accepted this past September...

Thanks for the clarification, Mat. I hope you realize that this was misleading, though, by earlier emphasizing the point that you are a contributor but never mentioning that you are an employee as well.

I also hope you realize that misrepresenting yourself only adds to the mistrust we already feel towards many agencies these days. Since you are a contributor, you know as well as all of us that it isn't easy being in the microstock business, especially recently. Many companies look to exploit every angle and opportunity to get the most profit from our work while paying us the least amount possible.

So you coming in here acting like a regular joe, hawking the DPC product and expecting us to buy into it all while under the employ of the very company that sells the product is pretty shady.

Frankly, it doesn't speak well to what Fotolia is about today. We need more honesty in this business, not less. I'm opted out of DPC, not just because I think it's a bad deal for artists but also because I'm concerned about the direction Fotolia seems to be going in. If you are truly intent on doing a good job for Fotolia and representing the company here and as a customer service rep in a positive way, I hope we can expect to see some better contributor relations going forward. That needs to include some real transparency and disclosure.

Fair enough Mike, thanks for the feedback.  The truth is, this forum is very hostile.  Yes, my employment status has changed in recent months, but sharing that here was not something I felt compelled to do.  It's not about being "shady" it's simply an unpleasant place to attempt a reasonable discussion/debate or to share news.  How many times have we seen agency representatives attempt to engage in a discussion here only to get the digital equivalent of an angry mob with pitchforks and torches?  I've been a member of this forum a lot longer than I've been an employee at Fotolia and I know how this place works. 

My offer stands, I've shared my email address [email protected].  Feel free to write to me directly if you have any questions, (reasonable) comments or concerns and I will do my best to respond as quickly as possible.

Kind regards,

Mat
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: emblem on April 29, 2014, 19:21
Are you employed by Fotolia?

Yes, after volunteering as a moderator in the Fotolia forum for many years I made the decision to leave the restaurant business I had been in for more than 25 years and turn my focus to my true passion of photography.  The timing was fortuitous as an opening came available on the Customer Service team at Fotolia that I happily accepted this past September...

Thanks for the clarification, Mat. I hope you realize that this was misleading, though, by earlier emphasizing the point that you are a contributor but never mentioning that you are an employee as well.

I also hope you realize that misrepresenting yourself only adds to the mistrust we already feel towards many agencies these days. Since you are a contributor, you know as well as all of us that it isn't easy being in the microstock business, especially recently. Many companies look to exploit every angle and opportunity to get the most profit from our work while paying us the least amount possible.

So you coming in here acting like a regular joe, hawking the DPC product and expecting us to buy into it all while under the employ of the very company that sells the product is pretty shady.

Frankly, it doesn't speak well to what Fotolia is about today. We need more honesty in this business, not less. I'm opted out of DPC, not just because I think it's a bad deal for artists but also because I'm concerned about the direction Fotolia seems to be going in. If you are truly intent on doing a good job for Fotolia and representing the company here and as a customer service rep in a positive way, I hope we can expect to see some better contributor relations going forward. That needs to include some real transparency and disclosure.

Fair enough Mike, thanks for the feedback.  The truth is, this forum is very hostile.  Yes, my employment status has changed in recent months, but sharing that here was not something I felt compelled to do.  It's not about being "shady" it's simply an unpleasant place to attempt a reasonable discussion/debate or to share news.  How many times have we seen agency representatives attempt to engage in a discussion here only to get the digital equivalent of an angry mob with pitchforks and torches?  I've been a member of this forum a lot longer than I've been an employee at Fotolia and I know how this place works. 

My offer stands, I've shared my email address [email protected].  Feel free to write to me directly if you have any questions, (reasonable) comments or concerns and I will do my best to respond as quickly as possible.

Kind regards,

Mat

This forum is the only place contributors can speak about agencies in an uncensored way. After the way Fotolia has treated contributors over the years, how do you expect them to act? Fotolia has a history of shafting contributors without any explanation in a totally secretive and underhanded manner so I'm sorry if it seems a little unpleasant for you...but I respect the fact that you are making an attempt to communicate at least.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: farbled on April 29, 2014, 19:30
I'll take a quick slightly off-topic second to apologize to Tickstock and Shudderstock about being anonymous. I can see how, in light of events like this, it can be necessary for contributors.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: DallasP on April 29, 2014, 19:43
Are you employed by Fotolia?

Yes, after volunteering as a moderator in the Fotolia forum for many years I made the decision to leave the restaurant business I had been in for more than 25 years and turn my focus to my true passion of photography.  The timing was fortuitous as an opening came available on the Customer Service team at Fotolia that I happily accepted this past September...

Thanks for the clarification, Mat. I hope you realize that this was misleading, though, by earlier emphasizing the point that you are a contributor but never mentioning that you are an employee as well.

I also hope you realize that misrepresenting yourself only adds to the mistrust we already feel towards many agencies these days. Since you are a contributor, you know as well as all of us that it isn't easy being in the microstock business, especially recently. Many companies look to exploit every angle and opportunity to get the most profit from our work while paying us the least amount possible.

So you coming in here acting like a regular joe, hawking the DPC product and expecting us to buy into it all while under the employ of the very company that sells the product is pretty shady.

Frankly, it doesn't speak well to what Fotolia is about today. We need more honesty in this business, not less. I'm opted out of DPC, not just because I think it's a bad deal for artists but also because I'm concerned about the direction Fotolia seems to be going in. If you are truly intent on doing a good job for Fotolia and representing the company here and as a customer service rep in a positive way, I hope we can expect to see some better contributor relations going forward. That needs to include some real transparency and disclosure.

Fair enough Mike, thanks for the feedback.  The truth is, this forum is very hostile.  Yes, my employment status has changed in recent months, but sharing that here was not something I felt compelled to do.  It's not about being "shady" it's simply an unpleasant place to attempt a reasonable discussion/debate or to share news.  How many times have we seen agency representatives attempt to engage in a discussion here only to get the digital equivalent of an angry mob with pitchforks and torches?  I've been a member of this forum a lot longer than I've been an employee at Fotolia and I know how this place works. 

My offer stands, I've shared my email address [email protected].  Feel free to write to me directly if you have any questions, (reasonable) comments or concerns and I will do my best to respond as quickly as possible.

Kind regards,

Mat

+1 This place is quite negative. I didn't see any offer but, can you schedule my portfolio for deletion and take any portion of the $5.25 I've earned and keep it or send it to paypal? Thanks Mat.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on April 29, 2014, 19:52
...It's not about being "shady" it's simply an unpleasant place to attempt a reasonable discussion/debate or to share news.

Even if I agreed with your assessment of this forum (which, for the record, I don't), you have to deal with contributors as you find them and deliver news - or not if you choose not to be a company PR rep - and take the reactions you get.

I think that you need to speak for yourself, as a contributor, or speak for Fotolia - and you need to get one of Leaf's badges that identifies agency representatives if you're going to do that.

If a Shutterstock rep came in here and announced a 20% raise for contributors, I'm guessing that news would be very pleasantly received. People get suspicious when they're repeatedly misled; angry when their royalties are cut or images misused. It's a pretty direct cause and effect relationship.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: WindyTai on April 29, 2014, 20:59
... We need to get the word out to all our friends in the business.

I added a note on Facebook, Google+ and sent out a Tweet - not to that large of an audience, but if we all do what we can to get the word out...

I help to inform Thai microstocker about this issue as well. Now the news are being spread. Thai microstocker has a large role in this industry.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on April 29, 2014, 22:52
Fair enough Mike, thanks for the feedback.  The truth is, this forum is very hostile.  Yes, my employment status has changed in recent months, but sharing that here was not something I felt compelled to do.  It's not about being "shady" it's simply an unpleasant place to attempt a reasonable discussion/debate or to share news.  How many times have we seen agency representatives attempt to engage in a discussion here only to get the digital equivalent of an angry mob with pitchforks and torches?  I've been a member of this forum a lot longer than I've been an employee at Fotolia and I know how this place works...

This is an unpleasant place to share news that is bad for artists. Agency representatives are met with very positive feedback when the news they are sharing is good news.

Maybe the problem is that we just have way too many agency representatives coming in here trying to sell us on bad ideas. Often the good ideas, the ones that are fair to agencies and artists, don't need to be sold. You wouldn't need to come in here and defend fair pricing or fair royalties. Good ideas and fair deals for artists don't often even get discussed here. I work with a couple of companies that are almost completely off the radar here, because they're not doing anything that is damaging to the stock image business.

Maybe MSG is a little hostile. But that hostility is almost exclusively directed towards companies who are doing things worthy of such hostility.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: lisafx on April 29, 2014, 22:59
I disagree we have way too many agency reps coming in here to sell us on any ideas at all, bad or otherwise.  There are actually very few agency reps that bother coming in here anymore, regardless of what's going on.  There definitely is a perception that this is a hostile place for agency reps. 

Personally I am always appreciative when a representative of any agency comes here to take questions and provide clarity, regardless of whether or not I like the policy they are explaining, or whether I agree with their explanation.  At least it shows an effort at contributor relations. 

There's way too much shooting the messenger going on around here and it is already biting us on the hind end because so few agencies even bother with us (at MSG) anymore. 

Thanks Mat, for braving the shark tank.  Hope you continue to do so. 
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: emblem on April 29, 2014, 23:22
I disagree we have way too many agency reps coming in here to sell us on any ideas at all, bad or otherwise.  There are actually very few agency reps that bother coming in here anymore, regardless of what's going on.  There definitely is a perception that this is a hostile place for agency reps. 

Personally I am always appreciative when a representative of any agency comes here to take questions and provide clarity, regardless of whether or not I like the policy they are explaining, or whether I agree with their explanation.  At least it shows an effort at contributor relations. 

There's way too much shooting the messenger going on around here and it is already biting us on the hind end because so few agencies even bother with us (at MSG) anymore. 

Thanks Mat, for braving the shark tank.  Hope you continue to do so.

It would have been nice if we knew he was an agency representative in the first place....but it is more Fotolia than Mat which is the problem here. Tough job to sell something like this.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Rinderart on April 29, 2014, 23:38
Mat, I like you and I respect you. You seem like a very Likeable guy. But now that your a company Man. Your coming across Like you have been drinking The Kool Aid My friend. Sorry.
Best wishes on the job.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: DallasP on April 30, 2014, 00:04
Focusing a lot on mat and not on the problem.

I'm glad I got my own stuff off of dpc... However, I think that it should be a bit more obvious and maybe even mass e-mailed out to contributors...

I didn't realize how crappy it was when they first introduced the program in January. I still just want my files off Fotolia, I don't care for business practices that hide things (and obviously aren't above lying) to their partners. Hopefully they have a lot of Mats.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: nicku on April 30, 2014, 01:04
Fotolia is my second earner; so.... deactivation is OPT OUT in my case. Regarding Dollar photo club... less than 5% are 1 credit sale  ;)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: bolsher on April 30, 2014, 01:14
i have deleted one hundred more, show must go on
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: hofhoek on April 30, 2014, 01:57
I started deleting images years ago when FT showed to be cheap. Also haven't uploaded files for years (apart from a few just to see how FT evolved) I just deleted all my last selling images. I still have some left but they will go. My guess is that when an agency is this dishonest they will not suddenly go the other way. Not much good will come from them.Just run from there and don't look back!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: WindyTai on April 30, 2014, 02:04
What I am curious is that why Fotolia didn't report or advertise this DCP program to all the contributors in the first place before launching it?

And even after all these ethic matters, and also worst consequence to overall stock business... Fotolia still doesn't seem to inform all the contributor to let them decide whether to join or not? (but just put a little link hidden deep in the profile page)

Why don't report this program via Fotolia homepage or facebook fanpage, or other official media for contributor to see????

What is your intention?
please clarify 
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Kamran on April 30, 2014, 02:26
I already deleted my 700+ images from fotolia on 28/4/2014 and yesterday received following email from fotolia.


Dear contributor,
 
You probably heard that we have launched Dollar Photo Club . We would like to share with you what we aim to do at Fotolia with Dollar Photo Club (DPC) and how it works. Lots of information have been circulated and first we would like to lay out the facts, so you can take the best informed decision. Whatever that decision might be we will always respect it and should you wish to opt out from DPC or stay, you now simply need to select the right option here.
 
Here are the facts about Dollar Photo Club

    The offer
        Dollar Photo Club is a subscription model. Clients register and pay with their credit card, subscribing for a monthly or yearly rolling contract. Renewal rate so far has been close to 90% meaning people use it as a real subscription
        Price per image is $1 for a standard license, which means up to 5x times higher than the daily-quota or monthly-quota subscriptions sold by main actors on the market nowadays
    Payouts
        Dollar Photo Club payouts are the same than any subscription at Fotolia and basically depend on your rank. Payouts range from 25 cents to 40 cents, which is well in line with the market
        Dollar Photo Club sales count towards your ranking at Fotolia, increasing your level of commission. Being part of Dollar Photo Club will increase both your sales AND your commission level
        At Dollar Photo Club, contrary to standard subscriptions, unused downloads never expire. That is a very different model than standard subscriptions, where agencies get all the money from unused downloads. As a result, DollarPhotoClub is a subscription model where a higher percentage of money spent goes to the photographer.
    Licensing
        Photos at Dollar Photo Club are sold under a standard commercial license, with a recent update limiting the print-runs to just 500k, inline with the market. Full licence terms can be seen here: http://r.fotolia.com/redirect/jdx0tzhv2sdfo92cdp4zdj/us.dollarphotoclub.com/Info/RoyaltyFreeLicense (http://r.fotolia.com/redirect/jdx0tzhv2sdfo92cdp4zdj/us.dollarphotoclub.com/Info/RoyaltyFreeLicense)
        All Dollar Photo Club licenses are mono-seat and do not grant any extended rights
    Extended license (to come)An extended license will be added shortly that should be very similar to Fotolia’s in term of pricing, and payments to contributors.

Why did we launch Dollar Photo Club?

At Fotolia, our aim is to take microstock to the next level: going after the millions of companies around the world who don't purchase yet any license for the images they use, especially in new markets.  We estimate to millions of downloads a day what could be the market tomorrow. That's why we have launched DPC and we spend lot of time, efforts and money in educating markets and promoting your images.  We truly believe that the stock market is only at an early stage and we need you to build a sustainable win-win business profitable to all of us.
From monitoring of customer spend on Dollar Photo Club since we began trading three months ago we have confirmed that client spending has been consistently higher, than traditional on-demand client spend in an entire year. We firmly believe this proves how a simple affordable offer helps to increase usage and spend, all of which is good for the market. By converting illegal users of images to paying clients, the microstock market ten times bigger – imagine that! This is what Dollar Photo Club wants to achieve.

Please be assured that we highly appreciate your trust and are absolutely aware that this business would be nothing without the hard work, creativity and trust of all of you.

You have been one of the first to put your trust in the microstock model; hopefully you will trust our belief in the potential of the microstock market to grow and flourish to ten times its current size.

Thank you
 
The Fotolia Team

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: kaboom on April 30, 2014, 02:29
I dont have an account with Fotolia so I cant delete anything but at least I joined the petition. I think its amazing that in a short time over 1000 contributors gathered for the same cause. Some people may complain it is too few but hey, it happened just in a few days and it will continue. Contributors will be removing their images and they will stop submitting new ones. They will be replaced by others, sure, but it will be different content. Other agencies which will keep on receiving the content missing from Fotolia may benefit from that.

Lets not underestimate outselves, it takes some time to gather more contributors as we are scattered all over the world and there are language barriers. But gradually more and more people will be informed and will be making decisions. Just keep spreading the word.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: polok on April 30, 2014, 02:35
Hi to all.
Just for inspiration:
There was my portfolio on fotolia 6469.
It became 70.
These 70 I save for tomorrow to take a part in D-Day.

For thothe who trusts in the button - I wrote to fotolia 8 letters with a request to remove my photos and my account from a fotolia. At first to me wrote think again, bla, bla, and now in general ceased to answer. So make your own desigion to stay on fotolia or not. I have already made.
Good luck to all.
Appreciate your work and your time.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: r2d2 on April 30, 2014, 02:40

My offer stands, I've shared my email address [email protected].  Feel free to write to me directly if you have any questions, (reasonable) comments or concerns and I will do my best to respond as quickly as possible.

Kind regards,

Mat


but why do not you answering first the many open questions here in the thread?
Want Fotolia probably no public discussion or why have Fotolia the threads closed in Fotolia-forums about the DPC?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Kamran on April 30, 2014, 02:44
Hi to all.
Just for inspiration:
There was my portfolio on fotolia 6469.
It became 70.
These 70 I save for tomorrow to take a part in D-Day.

For thothe who trusts in the button - I wrote to fotolia 8 letters with a request to remove my photos and my account from a fotolia. At first to me wrote think again, bla, bla, and now in general ceased to answer. So make your own desigion to stay on fotolia or not. I have already made.
Good luck to all.
Appreciate your work and your time.

I have left only 1 image for tomorrow for participating in D-Day.  Bye Bye fotolia.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: spamowanka on April 30, 2014, 02:45
Hi, I'm fotolia emerald and want to join you gyus, please help - where do I find the opt out button?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Kamran on April 30, 2014, 02:50
Hi, I'm fotolia emerald and want to join you gyus, please help - where do I find the opt out button?


My Profile  --->  Contributor parameter --->  Sell my files on DPC  (click on MODIFY) button
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: brisoca on April 30, 2014, 02:54
Hi, I'm fotolia emerald and want to join you gyus, please help - where do I find the opt out button?


Go to My Account > My Profile > Contributor Parameters

Click on MODIFY after "Sell my files on DPC". The text will change to "Don't sell my files on DPC".

And this is the link to sign the Petition: http://boycottfotolia.org/en/petition.html#.U2CrofldUmv (http://boycottfotolia.org/en/petition.html#.U2CrofldUmv)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: spamowanka on April 30, 2014, 02:57
Done, thank you. Sorry if that subject was here before - why don't we - artists - invest and launch our stock agency? Is it to complicated? Not worth it if we pay professionals to run it? We have got the power for a huge ad campaing to start, there is so many of us.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: luissantos84 on April 30, 2014, 03:50
Done, thank you. Sorry if that subject was here before - why don't we - artists - invest and launch our stock agency? Is it to complicated? Not worth it if we pay professionals to run it? We have got the power for a huge ad campaing to start, there is so many of us.

yep, 1063 signatures and 510k images that will be deleted, perhaps enough files to satisfy buyers!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: r2d2 on April 30, 2014, 03:51
Done, thank you. Sorry if that subject was here before - why don't we - artists - invest and launch our stock agency? Is it to complicated? Not worth it if we pay professionals to run it? We have got the power for a huge ad campaing to start, there is so many of us.

Yes I thinks thats the only solution!
DPC, DP, Getty for free this is MicrostockCancer.

Why we should not talk about Symbiostock here?
To get rid of the MicrostockCancer we should not only fight cancer. But the cause and these are the destructive agencies.

And Symbiostock already has an infrastructure that really only needs to be made ​​mass suitability.
Symbisotock may be the cure.
The fight against MicrostockCancer and the creation of an alternative sales opportunityis for me is always one thing.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: dpimborough on April 30, 2014, 03:58
Hi, I'm fotolia emerald and want to join you gyus, please help - where do I find the opt out button?


My Profile  --->  Contributor parameter --->  Sell my files on DPC  (click on MODIFY) button

Hmmm is just me or did the "sell my files on DPC" button disappear?

One minute there then it went  ???
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: MxR on April 30, 2014, 03:59
This forum is hostile when someone from an agency consider us fools. 

People who want to buy many pictures purchase a large subscription and invests a lot of money.
  those who want or few photos, buy credits and pay a demand for a higher price ..
The proposed treatment with DPC fotolia destroy demand and condemn us all to hell commissions of 0.30.
When that happened only will upload photos of my feet on the beach.

I'm already out of DPC and ready for erase many pictures 05/01/2014.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on April 30, 2014, 04:00
Its still there
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on April 30, 2014, 04:01
Shutterstock reps are rarely met with hostility here.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: isselee on April 30, 2014, 04:02
Hello,
From yesterday, there is an option in your Fotolia backoffice : Don't sell my files on DPC -- OR --  Sell my files on DPC
It is on your Profile/Contributor Parameters
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: SNod on April 30, 2014, 04:20
Hmm yesterday the opt out button was there, now it´s gone
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: pixsol on April 30, 2014, 04:26
Hmm yesterday the opt out button was there, now it´s gone

Are you checking under 'My Profile' and in that under 'Contributor Parameters'
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: SNod on April 30, 2014, 04:32
Yes, it´s not there
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Kamran on April 30, 2014, 04:38
Yes, it´s not there

Clear cache, delete fotolia cookie, log out and login. Also try another browser. It is still there under contributor parameters.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: SNod on April 30, 2014, 05:19
Cleared cache and it´s back, thx
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ShadySue on April 30, 2014, 06:37
Shutterstock reps are rarely met with hostility here.

OTOH, if any have tried to explain why it has to be 'all in' or 'all out' to 'sensitive use' (including children), I missed it.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: kayann on April 30, 2014, 06:45

I think that you need to speak for yourself, as a contributor, or speak for Fotolia - and you need to get one of Leaf's badges that identifies agency representatives if you're going to do that.


quick off topic question - is there a key for the badges so we know what they mean? I see them under peoples names on posts.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ShadySue on April 30, 2014, 06:51
Hmmm, they are really pushing that Dollar Photo Club.
I just looked up searchterm stock photo.
First hit was an ad by iStock, on which I have a photo of the searchterm, but because of a bug, it doesn't show.

Second hit was an ad for DPC, which didn't have the search term.
So any continued flannel that DPC is only for selected users is, as noted above, lies.

I just did another with searchterm, just to confirm what I said above. It's the third 'hit' for searchterm, but it's still there, promoted highly to all and sundry.
(http://www.lizworld.com/DPC.jpg)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on April 30, 2014, 07:14
Those are not organic search hits, those are paid ads, from Google Adwords. They just paid to be in that position. You can pay for position 1 2 and 3, position 4 and up start on the right side. Still, pushing their dollar club, but those results are not organic search placements.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: tickstock on April 30, 2014, 07:16
.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: fotorob on April 30, 2014, 07:18
@fotoramka: Who are you?

And who is the "we" you are mentioning in your posts?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: bolsher on April 30, 2014, 07:21
Those are not organic search hits, those are paid ads, from Google Adwords. They just paid to be in that position. You can pay for position 1 2 and 3, position 4 and up start on the right side. Still, pushing their dollar club, but those results are not organic search placements.

Absolutely the right way to get big buyers! Same as a Facebook site :-)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: fotoramka on April 30, 2014, 07:39
@fotoramka: Who are you?

And who is the "we" you are mentioning in your posts?

I'm boycottfotolia.org developer.
It's translated text of my open letter to microstockers which was published on Rissian-speaking forums.
What do you mean about "we"?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ShadySue on April 30, 2014, 07:44
Those are not organic search hits, those are paid ads, from Google Adwords.
That's her point Ron.

Indeed.
The clue was: "Second hit was an ad for DPC".
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: fotorob on April 30, 2014, 08:04
@fotoramka: Who are you?

And who is the "we" you are mentioning in your posts?

I'm boycottfotolia.org developer.
It's translated text of my open letter to microstockers which was published on Rissian-speaking forums.
What do you mean about "we"?

I mean who is (you) the person that develops the boycott-site.
I am still trying to understand your motivation and who the friends are you mentioned.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Niakris on April 30, 2014, 08:12
His motivation is the same as each other petition signer's motivation: we wish to save the industry and make sure our future as microstock contributors is bright and promising.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: fotorob on April 30, 2014, 08:20
His motivation is the same as each other petition signer's motivation: we wish to save the industry and make sure our future as microstock contributors is bright and promising.

In an earlier post he claimed that he has no microstock affiliation whatsoever, so I find it a bit strange to organize such a boycott, when he is totally unrelated to the industry.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Niakris on April 30, 2014, 08:21
He is not affiliated with any agency, but he is microstock contributor himself.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: fotorob on April 30, 2014, 08:32
If it is true what he said, I doubt it.

DISCLAIMER 2: All my participation in boycottfotolia.org project, including creating and maintaining a website, and also writing of the original version of the petition is voluntary and gratuitous. I'm not a microstocker. I'm independent of microstock business and I'm not affiliated with any photobank, microstock or any other organization that competes with fotolia.com or represents the interests of of third-parties competing with fotolia.com. I don't receive any material or other benefits in any form from this project or its participants and any third-party organizations. In my work I represent the interests of my friends microstockers and all these people, who cast their votes in support of petition.

Bold part by me. So why do you think he is a microstock photographer?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Dook on April 30, 2014, 08:35
His motivation is the same as each other petition signer's motivation: we wish to save the industry and make sure our future as microstock contributors is bright and promising.

In an earlier post he claimed that he has no microstock affiliation whatsoever, so I find it a bit strange to organize such a boycott, when he is totally unrelated to the industry.
Fotorob, I still remember your detailed blog post about your earnings, agency stats etc. It was very informative and helpful. I remember you saying that around 50% of your income is coming from Fotolia and that you have around 2000 exclusive pictures there, if I remember the numbers correctly.
What is your opinion on the situation, are you worried about your income now?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: fotoramka on April 30, 2014, 08:38
His motivation is the same as each other petition signer's motivation: we wish to save the industry and make sure our future as microstock contributors is bright and promising.

In an earlier post he claimed that he has no microstock affiliation whatsoever, so I find it a bit strange to organize such a boycott, when he is totally unrelated to the industry.

Boycottfotolia.org maintained by 2 people. First of it - coordinator, also known as Frbird from microstock.ru forum. He's Fotolia contributor off course.
And i'm - technical developer of site. I've many friends from microstockers community from all the world. And i really don't affiliated with any microstock or their affiliated companies.
So when you need to repair your car - you going to autoservice. When you need to buy new camera - you going to shop or ebay. And what you'll do if you need a web-site? Right, ask programmer about that :)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: fotorob on April 30, 2014, 08:42
What is your opinion on the situation, are you worried about your income now?

Of course I am worried about my income, then, on the other hand, I am always worried about my income regarding microstock, because it is such a fast-paced business.

You can be sure that I very closely monitor my numbers regarding FT and DPC and other agencies.

However, pulling my images from Fotolia would not make much sense for me, because then I would loose several thousand dollar a month.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Dook on April 30, 2014, 08:46
The reason I remembered your numbers is because mine are similar. The problem is my income at Fotolia is halved in the last few moths!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: grumble on April 30, 2014, 08:51
@fotoramka: Who are you?
And who is the "we" you are mentioning in your posts?
I'm boycottfotolia.org developer.
It's translated text of my open letter to microstockers which was published on Rissian-speaking forums.
What do you mean about "we"?
I mean who is (you) the person that develops the boycott-site.
I am still trying to understand your motivation and who the friends are you mentioned.
Let me explain to avoid any conspiracy theories.
fotoramka is a developer of free online tool for contributors idlast.info (currently only in Russian and Ukranian languages) which was launched in October, 2013. He was asked to make this free tool by our fellow contributor. Since then he has not only supported the idlast but actively communicated with microstock community in idlast.info chat and microstock forums.
And he has kindly agreed to help us (Russian speaking contributors) to make the petition site. So he is not contributor himself but understands our concerns and needs as contributors. Hope now it's clear enough.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: fotorob on April 30, 2014, 08:51
Boycottfotolia.org maintained by 2 people. First of it - coordinator, also known as Frbird from microstock.ru forum. He's Fotolia contributor off course.

Okay, thanks for the info. I was not aware that Frbird from vectorlib is behind the site.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: grumble on April 30, 2014, 09:53
You can be sure that I very closely monitor my numbers regarding FT and DPC and other agencies.

However, pulling my images from Fotolia would not make much sense for me, because then I would loose several thousand dollar a month.
So, you are not going to opt-out from DPC either, right?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: DallasP on April 30, 2014, 10:58
However, pulling my images from Fotolia would not make much sense for me, because then I would loose several thousand dollar a month.

I actually kind of wonder if it matters at all ... In fact, hopefully customers catch wind of this crap and move from ft to maybe .... Dreamstime, that'd be grand.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: BaldricksTrousers on April 30, 2014, 11:16
However, pulling my images from Fotolia would not make much sense for me, because then I would loose several thousand dollar a month.

I actually kind of wonder if it matters at all ... In fact, hopefully customers catch wind of this crap and move from ft to maybe .... Dreamstime, that'd be grand.

The pricing at Walmart does not in general deter customers, nor do stories about wages at McDonalds. The only deterrent would be the disappearance of the most sellable images forcing people to search elsewhere.

As far as the industry as a whole goes, if DPC works then there may no longer be any incentive for anyone to produce new microstock photos on anything other than personal vanity.

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: tickstock on April 30, 2014, 11:20
.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: tickstock on April 30, 2014, 11:28
.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: bolsher on April 30, 2014, 11:33
Quote
Users pay $10 per month to get ten images and then pay $1 for additional images. This is compared to other services like Shutterstock that cost $249 a month for 25 images a day or $229 for 25 images a la carte.


black on white!

http://techcrunch.com/2014/04/29/dollarphotoclub-expands-into-more-markets-hits-11000-users/ (http://techcrunch.com/2014/04/29/dollarphotoclub-expands-into-more-markets-hits-11000-users/)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: brisoca on April 30, 2014, 11:34
I believe that most content creators that do not opt out of DPC in the next few days, will do so later on, when they realise that their sales elsewhere are being cannibalised by the DPC, which will happen inevitably.

By the way, I received another email from Fotolia advertising DPC:

Quote
You might be surprised what a dollar can buy you.

At Dollar Photo Club it’s the key to over 27 million amazing stock images; so whatever you’re working on, now there are no limits to your creativity and originality!

That’s the Magic of a Dollar

$1 per image – that’s the promise of Dollar Photo Club. Cutting straight through every complex and expensive pricing model with one super simple offer - $1 per image. Always $1. Always high-resolution. Always royalty-free.

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on April 30, 2014, 11:37
[url]http://techcrunch.com/2014/04/29/dollarphotoclub-expands-into-more-markets-hits-11000-users/[/url] ([url]http://techcrunch.com/2014/04/29/dollarphotoclub-expands-into-more-markets-hits-11000-users/[/url])


That's laying it all out pretty clearly. Fotolia appears to be pursuing a scorched earth policy - I don't know how they think they can "win" even if they succeed with this.

Even if the big fish don't want to leave Fotolia, please consider opting out of DPC.

Off to tweet this link and I hope keep letting contributors know they need to protect themselves from this latest assault on their earnings.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Rinderart on April 30, 2014, 11:41
I believe that most content creators that do not opt out of DPC in the next few days, will do so later on, when they realise that their sales elsewhere are being cannibalised by the DPC, which will happen inevitably.

By the way, I received another email from Fotolia advertising DPC:

Quote
You might be surprised what a dollar can buy you.

At Dollar Photo Club it’s the key to over 27 million amazing stock images; so whatever you’re working on, now there are no limits to your creativity and originality!

That’s the Magic of a Dollar


Agree.

$1 per image – that’s the promise of Dollar Photo Club. Cutting straight through every complex and expensive pricing model with one super simple offer - $1 per image. Always $1. Always high-resolution. Always royalty-free.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Rinderart on April 30, 2014, 11:42
However, pulling my images from Fotolia would not make much sense for me, because then I would loose several thousand dollar a month.

I actually kind of wonder if it matters at all ... In fact, hopefully customers catch wind of this crap and move from ft to maybe .... Dreamstime, that'd be grand.

The pricing at Walmart does not in general deter customers, nor do stories about wages at McDonalds. The only deterrent would be the disappearance of the most sellable images forcing people to search elsewhere.



As far as the industry as a whole goes, if DPC works then there may no longer be any incentive for anyone to produce new microstock photos on anything other than personal vanity.

Absolutely
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: brisoca on April 30, 2014, 12:32
Do you remember when in September 2011 Fotolia reserved the right to put higher-ranked contributors back to white level ranking because of DepositPhotos low prices? http://www.microstockgroup.com/fotolia-com/return-to-start-fotolia-reserves-right-to-put-you-back-at-white-ranking/ (http://www.microstockgroup.com/fotolia-com/return-to-start-fotolia-reserves-right-to-put-you-back-at-white-ranking/)

Quote
Over the last few months, we've seen new competitors offering pricing
and commission rates that are lower than our white ranking levels.
This is a threat to our business, for the market as whole, and for
you, our contributors. This is an issue that must be addressed for us
to remain competitive.

We have been obliged to modify our pricing and payment policies to
allow Fotolia to adjust prices/commissions on a case by case basis.
When a contributor sells on sites with significantly lower pricing and
commissions, we will reset their rank to white to allow for
competition.

Together, we'll work towards building a stronger stock photography
market, and continue to enhance Fotolia's reputation and
competitiveness as a leading microstock agency.


They were worried that these low prices were a threat for their business, for the market as a whole, and for the contributors. Ironically, what Fotolia have done now with DPC is so much worse!!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Pixart on April 30, 2014, 12:55
OMG, thanks for that reminder brisoca! 

Just imagine how proud they will be in 2 years when the whole marked is selling photos for $1 and they are forced to lower theirs to 50 cents.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: stockastic on April 30, 2014, 13:01
The real problem is that these agencies have 10s of millions of images, a large percentage of which were parked there long ago by people who don't pay attention to new developments, don't read this forum, and have decided to just take whatever they get for however long it lasts.   So bottom feeders like FT can count on having enough reasonably good material for a long time to come, no matter what they do.   They  compete on nothing but price and that can only lead in one direction.   

I don't see any hope of a turnaround.  Many people are clinging to the idea that SS is somehow our friend and is wearing the white hat, but I'd say that's a fantasy.  Let the minus-ing begin...

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: bolsher on April 30, 2014, 13:05


I don't see any hope of a turnaround.  Many people are clinging to the idea that SS is somehow our friend and is wearing the white hat, but I'd say that's a fantasy.  Let the minus-ing begin...

Look at their HQ in N.Y., there you can see wheres our money.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: MatHayward on April 30, 2014, 13:08
Every day many requests are sent from Dollar Photo Club members wanting to purchase an Extended License.  In response they are directed to Fotolia to make the purchase.  I’ve just been notified that Dollar Photo Club will soon be adding an Extended License. The commission paid to photographers will be an even $30 (US).  The cost for the member for this license will be $50 resulting in a 60% commission rate for contributors.

If you have any questions, please email directly:  [email protected]
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: disorderly on April 30, 2014, 13:10


I don't see any hope of a turnaround.  Many people are clinging to the idea that SS is somehow our friend and is wearing the white hat, but I'd say that's a fantasy.  Let the minus-ing begin...

Look at their HQ in N.Y., there you can see wheres our money.

I don't think that's fair.  Judging by the number of ads I see and hear, I expect marketing and advertising are a much more significant expense than their offices.  And that's an expense that brings in more customers, meaning we get a slice of a growing pie.  Works for me.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: mlwinphoto on April 30, 2014, 13:10
The real problem is that these agencies have 10s of millions of images, a large percentage of which were parked there long ago by people who don't pay attention to new developments, don't read this forum, and have decided to just take whatever they get for however long it lasts.   So bottom feeders like FT can count on having enough reasonably good material for a long time to come, no matter what they do.   They  compete on nothing but price and that can only lead in one direction.   

I don't see any hope of a turnaround.  Many people are clinging to the idea that SS is somehow our friend and is wearing the white hat, but I'd say that's a fantasy.  Let the minus-ing begin...

A plus from me.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: stocked on April 30, 2014, 13:11


I don't see any hope of a turnaround.  Many people are clinging to the idea that SS is somehow our friend and is wearing the white hat, but I'd say that's a fantasy.  Let the minus-ing begin...

Look at their HQ in N.Y., there you can see wheres our money.

I don't think that's fair.  Judging by the number of ads I see and hear, I expect marketing and advertising are a much more significant expense than their offices.  And that's an expense that brings in more customers, meaning we get a slice of a growing pie.  Works for me.
I would say let's stay on the DPC/Fotolia issue here everything else new thread please
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: gostwyck on April 30, 2014, 13:19
Every day many requests are sent from Dollar Photo Club members wanting to purchase an Extended License.  In response they are directed to Fotolia to make the purchase.  I’ve just been notified that Dollar Photo Club will soon be adding an Extended License. The commission paid to photographers will be an even $30 (US).  The cost for the member for this license will be $50 resulting in a 60% commission rate for contributors.

If you have any questions, please email directly:  [email protected]

I'm an Emerald contributor and I almost can't remember when I last had an EL at FT. Certainly none this year so far.

In contrast I've had 9 ELs at SS this month. Guess which business I want to be "disrupted"?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Pixart on April 30, 2014, 13:20
Every day many requests are sent from Dollar Photo Club members wanting to purchase an Extended License.  In response they are directed to Fotolia to make the purchase.  I’ve just been notified that Dollar Photo Club will soon be adding an Extended License. The commission paid to photographers will be an even $30 (US).  The cost for the member for this license will be $50 resulting in a 60% commission rate for contributors.

If you have any questions, please email directly:  [email protected]

Will it be an "even $U.S.30" regardless of contributor canister level on the parent site Fotolia or wether the contributor has raised their EL prices on Fotolia from default when uploading?   I might be wrong, but doesn't a default EL on Fotolia pay around $6?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: DF_Studios on April 30, 2014, 13:21
I think the highest I've made on Fotolia is 69 cents.  I stopped uploading months ago.  Just SS and DT for me these days.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on April 30, 2014, 13:21
Every day many requests are sent from Dollar Photo Club members wanting to purchase an Extended License.  In response they are directed to Fotolia to make the purchase.  I’ve just been notified that Dollar Photo Club will soon be adding an Extended License. The commission paid to photographers will be an even $30 (US).  The cost for the member for this license will be $50 resulting in a 60% commission rate for contributors.

For any of us who have been selling for a while and through multiple sites, the ratio of an extended license sales to others is reasonably well established. You cannot solve a basic pricing problem with the volume sales by having a few extended licenses (even though there's nothing wrong with the price and royalty for those, depending on what rights you're including).

This seems as if management thinks that dangling a nice, though very occasional trinket of an EL sale will cause contributors to forget about the fundamental problem.

The tech crunch article quotes Fotolia's owner saying that he's trying to use the pricing to take market share away from Shutterstock and iStock. Almost all of us would lose badly if that were to succeed, $30 EL royalties or no.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: mayaartist on April 30, 2014, 13:26
I've decided to support D-Day and I'm going to delete most of my best sellers at Fotolia today and tomorrow. 

About 250 photos + videos deleted. Tomorrow will be more.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: fujiko on April 30, 2014, 13:29
Just imagine how proud they will be in 2 years when the whole marked is selling photos for $1 and they are forced to lower theirs to 50 cents.

Forced? I think they would be eager to do it.

Every day many requests are sent from Dollar Photo Club members wanting to purchase an Extended License.  In response they are directed to Fotolia to make the purchase.  I’ve just been notified that Dollar Photo Club will soon be adding an Extended License. The commission paid to photographers will be an even $30 (US).  The cost for the member for this license will be $50 resulting in a 60% commission rate for contributors.

I see the next thing fotolia is going to say to promote their disruptive initiative... you can make UP to 60% on a sale and up to $30 on Photos.com.

If 60% is sustainable on Extended Licenses, why not do it on all sales? That would be a real sign that they are working to increase contributor's revenue.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: MxR on April 30, 2014, 13:37

MR FOTOLIA-MAN:

10 dollars is NOT a SUBSCRIPTION PRICE

Is BUY ten images for one image decent PRICE

Is kill On DEAMAND and CREDIT SALES

IS a own SHOT in FOTOLIA FOOT

Is easy to fix being a good deal:

1 month 100 dollars

one year 999 dollars...

One image Ten Dollars

EL 50$? good...

With these solution, many people continue buying credits and on demand images... and i opt in...
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: stockastic on April 30, 2014, 13:41
The tech crunch article quotes Fotolia's owner saying that he's trying to use the pricing to take market share away from Shutterstock and iStock. Almost all of us would lose badly if that were to succeed, $30 EL royalties or no.

In a nutshell.   


Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: bolsher on April 30, 2014, 13:46
I have 30 EL´s in a month at ss, 1 in a year at FT, no joke.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Monty-m-gue on April 30, 2014, 14:09
EL's at FT are as rare as Hen's Teeth. What makes you think the bargain hunters at DPC are suddenly going to want to splash out on EL's?

The issue here is very clear. FT is trying to gain market share and disrupt the market at contributors expense.

I've opted out of DPC and I'll be deleting files from FT tomorrow in a show of support.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: MatHayward on April 30, 2014, 14:15
Every day many requests are sent from Dollar Photo Club members wanting to purchase an Extended License.  In response they are directed to Fotolia to make the purchase.  I’ve just been notified that Dollar Photo Club will soon be adding an Extended License. The commission paid to photographers will be an even $30 (US).  The cost for the member for this license will be $50 resulting in a 60% commission rate for contributors.

If you have any questions, please email directly:  [email protected]

Will it be an "even $U.S.30" regardless of contributor canister level on the parent site Fotolia or wether the contributor has raised their EL prices on Fotolia from default when uploading?   I might be wrong, but doesn't a default EL on Fotolia pay around $6?

Yes, the $30 commission on Extended Licenses will be a flat rate paid to all contributors regardless of rank.

-Mat
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Fairplay on April 30, 2014, 14:18
Who needs EL with such "Standard" license on DPC?!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: steheap on April 30, 2014, 14:32
The more I read of this, the clearer it becomes that Fotolia, with its small market share and revenue, has nothing to lose and a lot to gain from pushing pricing as low as they can go in the expectation that SS and iStock cannot (for financial reasons) or will not follow them. The only people that lose are those bigger agencies and, of course, the contributors who now get these lowly sums for any size of image bought on demand.

Our only action as contributors is to show, as best we can, that we care about this stuff and that we are not going to sit idly by as passive cows in the field and take this from Fotolia. I've removed myself from DPC and will remove myself from Fotolia tomorrow. Even so, we know that there are a whole raft of silent contributors who won't take action, but what choice do WE have.

I guess there is a subset of contributors who may benefit - people who have chosen to put a lot of effort and imagery into Fotolia and not as much elsewhere. I feel sorry for Mat having to defend this race to the bottom.

Steve
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: roede-orm on April 30, 2014, 14:35
Who needs EL with such "Standard" license on DPC?!
Good question!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: bolsher on April 30, 2014, 14:39
Mat,

Fotolia must sent a message like deleting 10$ Package. Also all images must disabled as standard from DPC. I am at a rank between 40 and 70. I will delete my images too. Im very sorry i cannot see my images sold out.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: bolsher on April 30, 2014, 14:40
You destroy our market and yours too
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: steheap on April 30, 2014, 15:03
Quote
You destroy our market and yours too

The trouble is - this is a very logical thing for a smaller agency with a lot of files to do. They will take market share quickly (they believe) due to the predatory pricing and their own share of a now smaller revenue pot will grow. It makes perfect sense for them as a business as long as they are first to do it, and as long as the contributors don't revolt. That is what we must do!

Steve
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: bolsher on April 30, 2014, 15:10
Fotolia is not such a small agency, but i think you re right when you say they want to be the first with this step. So i tell you something more:

If they are the first, there will be a second and a third.

And the bill will be paid from the contributors. What we want to do if Shutterstock make such like this? We re out.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: gbalex on April 30, 2014, 15:21
Fotolia is not such a small agency, but i think you re right when you say they want to be the first with this step. So i tell you something more:

If they are the first, there will be a second and a third.

And the bill will be paid from the contributors. What we want to do if Shutterstock make such like this? We re out.

They are not the first, shutterstock openly admits to keeping pricing stagnate for 9 years to gain market share. The rest of the sites have lost market share as a result. Contributors need to stand up and hold all of the micros accountable for creating a market environment that is not sustainable for contributors. 
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on April 30, 2014, 15:24
Lets keep this about FT. Your soapbox is here http://www.microstockgroup.com/shutterstock-com/ (http://www.microstockgroup.com/shutterstock-com/)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: stocked on April 30, 2014, 15:25
Fotolia is not such a small agency, but i think you re right when you say they want to be the first with this step. So i tell you something more:

If they are the first, there will be a second and a third.

And the bill will be paid from the contributors. What we want to do if Shutterstock make such like this? We re out.

They are not the first, shutterstock openly admits to keeping pricing stagnate for 9 years to gain market share. The rest of the sites have lost market share as a result. Contributors need to stand up and hold all of the micros accountable for creating a market environment that is not sustainable for contributors.
Again lets focus here on the DPC/Fotolia issue thanks!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: cobalt on April 30, 2014, 15:26
I had a look at the site and offer. For a customer it is indeed a very interesting offer, reminds me of the early days of istock, the designers dirty little secret.

The one thing that is good is that the artists are indeed paid the full share of whatever the customer pays. All the money is translated into downloads, nothing is lost. This is indeed different to all regular subs packages where a large amount of the available downloads are never ever used and the money lands with the agency only. I have no idea how much on average is actually downloaded from a subs package.

One problem like many have pointed out is the unlimited license. If they are taking steps to change that, it is a step in the right direction. The next is extended licenses. Ok, Fotolia has very few extended licenses, but the 30 dollar offer /60% is a decent looking carrot.

The real problem is how many single image downloads will we loose, especially for full size images. And how will it change the balance in the overall market.

Although I am supplying several subs site, my real money doesn´t come from subs. It comes from extended licenses, single image sales etc...

Very difficult decision. I am glad that Mat is coming here, but it is also obvious that without the looming boycott threat there wouldn´t have been anyone reaching out to the community. Artists have been complaining about DPC for several months and were ignored.

So only now that real action is being threatened, they react.

I will suspend uploads for the time being and watch how the offer changes. If I don´t like what comes, I will remove my files from DPC. I do appreciate that there is now an opt out. My portfolio is just 680 images right now.

If anything, this again should remind all agencies to take contributors concerns seriously at early stages and not ignore us or belittle the problem by hoping the silent majority approves of everything.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: TimeforReaction on April 30, 2014, 15:28
Hey guys!

I am a professional stockphotographer. That means i live totally from this business. Its no hobby!
Double digits tausends portfolio.

Horrible what happens with FT the last year(?). Horrible what they make with us. The income goes down while uploading much more.
An abo with 5 XXL, DPC, no real communication, no profit for us, no question if we agree with their condititions and so on.
We have just to accept. Nothing to say - nobodies. Hold your mouth and accept.

But i think this time is over because we can not longer produce for this prices. Absolutely not possible.
One day i will work for 1$/hour. Fantastic. No - bevore this will happens i stop with my work for FT.

Stop this small lied abo, stop DPC, stop to give our images for a present. Make your real business and work on your destroyed image.
Its enough. I know many customers which had still left this boat - also other big contributors which are no longer able to accept this way to work.
What happens then?

WE MAKE THE BENEFIT !!! We must work together. But i think the managers behind can not understand what
is a real business. Its win win ... one day can everybody understand this. But than - the game is over.
Quality and honesty are the words.

Stop to destroy us. Make us to partners! Give us our money for what we work very hard.


Ok, let us wait what will happen tomorrow. I deactivate.

M.





Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on April 30, 2014, 15:31
I only have 587 files accepted on FT but I opted out of DPC yesterday. The reason I am not deleting my port from FT is that I have fought for every image to get accepted and I have too much time and frustration invested in my portfolio there. I will see how it pans out in the future and if things turn more sour, I will delete my portfolio, albeit with pain in my heart, knowing the work that was involved to get them there.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: gbalex on April 30, 2014, 15:40
Shutterstock reps are rarely met with hostility here.

Re: Your hall monitor position, I see as always your side of the street is not clear.

I do agree we should keep this on topic, so I will opt out of the back and forth banter.

Back on topic

After a few nights to think about the situation I have decided I will be deleting my entire port on Fotolia May 1st. I opted out yesterday.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: deryl1975 on April 30, 2014, 15:43
Every day many requests are sent from Dollar Photo Club members wanting to purchase an Extended License.  In response they are directed to Fotolia to make the purchase.  I’ve just been notified that Dollar Photo Club will soon be adding an Extended License. The commission paid to photographers will be an even $30 (US).  The cost for the member for this license will be $50 resulting in a 60% commission rate for contributors.

For any of us who have been selling for a while and through multiple sites, the ratio of an extended license sales to others is reasonably well established. You cannot solve a basic pricing problem with the volume sales by having a few extended licenses (even though there's nothing wrong with the price and royalty for those, depending on what rights you're including).

This seems as if management thinks that dangling a nice, though very occasional trinket of an EL sale will cause contributors to forget about the fundamental problem.

The tech crunch article quotes Fotolia's owner saying that he's trying to use the pricing to take market share away from Shutterstock and iStock. Almost all of us would lose badly if that were to succeed, $30 EL royalties or no.

There we go! Even thou- there are missleaded buyers, who will think that they by EL instead of SL.  If in the front page, when you sign up- there is 1$ no limits, no extra money- what do you mean with that? Hah?
That's just misleading. The same thing- we are going to invent EL- so?! The one I just bought isn't fit on my cup? Etc...  just recently they changed the limit to 500.000. What was there before that- unlimited. mark my words- there are more than few of such remarks.  So- just keep reading their interpretation capabilities and deleting my portfolio. :)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: deryl1975 on April 30, 2014, 15:45
Just imagine how proud they will be in 2 years when the whole marked is selling photos for $1 and they are forced to lower theirs to 50 cents.

Forced? I think they would be eager to do it.

Every day many requests are sent from Dollar Photo Club members wanting to purchase an Extended License.  In response they are directed to Fotolia to make the purchase.  I’ve just been notified that Dollar Photo Club will soon be adding an Extended License. The commission paid to photographers will be an even $30 (US).  The cost for the member for this license will be $50 resulting in a 60% commission rate for contributors.

I see the next thing fotolia is going to say to promote their disruptive initiative... you can make UP to 60% on a sale and up to $30 on Photos.com.

If 60% is sustainable on Extended Licenses, why not do it on all sales? That would be a real sign that they are working to increase contributor's revenue.

They (informally via Mike) did that.
Matt Hayward wrotes- Every day many requests are sent from Dollar Photo Club members wanting to purchase an Extended License. In response they are directed to Fotolia to make the purchase. I’ve just been notified that Dollar Photo Club will soon be adding an Extended License. The commission paid to photographers will be an even $30 (US). The cost for the member for this license will be $50 resulting in a 60% commission rate for contributors.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: bolsher on April 30, 2014, 15:56
they lie. our partner lies. our agency lies. they tell "stories", but not the truth. How we can make business with them?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Shelma1 on April 30, 2014, 15:57
The real problem is that these agencies have 10s of millions of images, a large percentage of which were parked there long ago by people who don't pay attention to new developments, don't read this forum, and have decided to just take whatever they get for however long it lasts.   So bottom feeders like FT can count on having enough reasonably good material for a long time to come, no matter what they do.   They  compete on nothing but price and that can only lead in one direction.   

I don't see any hope of a turnaround. 

Not necessarily. If a big deactivation of files occurs tomorrow, many buyers will be unpleasantly surprised to find the images they want are no longer downloadable. A few hundred or thousand experiences like that and DFC gets a bad rep. And you know all the stock sites are paying attention to this group action.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: grumble on April 30, 2014, 16:02
D-day has begun in some parts of the world.
I think it's time to sum things up (Current forum time: April 30, 2014, 15:48).
According to the boycottfotolia.org 87900 images and 67 portfolios have already been deleted.
And according to the posts from microstock.ru (April,25) there was a number of 28,360,932 Royalty Free Stock Photos on the main page and now it shows 28,213,920, so it is minus 147,012 files difference! Add here all those uploads from the contributors who continued uploading. I think that only thanks to all that people Fotolia started some actions and communication. They made some changes to the DPC license and finally introduced opt out option. The problem is that by default everyone still opted-in and they didn't notify contributors about DPC. According to the forums those "You probably heard that we have launched Dollar Photo Club" messages got only the ones who somehow showed their awareness about DPC (by deleting files, support messages, clicking opt out button and even active forums discussions (if forum name is equal to fotolia's display name)). And of course they didn't remove cheap $10 Membership plan. Some contributors already tried and got approved to DPC within an hour - proof http://imagizer.imageshack.us/a/img835/2648/tsxi.png (http://imagizer.imageshack.us/a/img835/2648/tsxi.png)
It is a little bit sad to see some passiveness on English speaking forums about the issue. In comparison only on one of the three main independent Russian speaking microstock forums I've counted 4500+ messages about the DPC since April, 24 till now. It also sad to see people happy about opt out, pulling out your own port from DPC doesn't make the future of industry healthier having in mind that still only small group of contributors aware ot the situation. FT made this only after our petition and only to calm us down. Who knows what they will do some time later.
Thanks to all who signed petition, and helped to spread the world! I think that we should continue to inform contributors about DPC since FT failed to do so.
For now I would like to give you some D-Day tips to make things faster ;D
1) Open My Files page in your account and set show 100 files per page,
2) hold Ctrl and click all 100 deletes with your left mouse button near your files (100 new tabs will open in background),
3) move from page to page with Ctrl+Tab, and click on "delete this file" confirmation button, don't waite page loading - go on,
4) After that hold Ctrl+F4 or Ctrl+W to close all those browser tabs.
5) repeat N1 and have fun! :)
Don't forget that you can use StockSubmitter (http://www.microstockgroup.com/microstocksubmitter/) to do the job (look at the first message in this thread) and now you can choose not to delete videos and option to start with top downloaded, least downloaded, newest or oldest files.
I think everyone (and fotorob ;)) can afford to delete some files to support D-Day and microstock community!
Happy D-Day!
Watch the numbers at fotolia.com and compare (http://imageshack.com/a/img835/9219/6j9w.jpg)

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: deryl1975 on April 30, 2014, 16:14
Just imagine how proud they will be in 2 years when the whole marked is selling photos for $1 and they are forced to lower theirs to 50 cents.

Forced? I think they would be eager to do it.

Every day many requests are sent from Dollar Photo Club members wanting to purchase an Extended License.  In response they are directed to Fotolia to make the purchase.  I’ve just been notified that Dollar Photo Club will soon be adding an Extended License. The commission paid to photographers will be an even $30 (US).  The cost for the member for this license will be $50 resulting in a 60% commission rate for contributors.

I see the next thing fotolia is going to say to promote their disruptive initiative... you can make UP to 60% on a sale and up to $30 on Photos.com.

If 60% is sustainable on Extended Licenses, why not do it on all sales? That would be a real sign that they are working to increase contributor's revenue.

They (informally via Mike) did that.
Matt Hayward wrotes- Every day many requests are sent from Dollar Photo Club members wanting to purchase an Extended License. In response they are directed to Fotolia to make the purchase. I’ve just been notified that Dollar Photo Club will soon be adding an Extended License. The commission paid to photographers will be an even $30 (US). The cost for the member for this license will be $50 resulting in a 60% commission rate for contributors.

 O yes- every one someday wants to feel special. Especially for THE price. All that thing about membership is such a crap.  Pay 10 bucks, (wich appearantly turn ouet to be credits, because you dont't loose them they say so).  Next month comes your 10. usd payment- you still have left some, lets say 5  from previous. This month you sort of can downlod allready 15 hi res images/ vectors.  And so go on on on. The only thing is- their quotation- (Need remarks, but tired to copy links)- looking for large amount buyers  is so bull***,- if you need amount, you go to subscription. Any kind of them is better than this. And even if you buy something you don't  need- it rather will be cheaper than buy from fck'''club, where you have to to pay so called membership (unless you opt out).
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: deryl1975 on April 30, 2014, 16:19
D-day has begun in some parts of the world.
I think it's time to sum things up (Current forum time: April 30, 2014, 15:48).
According to the boycottfotolia.org 87900 images and 67 portfolios have already been deleted.
And according to the posts from microstock.ru (April,25) there was a number of 28,360,932 Royalty Free Stock Photos on the main page and now it shows 28,213,920, so it is minus 147,012 files difference! Add here all those uploads from the contributors who continued uploading. I think that only thanks to all that people Fotolia started some actions and communication. They made some changes to the DPC license and finally introduced opt out option. The problem is that by default everyone still opted-in and they didn't notify contributors about DPC. According to the forums those "You probably heard that we have launched Dollar Photo Club" messages got only the ones who somehow showed their awareness about DPC (by deleting files, support messages, clicking opt out button and even active forums discussions (if forum name is equal to fotolia's display name)). And of course they didn't remove cheap $10 Membership plan. Some contributors already tried and got approved to DPC within an hour - proof [url]http://imagizer.imageshack.us/a/img835/2648/tsxi.png[/url] ([url]http://imagizer.imageshack.us/a/img835/2648/tsxi.png[/url])
It is a little bit sad to see some passiveness on English speaking forums about the issue. In comparison only on one of the three main independent Russian speaking microstock forums I've counted 4500+ messages about the DPC since April, 24 till now. It also sad to see people happy about opt out, pulling out your own port from DPC doesn't make the future of industry healthier having in mind that still only small group of contributors aware ot the situation. FT made this only after our petition and only to calm us down. Who knows what they will do some time later.
Thanks to all who signed petition, and helped to spread the world! I think that we should continue to inform contributors about DPC since FT failed to do so.
For now I would like to give you some D-Day tips to make things faster ;D
1) Open My Files page in your account and set show 100 files per page,
2) hold Ctrl and click all 100 deletes with your left mouse button near your files (100 new tabs will open in background),
3) move from page to page with Ctrl+Tab, and click on "delete this file" confirmation button, don't waite page loading - go on,
4) After that hold Ctrl+F4 or Ctrl+W to close all those browser tabs.
5) repeat N1 and have fun! :)
Don't forget that you can use StockSubmitter ([url]http://www.microstockgroup.com/microstocksubmitter/[/url]) to do the job (look at the first message in this thread) and now you can choose not to delete videos and option to start with top downloaded, least downloaded, newest or oldest files.
I think everyone (and fotorob ;)) can afford to delete some files to support D-Day and microstock community!
Happy D-Day!
Watch the numbers at fotolia.com and compare ([url]http://imageshack.com/a/img835/9219/6j9w.jpg[/url])


Well keep on! Thanks! And the day is in here allready begun! Off to delete section! See ya guys in #boycottfotolia.org
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Dirima on April 30, 2014, 16:29
In 40 min will start day 1 here in Spain. I will delete some of my photos too for supporting our reasonable demands. In have opt out already.

Message for spanish speakers;

Aprovecho para animar a otros compañeros a unirse a la protesta y a rechazar la opción de incluir su contenido en Dollar Photo Club, que está activada por defecto. Pueden hacerlo en;
Mi Cuenta / mi perfil / parámetros de colaborador / vender mis contenidos en Dpc
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: cobalt on April 30, 2014, 16:30
I am very impressed with the strength and passion of the Russian language initiative. I understand if people are disappointed by the slower reaction here. But I think this might just reflect that Fotolia is not such a strong agency in the English speaking world. If you just make 20 dollars a month with Fotolia, you will not give it that much attention.

Fotolia is a very strong agency in Europe/Russia, but has little market share in North America.

The German fotolia board has a very frank discussion, and lots of respect for the initiative. Without the protest the changes announced in the last two days wouldn´t have happened.

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Niakris on April 30, 2014, 16:32
My wife just removed her entire portfolio from FT as the part of 1st May protest (it is already 1st May there)

It was really hard to do it because it is plain loss of 10% of microstock earnings.
But we believe that this will help both us to make more money from ondemand/single sales on other agencies and the industry to stop this race to the bottom.

That's very sad but FT leaves no other option for contributors by ignoring their voice.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: MxR on April 30, 2014, 16:41
Deleiting...
Up!!

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: deryl1975 on April 30, 2014, 16:41
In 40 min will start day 1 here in Spain. I will delete some of my photos too for supporting our reasonable demands. In have opt out already.

Message for spanish speakers;

Aprovecho para animar a otros compañeros a unirse a la protesta y a rechazar la opción de incluir su contenido en Dollar Photo Club, que está activada por defecto. Pueden hacerlo en;
Mi Cuenta / mi perfil / parámetros de colaborador / vender mis contenidos en Dpc

Gracias por su apoyo y comprensión
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ArtesiaWells on April 30, 2014, 16:45
Hi

I have been in this less than a year so I am certainly not an expert. It has been a surprisingly fun, struggling and learning experience to build up a small portfolio and try to think 'microstock'.

Now, I thought I would share a few thoughts on my perspective of this world that may come out as a bit simplified, but still, I feel there is a 'the emperor has no clothes' scenario here that many of you, us, need to wake up from.

Don't ever forget this (1):

The world needs new, unique, outstanding, beautiful and interesting images, vectors, sketches, visuals like never ever before and this demand will double and triple over the next years. Creating an image is very hard work and takes plenty of talent and skill as you know, but maybe forgot to value. As image makers we need to visualize, know various techniques, have color skills, know everything from sketching, design, computer skills, word skills for key wording and so much more.

I feel very disturbed when agencies dump prices like what is happening with Fotolia and the cheap dollar club just now. In my world it is a violation of a silent agreement that should be underlying all business you do in a partnership.  >:(

The damage was done simply by them trying because it revealed a very ugly attitude. Trust needs to be earned, and I don't think it helps to change conditions just because of our D-day reaction.

Is there an international stock photographers association? And a counterpart like a stock agency association? Why not get together with some of the honest and ethical smaller agencies and set up a midsize, mid stock or micro stock photographer's owned agency.

Some have perhaps tried and done that. I guess there are lots of 'doesn't work because…' I guess there are lots of small, midsize agencies struggling. Maybe someone can get an idea on some steps that could be taken for a win-win situation for everyone.

But what I think I am mostly after is a way to kind of group together and agree on a few basic standards that we want to see in a stock agency. This 'group' should also be prepared to take a stand, ignore and leave out agencies that don't want to adhere to those standards.

This group could invite leadership from the stock agencies and have yearly discussions that should be about the future of photography, image creating, markets etc. There could be negotiations about development yearly, agreements that two parts would be held accountable to keep. Vows to keep every year.

The market would accept whatever the status would be, if they want to buy images with a quality mark through acceptable agencies on the good list.

If they want to buy from the dollar clubs, then let them.

Don't ever forget this (2):
You can't be a doormat until you lay down!

Stand up and walk away from this.
Your work is too valuable.
Something great may come of this.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Dirima on April 30, 2014, 16:48
In 40 min will start day 1 here in Spain. I will delete some of my photos too for supporting our reasonable demands. In have opt out already.

Message for spanish speakers;

Aprovecho para animar a otros compañeros a unirse a la protesta y a rechazar la opción de incluir su contenido en Dollar Photo Club, que está activada por defecto. Pueden hacerlo en;
Mi Cuenta / mi perfil / parámetros de colaborador / vender mis contenidos en Dpc

Gracias por su apoyo y comprensión

De nada, es por el interés de todos nosotros. Tenemos que hacernos valer, nadie va a valorar nuestro tabajo si no empezamos nosotros mismos por defenderlo. ¡Un saludo!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Noedelhap on April 30, 2014, 16:50
Within 10 minutes it's May 1st here and to support the cause I will delete some images as well.

Edit: Done!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: grumble on April 30, 2014, 17:39
Happy D-Day!
Watch the numbers at fotolia.com and compare ([url]http://imageshack.com/a/img835/9219/6j9w.jpg[/url])

Hour and a half later ;D
(http://imageshack.com/a/img842/4817/3xer.jpg)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ouchie on April 30, 2014, 17:40
i did not know what is going on, i just saw this.

havent decided to pull my pics yet.

last time i closed my istock port and a lot of good that did....i just shot my self in the foot.

fyi, i never reactivated it, like otheres.

anyway how do i OPT OUT my fololia pics, while i decide if i want to shoot my other foot.
thank you
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: 4seasons on April 30, 2014, 17:43
I'm in microstock business from the very beginning. I have seen the birth of all main agencies- iStockphoto, Dreamstime, Shutterstock, Fotolia, BS, CS, 123RF etc. I watched how they grew up. And I saw how they acted at one point or another. Through the years Istockphoto and Fotolia appeared to be the most unfriendly agencies. Is so pity because Fotolia at one period (about 2007-2009) was my earner number one. I have 3500+ files on FT. I stopped upload a long time ago and now I'm deleting my photos in consolidation with Fotolia D-Day. I don't know yet how many I will delete- maybe half of them or maybe my all portfolio. But the fact is- I am with hardly working photogs and against abuse of agency. Good luck to my all colleagues!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Dirima on April 30, 2014, 18:05
120 images deleted from my port. Maybe more in a few hours. Hope it will be helpful.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on April 30, 2014, 18:06

anyway how do i OPT OUT my fololia pics, while i decide if i want to shoot my other foot.

One of my photographer friends who is at Fotolia posted this after I alerted people on Facebook (I hope this helps; I'm not with Fotolia any more so I can't use my experience)

" I found it too - it is in Profile, then Contributor Parameters and as Jo Ann says, it is called the DPC"
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Julied83 on April 30, 2014, 18:14
Deleted 15 images, will delete more later !
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Monty-m-gue on April 30, 2014, 18:26
Just done a batch of deletions. Might do some more in the morning...
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: grumble on April 30, 2014, 18:31
Just deleted 800 photos and 3d-renders so far, will continue in the morning (it's 2:30 a.m. here in Belarus).
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: deryl1975 on April 30, 2014, 18:45
So far 212 left. Just ready for kick them all- Ill leave one! :) - this one fits to be last one standing -http://eu.fotolia.com/Member/IndexContent/23713697
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: DallasP on April 30, 2014, 19:00
Still a good 6 hours early for me here. But, I wasn't about to let all of you guys have the fun without me. I deleted all the photos and sent this
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: marthamarks on April 30, 2014, 20:34
Trust needs to be earned, and I don't think it helps to change conditions just because of our D-day reaction.

You are very right, Artesia. And the flip side of that is that once trust is lost, it's devilishly difficult to get it back.

I have a hunch that the one who has shot himself in the foot here is Oleg at Fotolia.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ouchie on April 30, 2014, 20:39

anyway how do i OPT OUT my fololia pics, while i decide if i want to shoot my other foot.

One of my photographer friends who is at Fotolia posted this after I alerted people on Facebook (I hope this helps; I'm not with Fotolia any more so I can't use my experience)

" I found it too - it is in Profile, then Contributor Parameters and as Jo Ann says, it is called the DPC"

thank you!
that was it, if anyone wants to not allow them to sell you photos on DPC (opt out) follow the above steps. thaks again.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: emblem on April 30, 2014, 21:17
Opted out...done.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: DF_Studios on April 30, 2014, 21:20
Thanks for the opt out info.  That was VERY hidden.  Down right sneaky.  Kind of like when Kentucky Fried Chicken became "KFC" so you wouldn't notice the fried.

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Pixart on April 30, 2014, 23:42
Another 40,000 less....
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 01, 2014, 01:02
28,102,064 Royalty Free Stock Photos
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Pixart on May 01, 2014, 01:09
Another 40,000 less....
That quote got some likes... I hope no one thought I meant that I removed 40k of my own LOL.   I've been watching the numbers :)

Sigh.  I just started uploading a few here and there again after the last time I got mad at them and deleted so many....  here we go again!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: byman on May 01, 2014, 01:28
removed 50 new
others following during the day...
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: WindyTai on May 01, 2014, 02:04
Just to inform you guys here that I think over 30+ Thai microstockers already Opt out of DCP. And some of them have over 5000 great pictures and top quality illustration in their port. But I don't know yet who will actually deleting their port.

Anyway, the news are spreading to all people we can contact!!!  ;)

Thanks for all the effort of everyone who want to save the microstock industries.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: WindyTai on May 01, 2014, 02:07
the number is going down
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: pixsol on May 01, 2014, 02:07
28,079,022 Royalty Free Stock Photos
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: danivince on May 01, 2014, 02:14
I removed 50 picture.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: bolsher on May 01, 2014, 02:32
I think the dollarphotclub will be growing in the next years, because its the cheapest non sub model in the microstock.

Shutterstock must be do something, or many buyers especially in europe will go to this agency. Fotolia will delete the opt out or the ranking without opt out will be uninteresting. We are in the hands of this agency and they are not very friendly.

Not many images are opt out at this time. I have take a look at food. There are round 3,650000 Images at DPC, fotolia 3,830000. So we must tell this to all contributors that there is an opt out and why it is urgent to do this.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ArtesiaWells on May 01, 2014, 02:49
Just saw this in a forum:
alfonso gutierrez: I´m glad to see that photographers are making their voice to be listened and are acting upon. http://boycottfotolia.org/ (http://boycottfotolia.org/)

Alfonso Gutierrez is a photographer and the founder of Agefotostock and President of Cepic

Why invent the wheel? Cepic seems to do interesting work.

The text below should perhaps be given its own thread, but for the purpose of context I'll leave it in:
Cut from http://www.cepic.org/join_us (http://www.cepic.org/join_us)

"What is CEPIC?

CEPIC stands for the Coordination of European Picture Agencies Stock, Press and Heritage. It aims to be the centre of the picture industry.
As the Center of the Picture Industry, CEPIC federates nearly a thousand of picture agencies and photo libraries in 20 countries across Europe, both within and outside the European Union. It has affiliates in North America and Asia. CEPIC's membership includes large and smaller stock photo libraries, major photo news agencies, art galleries and museums, video companies. CEPIC has among its members the big global players such as Getty and Corbis. Through this membership, CEPIC represents more than 150.000 authors in direct licensing. The annual CEPIC Congress is the largest global gathering of the international photo community and extends CEPIC’s network on all five continents. CEPIC has been a member of IPTC since 2005 and of ICOMP since 2009.

Our members are producers, collectors and distributors of content – moving and still images. They are well versed in dealing with rights issues such as the right to reproduce, moral rights of authors and the global distribution of assets for commercial and non commercial use. Our members have been digitising content for over 15 years, and making the resulting digital asset available for commercial use, such as to newspapers, magazines and broadcasters, off and on-line, as well as in non- commercial environments for the purposes of research and education.

Alongside the need for access comes the need to support the creative economy that produces and delivers this work, namely the artists and those that make their work available. CEPIC’s imperative is to ensure that the creators are the beneficiary of direct payment. We believe that based on its professionalism and IT experience, our industry is in a position to propose solutions to the challenges of the Digital Age.

The aim of CEPIC is to be a united voice for the press, stock & heritage organisations of Europe in all matters pertaining to the photographic industry, including, but not limited to the following:

(1) To consolidate copyright protection for photography and ensure that it not be weakened by the process of the harmonisation of copyright laws in European countries. Also to advise on copyright protection as new technology develops.

(2) To fight for comparable trade regulations in all European countries. The now existing different copyright laws in single countries and the lack of a "droit moral" for photography are serious trade barriers which cannot be accepted.

(3) To support the exchange of information between European picture sources and diverse associations with similar interests worldwide.

(4) To develop and fight for ethical standards which will guarantee the protection of rights for all photographers, copyright holders and agencies.

(5) To develop guidelines for a fair business competition between photographers, picture agencies and users."
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: bolsher on May 01, 2014, 03:16
If we want to exist in future, wen need an organization.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Dirima on May 01, 2014, 03:43
Removed 83 more. Total: 203
Ill delete more later.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: jsfoto on May 01, 2014, 03:45
Started to remove images from fotolia ... (and uploaded new files to my own independent Symbiostock site)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Dirima on May 01, 2014, 03:59
My wife has just changed her profile to opt out too.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: fotoVoyager on May 01, 2014, 04:01
Just saw this in a forum:
alfonso gutierrez: I´m glad to see that photographers are making their voice to be listened and are acting upon. [url]http://boycottfotolia.org/[/url] ([url]http://boycottfotolia.org/[/url])

Alfonso Gutierrez is a photographer and the founder of Agefotostock and President of Cepic

Why invent the wheel? Cepic seems to do interesting work.

The text below should perhaps be given its own thread, but for the purpose of context I'll leave it in:
Cut from [url]http://www.cepic.org/join_us[/url] ([url]http://www.cepic.org/join_us[/url])

"What is CEPIC?

CEPIC stands for the Coordination of European Picture Agencies Stock, Press and Heritage. It aims to be the centre of the picture industry.
As the Center of the Picture Industry, CEPIC federates nearly a thousand of picture agencies and photo libraries in 20 countries across Europe, both within and outside the European Union. It has affiliates in North America and Asia. CEPIC's membership includes large and smaller stock photo libraries, major photo news agencies, art galleries and museums, video companies. CEPIC has among its members the big global players such as Getty and Corbis. Through this membership, CEPIC represents more than 150.000 authors in direct licensing. The annual CEPIC Congress is the largest global gathering of the international photo community and extends CEPIC’s network on all five continents. CEPIC has been a member of IPTC since 2005 and of ICOMP since 2009.

Our members are producers, collectors and distributors of content – moving and still images. They are well versed in dealing with rights issues such as the right to reproduce, moral rights of authors and the global distribution of assets for commercial and non commercial use. Our members have been digitising content for over 15 years, and making the resulting digital asset available for commercial use, such as to newspapers, magazines and broadcasters, off and on-line, as well as in non- commercial environments for the purposes of research and education.

Alongside the need for access comes the need to support the creative economy that produces and delivers this work, namely the artists and those that make their work available. CEPIC’s imperative is to ensure that the creators are the beneficiary of direct payment. We believe that based on its professionalism and IT experience, our industry is in a position to propose solutions to the challenges of the Digital Age.

The aim of CEPIC is to be a united voice for the press, stock & heritage organisations of Europe in all matters pertaining to the photographic industry, including, but not limited to the following:

(1) To consolidate copyright protection for photography and ensure that it not be weakened by the process of the harmonisation of copyright laws in European countries. Also to advise on copyright protection as new technology develops.

(2) To fight for comparable trade regulations in all European countries. The now existing different copyright laws in single countries and the lack of a "droit moral" for photography are serious trade barriers which cannot be accepted.

(3) To support the exchange of information between European picture sources and diverse associations with similar interests worldwide.

(4) To develop and fight for ethical standards which will guarantee the protection of rights for all photographers, copyright holders and agencies.

(5) To develop guidelines for a fair business competition between photographers, picture agencies and users."


Unfortunately CEPIC and similar organisations have shown little interest in the interest of artists like us, originally perceived much as a threat rather than the huge pool of talent waiting to be represented that we are.

Collective action is the only way we've achieved change in the past at places like iStock and now Fotolia - the efforts of those who drive it are greatly appreciated.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: brisoca on May 01, 2014, 04:05
I think the dollarphotclub will be growing in the next years, because its the cheapest non sub model in the microstock.

Shutterstock must be do something, or many buyers especially in europe will go to this agency. Fotolia will delete the opt out or the ranking without opt out will be uninteresting. We are in the hands of this agency and they are not very friendly.

Not many images are opt out at this time. I have take a look at food. There are round 3,650000 Images at DPC, fotolia 3,830000. So we must tell this to all contributors that there is an opt out and why it is urgent to do this.

That is why it is crucial that we keep on spreading the word about this fiasco to fellow contributors.

There are still loads of content providers that have no clue about the existence of DPC and D-Day. There’s no way many contributors will keep their files in the DPC on their own accord. The quality content providers will not be able to afford that: it is unsustainable. It will cannibalise sales on the other agencies and we will not get enough income to make it worthwhile to continue in this industry. 

The DPC library will eventually be decimated up to a point when it will no longer be an interesting option for buyers.

If Fotolia have it their way with this, what’s next?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Petr Toman on May 01, 2014, 04:19
Removed all 25 :) sold few of them only, bud the same ones are selling well on SS :) so bye bye FT
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 01, 2014, 04:24
...

Unfortunately CEPIC and similar organisations have shown little interest in the interest of artists like us, originally perceived much as a threat rather than the huge pool of talent waiting to be represented that we are.

Collective action is the only way we've achieved change in the past at places like iStock and now Fotolia - the efforts of those who drive it are greatly appreciated.

I dont see anything mentioned about getting better royalties and pricing either.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ArtesiaWells on May 01, 2014, 04:35
Just saw this in a forum:
alfonso gutierrez: I´m glad to see that photographers are making their voice to be listened and are acting upon. [url]http://boycottfotolia.org/[/url] ([url]http://boycottfotolia.org/[/url])

Alfonso Gutierrez is a photographer and the founder of Agefotostock and President of Cepic

Why invent the wheel? Cepic seems to do interesting work.

The text below should perhaps be given its own thread, but for the purpose of context I'll leave it in:
Cut from [url]http://www.cepic.org/join_us[/url] ([url]http://www.cepic.org/join_us[/url])

"What is CEPIC?

(1) To consolidate copyright protection for photography and ensure that it not be weakened by the process of the harmonisation of copyright laws in European countries. Also to advise on copyright protection as new technology develops.

(2) To fight for comparable trade regulations in all European countries. The now existing different copyright laws in single countries and the lack of a "droit moral" for photography are serious trade barriers which cannot be accepted.

(3) To support the exchange of information between European picture sources and diverse associations with similar interests worldwide.

(4) To develop and fight for ethical standards which will guarantee the protection of rights for all photographers, copyright holders and agencies.

(5) To develop guidelines for a fair business competition between photographers, picture agencies and users."


Unfortunately CEPIC and similar organisations have shown little interest in the interest of artists like us, originally perceived much as a threat rather than the huge pool of talent waiting to be represented that we are.



Appreciate the information.
How sad though…

Someone suggested a newsletter for all photographers.
Mailchimp is free up to 2000 subscribers..
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 01, 2014, 04:49
28,079,022 Royalty Free Stock Photos

28,040,749

Almost below 28m.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Dook on May 01, 2014, 05:02
I don't trust Fotolia anything anymore. I even think they'll be manipulating these number of pictures in their library.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: MxR on May 01, 2014, 05:05
we must continue deleting photos after 1 may...
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: grumble on May 01, 2014, 05:08
- 1600 photos/3d total here.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: dedoma on May 01, 2014, 05:10
I removed 25 picture.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Beppe Grillo on May 01, 2014, 05:25
I removed 1, by solidarity
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: swedstock on May 01, 2014, 05:28
Started the removal some weeks ago. Have now removed over 8 000 images from the Fotolia portfolio. Have about 3 000 left now. Have opted out and will probably remove even more of the remaining images in my port. At least the good sellers. A message must be sent that the agencies must start to treat their contributors with respect and fair royalties, and that we are actually willing to give up portions of our income to make a stand. I cannot support the race to the bottom anymore. It seems like it is mostly the russian, asian and european community that protest most loudly this time. Come on american contributors, and image factories, you should get onboard too!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 01, 2014, 05:46
28,079,022 Royalty Free Stock Photos

28,040,749

Almost below 28m.

28,001,125

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Dirima on May 01, 2014, 06:02
I have just deleted 152 more. Total deleted from me till now: 355.
Ill keep deleting throughout the day.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Monty-m-gue on May 01, 2014, 06:03
I just deleted a few more. Will probably do some more later too. Good to see that total going down on FT. Hope the American contributors can make a difference as the hours pass...
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Dirima on May 01, 2014, 06:14
I just deleted a few more. Will probably do some more later too. Good to see that total going down on FT. Hope the American contributors can make a difference as the hours pass...
Hope this too, here in Spain i guess there are no many contributors with big or medium portfolios, and i think, most of them has no idea about all this. There is a lack of microstock community forums and information channels in spanish. My port had more than 1500 photos: Now there are around 1140. I will keep deleting to reducing it to 1000 probably. I know possibly i will feel it in my income but i rather prefer to protect my income from other agencies. And DCP, i think, is threatening those incomes.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: MxR on May 01, 2014, 06:34
I just deleted a few more. Will probably do some more later too. Good to see that total going down on FT. Hope the American contributors can make a difference as the hours pass...
Hope this too, here in Spain i guess there are no many contributors with big or medium portfolios, and i think, most of them has no idea about all this. There is a lack of microstock community forums and information channels in spanish. My port had more than 1500 photos: Now there are around 1140. I will keep deleting to reducing it to 1000 probably. I know possibly i will feel it in my income but i rather prefer to protect my income from other agencies. And DCP, i think, is threatening those incomes.

Im from spain, im deleiting.

I speak in a forum about these.

I op out.

y earn in Fotolia 25% of my income

Next time fotolia actualize on line files will be 27 million

(vamos que un foro que había de micro se desactivó por un virus y allí no he podido... lo he mencionado en el hilo de venta de fotos de canonistas... pero en España no somos muchos y los muchos son exclusivos de IStock)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: DF_Studios on May 01, 2014, 06:38
I deleted a bunch of my better images last week.  Does anyone know how trustworthy they about actually deleting the files?  I suppose it must take 24 hours or so.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ShadySue on May 01, 2014, 06:42
I think I suddenly saw the "New customer offer: 20% off your next subscription purchase" appear on their home page about half an hour ago.
Was it there yesterday and I just didn't notice?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 01, 2014, 07:05
I think I suddenly saw the "New customer offer: 20% off your next subscription purchase" appear on their home page about half an hour ago.
Was it there yesterday and I just didn't notice?
its been there for a while
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Painter on May 01, 2014, 07:14
I deleted a bunch of my better images last week.  Does anyone know how trustworthy they about actually deleting the files?  I suppose it must take 24 hours or so.

I deleted my best-sellers some days ago, and they seemed to disappear almost immediately after I had deleted them.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ShadySue on May 01, 2014, 07:19
I think I suddenly saw the "New customer offer: 20% off your next subscription purchase" appear on their home page about half an hour ago.
Was it there yesterday and I just didn't notice?
its been there for a while
Tx, I'm so unobservant.  :-[
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Dirima on May 01, 2014, 07:39
Just saw it: 27 970 498 images in fotolia. Under 28M now..
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: dpimborough on May 01, 2014, 08:37
Just saw it: 27 970 498 images in fotolia. Under 28M now..

Shame it couldn't go all the way to a big fat zero!

"Then we'd make the bugger's eyes water"  :o

Then perhaps they would remember they need contributors not as milch cows but as "partners"
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Sean Locke Photography on May 01, 2014, 09:29
http://www.photoarchivenews.com/boycott-fotolia-campaign-over-500k-images-to-be-pulled-today-we-have-the-agency-reaction/ (http://www.photoarchivenews.com/boycott-fotolia-campaign-over-500k-images-to-be-pulled-today-we-have-the-agency-reaction/)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ShadySue on May 01, 2014, 09:55
27,957,877
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Goofy on May 01, 2014, 09:57
and their site is crashed as well! I wonder if the pulling of images caused this to happen?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mantis on May 01, 2014, 10:07
[url]http://www.photoarchivenews.com/boycott-fotolia-campaign-over-500k-images-to-be-pulled-today-we-have-the-agency-reaction/[/url] ([url]http://www.photoarchivenews.com/boycott-fotolia-campaign-over-500k-images-to-be-pulled-today-we-have-the-agency-reaction/[/url])


Well, FT is certainly trying their best to spin a losing proposition.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: grumble on May 01, 2014, 10:08
[url]http://www.photoarchivenews.com/boycott-fotolia-campaign-over-500k-images-to-be-pulled-today-we-have-the-agency-reaction/[/url] ([url]http://www.photoarchivenews.com/boycott-fotolia-campaign-over-500k-images-to-be-pulled-today-we-have-the-agency-reaction/[/url])

"• At any moment photograpgers can opt in or out by adjusting their contributors preferences in their Fotolia member area"
They say it like opt out has always been there..
And who are "photograpgers" by the way.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: gbalex on May 01, 2014, 10:29
Done, StockSubmitter made the process painless. Showed up on the fotolia site immediately.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Pixart on May 01, 2014, 10:31
Glad to see my files gone from DPC today!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: pictureman75 on May 01, 2014, 11:03
Hello Guys,
I think until now d-day is really big success for all of us - but what will happen afterwards?
One idea from me - somebody of the russian initiatores should write a press release about this initiative ... then we should translate it into the most important languages and send it to all media we can, especially online-media and spezialized press. This could give our initiative a lot of more power ...
Thanks to all for participating in d-day!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: bolsher on May 01, 2014, 11:03
[url]http://www.photoarchivenews.com/boycott-fotolia-campaign-over-500k-images-to-be-pulled-today-we-have-the-agency-reaction/[/url] ([url]http://www.photoarchivenews.com/boycott-fotolia-campaign-over-500k-images-to-be-pulled-today-we-have-the-agency-reaction/[/url])

"• At any moment photograpgers can opt in or out by adjusting their contributors preferences in their Fotolia member area"
They say it like opt out has always been there..
And who are "photograpgers" by the way.


One BIG POINT MORE that they are not our friends
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: bolsher on May 01, 2014, 11:05
Hello Guys,
I think until now d-day is really big success for all of us - but what will happen afterwards?
One idea from me - somebody of the russian initiatores should write a press release about this initiative ... then we should translate it into the most important languages and send it to all media we can, especially online-media and spezialized press. This could give our initiative a lot of more power ...
Thanks to all for participating in d-day!

I think its a great idea. But we must do something more.Maybe we msut talk with the other agencies and ask them to work TOGETHER against this rubbish.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: bolsher on May 01, 2014, 11:16
Fotolia don t want to make the opt out as standard disabled. So we must get in contact to all stockers, that they know about the DPC, but how?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Dirima on May 01, 2014, 11:21
+152 images deleted. Total: 507 images removed from my portfolio.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: bolsher on May 01, 2014, 11:26
Hello Guys,
I think until now d-day is really big success for all of us - but what will happen afterwards?
One idea from me - somebody of the russian initiatores should write a press release about this initiative ... then we should translate it into the most important languages and send it to all media we can, especially online-media and spezialized press. This could give our initiative a lot of more power ...
Thanks to all for participating in d-day!

I think its a great idea. But we must do something more.Maybe we msut talk with the other agencies and ask them to work TOGETHER against this rubbish.

In one post in another forum there was the idea to make a youtube video and viral marketing to get in contact with the other contributors
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 01, 2014, 11:31
Hello Guys,
I think until now d-day is really big success for all of us - but what will happen afterwards?
One idea from me - somebody of the russian initiatores should write a press release about this initiative ... then we should translate it into the most important languages and send it to all media we can, especially online-media and spezialized press. This could give our initiative a lot of more power ...
Thanks to all for participating in d-day!
Send it to me in a PM or post it here and I will put it on my blog as well
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: bolsher on May 01, 2014, 11:39
What is with pic workflow, picniche, stock performer,etc. We are their clients and they participate and live from the health of the stock market too?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: bolsher on May 01, 2014, 11:41
Maybe another big agency can make an interview about the dangerous effects of 1$ agencies and what we can do.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: lionheart on May 01, 2014, 11:49
Just deleted 50 files of my quite small portfolio there.
Anyway, FT is the most picky agency in terms of acceptance.
How often did i receive rejections telling "we have already lots of similar objects ..."
and when searching for similar files i rarely could find one, that was really similar
to the one i uploaded.
And how sad it is to see xxl-files sell for just 0,27 €.
I hope this D-Day really moves something!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 01, 2014, 11:54
27,950,742
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: PhotoBomb on May 01, 2014, 11:56
Deleted 100+
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: DallasP on May 01, 2014, 12:40
Hello Guys,
I think until now d-day is really big success for all of us - but what will happen afterwards?
One idea from me - somebody of the russian initiatores should write a press release about this initiative ... then we should translate it into the most important languages and send it to all media we can, especially online-media and spezialized press. This could give our initiative a lot of more power ...
Thanks to all for participating in d-day!

I think its a great idea. But we must do something more.Maybe we msut talk with the other agencies and ask them to work TOGETHER against this rubbish.

In one post in another forum there was the idea to make a youtube video and viral marketing to get in contact with the other contributors

I was deleting mine during an "On Air" hangout last night if that counts ...
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Darkves on May 01, 2014, 12:43
1.
Quote
Hello,
I want my files to be deleted from DPC!
I did not give you right to put them there.
Thanks


2.
Quote
Dear Xxxxx,

First, I would like to say we appreciate your work and collaboration.
Regarding our latest project "Dollar Photo Club", it is a new business model, but basically it is just a new subscription. The goal of Dollar Photo Club is to improve exposure to your portfolio and to increase sales.

Our contributors are important to us and under no circumstance will we jeopardize our relationship with them. We share a common interest and goal with you!

Dollar Photo Club is not aimed for one-time image purchases. On the contrary, it is aimed for serious buyers who need large numbers of images and need them often.

The project is monitored daily, every membership request from a potential customer is treated as a separate order. Only requests from serious buyers are admitted and validated.

With this new model we are selling more images and making sure the clients will return to us for future transactions.

Dollar Photo Club offers more exposure, distribution and the possibility to increase your revenue.
Dollar Photo Club is based on the Fotolia commission program so your royalties will stay the same, but your revenue will grow. Every image downloaded at Dollar Photo Club is paid to the artist through Fotolia immediately.

The license sold via Dollar Photo Club is a Standard license and is now limited to 500,000 copies. Members that need Extended licenses are referred to Fotolia to purchase them. Soon an Extended License will be made available to Dollar Photo Club members at rates similar to those at Fotolia.

In addition, I would like to mention that the Dollar Photo Club subscription rate of $1 per image is not the lowest in the industry. Daily subscriptions on other agencies offer images from 33 cents per image, which is much less expensive than the price at Dollar Photo Club.

A Dollar Photo Club membership is actually more beneficial to the contributors than traditional subscriptions. In a traditional subscription if the subscription expires, unused downloads also expire. As a result, no commission is paid. At Dollar Photo Club, even after a member cancels their membership they can continue to use their unused downloads. This means that a higher percentage of money spent goes to the photographer. We’ve been seeing some exciting results with Dollar Photo Club as we are able to capture business in previously untapped markets. We expect even greater results in the near future.

Our goal is to double your revenue at Fotolia through Dollar Photo Club within the next 3 years starting with a 20% increase in sales in the first 12 months. We kindly ask for your patience during this period of growth.

The Fotolia team cares very much for the photographers and respects your opinions and feedback. Your concerns about being in Dollar Photo Club have been heard and soon an option for contributors to choose will be made available to all Fotolia contributors. In the meantime if you do not want your images sold through Dollar Photo Club send your request via a Fotolia customer support ticket and you will be manually removed.

As mentioned, our contributors are very important to us and we will do our very best to ensure they will get the highest earnings possible.

Feel free to contact us regarding any of the above or other issues

Kind regards,

Fotolia CS Team U.S.A.
+1 888-674-2299
Royalty-free Images - [url=http://www.fotolia.com]www.fotolia.com[/url] ([url]http://www.fotolia.com[/url])


3.
Quote
The problem is that you used my works to your needs, without my permission. I didn't permit you to do that, it was against my will and illegal.
Since United states of America is contracting party of Berne Convention for the Protection of Literary and Artistic Works and under that convention it is illegal for anyone else to use the author's work except the author.
You were, and still are, using my works against my will and permission and with that, you are breaking the law.


4.
Quote
Dear Xxxxx,

Thank you for writing. While we believe that Dollar Photo Club is an excellent way to drive traffic to your portfolio and to increase your overall sales, we respect your decision to opt out. You can make this change in the 'contributor parameters' section of your profile linked here: [url]https://us.fotolia.com/Member/Modify/Contributor[/url] ([url]https://us.fotolia.com/Member/Modify/Contributor[/url])

If you have any questions regarding Dollar Photo Club please don't hesitate to let us know. You can opt back in at any time should you change your mind.

Kind regards,
Fotolia CS Team U.S.A.
+1 888-674-2299
Royalty-free Images - [url=http://www.fotolia.com]www.fotolia.com[/url] ([url]http://www.fotolia.com[/url])


5.
Quote
Did you read and understand what I have written you in the previous message?


No reply so far
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: DallasP on May 01, 2014, 12:47
What is with pic workflow, picniche, stock performer,etc. We are their clients and they participate and live from the health of the stock market too?

I've had e-mail contact with picniche/picworkflow in the past. I'm sure that if he'd have noticed what was going on he'd have done whatever possible in support of us and d-day. It really was such short notice for so many, especially in the states. Luckily, I'm lazy so my portfolio is small and easy to delete. ;)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: mayaartist on May 01, 2014, 12:51
As promised today I've deleted the rest of my port 472 photos+videos (about 250 I deleted yesterday). I left only one image in my port. I'm very happy to support the D-Day. Happy 1 May!!!

P.S. I had the same good feelings when I deleted my port from iStock.

And today I got o good single on Shutterstok, nice
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: tickstock on May 01, 2014, 13:02
.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: bolsher on May 01, 2014, 13:14
What is with pic workflow, picniche, stock performer,etc. We are their clients and they participate and live from the health of the stock market too?

I've had e-mail contact with picniche/picworkflow in the past. I'm sure that if he'd have noticed what was going on he'd have done whatever possible in support of us and d-day. It really was such short notice for so many, especially in the states. Luckily, I'm lazy so my portfolio is small and easy to delete. ;)

Bob from picworcflow has a blog, there he can wrote about the situation and we can get i contact to the other contributors
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on May 01, 2014, 13:16
It's pretty sad that Fotolia considers our discussions around DPC to be "lots of false information." As far as I can tell, most of what I've read here is accurate information, it's just not painted in marketing speak and false promises of what a good deal this is for us.

Funny how when you strip it down to actual facts, Fotolia regards this as "false information."

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Niakris on May 01, 2014, 13:21
Most of the information Fotolia representatives say about DPC is "lots of false information" I'd say.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: bolsher on May 01, 2014, 13:21
If there is a true information, it was a mistake:-)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Pixart on May 01, 2014, 13:24
For me there is one fact.  TWENTY FIVE CENTS.

I am a supplier.  I am supposed to set the prices.  What other wacked market lets the "stores" decide what they are going to pay their suppliers?  Do you think Walmart says "I'll pay you 25 cents for each pillowcase in the box" and then in 6 months say "I changed our arrangement - I've raised the price on the pillowcases, but I've actually cut your wholesale price to 10 cents".  And furthermore, they have not paid for my content so they should not be able to share it with their partners, take a cut, change licenses and make any decisions.

Rant over.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: pixsol on May 01, 2014, 13:33
27,950,742

27,943,441
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: bolsher on May 01, 2014, 13:43
For me there is one fact.  TWENTY FIVE CENTS.

I am a supplier.  I am supposed to set the prices.  What other wacked market lets the "stores" decide what they are going to pay their suppliers?  Do you think Walmart says "I'll pay you 25 cents for each pillowcase in the box" and then in 6 months say "I changed our arrangement - I've raised the price on the pillowcases, but I've actually cut your wholesale price to 10 cents".  And furthermore, they have not paid for my content so they should not be able to share it with their partners, take a cut, change licenses and make any decisions.

Rant over.

I agree. They cannot cut the prices without agreement. I think its illegal to say thats Subcriptions.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Shelma1 on May 01, 2014, 13:49
For me there is one fact.  TWENTY FIVE CENTS.

I am a supplier.  I am supposed to set the prices.  What other wacked market lets the "stores" decide what they are going to pay their suppliers?  Do you think Walmart says "I'll pay you 25 cents for each pillowcase in the box" and then in 6 months say "I changed our arrangement - I've raised the price on the pillowcases, but I've actually cut your wholesale price to 10 cents".  And furthermore, they have not paid for my content so they should not be able to share it with their partners, take a cut, change licenses and make any decisions.

Rant over.

Yeah, WalMart does do stuff like that. One of many reasons I won't shop there.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: stockastic on May 01, 2014, 14:17
For me there is one fact.  TWENTY FIVE CENTS.

I am a supplier.  I am supposed to set the prices.  What other wacked market lets the "stores" decide what they are going to pay their suppliers?  Do you think Walmart says "I'll pay you 25 cents for each pillowcase in the box" and then in 6 months say "I changed our arrangement - I've raised the price on the pillowcases, but I've actually cut your wholesale price to 10 cents".  And furthermore, they have not paid for my content so they should not be able to share it with their partners, take a cut, change licenses and make any decisions.

Rant over.

I think Walmart actually does things like this when they can get away with it, but that doesn't make it right.  In fact it's a good comparison - it shows what happens when a market becomes controlled by a small number of middlemen and producers have lost all leverage.
 
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: gostwyck on May 01, 2014, 14:48
For me there is one fact.  TWENTY FIVE CENTS.

I am a supplier.  I am supposed to set the prices.  What other wacked market lets the "stores" decide what they are going to pay their suppliers?  Do you think Walmart says "I'll pay you 25 cents for each pillowcase in the box" and then in 6 months say "I changed our arrangement - I've raised the price on the pillowcases, but I've actually cut your wholesale price to 10 cents".  And furthermore, they have not paid for my content so they should not be able to share it with their partners, take a cut, change licenses and make any decisions.

Rant over.

I think Walmart actually does things like this when they can get away with it, but that doesn't make it right.  In fact it's a good comparison - it shows what happens when a market becomes controlled by a small number of middlemen and producers have lost all leverage.

Unfortunately we, as contributors, have a real supply & demand issue that has been building for some time. SS are now up to nearly 300K new images approved each week and that number is still steadily increasing. Whenever there's a massive imbalance between supply and demand it usually results in the price changing.

You can bet the other agencies will be examining FT's move very carefully indeed. Judging by the monthly sales reports IS appear to have been haemorrhaging customers by the bucket-load for over 2 years now. At what point will they be tempted to try a 'new business model' if they have little left to lose with their existing model?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: steheap on May 01, 2014, 15:09
I've written my own little piece on this on my blog: http://www.backyardsilver.com/2014/05/boycott-fotolia-stock-agency/ (http://www.backyardsilver.com/2014/05/boycott-fotolia-stock-agency/)

But quick question - I have been deleting images by hand, but can we not just ask Fotolia to delete the whole account? Would that not be easier? Sorry if I have missed a discussion about this option.

Steve
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: PZF on May 01, 2014, 15:12
Opted out of DPC and started deleting.
Obviously we have to be careful that we don't just add extra advertising to the fact that people can get great stock photos in large sizes for a dollar.....
Really unhappy!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ShadySue on May 01, 2014, 15:15
Judging by the monthly sales reports IS appear to have been haemorrhaging customers by the bucket-load for over 2 years now. At what point will they be tempted to try a 'new business model' if they have little left to lose with their existing model?
They were excited to announce "image subscriptions, a 'new' way to license photos and illustrations on iStock."
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: PZF on May 01, 2014, 15:19
Re FT DPC
can't we just get onto as many sites as poss (FB, FBfanclub, Steve's digicams etc) and point out that one way FT manages to do well is by paying contributors extremely low rates - even for the microstock industry? And push Fair Trade type ideas?
Just a thought, probably way too simplistic......and such tactics don't seem to deter shoppers from Primark etc in the UK......
:(
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: brisoca on May 01, 2014, 15:54
More important than deleting a portion of your portfolio from Fotolia is to opt-out of the DPC. Those of you who have not done so already, please consider doing it. You will do yourself and the whole microstock community a huge favor.

My Account > My Profile> Contributor Parameters > Sell my files on DPC - Modify. (Make sure the text now reads “Don’t sell my files on DPC”.)

I can see that some contributors are expressing their discontent with Fotolia's move, some are deleting files from Fotolia (and notifying those deletions here), but they are not opting out of the DPC. I can't understand why.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Sean Locke Photography on May 01, 2014, 16:12
Walmart:
http://m.fastcompany.com/47593/wal-mart-you-dont-know (http://m.fastcompany.com/47593/wal-mart-you-dont-know)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: DallasP on May 01, 2014, 16:17
Officially watching from the sidelines :)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ShadySue on May 01, 2014, 17:42
27,935,717

Congratulations to all involved.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: brisoca on May 01, 2014, 17:52
27,935,717

Congratulations to all involved.

Around 425,000 files deleted today so far!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: stocked on May 01, 2014, 18:26
Could someone of the native speaker here write a short generic text that we could send directly to contributors which still have their images in the Dollar Photo Club, to let them know there is a option out for it and about the foul game Fotolia is playing?
I've found some important contributors that I already researched for contact address and would love to write them a message about this.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ShadySue on May 01, 2014, 19:31
27,934,474
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Goofy on May 01, 2014, 19:37
Keep pounding them until you see    00,000,000 and a 'RIP' Sign on the front page than the mission is fully completed... 8)


Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on May 01, 2014, 19:44
If you mean native English speaker, how about this (edited Fri May 2 to add suggestion to suspend uploading).

Earlier in 2014, Fotolia introduced the Dollar Photo Club, a stock site with all Fotolia's photos and illustrations but with very different pricing. Although Fotolia is presenting this site as exclusive and targeted at high volume buyers, the reality is that for just $10 a month you can sign up for a 10-image "subscription" - $1 per  image, all sizes. Anyone can sign up - and some contributors who had never purchased a single image were sent the offer e-mail!

And the contributor makes a subscription royalty for each sale. Subscription prices without a requirement for the buyer to commit to a high volume of purchases is very very bad news for contributor income.

Contributors were not notified about the drastically different pricing and were initially told there was no way to opt out of this sales channel - except by leaving Fotolia. With the encouragement of a group of contributors pledging to remove their files if things didn't change, Fotolia has relented and provided an option to opt-out of sales at Dollar Photo Club (referred to as DPC in the Contributor Profile)

You can read Fotolia's intentions in their own words in this TechCrunch article:

http://techcrunch.com/2014/04/29/dollarphotoclub-expands-into-more-markets-hits-11000-users/ (http://techcrunch.com/2014/04/29/dollarphotoclub-expands-into-more-markets-hits-11000-users/)

"In an effort to take on the entrenched players in the States, namely Shutterstock and iStock, he created DollarPhotoClub as a pricing play to break into the US." and "It’s disrupting the business model of the two big U.S. players..."

If Dollar Photo Club succeeds, what will get disrupted is contributor income - this is replacing higher royalties with lower, not opening new markets or finding new buyers (and early responses on Twitter and Facebook indicate that's exactly what's happening).

So for your own sake, at a minimum opt out of Dollar Photo Club - on Fotolia, when logged in, it's in Profile, then Contributor Parameters. Another step to take is suspend uploading to Fotolia - subscription sites need a steady stream of new uploads to keep buyers coming back (and advertise the weekly/monthly number of new items). You could also consider whether or not it makes sense to continue with an agency that treats its contributors so shabbily. Remember, the opt out only became available as people started deleting work from Fotolia.

It was 28 million plus images; today, it's 27 million and falling.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: DallasP on May 01, 2014, 20:37
If you mean native English speaker, how about this.

Earlier in 2014, Fotolia introduced the Dollar Photo Club, a stock site with all Fotolia's photos and illustrations but with very different pricing. Although Fotolia is presenting this site as exclusive and targeted at high volume buyers, the reality is that for just $10 a month you can sign up for a 10-image "subscription" - $1 per  image, all sizes. Anyone can sign up - and some contributors who had never purchased a single image were sent the offer e-mail!

And the contributor makes a subscription royalty for each sale. Subscription prices without a requirement for the buyer to commit to a high volume of purchases is very very bad news for contributor income.

Contributors were not notified about the drastically different pricing and were initially told there was no way to opt out of this sales channel - except by leaving Fotolia. With the encouragement of a group of contributors pledging to remove their files if things didn't change, Fotolia has relented and provided an option to opt-out of sales at Dollar Photo Club (referred to as DPC in the Contributor Profile)

You can read Fotolia's intentions in their own words in this TechCrunch article:

[url]http://techcrunch.com/2014/04/29/dollarphotoclub-expands-into-more-markets-hits-11000-users/[/url] ([url]http://techcrunch.com/2014/04/29/dollarphotoclub-expands-into-more-markets-hits-11000-users/[/url])

"In an effort to take on the entrenched players in the States, namely Shutterstock and iStock, he created DollarPhotoClub as a pricing play to break into the US." and "It’s disrupting the business model of the two big U.S. players..."

If Dollar Photo Club succeeds, what will get disrupted is contributor income - this is replacing higher royalties with lower, not opening new markets or finding new buyers (and early responses on Twitter and Facebook indicate that's exactly what's happening).

So for your own sake, at a minimum opt out of Dollar Photo Club - on Fotolia, when logged in, it's in Profile, then Contributor Parameters. You could also consider whether or not it makes sense to support an agency that treats its contributors so shabbily. Remember, the opt out only became available as people started deleting work from Fotolia.

It was 28 million plus images; today, it's 27 million and falling.


Couple small edits but, I borrowed this for

Hi Robert,

I'm not sure if you've heard the news about quite a number of us microstockers boycotting Fotolia because of the "Dollar Photo Club" launched earlier this year. We've already dropped somewhere around 500,000 images at the time of writing off of Fotolia including many accounts that have been entirely deactivated. The protest started in Russia and as such many other countries didn't catch wind of it until just a few days ago. In an effort to help expand our approach and brighten the outcome of a relatively successful deactivation day I thought I'd contact you, as you and your sites are influential in the microstock community.

Just in case you haden't heard about it yet,


Earlier in 2014, Fotolia introduced the Dollar Photo Club, a stock site with all Fotolia's photos and illustrations but with very different pricing. Although Fotolia is presenting this site as exclusive and targeted at high volume buyers, the reality is that for just $10 a month you can sign up for a 10-image "subscription" - $1 per  image, all sizes. Anyone can sign up - and some contributors who had never purchased a single image were sent the offer e-mail!

The contributor makes a subscription royalty for each sale. Subscription prices without a requirement for the buyer to commit to a high volume of purchases is very very bad news for contributor income.

Contributors were not notified about the drastically different pricing and were initially told there was no way to opt out of this sales channel - except by leaving Fotolia. With the encouragement of a group of contributors pledging to remove their files if things didn't change, Fotolia has relented and provided an option to opt-out of sales at Dollar Photo Club (referred to as DPC in the Contributor Profile)

You can read Fotolia's intentions in their own words in this TechCrunch article:

http://techcrunch.com/2014/04/29/dollarphotoclub-expands-into-more-markets-hits-11000-users/ (http://techcrunch.com/2014/04/29/dollarphotoclub-expands-into-more-markets-hits-11000-users/)

"In an effort to take on the entrenched players in the States, namely Shutterstock and iStock, he created DollarPhotoClub as a pricing play to break into the US." and "It’s disrupting the business model of the two big U.S. players..."

If Dollar Photo Club succeeds, what will get disrupted is contributor income - this is replacing higher royalties with lower, not opening new markets or finding new buyers (and early responses on Twitter and Facebook indicate that's exactly what's happening).

If there is anything you can/or are willing to do to assist us in our efforts it would be greatly appreciated. You can find out more and read the arguments of the community at
http://www.microstockgroup.com/fotolia-com/fotolia-d-day-(deactivation-day)-may-1 (http://www.microstockgroup.com/fotolia-com/fotolia-d-day-(deactivation-day)-may-1)

http://boycottfotolia.org/en/answer.html#.U2LxiPldV8H (http://boycottfotolia.org/en/answer.html#.U2LxiPldV8H)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: DF_Studios on May 01, 2014, 21:10
Sean Locke brings up and excellent example of what happens when suppliers deal with discounters in the cautionary tale of Vlasic, Walmart and the giant jar of pickles.

After one has their giant bargain jar of pickles there is no need to buy them again for a very long time.  And when the supplier comes back again to negotiate.  Walmart says, make it cheaper.  After all they have to maintain their reputation as a deep discounter.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Elenathewise on May 01, 2014, 21:20
More important than deleting a portion of your portfolio from Fotolia is to opt-out of the DPC. Those of you who have not done so already, please consider doing it. You will do yourself and the whole microstock community a huge favor.

My Account > My Profile> Contributor Parameters > Sell my files on DPC - Modify. (Make sure the text now reads “Don’t sell my files on DPC”.)

I can see that some contributors are expressing their discontent with Fotolia's move, some are deleting files from Fotolia (and notifying those deletions here), but they are not opting out of the DPC. I can't understand why.

I just opted out of DPC(14,145 files) - I don't want to undercut my sales elsewhere. And the fact that nobody was even notified about it is not cool.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Pilens on May 01, 2014, 22:30
I opted out of DPC as soon as the switch has been sneaked in. Deleted 400+ so far today. Going to delete another 400 or so later tonight. - Thanks to everyone involved stirring this up!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: soundworks on May 02, 2014, 00:50
Opted out. We should stay together or the next DPC will sell images for 25 cents.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 02, 2014, 01:37
27,929,133
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 02, 2014, 01:39
If you mean native English speaker, how about this.

Earlier in 2014, Fotolia introduced the Dollar Photo Club, a stock site with all Fotolia's photos and illustrations but with very different pricing. Although Fotolia is presenting this site as exclusive and targeted at high volume buyers, the reality is that for just $10 a month you can sign up for a 10-image "subscription" - $1 per  image, all sizes. Anyone can sign up - and some contributors who had never purchased a single image were sent the offer e-mail!

And the contributor makes a subscription royalty for each sale. Subscription prices without a requirement for the buyer to commit to a high volume of purchases is very very bad news for contributor income.

Contributors were not notified about the drastically different pricing and were initially told there was no way to opt out of this sales channel - except by leaving Fotolia. With the encouragement of a group of contributors pledging to remove their files if things didn't change, Fotolia has relented and provided an option to opt-out of sales at Dollar Photo Club (referred to as DPC in the Contributor Profile)

You can read Fotolia's intentions in their own words in this TechCrunch article:

[url]http://techcrunch.com/2014/04/29/dollarphotoclub-expands-into-more-markets-hits-11000-users/[/url] ([url]http://techcrunch.com/2014/04/29/dollarphotoclub-expands-into-more-markets-hits-11000-users/[/url])

"In an effort to take on the entrenched players in the States, namely Shutterstock and iStock, he created DollarPhotoClub as a pricing play to break into the US." and "It’s disrupting the business model of the two big U.S. players..."

If Dollar Photo Club succeeds, what will get disrupted is contributor income - this is replacing higher royalties with lower, not opening new markets or finding new buyers (and early responses on Twitter and Facebook indicate that's exactly what's happening).

So for your own sake, at a minimum opt out of Dollar Photo Club - on Fotolia, when logged in, it's in Profile, then Contributor Parameters. You could also consider whether or not it makes sense to support an agency that treats its contributors so shabbily. Remember, the opt out only became available as people started deleting work from Fotolia.

It was 28 million plus images; today, it's 27 million and falling.


Is this to share? Do I need to credit you or post it as orphaned article?
Title: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on May 02, 2014, 02:11
It's fine to share. Perhaps just link back to this post in the thread as the source?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: BaldricksTrousers on May 02, 2014, 02:23
I trust that everybody has noticed the contradiction between the claim that the DFC is aimed at high-volume photo users and the official statement Fotolia provided for photoarchive news
"First of all, I would like to clarify our intention here. Our aim has always been to democritize this market and it’s now to take microstock to the next level: going after the millions of companies around the world who don’t purchase yet any license for the images they use, especially in new markets. "
Of course, the claim that it is targeting entirely new users also contradicts the claim that it is acting to "disrupt the business model" of SS and iStock.
If you fit it all together they appear to be claiming to want to disrupt iStock and SS by gaining customers who steal large volumes of images from somewhere.

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on May 02, 2014, 02:34
My translation of your analysis?  They're not very thoughtful liars :)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 02, 2014, 02:35
It's fine to share. Perhaps just link back to this post in the thread as the source?
perfect. Thanks.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: cobalt on May 02, 2014, 02:40
After reading here and other places and thinking about it, I have decided I will opt out my files from DPC.

In the end it comes down to one question: if this was a new agency that had invited me to supply them with files - would I submit content with the business model they are offering? No, I wouldn't.

I am uploading my files to Fotolia on the basis of what Fotolia offers as an agency: a good mix of subs and credit sales, an established business with a known track record.

If Fotolia had written to me that they are looking for content for new projects, asking me to include my portfolio and promising me a bonus or better ranking if I do, I probably would have seriously considered it. Alamy gives artists the option to include their files in Novel Use projects. That is upfront, honest and transparent. Everyone can decide wether they want to join.

Fotolia could have done the same and with a bonus payment on all earnings I am sure they would have received lots of content.

But to just go behind our backs and include all my files in a new business model without asking me....this is not right.

I won't delete files, but I will opt out and wait with new uploads until this issue is resolved in a sensible manner.

I hope all the agencies are reading here. Please think of a positive way to engage us if you want to go into a new direction. Don't just take our content without our consent.

We work hard for our files and we are the ones who decide the price points we want to offer files for, not you.

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 02, 2014, 03:00
Posted the article on my blog and shared this on Twitter and Facebook. .

Read this! Protect your #images from the race to the bottom! http://semmickphoto.com/2014/05/02/microstock-agency-fotolia-leads-race-bottom/ (http://semmickphoto.com/2014/05/02/microstock-agency-fotolia-leads-race-bottom/) #boycotfotolia
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Pilens on May 02, 2014, 03:09
Posted the article on my blog and shared this on Twitter and Facebook. .

Read this! Protect your #images from the race to the bottom! [url]http://semmickphoto.com/2014/05/02/microstock-agency-fotolia-leads-race-bottom/[/url] ([url]http://semmickphoto.com/2014/05/02/microstock-agency-fotolia-leads-race-bottom/[/url]) #boycotfotolia


+1 - read and tweeted!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 02, 2014, 03:39
I am thinking with all this explaining about DPC on our blogs and trying to round up the troops we might actually help make buyers aware they can get images for 1 dollar. We might be helping the success of DPC. They say there is not such thing as bad publicity.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Savo on May 02, 2014, 03:44
We cannot keep the buyers away from DPC, but we can keep our Pictures away from DPC.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Painter on May 02, 2014, 03:46
Re FT DPC
can't we just get onto as many sites as poss (FB, FBfanclub, Steve's digicams etc) and point out that one way FT manages to do well is by paying contributors extremely low rates - even for the microstock industry? And push Fair Trade type ideas?
Just a thought, probably way too simplistic......and such tactics don't seem to deter shoppers from Primark etc in the UK......
:(
Yes, we should push Fair Trade ideas, but first it would be good if we classified the agencies according to how fair trade we think they are. Which I suggested two days ago:

http://www.microstockgroup.com/site-related/how-may-we-the-contributors-get-stronger-together/msg376714/#msg376714 (http://www.microstockgroup.com/site-related/how-may-we-the-contributors-get-stronger-together/msg376714/#msg376714)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: pixsol on May 02, 2014, 04:02
27,929,133

27,927,857
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: DesignWolf on May 02, 2014, 04:05
Well that's my whole portfolio deleted!

It doesn't matter how much publicity they get if they don't have any photos to sell, but as there will always be people uploading to them your probably right!

Anyway at least I know they wont have mine...Now onto building my own site with Symbiostock :)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Dirima on May 02, 2014, 04:25
Well some more photos deleted from my portfolio: total 530.
I have stopped uploading as well waiting for some movement in the right direction.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Bauman on May 02, 2014, 04:27
I just opted out of DPC (1,238 files).
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: DallasP on May 02, 2014, 04:41
Well that's my whole portfolio deleted!

It doesn't matter how much publicity they get if they don't have any photos to sell, but as there will always be people uploading to them your probably right!

Anyway at least I know they wont have mine...Now onto building my own site with Symbiostock :)

Welcome :) If you need any help I think most of us frequent the symbiostock forum at least daily. It's not 24/7 support but, if you can wait a few hours depending on the time of day or week generally EVERYONE is willing to lend a hand.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: gostwyck on May 02, 2014, 04:50
Some good news. Images from opted-out portfolios have finally disappeared from the DPC site (as opposed to simply being disabled).
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: H2O on May 02, 2014, 05:03
Just opted out 922 files
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: DesignWolf on May 02, 2014, 05:09
Well that's my whole portfolio deleted!

It doesn't matter how much publicity they get if they don't have any photos to sell, but as there will always be people uploading to them your probably right!

Anyway at least I know they wont have mine...Now onto building my own site with Symbiostock :)

Welcome :) If you need any help I think most of us frequent the symbiostock forum at least daily. It's not 24/7 support but, if you can wait a few hours depending on the time of day or week generally EVERYONE is willing to lend a hand.

Thanks DallasP, that's very kind of you to mention that. I think Symbiostock is a great idea, Leo and the others ( sorry don't know any other names ) have done fantastic so far. I will definitely be trying to get my site off the ground, so I'll being asking lots of silly questions no doubt, as I can draw...but suck with technology!

For example, I can't give figure out how to give a post a plus or minus :(
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: DallasP on May 02, 2014, 05:12
Well that's my whole portfolio deleted!

It doesn't matter how much publicity they get if they don't have any photos to sell, but as there will always be people uploading to them your probably right!

Anyway at least I know they wont have mine...Now onto building my own site with Symbiostock :)

Welcome :) If you need any help I think most of us frequent the symbiostock forum at least daily. It's not 24/7 support but, if you can wait a few hours depending on the time of day or week generally EVERYONE is willing to lend a hand.

Thanks DallasP, that's very kind of you to mention that. I think Symbiostock is a great idea, Leo and the others ( sorry don't know any other names ) have done fantastic so far. I will definitely be trying to get my site off the ground, so I'll being asking lots of silly questions no doubt, as I can draw...but suck with technology :(

I can't draw and am ok at technology ;) Ask any silly question you need.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: 7Horses on May 02, 2014, 05:15
Does anyone has an idea how many pictures are left available at the DPC ? Now the opt out option is available probably everybody is using it ?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: DesignWolf on May 02, 2014, 05:21
Well that's my whole portfolio deleted!

It doesn't matter how much publicity they get if they don't have any photos to sell, but as there will always be people uploading to them your probably right!

Anyway at least I know they wont have mine...Now onto building my own site with Symbiostock :)

Welcome :) If you need any help I think most of us frequent the symbiostock forum at least daily. It's not 24/7 support but, if you can wait a few hours depending on the time of day or week generally EVERYONE is willing to lend a hand.

Thanks DallasP, that's very kind of you to mention that. I think Symbiostock is a great idea, Leo and the others ( sorry don't know any other names ) have done fantastic so far. I will definitely be trying to get my site off the ground, so I'll being asking lots of silly questions no doubt, as I can draw...but suck with technology :(

I can't draw and am ok at technology ;) Ask any silly question you need.

Thank you very much, I will definitely do that :)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: stocked on May 02, 2014, 05:39
Does anyone has an idea how many pictures are left available at the DPC ? Now the opt out option is available probably everybody is using it ?
everyone should using it but not everyone know about it, so do the best and spread the word about it with fellow contributors. Good point to start would be their own forums, you will certainly get banned from their forums for this but that's a honor I achieved already several years ago :)!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ShadySue on May 02, 2014, 05:45
Does anyone has an idea how many pictures are left available at the DPC ? Now the opt out option is available probably everybody is using it ?

You could be surprised how many won't.
Anyway, on Ft, there are 139,773 hits for 'horse', all watermarked.
On DPC, there are 123,615, some of which might not actually be downloadable.
I've just noticed that the thums on DPC (c147x220), slightly smaller than on Ft, aren't watermarked. These are still a good size for e.g. a website banner heading.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: stocked on May 02, 2014, 05:51

I've just noticed that the thums on DPC (c147x220), slightly smaller than on Ft, aren't watermarked. These are still a good size for e.g. a website banner heading.
Wow you are right large thumbs for banners free, everything else a Dollar what a shame!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Monty-m-gue on May 02, 2014, 05:52
Some good news. Images from opted-out portfolios have finally disappeared from the DPC site (as opposed to simply being disabled).

Actually, I would prefer that opted out images still appeared on DPC but were not available for download. That would likely frustrate potential buyers. Frustrated customers don't stay customers for long...
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: stocked on May 02, 2014, 05:52
We really have to bring this shabby club down!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Anyka on May 02, 2014, 05:59
Does anyone has an idea how many pictures are left available at the DPC ? Now the opt out option is available probably everybody is using it ?

Has the Opt-Out button moved again?  Mine was there and now it's gone (no more on my Dashboard at "actions").  Logging out/in or deleting cache does not help either.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Shelma1 on May 02, 2014, 06:05
Walmart:
[url]http://m.fastcompany.com/47593/wal-mart-you-dont-know[/url] ([url]http://m.fastcompany.com/47593/wal-mart-you-dont-know[/url])


"Finally, Wal-Mart let Vlasic up for air. "The Wal-Mart guy's response was classic," Young recalls. "He said, 'Well, we've done to pickles what we did to orange juice. We've killed it. We can back off .'"

How disruptive!

They own Sam's Club, too. I won't shop there either. On the other hand, Costco has more fair practices and pays its workers better wages.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: brisoca on May 02, 2014, 06:09
Has the Opt-Out button moved again?  Mine was there and now it's gone (no more on my Dashboard at "actions").  Logging out/in or deleting cache does not help either.

The opt-out button is now hidden: My Account > My Profile> Contributor Parameters > Sell my files on DPC - Modify. (Make sure the text now reads “Don’t sell my files on DPC”.)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Red Dove on May 02, 2014, 06:10
Finally decided I wanted out after seeing Oleg huffing on a fat cigar in his LinkedIn profile and opted out of DPC yesterday.

As for FT, my port will stay there for the time being, for reasons already argued back and forth already in this thread. However, I have deleted 150 files overnight in protest.

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Fairplay on May 02, 2014, 06:33
I'm amazed to see some of the big collections are still on DPC.
Pressmaster, Syda Productions, olly ...

I'll make sure next time when buy images they are not on DPC and are not from contributors who support DPC!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Anyka on May 02, 2014, 06:42
OK, I know I'm late, but I just opted out. 
So that's 7500 files less on DPC.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: BaldricksTrousers on May 02, 2014, 06:53
OK, I know I'm late, but I just opted out. 
So that's 7500 files less on DPC.

It's never too late.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: chrisbradshaw on May 02, 2014, 06:59
Per the "About Us" page on the DPC website: 

"Dollar Photo Club is a dedicated image bank exclusively for creative professionals. Curated by FOTOLIA, the world’s #1 stock photo marketplace, Dollar Photo Club provides unique access to over 25 million images."

Given the number of contributors that are opting out, I don't think they will be able to continue to claim the 25 million for long!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: luissantos84 on May 02, 2014, 07:00
Curated by FOTOLIA, the world’s #1 stock photo marketplace

snip
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Steveball on May 02, 2014, 07:02
Opted out, 978 files.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 02, 2014, 07:03
27,927,829
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mantis on May 02, 2014, 07:11
Opted out 2800 images.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Snowblood on May 02, 2014, 07:12
Opted out from this crap, too.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: dpimborough on May 02, 2014, 07:16
Well that's my photos gone from DPC removed as of today took about 3 days from opt out :D
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: PZF on May 02, 2014, 07:42
Opted out of DPC - ao about a thousand or so there. Deleted a bunch from FT and stopped uploading there for now.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Maximilian on May 02, 2014, 07:45
Opted out of DPC - dont want to kill myself  :D
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Shelma1 on May 02, 2014, 07:59
For example, I can't give figure out how to give a post a plus or minus :(

Do you mean here? There's a heart and a downward arrow at the top of all posts...click the heart for plus and the arrow for minus.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: MxR on May 02, 2014, 08:05
Images now are raising.... :(
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Shelma1 on May 02, 2014, 08:07
First my account was blocked, then yesterday it disappeared. Today it reappeared again. No response via email from support, so I called. "Diego" says his supervisor has to call me back to determine why my account was blocked. In the meantime, I can see they owe me $70.97. I want my money sent and my account deleted.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Dirima on May 02, 2014, 08:10
at this point i wouldnt trust anymore in the counter..
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mantis on May 02, 2014, 08:13
Images now are raising.... :(

Yep, that is the classic sign of the supply pipeline far outweighing the damage we few contributors can do.  That's why FT probably doesn't give a rats ass what we do since they automatically opted in 28 million images and those who are unaware or don't care keep uploading.  There are two sites I am on the fence with anyway and may simply part ways:

1. DP
2. FT

Their sales are crummy and they are the most shady bunch of crooks in micro stock.

I am also about to let go several others but not because of the way they treat contributors, just because of sales.

In any event, my hat is off to anyone who killed but a single image in protest to this horrible, unscrupulous, self serving, in your face, spin master market cheapening strategy.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Painter on May 02, 2014, 08:20
For example, I can't give figure out how to give a post a plus or minus :(

Do you mean here? There's a heart and a downward arrow at the top of all posts...click the heart for plus and the arrow for minus.

I can see no hearts and downward arrows on the posts.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: WindyTai on May 02, 2014, 08:23
Opted out of DPC with 1,300 images of mine

and the person I know which sold BEST SELLING vector illustration of the site with 500+ images Opted out as well.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: luissantos84 on May 02, 2014, 08:33
just opted out for 3615 photos
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Painter on May 02, 2014, 08:35
For example, I can't give figure out how to give a post a plus or minus :(

Do you mean here? There's a heart and a downward arrow at the top of all posts...click the heart for plus and the arrow for minus.

I can see no hearts and downward arrows on the posts.
But after I had posted this I can suddenly see them...has it something to do with how many posts you have made? Sorry this is out of topic, but I had wondered about the same thing.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Anja_Kaiser on May 02, 2014, 08:37
Opted out on day one and deleted a couple of illustrations in order to support the initiative.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Goofy on May 02, 2014, 08:39
Just opted out of DPC 3,084 files...
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Anja_Kaiser on May 02, 2014, 08:43
BTW: People at the German-speaking forums are pretty outspoken about the whole issue and nobody has been banned or booted out so far.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 02, 2014, 08:44
The numbers dropped close to 400.000 on FT, but a lot more opted out of DPC. We cant see that result. And people are still opting out of DPC. So although the numbers might go back up on FT, the hit on DPC is a lot greater, we just cant see it. Stay positive guys.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Snowblood on May 02, 2014, 08:44
@ painter
yep, the number of posts have to be minimum five
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 02, 2014, 08:45
@ painter
yep, the number of posts have to be minimum five
Also, when they get a total sum of 10 down votes the comment will be hidden. I know, I have a few  ;)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Beppe Grillo on May 02, 2014, 08:48
I opted-out 2 days ago and finally my images are no more on this crappy site…
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: brisoca on May 02, 2014, 08:49
Images now are raising.... :(

Yes, but we should not feel demoralised. It has been a bigger success than expected in such short notice. Around 435,000 were deleted on D-Day and today plus some tens of thousands that were deleted before D-Day. And thanks to those deletions we were given the option to opt-out. Now we have to use it and to spread the word. Still loads of fellow contributors don't know about the DPC nor about the opt-out button or where to locate it.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mellimage on May 02, 2014, 08:55
I opted my 860+ images out of DPC
I will not upload to FT for the time being
And focus most of my efforts to agencies that bring a good return and treat me fairly.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: stocked on May 02, 2014, 08:55
BTW: People at the German-speaking forums are pretty outspoken about the whole issue and nobody has been banned or booted out so far.
That's great good to know!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: DesignWolf on May 02, 2014, 09:03
For example, I can't give figure out how to give a post a plus or minus :(

Do you mean here? There's a heart and a downward arrow at the top of all posts...click the heart for plus and the arrow for minus.

Hey Shelma1, Yeah I meant on here, but just like Painter they appeared straight after posting the question! Needed to post more.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Anyka on May 02, 2014, 09:08
I compared the search numbers for the terms Business, People, Beautiful, Animal and Nature, and the average difference between Fotolia and DPC is 17,3%. 

17,3% of 27.900.000 images = 4.798.800 files less on Fotolia than on DPC.
Are these ALL opted-out images ... or had Fotolia forgotten to add a few million to DPC ?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: U11 on May 02, 2014, 09:09
is there a way to see who are the biggest contributors presented on the DPC and try to ask them if they aware?

will it be considered impolite?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: tickstock on May 02, 2014, 09:35
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: hofhoek on May 02, 2014, 09:44
I just noticed Monkey business is still there. He has a huge portfolio: 35.332. Pressmaster (45,609),Ollyi (17,731), Auremar (97,070) !
They don't care or they don't know. Those 4 would make a difference of nearly 200.000!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Noedelhap on May 02, 2014, 09:46
Yeah, my thinking exactly. There are names listed next to the DPC preview images, so we could send those contributors (with big portfolios) an email containing information about DPC.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: DallasP on May 02, 2014, 10:13
First my account was blocked, then yesterday it disappeared. Today it reappeared again. No response via email from support, so I called. "Diego" says his supervisor has to call me back to determine why my account was blocked. In the meantime, I can see they owe me $70.97. I want my money sent and my account deleted.
Mine was blocked :) per request. So far I haven't seen or heard about them sending me any portion of the $5.25. lol. They have sent two messages through their support since deactivating my account, not like I can read them though. lol
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: loop on May 02, 2014, 10:15
at this point i wouldnt trust anymore in the counter..

Yes, I still remember (years ago) when they said in one of their press releases that they were the microstock site with more images online. Jon Oringer himself had to come to these forums to discuss it. (They had far less than SS, an even less than IS).
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on May 02, 2014, 10:38
at this point i wouldnt trust anymore in the counter..

Yes, I still remember (years ago) when they said in one of their press releases that they were the microstock site with more images online. Jon Oringer himself had to come to these forums to discuss it. (They had far less than SS, an even less than IS).

If I recall, they were using all submitted images (i.e. including rejections) and wording things to mask that fact.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: gbalex on May 02, 2014, 10:48
GDUSA
Graphic Design USA Magazine


The Next Step in Simple
http://blog.gdusa.com/the-next-step-in-simple/ (http://blog.gdusa.com/the-next-step-in-simple/)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: WindyTai on May 02, 2014, 10:49
is there a way to see who are the biggest contributors presented on the DPC and try to ask them if they aware?

will it be considered impolite?

I think this is a very good idea. With large portfolio contributor, they are famous at some points, anyone who know them directly or indirectly can inform them about this issue. I bet they are glad to know everything about their agency hidden agenda.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on May 02, 2014, 10:59
Monkey Business Images is run by Cathy Yeulet (http://www.microstockdiaries.com/monkey-business-images.html (http://www.microstockdiaries.com/monkey-business-images.html)) but their web site is pretty minimal (no Contact me link). Their Facebook page hasn't been updated since 2012 and although Cathy is on Facebook and LinkedIn, I don't know her - perhaps someone else here does?

On another topic, I was delighted to see that only three of the images DPC has pinned here - I guess to promote themselves - are still around! The rest get 404 errors :)

http://www.pinterest.com/dollarphotoclub/sweet-dreams/ (http://www.pinterest.com/dollarphotoclub/sweet-dreams/)

The candy in a dish, lollipops and gumdrop pyramid are still there; the rest - 404

I didn't check their other sets of images, but let's hope that's true for the rest too.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: DallasP on May 02, 2014, 11:00
GDUSA
Graphic Design USA Magazine


The Next Step in Simple
[url]http://blog.gdusa.com/the-next-step-in-simple/[/url] ([url]http://blog.gdusa.com/the-next-step-in-simple/[/url])

Eeek
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Sean Locke Photography on May 02, 2014, 11:04
"it became clear that Tscheltzoff has thought long and hard about how to eliminate the last obstacles to easy image access."

Like taking photos from contributors without asking and giving them away for next to nothing, for example.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: steheap on May 02, 2014, 11:14
Quote
GDUSA
Graphic Design USA Magazine


The Next Step in Simple
[url]http://blog.gdusa.com/the-next-step-in-simple/[/url] ([url]http://blog.gdusa.com/the-next-step-in-simple/[/url])


I've added a comment to that blog article. Perhaps some of their readers will see it

Steve
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: rabbit75 on May 02, 2014, 11:18
Opt out all portfolio 4,000+ from DPC. Holding on upload new contents. Anyhow whatever I uploaded does not bring up the income for months.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Painter on May 02, 2014, 11:24
Monkey Business Images is run by Cathy Yeulet ([url]http://www.microstockdiaries.com/monkey-business-images.html[/url] ([url]http://www.microstockdiaries.com/monkey-business-images.html[/url])) but their web site is pretty minimal (no Contact me link). Their Facebook page hasn't been updated since 2012 and although Cathy is on Facebook and LinkedIn, I don't know her - perhaps someone else here does?

On another topic, I was delighted to see that only three of the images DPC has pinned here - I guess to promote themselves - are still around! The rest get 404 errors :)

[url]http://www.pinterest.com/dollarphotoclub/sweet-dreams/[/url] ([url]http://www.pinterest.com/dollarphotoclub/sweet-dreams/[/url])

The candy in a dish, lollipops and gumdrop pyramid are still there; the rest - 404

I didn't check their other sets of images, but let's hope that's true for the rest too.
I get 404 only for one of them.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Tone on May 02, 2014, 11:25
Quote
GDUSA
Graphic Design USA Magazine


The Next Step in Simple
[url]http://blog.gdusa.com/the-next-step-in-simple/[/url] ([url]http://blog.gdusa.com/the-next-step-in-simple/[/url])


I've added a comment to that blog article. Perhaps some of their readers will see it

Steve


I couldn't see any comments. But boy does he look like a smug creep! I hate what they've done which is why my whole portfolio is gone from FT
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on May 02, 2014, 11:28
Does anyone know the Spanish photographer Nito?

http://us.fotolia.com/p/200982272 (http://us.fotolia.com/p/200982272)

He/she has 18K+ images that are currently still opted in to DPC

I found a Shutterstock portfolio, one on Masterfile and various other sites, but no real name anywhere
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: H2O on May 02, 2014, 11:51
It makes me feel very despondent towards FT their supposed to be our Agents and looking after our best interests, not sweating the assets ('US') their supposed to get 'US' the best deal.

Shareholder considerations should come second to contributor, unfortunately FT have mortgaged the future revenues for a quick return to there shareholders who are always going to ask for more.

They are abusing there position and ripping us.

They should cut the revenue to the shareholders and increase our commission.

This is the way to move the 'Agency' forward and in the long term increase the revenues for FT, building a business that will last.

The way they are operating at the moment is classic late twentieth century capitalism which just doesn't work.

I ask myself do they care and the answer is no.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mantis on May 02, 2014, 12:07
Quote
GDUSA
Graphic Design USA Magazine


The Next Step in Simple
[url]http://blog.gdusa.com/the-next-step-in-simple/[/url] ([url]http://blog.gdusa.com/the-next-step-in-simple/[/url])


I've added a comment to that blog article. Perhaps some of their readers will see it

Steve


I didnt see any feedback from you, but I left one. I bet they are cleaning them up.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: alfonsodetomas on May 02, 2014, 12:18
Opt out - 2952 files less for DPC
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Noedelhap on May 02, 2014, 12:24
Quote
GDUSA
Graphic Design USA Magazine


The Next Step in Simple
[url]http://blog.gdusa.com/the-next-step-in-simple/[/url] ([url]http://blog.gdusa.com/the-next-step-in-simple/[/url])


I've added a comment to that blog article. Perhaps some of their readers will see it

Steve


I couldn't see your comment, but I've added mine:

"Most of the images found on DPC are included in the database WITHOUT the consent of Fotolia’s contributors, who were never informed or given the choice to opt-out of this deal.

As it turns out, this new venture is intended to gain market share at the expense of its contributors and the microstock industry as a whole.
Using an aggressive pricing strategy and a low commission structure, contributors are being treated as third-country workers who only get paid a couple of pennies for each image sale.

Microstock supscriptions are already pretty cheap for customers, but this move by Oleg Tscheltzoff devaluates images even further and is destroying the market as we know it, making it harder for contributors to deliver high quality images.

Anyone who contributes to Fotolia, please read more at :
http://boycottfotolia.org/en/petition.html#.U2PTAVdBl8E (http://boycottfotolia.org/en/petition.html#.U2PTAVdBl8E)

You can opt-out of DPC by going to My Account > My Profile > Contributor Parameters and click on Modify."

-Noticed a small error, "third-country" should say "third-world country", but I hope people understand what I meant-
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: r2d2 on May 02, 2014, 12:29
I always use the Google payed link when want to surf to DPC.

I've heard that each click costs the advertiser money ... FT seems to be a big budget for this Google links to have ...
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: DF_Studios on May 02, 2014, 12:29
Just went through and delete more.  Basically trimming off the good stuff.   Leaving the lower quality stuff behind.  If I ever reach a payout on that site I'll probably delete the rest.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: steheap on May 02, 2014, 12:54
Quote
Quote from: steheap on Today at 11:14
Quote
GDUSA
Graphic Design USA Magazine


The Next Step in Simple
[url]http://blog.gdusa.com/the-next-step-in-simple/[/url] ([url]http://blog.gdusa.com/the-next-step-in-simple/[/url])


I've added a comment to that blog article. Perhaps some of their readers will see it

Steve


I couldn't see your comment, but I've added mine:


I only see mine and not yours! Perhaps they have to be approved first?

Steve
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ArenaCreative on May 02, 2014, 13:30
I just opted out as well.  Be sure to click "save" at the bottom of the page after you do so, or it won't stick. 

https://us.fotolia.com/Member/Modify/Contributor

At least we now have the option to opt-out.  NO, I don't want to sell high-resolution for $1, when the buyer only needs to spend a minimum of $10.  That is just not a wise business decision for me.  Thank you Fotolia; but no thanks.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Noedelhap on May 02, 2014, 13:32
Quote
Quote from: steheap on Today at 11:14
Quote
GDUSA
Graphic Design USA Magazine


The Next Step in Simple
[url]http://blog.gdusa.com/the-next-step-in-simple/[/url] ([url]http://blog.gdusa.com/the-next-step-in-simple/[/url])


I've added a comment to that blog article. Perhaps some of their readers will see it

Steve


I couldn't see your comment, but I've added mine:


I only see mine and not yours! Perhaps they have to be approved first?

Steve


I guess so. (Which probably means that'll never happen :D)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: joseis on May 02, 2014, 13:38
Opted out three days ago. 2100 images really removed today on DPC
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ArenaCreative on May 02, 2014, 13:56
Quote
Quote from: steheap on Today at 11:14
Quote
GDUSA
Graphic Design USA Magazine


The Next Step in Simple
[url]http://blog.gdusa.com/the-next-step-in-simple/[/url] ([url]http://blog.gdusa.com/the-next-step-in-simple/[/url])


I've added a comment to that blog article. Perhaps some of their readers will see it

Steve


I couldn't see your comment, but I've added mine:


I only see mine and not yours! Perhaps they have to be approved first?

Steve


I guess so. (Which probably means that'll never happen :D)


That GDUSA mag is a free trade publication for graphic designers - I've been getting it since 2004 at least... meaning Fotolia paid them to publish that.  Whole magazine is a huge advertisement.  Anyone you see mentioned in there in any way shape or form has paid their way in. 

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: dirkr on May 02, 2014, 14:01
I always use the Google payed link when want to surf to DPC.

I've heard that each click costs the advertiser money ... FT seems to be a big budget for this Google links to have ...

That's an interesting approach...

Anyone knows how much a click on a Google ad costs the advertiser?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: r2d2 on May 02, 2014, 14:10
double post please delete!


Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: r2d2 on May 02, 2014, 14:11
I always use the Google payed link when want to surf to DPC.

I've heard that each click costs the advertiser money ... FT seems to be a big budget for this Google links to have ...

That's an interesting approach...

Anyone knows how much a click on a Google ad costs the advertiser?



i dont know how much.
it depends on the popularity of the search word.
it is a budget set and it will show as long as the word search displayed until the budget is exhausted.
Its the Google Adwords programm.

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: fritz on May 02, 2014, 14:20
 I opted out 7,259 files
 Cheers,
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mantis on May 02, 2014, 14:37
Quote
GDUSA
Graphic Design USA Magazine


The Next Step in Simple
[url]http://blog.gdusa.com/the-next-step-in-simple/[/url] ([url]http://blog.gdusa.com/the-next-step-in-simple/[/url])


I've added a comment to that blog article. Perhaps some of their readers will see it

Steve


I couldn't see any comments. But boy does he look like a smug creep! I hate what they've done which is why my whole portfolio is gone from FT


Mine is gone and on another computer it shows zero comments.  * hacks.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: wordplanet on May 02, 2014, 14:58
I dropped Fotolia months ago - Had pared down my portfolio because I hated that I only got $4 for an EL; the dollar photo club was the last straw & I closed my account completely after that was introduced.

Kudos for getting this going and best of luck with this action. You have my support!  8)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: gbalex on May 02, 2014, 16:46
Quote
Quote from: steheap on Today at 11:14
Quote
GDUSA
Graphic Design USA Magazine


The Next Step in Simple
[url]http://blog.gdusa.com/the-next-step-in-simple/[/url] ([url]http://blog.gdusa.com/the-next-step-in-simple/[/url])


I've added a comment to that blog article. Perhaps some of their readers will see it

Steve


I couldn't see your comment, but I've added mine:


I only see mine and not yours! Perhaps they have to be approved first?

Steve


I guess so. (Which probably means that'll never happen :D)


That GDUSA mag is a free trade publication for graphic designers - I've been getting it since 2004 at least... meaning Fotolia paid them to publish that.  Whole magazine is a huge advertisement.  Anyone you see mentioned in there in any way shape or form has paid their way in.


Yes Oleg Tscheltzoff's DPC press release/advertisements are popping up everywhere.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: coprid on May 02, 2014, 16:48
I deleted a little bit  more than 300 pictures on D -Day and stopped upload on Ft. Certainly I opt-out "100 cent club" database. Two of my referrals do it also. May be we have denoted  our point of view. Perhaps 'That's one small step for a man, a giant leap for"  our industry.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: gbalex on May 02, 2014, 17:01
Our efforts do matter, thanks to every one who participated, especially the petition creators who produced the petition and worked to organize and spread this important news.

"It has been said that for evil men to accomplish their purpose, it is only necessary that good men should do nothing."
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: bolsher on May 02, 2014, 17:08
read this: https://twitter.com/oleg12

These are the big buyers....
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 02, 2014, 17:18
The mug's port http://us.fotolia.com/p/371 (http://us.fotolia.com/p/371)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 02, 2014, 17:18
read this: https://twitter.com/oleg12

These are the big buyers....
The tweets of these buyers sound fabricated, I dont know people who talk like that unless its advertising.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: brisoca on May 02, 2014, 17:48
Email from Boycottfotolia.org:

Quote
Dear colleagues!

We want to offer our deepest thanks for all your involvement so far in taking part in the protest over Fotolias actions. As a result of your exposure of the facts about what Dollar Photo Club really is, and the important principles at stake, many microstock contributors learned about the problem for the first time. Solely as a result of these efforts, Fotolia finally informed some contributors about the Dollar Photo Club project, added a Profile option to opt out, and changed the license terms to limit the print run.

None of this would have been achieved without you! Fotolia had to yield and the sole credit for this goes to all of you.
It is true that some goals have not yet been achieved, but the most important thing is we proved we can take a stand for our rights. We made all agencies aware that the contributor community has real power and they need to consider our opinions. We had very little time, insufficient resources, no experience and yet we still achieved so much.

As for the protest – it is not over yet. Lots of contributors still don't know about the Dollar Photo Club. Information about the changes Fotolia made as a direct result of your actions and about our next steps will be published on the website.

Please don't stop spreading the word among your colleagues. We need your support like never before!

With best regards, Boycottfotolia.org team.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: jarih on May 03, 2014, 00:23
I wrote in FT forum and my text was manipulated. I already opt-out my images, but now FT made me PO.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Eco on May 03, 2014, 00:46
I opted out 2 496 files.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: wordplanet on May 03, 2014, 02:30
This is great news! Congrats on your success - great to see how banding together can have such a positive outcome!
Email from Boycottfotolia.org:

Quote
Dear colleagues!

We want to offer our deepest thanks for all your involvement so far in taking part in the protest over Fotolias actions. As a result of your exposure of the facts about what Dollar Photo Club really is, and the important principles at stake, many microstock contributors learned about the problem for the first time. Solely as a result of these efforts, Fotolia finally informed some contributors about the Dollar Photo Club project, added a Profile option to opt out, and changed the license terms to limit the print run.

None of this would have been achieved without you! Fotolia had to yield and the sole credit for this goes to all of you.
It is true that some goals have not yet been achieved, but the most important thing is we proved we can take a stand for our rights. We made all agencies aware that the contributor community has real power and they need to consider our opinions. We had very little time, insufficient resources, no experience and yet we still achieved so much.

As for the protest – it is not over yet. Lots of contributors still don't know about the Dollar Photo Club. Information about the changes Fotolia made as a direct result of your actions and about our next steps will be published on the website.

Please don't stop spreading the word among your colleagues. We need your support like never before!

With best regards, Boycottfotolia.org team.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Svetlana on May 03, 2014, 04:01
Hello,
We are having a discussion on a Russian forum and I thought I'd come here and ask this question: was any of the contributors here actually notified by FT about the DPC project in January or around that time? I mean, before the petition?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: luissantos84 on May 03, 2014, 04:06
I would say no but I don't remember
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: stocked on May 03, 2014, 04:17
No
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Svetlana on May 03, 2014, 04:29
stocked, luissantos84, thank you, so it's as I thought.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Dirima on May 03, 2014, 04:33
Hello,
We are having a discussion on a Russian forum and I thought I'd come here and ask this question: was any of the contributors here actually notified by FT about the DPC project in January or around that time? I mean, before the petition?

No, i didnt knew anything about dpc till i read it in this forum
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: pictureman75 on May 03, 2014, 04:39
in german FT-Forum, DPC was discovered mid of january ... after long discussion there was a short information from a person of FT called "Anton" (nobody heared something about him before and afterwards)  ... but only about 5 sentences and no newsletter to all of us or something like that ... this was the only "official" statement.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: roede-orm on May 03, 2014, 04:51
Hello,
We are having a discussion on a Russian forum and I thought I'd come here and ask this question: was any of the contributors here actually notified by FT about the DPC project in January or around that time? I mean, before the petition?
Defintitly no.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: roede-orm on May 03, 2014, 04:51
Hello,
We are having a discussion on a Russian forum and I thought I'd come here and ask this question: was any of the contributors here actually notified by FT about the DPC project in January or around that time? I mean, before the petition?
Definitly no.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Desintegrator on May 03, 2014, 05:19
Hi

I've been reading Microstockgroup silently for years.
Didn't know about DPC from any other source than reading this forum.

I opted out my 6000 images (and told many photographer friends to do so) and deleted a couple of hundreds as a protest.

 Thank you for everyone putting an effort in organizing and participating in this.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: pictureman75 on May 03, 2014, 05:38
Great ... and protest will go on! Since yesterday another 8000 pictures less!!! 27 923 968 ...
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Desintegrator on May 03, 2014, 05:49
The question came up how can we inform some big contributors with images still on DPC and possibly not knowing about it.

I've found the following sites where in the you can locate their images you can send them private message:

Istock
Mostphotos
Photodune
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: luissantos84 on May 03, 2014, 05:51
Dreamstime as well by commenting a picture
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: H2O on May 03, 2014, 06:44
The people to contact and inform about what Oleg Tsheltzoff and his DPC site are doing, are the Advertising and Design Agency's, who use the content.

Deleting and Opting out is not enough the people who buy the content should be informed, they are creatives like us, they wont be happy about exploiting other creatives.

The quickest way to inform them, is through the Advertising and Design Press.

This would stop Oleg Tsheltzoff and his DPC site selling the content.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Desintegrator on May 03, 2014, 06:51
The people to contact and inform about what Oleg Tsheltzoff and his DPC site are doing, are the Advertising and Design Agency's, who use the content.

Deleting and Opting out is not enough the people who buy the content should be informed, they are creatives like us, they wont be happy about exploiting other creatives.

The quickest way to inform them, is through the Advertising and Design Press.

This would stop Oleg Tsheltzoff and his DPC site selling the content.

There's the risk that this would just bring more buyers to DPC, as it is a pretty good deal for them.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: H2O on May 03, 2014, 07:10
The people to contact and inform about what Oleg Tsheltzoff and his DPC site are doing, are the Advertising and Design Agency's, who use the content.

Deleting and Opting out is not enough the people who buy the content should be informed, they are creatives like us, they wont be happy about exploiting other creatives.

The quickest way to inform them, is through the Advertising and Design Press.

This would stop Oleg Tsheltzoff and his DPC site selling the content.

There's the risk that this would just bring more buyers to DPC, as it is a pretty good deal for them.

A boycotte by the Major Advertising and Design Agencies would lend a great deal of weight to stopping this exploitation by Oleg Tsheltzoff.

I believe in the spirit of human nature and Dollar Photo Club is just wrong in so many ways, most people who buy in the Agencies would stop buying.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Lizard on May 03, 2014, 07:11
Im not to active on forums, I just saw this but Im not up to reading trough 25 pages so can someone please tell me in short where to deactivate images from this...

Thanks
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: brisoca on May 03, 2014, 07:14
Im not to active on forums, I just saw this but Im not up to reading trough 25 pages so can someone please tell me in short where to deactivate images from this...

Thanks

In Fotolia website: My Account > My Profile > Contributor Parameters > Sell my files on DPC - Modify (Make sure the text now reads "Don't sell my files on DPC) and Save parameters
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Sandralise on May 03, 2014, 07:37
I opted-out of DPC (2,836 files) 3 days ago and will suspend uploading for the time being!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: gbalex on May 03, 2014, 08:50
I opted-out of DPC (2,836 files) 3 days ago and will suspend uploading for the time being!

Thank you Sandra, please let your stock friends know about this issue.

“Nobody made a greater mistake than he who did nothing because he could do only a little.”
― Edmund Burke
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Noedelhap on May 03, 2014, 09:34
The people to contact and inform about what Oleg Tsheltzoff and his DPC site are doing, are the Advertising and Design Agency's, who use the content.

Deleting and Opting out is not enough the people who buy the content should be informed, they are creatives like us, they wont be happy about exploiting other creatives.

The quickest way to inform them, is through the Advertising and Design Press.

This would stop Oleg Tsheltzoff and his DPC site selling the content.

I don't think you'll be able to convince ad agencies to stop buying there. It's a cheap deal for customers, so why should they care about our commissions? You need to inform contributors. Without contributors, there will be no (or less) content, and then customers will stay away as well.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: pixsol on May 03, 2014, 09:38
27,927,829

27,926,036
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: H2O on May 03, 2014, 10:38
The people to contact and inform about what Oleg Tsheltzoff and his DPC site are doing, are the Advertising and Design Agency's, who use the content.

Deleting and Opting out is not enough the people who buy the content should be informed, they are creatives like us, they wont be happy about exploiting other creatives.

The quickest way to inform them, is through the Advertising and Design Press.

This would stop Oleg Tsheltzoff and his DPC site selling the content.

I don't think you'll be able to convince ad agencies to stop buying there. It's a cheap deal for customers, so why should they care about our commissions? You need to inform contributors. Without contributors, there will be no (or less) content, and then customers will stay away as well.
Convincing advertising and design agencies is a good idea because if they stop buying that hits Dollar Photo Club, and if they buy more it hits the contributers who are going to see an increase in 25 cents commissions.

This is a Win Win for US the contributors, as all those who get these low commission are going to start to ask some serious questions and be altered to this problem.

It really needs a big push to publicize this to the Advertising and Design Press to get the message out their - which ever way the agencies jump as a whole it will be a win.

The quicker the better.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: BaldricksTrousers on May 03, 2014, 10:47
The people to contact and inform about what Oleg Tsheltzoff and his DPC site are doing, are the Advertising and Design Agency's, who use the content.

Deleting and Opting out is not enough the people who buy the content should be informed, they are creatives like us, they wont be happy about exploiting other creatives.

The quickest way to inform them, is through the Advertising and Design Press.

This would stop Oleg Tsheltzoff and his DPC site selling the content.

I don't think you'll be able to convince ad agencies to stop buying there. It's a cheap deal for customers, so why should they care about our commissions? You need to inform contributors. Without contributors, there will be no (or less) content, and then customers will stay away as well.
Convincing advertising and design agencies is a good idea because if they stop buying that hits Dollar Photo Club, and if they buy more it hits the contributers who are going to see an increase in 25 cents commissions.

This is a Win Win for US the contributors, as all those who get these low commission are going to start to ask some serious questions and be altered to this problem.

It really needs a big push to publicize this to the Advertising and Design Press to get the message out their - which ever way the agencies jump as a whole it will be a win.

The quicker the better.

Seriously? Big business doesn't care. It just wants cheap and Oleg thingy knows that. You go round agencies and tell them that they are going to hurt artists by getting the cheapest deal on the market and they will be queuing to sign up. Business isn't full of nice people. Take it from someone who's seen an oil industry chief exec boast to a central banker about getting Nepalese workers to take $200 a month.

The message to business/agencies needs to be that all the best images have fled from DPC because it is such a rubbish return for artists that only the dross is left. If they want anything half-decent they need to go up-market.

That is the strategy that iStock used so effectively in promoting its exclusives as providing the best imagery on the net. And you know what - true or not - it worked.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: H2O on May 03, 2014, 11:06
The people to contact and inform about what Oleg Tsheltzoff and his DPC site are doing, are the Advertising and Design Agency's, who use the content.

Deleting and Opting out is not enough the people who buy the content should be informed, they are creatives like us, they wont be happy about exploiting other creatives.

The quickest way to inform them, is through the Advertising and Design Press.

This would stop Oleg Tsheltzoff and his DPC site selling the content.

I don't think you'll be able to convince ad agencies to stop buying there. It's a cheap deal for customers, so why should they care about our commissions? You need to inform contributors. Without contributors, there will be no (or less) content, and then customers will stay away as well.
Convincing advertising and design agencies is a good idea because if they stop buying that hits Dollar Photo Club, and if they buy more it hits the contributers who are going to see an increase in 25 cents commissions.

This is a Win Win for US the contributors, as all those who get these low commission are going to start to ask some serious questions and be altered to this problem.

It really needs a big push to publicize this to the Advertising and Design Press to get the message out their - which ever way the agencies jump as a whole it will be a win.

The quicker the better.

Seriously? Big business doesn't care. It just wants cheap and Oleg thingy knows that. You go round agencies and tell them that they are going to hurt artists by getting the cheapest deal on the market and they will be queuing to sign up. Business isn't full of nice people. Take it from someone who's seen an oil industry chief exec boast to a central banker about getting Nepalese workers to take $200 a month.

The message to business/agencies needs to be that all the best images have fled from DPC because it is such a rubbish return for artists that only the dross is left. If they want anything half-decent they need to go up-market.

That is the strategy that iStock used so effectively in promoting its exclusives as providing the best imagery on the net. And you know what - true or not - it worked.


I agree with you about Big Business doesn't care.

All I'm saying is inform the Advertising and Design Media if Agencies do sign up to Dollar Photo Club all the contributors will soon get the message and quit.

Its called shooting yourself in the foot and Oleg (not very clever) thingy doesn't know that.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: r2d2 on May 03, 2014, 11:19
dpc, dp or getty does not matter but it will be the next agency come with suppressed prices. We need to make us independent of agencies. We have to build networks without agencies.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on May 03, 2014, 12:13

I just read that GDUSA article. And then promptly deleted 1/3 of my portfolio. Opting out of DPC isn't enough. This company has zero regard for artists, and I am having a hard time trusting them as a distributor of my work. Not just with DPC, but in all regards.

I'm really sick of this marketing double-speak and sales pitch, where we're supposed to get on board with this just because they tell us this is a good thing. And I'm still really bothered that they sent Mat in here to act like joe-average-contributor and try to sell us on DPC, only to see Mat leave in a huff when he was forced to admit his connection with Fotolia and blamed it all on us and the hostility of this forum.

The list of reasons not to trust Fotolia is getting longer by the day.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Beppe Grillo on May 03, 2014, 12:17

[…]
The list of reasons not to trust Fotolia is getting longer by the day.
The list of reasons to trust them is surely a lot shorter…
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on May 03, 2014, 12:27

You know, in a way I have to applaud Fotolia and the genius of DPC. I'm sure plenty of people have had the idea before to launch a dollar image stock collection before, but the problem was always "How would we get people to contribute images for $1 sales and subscription royalties?" Well, Fotolia figured it out.

A few weeks ago I said that APIs and partner programs were the biggest threat to this business from an artist/contributor standpoint. Today, I can honestly say that I think DPC is the biggest threat. Just look at what customers are saying about DPC on Twitter:

Quote
I feel like I did a pretty thorough search for stock photos & I have to say, I'm impressed w/@DollarPhotoClub! $10/month, $1/image


Quote
Checking out @DollarPhotoClub. Tired of paying a bundle for a single image.

Quote
@DollarPhotoClub Finally a no-nonsense photo stock website! Thank you! Bye bye shutterstock! #photography #webdesign
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Pablox on May 03, 2014, 12:40
Opted out all 4,917 photos from DPC, will watch closely..
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: gbalex on May 03, 2014, 12:44
27,927,829

27,926,036

Still dropping

27 923 968
images on fotolia.com as of now
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: loop on May 03, 2014, 13:10
On the other hand, theres is something terribly unfair for the other agencies in this scheme. Let's see: DPC won't sell as --for example-- SS sells, because clients will tend to buy just the images they need (that's not really a subs program, as we all know. In a true subs program clients end downloading 3x what they need). It s is possible to finance the cheapest photo shooting with the returns that this DPC scheme will provide? The answer is clearly no. Actually, that should condemn DPC to lose contributors, professional contributors and their better images, and have to work with photos of pizzas and chessboards by amateurs or week-end photographers, or people images with an not so sleek array of photographers's couples and brothers in law as models. But many photographer's will think: "So what? I sell too at SS, IS, DT and other sites: that will finance the shootings, DPC income is a plus" (at least until they see a decrease in their other agencies more profitable income). So, DPC couln't exist without the other agencies. If the other agencies allow this, they will be indirectly supporting DPC.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: lisafx on May 03, 2014, 13:51
I'm still really bothered that they sent Mat in here to act like joe-average-contributor and try to sell us on DPC, only to see Mat leave in a huff when he was forced to admit his connection with Fotolia and blamed it all on us and the hostility of this forum.


Not to argue with the rest of your post, but can I just point out one thing about Mat?  He has an extensive portfolio as a microstock artist that is spread across all the same sites as the rest of us, and I am sure he relies on the income from it, in addition to whatever Fotolia pays him. 

I don't know if it is commonly known, but there are a number of micro sites that will close your account if they find out you work for another agency. 

I didn't know this until I was asked to be a reviewer at one site, and during my probationary period, I was contacted by several others who knew somehow that I was reviewing for this one site, and I was told that I would be thrown off some very lucrative sites if I continued "working for" this site I was reviewing for. It didn't even matter that I was an independent contractor and not an employee.   I had to stop reviewing before the probationary period was up because I needed the micro income more. 

Perhaps in the future it might be a good idea for agency employees who are also micro contributors to join under a different name, and get the agency badge from Leaf, but remain anonymous as to who they are as contributors. 
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: disorderly on May 03, 2014, 14:21
Mat's portfolios on other agencies notwithstanding, he has been a vocal cheerleader for Fotolia for a long time now.  I've been known to stand up for Shutterstock and a few other agencies against what I felt were unfair attacks, but Mat's posts felt more and more like those of an employee rather than those of an external advocate.  And that includes claims which I believed were false and which have turned out to be so.  As a mere supplier, he wouldn't be the first to make inaccurate assertions based on his own beliefs about an agency.  I don't know if there was a quid pro quo for his support for Fotolia or what led to their bringing him on board as an employee, but for me at least, his strained credibility is now in tatters.  I will not trust a word he says, nor can I trust anything he ever says.  And that would go for any representative of a company who doesn't divulge that connection.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: cobalt on May 03, 2014, 14:41

I don't know if it is commonly known, but there are a number of micro sites that will close your account if they find out you work for another agency. 

I didn't know this until I was asked to be a reviewer at one site, and during my probationary period, I was contacted by several others who knew somehow that I was reviewing for this one site, and I was told that I would be thrown off some very lucrative sites if I continued "working for" this site I was reviewing for. It didn't even matter that I was an independent contractor and not an employee.   I had to stop reviewing before the probationary period was up because I needed the micro income more. 

Perhaps in the future it might be a good idea for agency employees who are also micro contributors to join under a different name, and get the agency badge from Leaf, but remain anonymous as to who they are as contributors.

Since I went indie I have been contacted by several agencies to work for them as either an image reviewer or community builder. I have always declined even if some projects sounded very interesting. I know that some agencies will consider you as "working for the enemy/competition" even if you are just checking releases and looking for sensor spots.

For me it is important to stay independent. If I ever was going to be on any agency payroll, I would probably withdraw my portfolio from others or at least I would contact them in advance to avoid misunderstandings.

Back on topic. what I think we have been seeing this year is more and more agencies using their apis to transfer our content to other sites where they set up new business models that we never agreed to. Deposit with their 30 dollar 30 cent api deals, getty who are building an advertising network on the back of very high quality contributor content for free and DPC that offers content that was sent to Fotolia in a new unlimited  1 dollar plan. If they had just opened a new agency and asked for content, they could only be offering the lower value files that the low value agencies are able to attract.

We really need to keep our networking skills very sharp and favor the agencies that communicate at eye level and run their business with longterm vision.

I wish Fotolia had invested their energy and money into improving their main site. There is a lot that can be done to make Fotolia itself more attractive.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: roede-orm on May 03, 2014, 15:01
In some ways an expropriation of our content takes place. It is important that the Fotolia D-day was not the final, but the beginning of a movement of the contributors worldwide.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on May 03, 2014, 15:50
...I don't know if it is commonly known, but there are a number of micro sites that will close your account if they find out you work for another agency... 

...Perhaps in the future it might be a good idea for agency employees who are also micro contributors to join under a different name, and get the agency badge from Leaf, but remain anonymous as to who they are as contributors.

I'm sure that's a common issue. And maybe Mat did have good reasons for trying to keep his employment a secret. But he crossed the line when he began publicly supporting a Fotolia product. It's not like he was commenting on a Shutterstock product or something from some other company. He was specifically commenting on (and defending) a controversial new product from the company who cuts his paychecks. And doing so while hiding his employment with Fotolia. That's wrong.

Not sure I'd be a fan of anonymous agency representatives in here, either. I think if someone wants to be an agency representative, they need to be that and accept the sacrifices they need to make to hold the job.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: spike on May 03, 2014, 19:43
Opted out of DPC. Not because I think it will hurt them or that I have a high quality portfolio. I just don't approve of their business "ethics". I'm sure they'll find plenty contributors, some better than me, who will provide content. I don't care. I won't.

Thanks to everyone for being so vocal about it, as I am sure that I would miss this if it wasn't constantly on the top of the forum.

I'm also thinking of removing my portfolio from Fotolia, will review the option carefully as soon as I find some time.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Svetlana on May 03, 2014, 21:22
Not sure if I may give links to other forums here (if not, I'll remove it at once), but I believe this post (http://submit.shutterstock.com/forum/viewtopic.php?p=2679199#2679199) is straight to the point.

Quote
It won't be anyone's 2nd agency (or 3rd or 30th) if DPC succeeds. That's the big threat here. DPC is the new FT, that's the product they are pushing, that's where they want people to buy images. They're advertising DPC right on the FT homepage (in some markets at least).

I've deleted 1/3 of my portfolio from FT. I suspect I'll be totally gone from there shortly, as it seems pretty unlikely that FT will change course with DPC any time soon. They're pushing this thing too hard, no way they will go back on it now.

DPC is the future for FT, and by staying with FT we're just helping them fund the growth of DPC.

That's the genius of this whole thing. DPC has been thought of before, but no one could pull it off from scratch. Who would contribute images to such a thing? So instead, they build it from the existing FT collection, launch it without letting anyone know about it, and funding the growth, marketing, and future development of it on the continued income from FT until DPC outgrows FT.

That's why they even offered an opt-out. It doesn't matter if you opt-out. FT can fund the growth of DPC via FT. Opting out shrinks the DPC collection, but staying with FT still supports DPC.

The end result, if they succeed in this, is to beat everyone, including SS, and completely disrupt the market. DPC is a game-changer, folks. No doubt about it.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on May 03, 2014, 21:56
Posting links here is fine. I added my words to Mike's

http://submit.shutterstock.com/forum/viewtopic.php?p=2679303#2679303 (http://submit.shutterstock.com/forum/viewtopic.php?p=2679303#2679303)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: jarih on May 03, 2014, 23:31
Search: People
FT 3588726 - DPC 2884164 = 704562

Search: Food
FT 3793314 - DPC 3114815 = 678499
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: r2d2 on May 04, 2014, 01:00
Search: People
FT 3588726 - DPC 2884164 = 704562

Search: Food
FT 3793314 - DPC 3114815 = 678499

Thats motivation we should promote the dpc opt out louder and on more channels.
Facebook, google+, twitter, Contributor forums. We are so strange together THX TO ALL WHO MAKE THIS RESISTANCE POSSIBLE!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Savo on May 04, 2014, 01:10
Opt out for all subscriptions!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 04, 2014, 01:15
Yesterday I checked if I had opted out of the social media promotions on FT. I suggest everyone does the same. Stop all auto posting to Twitter and Facebook. Stop promoting the hacks.


https://us.fotolia.com/Member/Modify/SocialNetworks
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Beppe Grillo on May 04, 2014, 02:53
Yesterday I checked if I had opted out of the social media promotions on FT. I suggest everyone does the same. Stop all auto posting to Twitter and Facebook. Stop promoting the hacks.


https://us.fotolia.com/Member/Modify/SocialNetworks

I had already "opted out" some time ago.
But I don't understand what is "Dropbox association"?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: BDS on May 04, 2014, 03:02
Just opted out over 37000 photos from DPC.
For me it would be better to have ability adding some files to DPC (but some , not all). Everyone have some files with 0 sales after over 12 month. It could give oportunity to sell them with lower price.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: robhainer on May 04, 2014, 06:07
For those of you checking numbers, my DPC port only shows 423 images, while I have more than 1,300 on Fotolia. A lot of my bestsellers aren't on DPC either. I don't understand why there's a difference.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Noedelhap on May 04, 2014, 06:19
Yesterday I checked if I had opted out of the social media promotions on FT. I suggest everyone does the same. Stop all auto posting to Twitter and Facebook. Stop promoting the hacks.


https://us.fotolia.com/Member/Modify/SocialNetworks


I never even knew that existed. It's turned off by default.

What does the DropBox feature do?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Lizard on May 04, 2014, 06:35
Im not to active on forums, I just saw this but Im not up to reading trough 25 pages so can someone please tell me in short where to deactivate images from this...

Thanks

In Fotolia website: My Account > My Profile > Contributor Parameters > Sell my files on DPC - Modify (Make sure the text now reads "Don't sell my files on DPC) and Save parameters


Thanks  ;)

Just optioned out 5800+ images
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: fotorob on May 04, 2014, 06:38
What does the DropBox feature do?

It let's you download bought images from Fotolia directly to your Dropbox account.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ShadySue on May 04, 2014, 09:07
Opt out for all subscriptions!
Which micro agencies, which actually sell, let you do that?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Savo on May 04, 2014, 10:59
Currently no one, so far I know. Last year it was still possible in Fotolia... good old times. ;)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: lisafx on May 04, 2014, 11:00
For me it would be better to have ability adding some files to DPC (but some , not all). Everyone have some files with 0 sales after over 12 month. It could give oportunity to sell them with lower price.

This is exactly what I would like to see as well.  That, better commissions, and a higher minimum buy in.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Desintegrator on May 04, 2014, 11:21
Sunday afternoon, uploading new files to all agencies except for Fotolia, where I'm deleting a few.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ogm on May 04, 2014, 13:26
I'm amazed to see some of the big collections are still on DPC.
Pressmaster, Syda Productions, olly ...

I'll make sure next time when buy images they are not on DPC and are not from contributors who support DPC!

Thanks Fairplay! It's Fairplay!!!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ogm on May 04, 2014, 13:28
I also opted out from DPC my 300+ files. Not so many, but all!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Gel-O Shooter on May 04, 2014, 15:06
Looks like I'm blocked from posting anything else on the Dollar Bin's Facebook page.  Gee, I guess they didn't like something I said.   ;)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: dpimborough on May 04, 2014, 15:31
Looks like I'm blocked from posting anything else on the Dollar Bin's Facebook page.  Gee, I guess they didn't like something I said.   ;)

Well maybe all the contributors here can go flood the fracking FB page with lots of disgruntled comments.

I'm furious with the "ooh top quality photos for $1" comments

TELL IT LIKE IT IS OLEG IT'S A FRACKING DOLLAR BIN!!!! >:(
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Desintegrator on May 04, 2014, 15:40
Go on.
I'm already blocked as well :)

I wasn't rude I was just pointing out the fact that most image copyright holders don't know about their work being offered under completely new conditions.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: steheap on May 04, 2014, 15:43
I've just posted a calm comment basically saying buyer beware - there will be far fewer images in a few weeks time

STeve
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on May 04, 2014, 15:50
Looking at the page, they've left some comments there about the boycott - that were made to a buyer-initiated topic. I assume the page moderators didn't notice...

https://www.facebook.com/Szabla/posts/10202568608874399?stream_ref=5 (https://www.facebook.com/Szabla/posts/10202568608874399?stream_ref=5)

The other thing is there are several complaints that the site doesn't say clearly that VAT is added to the price making it $1.20 per photo, not $1. DPC replied that this was standard but buyers felt it should have been made more clear up front.

The other thing I noticed is that there are several complaints about problems logging in or signing up:

https://www.facebook.com/DollarPhotoClub/posts/1490466191165700?stream_ref=5 (https://www.facebook.com/DollarPhotoClub/posts/1490466191165700?stream_ref=5)

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1390983904519657&set=o.1393351220877198&type=1&stream_ref=10 (https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1390983904519657&set=o.1393351220877198&type=1&stream_ref=10)

https://www.facebook.com/DollarPhotoClub/posts/1489862537892732?stream_ref=5 (https://www.facebook.com/DollarPhotoClub/posts/1489862537892732?stream_ref=5)

I notice that the comment count on lots of posts is a lot higher than the visible comments - I assume because they've been deleted by staff?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Desintegrator on May 04, 2014, 15:55
I notice that the comment count on lots of posts is a lot higher than the visible comments - I assume because they've been deleted by staff?

Yes, a lot of deleting have been going on. That's where comment counts show bigger number.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: dpimborough on May 04, 2014, 16:03
I've just posted a calm comment basically saying buyer beware - there will be far fewer images in a few weeks time

STeve

And a very good comment it was too :)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Gel-O Shooter on May 04, 2014, 16:25
dpimborough-
"I'm furious with the "ooh top quality photos for $1" comments"


What infuriates me are the "ooh, can we make prints of somebody else's photos and sell them?"
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: gillian vann on May 04, 2014, 20:18
is it part of the T&C that FT can use images for their own advertising without crediting the photographer, or a little watermark? clearly paying for the use is ludicrous, but perhaps offering a link to the photographer's portfolio would be polite? 
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ShadySue on May 04, 2014, 20:24
I can't find any relevant agreement/contract/T&C on this page which allegedly lists "all their agreements":
http://en.fotolia.com/Info/Agreements (http://en.fotolia.com/Info/Agreements)
And I don't see them allowing themselves to help themselves to images for advertising in their T&C:
http://en.fotolia.com/Info/Agreements/TermsAndConditions#8. (http://en.fotolia.com/Info/Agreements/TermsAndConditions#8.)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Goofy on May 04, 2014, 20:41
DPC= Don't Push Contributors


 8)



Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: roboz on May 04, 2014, 21:11
Did my bit. Opted out all of my +1600 images.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: bolsher on May 05, 2014, 00:09
Most popular city from the likes is Lima, Peru, lol


sounds like they bought the friends for advertising.


From our money.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Savo on May 05, 2014, 00:19
Support fair agencies:

https://www.zoonar.com/ (https://www.zoonar.com/)

https://www.picfair.com/ (https://www.picfair.com/)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: jarih on May 05, 2014, 00:23
Search: People
FT 3588726 - DPC 2884164 = 704562

Search: Food
FT 3793314 - DPC 3114815 = 678499

Search: People
FT 3589256 - DPC 2878628 = 710628

Search: Food
FT 3793491 - DPC 3106698 = 686793

Right direction!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ACS on May 05, 2014, 03:37
Opted out from DPC (500+) files.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Beppe Grillo on May 05, 2014, 04:13
Looks like I'm blocked from posting anything else on the Dollar Bin's Facebook page.  Gee, I guess they didn't like something I said.   ;)

Well maybe all the contributors here can go flood the fracking FB page with lots of disgruntled comments.

I'm furious with the "ooh top quality photos for $1" comments

TELL IT LIKE IT IS OLEG IT'S A FRACKING DOLLAR BIN!!!! >:(

I am doing it, until they will block me…

----
Edit: after 4 hours they have removed all my comments and blocked me (I am unable to write on their page now)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: dpimborough on May 05, 2014, 04:47
dpimborough-
"I'm furious with the "ooh top quality photos for $1" comments"


What infuriates me are the "ooh, can we make prints of somebody else's photos and sell them?"

You saw that too ~ DPC is the gift that keeps on giving (not) :(
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Paulfleet on May 05, 2014, 04:52
I have also opted out from DPC my 973 files.  >:(
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: leaf on May 05, 2014, 06:05
opted out 18,000+ files

Here's the direct link for others who want to do the same
https://www.fotolia.com/Member/Modify/Contributor (https://www.fotolia.com/Member/Modify/Contributor)

edit:... at least for now.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Dook on May 05, 2014, 06:53
opted out 18,000+ files

Here's the direct link for others who want to do the same
https://www.fotolia.com/Member/Modify/Contributor (https://www.fotolia.com/Member/Modify/Contributor)
Congrats, Leaf, Now I'll do the same!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: redo on May 05, 2014, 07:52
3 portfolios opted out.
from me and my friends.
small, but good illustration-portfolios.
300 illustrations.
and also deleted 100 from fotolia.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Red Dove on May 05, 2014, 08:18
How long does it take for the opt out from Dollar Photo Crap to take effect? I set my modifications and made sure to save the parameters back on May 2nd. Just done it again to sure.

Shame we can't have a countdown on images deleted from DPC on the boycott site but I can't see any way to calculate that - other than by subject as already listed above under People/Food.

PS. Have to say I'm disappointed that very few of the larger contributors have piped up in this thread re their intentions either way.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: dpimborough on May 05, 2014, 08:28
How long does it take for the opt out from Dollar Photo Crap to take effect? I set my modifications and made sure to save the parameters back on May 2nd. Just done it again to sure.

Shame we can't have a countdown on images deleted from DPC on the boycott site but I can't see any way to calculate that - other than by subject as already listed above under People/Food.

PS. Have to say I'm disappointed that very few of the larger contributors have piped up in this thread re their intentions either way.

It took  about 3 days for my port to be opted out :)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Red Dove on May 05, 2014, 08:36
It took  about 3 days for my port to be opted out :)

Smashing.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Dook on May 05, 2014, 08:51


Shame we can't have a countdown on images deleted from DPC on the boycott site but I can't see any way to calculate that - other than by subject as already listed above under People/Food.

I search by various keywords. Right now it seems to  be around 20% less pictures at DPC.
Having in mind that many many contributors still don't know about the matter, I hope to see around 50%  less files at DPC than at Fotolia in the near future.
That's why it's so important to spread the info all around the world.
Is it possible to access the database of contirbutor contact emails somehow and send an email to everyone?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 05, 2014, 08:52


Shame we can't have a countdown on images deleted from DPC on the boycott site but I can't see any way to calculate that - other than by subject as already listed above under People/Food.

I search by various keywords. Right now it seems to  be around 20% less pictures at DPC.
Having in mind that many many contributors still don't know about the matter, I hope to see around 50%  less files at DPC than at Fotolia.
That's why it's so important to spread the info all around the world.
Is it possible to access the database of contirbutor contact emails somehow and send an email to everyone?
Leaf sends a news letter to all members every month, he could send an email to all. You can ask him at least. Just send him a PM
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Dook on May 05, 2014, 08:56


Shame we can't have a countdown on images deleted from DPC on the boycott site but I can't see any way to calculate that - other than by subject as already listed above under People/Food.

I search by various keywords. Right now it seems to  be around 20% less pictures at DPC.
Having in mind that many many contributors still don't know about the matter, I hope to see around 50%  less files at DPC than at Fotolia.
That's why it's so important to spread the info all around the world.
Is it possible to access the database of contirbutor contact emails somehow and send an email to everyone?
Leaf sends a news letter to all members every month, he could send an email to all. You can ask him at least. Just send him a PM
I thought about that, too. But, members of this forum are already informed, more less.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: DF_Studios on May 05, 2014, 08:58
Happiness is NOT having a sale on Fotolia this week.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 05, 2014, 09:02


Shame we can't have a countdown on images deleted from DPC on the boycott site but I can't see any way to calculate that - other than by subject as already listed above under People/Food.

I search by various keywords. Right now it seems to  be around 20% less pictures at DPC.
Having in mind that many many contributors still don't know about the matter, I hope to see around 50%  less files at DPC than at Fotolia.
That's why it's so important to spread the info all around the world.
Is it possible to access the database of contirbutor contact emails somehow and send an email to everyone?
Leaf sends a news letter to all members every month, he could send an email to all. You can ask him at least. Just send him a PM
I thought about that, too. But, members of this forum are already informed, more less.
Only if they come here. An email goes to their inbox, you might reach more people.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ravens on May 05, 2014, 09:26
Opted out from DPC!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Dook on May 05, 2014, 09:27


Shame we can't have a countdown on images deleted from DPC on the boycott site but I can't see any way to calculate that - other than by subject as already listed above under People/Food.

I search by various keywords. Right now it seems to  be around 20% less pictures at DPC.
Having in mind that many many contributors still don't know about the matter, I hope to see around 50%  less files at DPC than at Fotolia.
That's why it's so important to spread the info all around the world.
Is it possible to access the database of contirbutor contact emails somehow and send an email to everyone?
Leaf sends a news letter to all members every month, he could send an email to all. You can ask him at least. Just send him a PM
I thought about that, too. But, members of this forum are already informed, more less.
Only if they come here. An email goes to their inbox, you might reach more people.
Done!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: tickstock on May 05, 2014, 09:28
.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on May 05, 2014, 11:28

I know the term "nanostock" has been thrown around here before, but is DPC the first real and true nanostock site? Not even just by our standards, but by what Oleg has said about DPC and the goal of disrupting the market, DPC seems to be very different from anything we'd call microstock.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Tabimura on May 05, 2014, 11:50
Took them a few days, but my 12.500 images are off DPC.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on May 05, 2014, 12:01
I got in touch with Ruth Black via e-mail and her 1,177 (yummy cakes and sweets) Fotolia images are now opted out of DPC
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: lisafx on May 05, 2014, 12:19
For me it would be better to have ability adding some files to DPC (but some , not all). Everyone have some files with 0 sales after over 12 month. It could give oportunity to sell them with lower price.

This is exactly what I would like to see as well.  That, better commissions, and a higher minimum buy in.
Does that mean you won't be opting out?

Not at all.  It means if those conditions were met I would not be opting out.  As time goes by with no word from them on improving the deal, it is looking less likely.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Stillfx on May 05, 2014, 12:21
Back in, not sure
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: leaf on May 05, 2014, 12:23
Looking at the page, they've left some comments there about the boycott - that were made to a buyer-initiated topic. I assume the page moderators didn't notice...

https://www.facebook.com/Szabla/posts/10202568608874399?stream_ref=5 (https://www.facebook.com/Szabla/posts/10202568608874399?stream_ref=5)

The other thing is there are several complaints that the site doesn't say clearly that VAT is added to the price making it $1.20 per photo, not $1. DPC replied that this was standard but buyers felt it should have been made more clear up front.

The other thing I noticed is that there are several complaints about problems logging in or signing up:

https://www.facebook.com/DollarPhotoClub/posts/1490466191165700?stream_ref=5 (https://www.facebook.com/DollarPhotoClub/posts/1490466191165700?stream_ref=5)

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1390983904519657&set=o.1393351220877198&type=1&stream_ref=10 (https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1390983904519657&set=o.1393351220877198&type=1&stream_ref=10)

https://www.facebook.com/DollarPhotoClub/posts/1489862537892732?stream_ref=5 (https://www.facebook.com/DollarPhotoClub/posts/1489862537892732?stream_ref=5)

I notice that the comment count on lots of posts is a lot higher than the visible comments - I assume because they've been deleted by staff?
Or possibly the commenter set their comment as 'private'
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: H2O on May 05, 2014, 12:27
I'm going to contact the European Commission and find out whether this is legal - I'm fairly sure that not informing contributers about this is not legal in the EEC.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: brisoca on May 05, 2014, 12:42
For me it would be better to have ability adding some files to DPC (but some , not all). Everyone have some files with 0 sales after over 12 month. It could give oportunity to sell them with lower price.

This is exactly what I would like to see as well.  That, better commissions, and a higher minimum buy in.
Does that mean you won't be opting out?

Not at all.  It means if those conditions were met I would not be opting out.  As time goes by with no word from them on improving the deal, it is looking less likely.

Fotolia improved the deal a tiny little bit (the hidden opt-out button and the limited print run) only because some contributors started deleting files. They will not improve the deal any further if contributors do not keep opting out of the DPC and/or deleting files.
Title: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: steho on May 05, 2014, 12:59
Just checked the boycottfotolia.org site, is it down just for me?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: tickstock on May 05, 2014, 13:04
.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: pixsol on May 05, 2014, 13:05
Just checked the boycottfotolia.org site, is it down just for me?

Down for me too ...
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on May 05, 2014, 13:38
I found a blog post from earlier this year by someone who signed up for Dollar Photo Club - twice. Once with his real name and e-mail and once with a totally fake one. Both were accepted. So much for the PR rubbish about the $10 level having a ~30% acceptance rate!

https://news.layervault.com/stories/13040-fotolia-launches-an-exclusive-club-for-intense-stock-photo-users-screens-applications-but-its-all-for-the-buzz-service-seems-ok-though
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on May 05, 2014, 13:54
...someone who signed up for Dollar Photo Club - twice. Once with his real name and e-mail and once with a totally fake one. Both were accepted. So much for the PR rubbish about the $10 level having a ~30% acceptance rate...

I hate to defend DPC, but 2 signups are not at all enough to base any conclusions on. It is entirely possible that both of that person's attempts to sign up were legitimately within that 30% acceptance rate.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: fotoramka on May 05, 2014, 13:57
Good day!
Unfortunately, in the data center where the server is located the accident occurred. Data center specialists are now engaged in this issue. Please do not worry.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ava Glass on May 05, 2014, 14:26
I wonder if Deposit Photos is feeling the pressure because of Fotolia's Dollar Photo Club. I see Deposit Photos is running another promo on Mighty Deals.

http://www.mightydeals.com/deal/depositphotos.html?ref=awnews&refNL= (http://www.mightydeals.com/deal/depositphotos.html?ref=awnews&refNL=)

It's funny, because when the Dollar Photo Club came out, it reminded me of the Deposit Photos promo packs, except the Dollar Photo Club is all the time, well-promoted (not tucked away on some deal site), and has a $10 option.

Hmm, now I also wonder if Fotolia saw what Deposit Photos was doing, and decided to do "better."
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on May 05, 2014, 14:27
...someone who signed up for Dollar Photo Club - twice. Once with his real name and e-mail and once with a totally fake one. Both were accepted. So much for the PR rubbish about the $10 level having a ~30% acceptance rate...

I hate to defend DPC, but 2 signups are not at all enough to base any conclusions on. It is entirely possible that both of that person's attempts to sign up were legitimately within that 30% acceptance rate.

I understand it's possible, but the odds are poor that (a) both are within the 30% and (b) you're doing much validating when you allow fake e-mails on sign ups (which would seem to be a path to future credit card fraud and other not nice things).
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: fotoramka on May 05, 2014, 14:45
I understand it's possible, but the odds are poor that (a) both are within the 30% and (b) you're doing much validating when you allow fake e-mails on sign ups (which would seem to be a path to future credit card fraud and other not nice things).

Absolutely correct. I was approved 20 min later after payment and used absolutely fake name and surname.

UPD: We're online :)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on May 05, 2014, 15:00
I understand it's possible, but the odds are poor that (a) both are within the 30% and (b) you're doing much validating when you allow fake e-mails on sign ups (which would seem to be a path to future credit card fraud and other not nice things).

It's a low percentage chance (9% if my math is right) that 2 signups will both hit. If there were even one more attempt that might make it something to consider. There is something like a 2% chance that 3 attempts by the same person will succeed. And even that is really just chance. Ideally you'd have 10 or more attempts to look at before drawing any kind of conclusions. But with just two attempts, it's not much to go on.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: bunhill on May 05, 2014, 15:16
Absolutely correct. I was approved 20 min later after payment and used absolutely fake name and surname.

How were you able to pay using a fake name ? Isn't that fraud ?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: fotoramka on May 05, 2014, 15:18
Absolutely correct. I was approved 20 min later after payment and used absolutely fake name and surname.

How were you able to pay using a fake name ? Isn't that fraud ?

I'm using PayPal during my purchase.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: bunhill on May 05, 2014, 15:19
Seems shady.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: bunhill on May 05, 2014, 15:39
I am wondering what their strategy is. I wonder who this is aimed at. Are they really trying to make this pay long term or are they hoping that another company with money will buy them out and shut them down. It seems like a hustle.

this new venture is intended to gain market share at the expense of its contributors and the microstock industry as a whole.
Using an aggressive pricing strategy and a low commission structure, contributors are being treated as third-country workers who only get paid a couple of pennies for each image sale

This is exactly analogous to what was said about microstock.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: roede-orm on May 05, 2014, 16:07
In the German Stock Photography forum someone wrote that he had logged on to the DPC. After 15 minutes, his application was approved and he got 5 invitations for other interested parties. So much for "exclusivity" >:(

http://stockfotografie-forum.de/discussion/873/dollar-photo-club-jetzt-auf-der-startpage-von-fotolia#Item_164 (http://stockfotografie-forum.de/discussion/873/dollar-photo-club-jetzt-auf-der-startpage-von-fotolia#Item_164)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: H2O on May 05, 2014, 16:10
I am wondering what their strategy is. I wonder who this is aimed at. Are they really trying to make this pay long term or are they hoping that another company with money will buy them out and shut them down. It seems like a hustle.

this new venture is intended to gain market share at the expense of its contributors and the microstock industry as a whole.
Using an aggressive pricing strategy and a low commission structure, contributors are being treated as third-country workers who only get paid a couple of pennies for each image sale
The shareholders strategy is always the same, how much money can I get, they will be pushing for as much cash as they can force out of the site, no interest in the fact that they are Agents for selling Stock.

Long term strategy doesn't exist - its called sweating the assets.

These are not clever people, greed is there overriding concern, the fact that they will destroy the site and stand a good chance of oppressing the market for some time do's not even occur to them.


This is exactly analogous to what was said about microstock.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: bunhill on May 05, 2014, 16:31
^ you've attributed a load of stuff to me which I did not write.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ShadySue on May 05, 2014, 16:34
I see nothing in their potential customer-facing information via a Google ad or on their Fb page. I can't see that a company could openly advertise a service to the general public but only allow 30% of them to 'join', without advertising it as a lottery.

The original 'promise' was only not to rock the contributors' boats.

In the German Stock Photography forum someone wrote that he had logged on to the DPC. After 15 minutes, his application was approved and he got 5 invitations for other interested parties. So much for "exclusivity" >:(

[url]http://stockfotografie-forum.de/discussion/873/dollar-photo-club-jetzt-auf-der-startpage-von-fotolia#Item_164[/url] ([url]http://stockfotografie-forum.de/discussion/873/dollar-photo-club-jetzt-auf-der-startpage-von-fotolia#Item_164[/url])
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: H2O on May 05, 2014, 16:36
^ you've attributed a load of stuff to me which I did not write.

Whoops apologies for that - entered my text in the wrong place
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: jefftakespics2 on May 05, 2014, 16:56
My small port of 898 images out of the $ club
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 05, 2014, 17:05
Bunhill and Tickstock, the concious police. Dont you have enough other threads to roam?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Desintegrator on May 05, 2014, 17:06
There has been a big cleaning up of comments on the DPC Facebook page again. Those of you who are not blocked yet could write something just to let the occasional visitor know what way they've managed to involve so many images in this new scheme ;)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 05, 2014, 17:23
Posted it on FAA, might as well, Pixels.com is now a stock agency as well

http://fineartamerica.com/showmessages.php?messageid=1880293 (http://fineartamerica.com/showmessages.php?messageid=1880293)

Private thread for members only
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: bunhill on May 05, 2014, 17:24
Bunhill and Tickstock, the concious police. Dont you have enough other threads to roam?

Why are you always looking for trouble ?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 05, 2014, 17:27
Bunhill and Tickstock, the concious police. Dont you have enough other threads to roam?

We are you always looking for trouble ?
Me? You are questioning the integrity of contributors when the biggest threat of these peoples livelihood is unfolding. Get real.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: tickstock on May 05, 2014, 17:31
.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mantis on May 05, 2014, 17:43
As Rodney King said after the Los Angeles riots and Jack Nicholson stealing the same line from Rodney in Mars Attacks, "can't we all just...get along?  ;D
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Monty-m-gue on May 06, 2014, 06:49
For me it would be better to have ability adding some files to DPC (but some , not all). Everyone have some files with 0 sales after over 12 month. It could give oportunity to sell them with lower price.

This is exactly what I would like to see as well.  That, better commissions, and a higher minimum buy in.
Does that mean you won't be opting out?

Not at all.  It means if those conditions were met I would not be opting out.  As time goes by with no word from them on improving the deal, it is looking less likely.

So you haven't opted out, then..?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: tickstock on May 06, 2014, 07:15
.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 06, 2014, 08:37
Whats up with the witch hunt? Isnt everyone entitled to their own business decisions?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Monty-m-gue on May 06, 2014, 08:40
Whats up with the which hunt? Isnt everyone entitled to their own business decisions?

Of course they are, Ron. Just as everyone is entitled to ask questions....
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: tickstock on May 06, 2014, 09:22
.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 06, 2014, 09:37
Whats up with the which hunt? Isnt everyone entitled to their own business decisions?

Of course they are, Ron. Just as everyone is entitled to ask questions....
It's not a which witch hunt at all, the point of this whole thread is that Fotolia's DPC is a danger to all microstock contributors.  DPC is aimed at undercutting (disrupting as they like to say) the entire industry which affects each and every one of us.  I believe that is true and all contributors should be aware of what is going on.
You only joined the party after 29 pages when you got the chance to question Lisa.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: tickstock on May 06, 2014, 09:39
.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 06, 2014, 09:44
Takes one to know one, now put me back on ignore. You'll sleep better.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Pixart on May 06, 2014, 09:48
Can you guys take your bickering private please.  Not that I don't enjoy it, but this is a very important thread and I would hate for anyone to walk away from it if all they caught is this last page.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ferdinand on May 06, 2014, 09:49
 I have opted out from DPC with 2800 + files before D day  - I didn t write about it - so -  just to be recorded....
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: tickstock on May 06, 2014, 09:51
.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Beppe Grillo on May 06, 2014, 10:20
To turn in topic…

____
Well, DPC is surely a big damage for us contributors, most of us agree with this.
But on the long run (maybe not so long…) it is probably a damage for the customers too.

In my everyday work I am used to produce better images when they pay me more…, and so it is for microstocks.

I think that I am not the only one to think/behave in this way, so the customers should be informed about it, and advised to stay as far as possible from this kind of sites, unless they want the worst material they can find online…
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Desintegrator on May 06, 2014, 10:33
To turn in topic…

____
Well, DPC is surely a big damage for us contributors, most of us agree with this.
But on the long run (maybe not so long…) it is probably a damage for the customers too.

In my everyday work I am used to produce better images when they pay me more…, and so it is for microstocks.

I think that I am not the only one to think/behave in this way, so the customers should be informed about it, and advised to stay as far as possible from this kind of sites, unless they want the worst material they can find online…

To that first we have to archive that most good content be removed from DPC. Even if DPC would have let's say half the images of Fotolia, most customers would still find pretty much everything they want.
It seems to pretty hard to find a way to inform most contributors, as Fotolia remains silent about DPC and the Opt-out button, but that is what we must do
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Gel-O Shooter on May 06, 2014, 11:07
Is it just me?
Since I opted out of the dollar bin a few days ago, my regular sales have increased a bit and my subs have decreased noticeably.  I'm getting more revenue on fewer sales, so I'm happy with my decision.  I only have about 350 files left after D-day, so my results may not be typical.  Anyone else with a larger port seeing this too?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 06, 2014, 11:14
Can you guys take your bickering private please.  Not that I don't enjoy it, but this is a very important thread and I would hate for anyone to walk away from it if all they caught is this last page.
You're right, he's on ignore.  I won't be responding to any more of that nonsense.  I do want to see this effort succeed.  It's in all of our best interests.  Good luck.
What efforts? I have done more then you to stop this DPC nonsense!! Eikel.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: H2O on May 06, 2014, 11:20
Is it just me?
Since I opted out of the dollar bin a few days ago, my regular sales have increased a bit and my subs have decreased noticeably.  I'm getting more revenue on fewer sales, so I'm happy with my decision.  I only have about 350 files left after D-day, so my results may not be typical.  Anyone else with a larger port seeing this too?


Initially this might be the case, but the only way they are getting the sales growth on Dollar Photo Club is by getting there Customers/Clients to switch sites, eventually there will be no need to have Fotolia as a site.

Once they have transposed all there customers to DPC there properly shut Fotolia down, why keep it open.

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 06, 2014, 11:23
Is it just me?
Since I opted out of the dollar bin a few days ago, my regular sales have increased a bit and my subs have decreased noticeably.  I'm getting more revenue on fewer sales, so I'm happy with my decision.  I only have about 350 files left after D-day, so my results may not be typical.  Anyone else with a larger port seeing this too?

My sales keep dropping on FT, and it has to be the DPC. Although March was BME, April was 50% and it seems May is even going to be worse.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Desintegrator on May 06, 2014, 13:17
Some days ago, whent the opt-out option was still new I did a search for "background" on DPC and it yielded way over 8million results.
I've been checking it a few times since then and it is always a pleasure to see it decreasing.
At the moment it shows 6,674,855 results
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on May 06, 2014, 13:27
Some days ago, whent the opt-out option was still new I did a search for "background" on DPC and it yielded way over 8million results.
I've been checking it a few times since then and it is always a pleasure to see it decreasing.
At the moment it shows 6,674,855 results

That's all well and good, but it's not nearly enough to make a real dent in DPC. Even if DPC had half of the images of Fotolia, 14 million is still plenty to run a stock agency with. We need to see some far more significant decreases in numbers to really make a difference.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ferdinand on May 06, 2014, 13:29
... no logic at all to keep files in dpc - it s like suicide - hope soon much more people will be informed -

... someone mentioned earlier that contributors could be informed with e mails they have on msg - a lot of them are not active here anymore - but have their portfolios...
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Maximilian on May 06, 2014, 13:30
deactivated now all 4500 images on DPC
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on May 06, 2014, 13:31
Whats up with the witch hunt? Isnt everyone entitled to their own business decisions?

Sure. But when it's a decision like this, choosing to support or not support what may potentially be the most devastating thing to hit microstock, it's just kind of surprising that anyone opts to stay with DPC.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Monty-m-gue on May 06, 2014, 13:45
Whats up with the witch hunt? Isnt everyone entitled to their own business decisions?

Sure. But when it's a decision like this, choosing to support or not support what may potentially be the most devastating thing to hit microstock, it's just kind of surprising that anyone opts to stay with DPC.

I have it on very good authority that Fotolia are contacting key contributors in an attempt to persuade them to remain opted-in to DPC. I don't know the content of those conversations but I wouldn't be surprised if inducements are being offered.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 06, 2014, 13:47
Thats shocking if true.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on May 06, 2014, 13:59
Thats shocking if true.

I have reason to believe it's true - and it's in line with what they've done in the past. A combination of threats and carrots.

It's hard to say when you've hit rock bottom with unethical behavior by agencies, but Fotolia keeps trying to set the low water mark :)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: luissantos84 on May 06, 2014, 14:08
deactivated now all 4500 images on DPC

you have worked hard on the last 4 weeks ;D

guess you were exclusive at iStock!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on May 06, 2014, 14:18
I have it on very good authority that Fotolia are contacting key contributors in an attempt to persuade them to remain opted-in to DPC. I don't know the content of those conversations but I wouldn't be surprised if inducements are being offered.

No reason we can't do the same. I just fired off an email to someone I know was still opted in. He has 10k images on FT, hope he'll opt-out.

If anyone can directly contact any folks that are still on DPC, why not do it? It's painstaking to do this one email at a time, but it's better than not doing anything.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: lisafx on May 06, 2014, 14:23
Well, since there's so much speculation about what I intend to do, I will chime in. 

First, I have not received ANY special inducement to stay opted in to DPC. 

Second, I understand that there are improvements to the program that are imminent and should alleviate a lot of the concern about cannibalization of credit sales. 

And Third, I am struggling to understand why .37 per download for an emerald on DPC is so much worse than .28 per download for every single non-exclusive on Istock subs and PP.  Not to mention most of my credit sales on FT are small and yield the same price as a sub.

I am not saying that I like the way things are going in stock.  It is obviously a race to the bottom at this point, however I struggle to understand why this one initiative is so much worse than everything else that's happened in the past couple of years. 

I reserve the right to opt out if there are not improvements or the improvements are not sufficient, but I don't plan to be goaded into it.  This is an individual business decision and I plan to make it myself based on the best information available and not based on a feeding frenzy in a forum. 
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Maximilian on May 06, 2014, 14:27
deactivated now all 4500 images on DPC

you have worked hard on the last 4 weeks ;D

guess you were exclusive at iStock!
3 years fotolia exclusive
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ferdinand on May 06, 2014, 14:38
I have a lot of good credit sales on ft - even one ex last month - so I don t want to transform them in to sub sales   
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on May 06, 2014, 14:41
I have it on very good authority that Fotolia are contacting key contributors in an attempt to persuade them to remain opted-in to DPC. I don't know the content of those conversations but I wouldn't be surprised if inducements are being offered.

No reason we can't do the same. I just fired off an email to someone I know was still opted in. He has 10k images on FT, hope he'll opt-out.

If anyone can directly contact any folks that are still on DPC, why not do it? It's painstaking to do this one email at a time, but it's better than not doing anything.

I've been doing that. Sometimes it's hard to find current contact information. But I have outstanding e-mail requests that I still hope to hear back from - you never know when people are traveling or ...

A couple of earlier contacts have resulted in opt outs so asking nicely can't hurt.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: H2O on May 06, 2014, 14:42
Tscheltzoff  would have been planning this for quite a while, where all way behind the curve on what's happening.

Once they have transposed all there customers to DPC there properly shut Fotolia down, why keep it open.

Its a war between Fotolia and the other stock sites, his weapon of choice is DPC.

I'm petty sure he wont win, but its a lot of trouble for a couple of years.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on May 06, 2014, 14:47
...I am struggling to understand why .37 per download for an emerald on DPC is so much worse than .28 per download for every single non-exclusive on Istock subs and PP...

A buyer can't go in for just $10 with those other options. That's the big difference. Subscriptions work for us because it forces the buyer to buy in bulk. Keeping a subscription royalty payment system and stripping out the bulk part of it means that the sales volume we need to earn decently plummets.

The royalty itself isn't the issue. It's that a buyer only has to commit to as few as 10 images while we still get subscription royalties.

I think most folks around here who have seen my posts over the years know I'm not much of a doom-and-gloomer. i don't buy into conspiracy theories, and generally I'm pretty easy-going with the day-to-day shenanigans of microstock. But DPC is vastly different from anything I've seen before. It is designed to disrupt the business, and from what I've seen so far, I think it will succeed in that goal.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: jarih on May 06, 2014, 14:49
I think this was the first time when contributors were shown the power of co-operation. And it's worked! Of course everyone make own business, but we have a common interest to be driven.

I have sent emails or fb messages for five contributor. I have searched images, little google (google image search) and part of sherlock holmes attitude to find contact information. Everyone can do it once in a while.

I hope you understand my, not so good english :)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Anja_Kaiser on May 06, 2014, 14:50
And Third, I am struggling to understand why .37 per download for an emerald on DPC is so much worse than .28 per download for every single non-exclusive on Istock subs and PP.  Not to mention most of my credit sales on FT are small and yield the same price as a sub.
It isn't about the prizing for a sub dl, but the fact that this isn't a real subscription model, but doesn't differenciate between both at all. They're clearly targeting the on demand-buyers at SS and iS and *those* are the dls we're going to lose in a long run. (Plus, all credit sales on FT, of course.)
I'm not with iS anymore because of the first wave back in 2010 and deleted my last few illustrations because of the Google deal, but if FT now tries to get their hands on my income from SS and the smaller agencies, I'm *definitely* not willing to support them.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on May 06, 2014, 14:53
...They're clearly targeting the on demand-buyers at SS and iS and *those* are the dls we're going to lose in a long run. (Plus, all credit sales on FT, of course.)...

Bingo. The $10 buy-in isn't coincidental. $10 is around what someone expects to spend on a single image elsewhere. DPC is giving people an option to spend that $10 on 10 images instead, and we get subscription royalties for the sales.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: lisafx on May 06, 2014, 15:01
...They're clearly targeting the on demand-buyers at SS and iS and *those* are the dls we're going to lose in a long run. (Plus, all credit sales on FT, of course.)...

Bingo. The $10 buy-in isn't coincidental. $10 is around what someone expects to spend on a single image elsewhere. DPC is giving people an option to spend that $10 on 10 images instead, and we get subscription royalties for the sales.

Right.  Agreed.  If the buy in was raised to a more industry standard level, would that change your mind?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on May 06, 2014, 15:06
If the buy in was raised to a more industry standard level, would that change your mind?

Sure, if they can run a regular subscription program, then by all means have at it.

It would be great to hear about any planned changes, though. I'm going on what information I have in front of me, which is just what DPC is as of right now, 10 images for $10. If they plan on changing that, it would be smart to let us know and put a stop to the opt-outs and image deletions.

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: PhotoBomb on May 06, 2014, 15:11
Second, I understand that there are improvements to the program that are imminent and should alleviate a lot of the concern about cannibalization of credit sales.  [/

Do you care to elaborate?
I haven't seen or heard anything yet to point to something better from FT.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Pixart on May 06, 2014, 15:13
A 25 cent payout is definitely in the same ballpark as a 38 cent payout.  (Yes, poor - how did we get here???)  But, it is not the payout that concerns me the most - it is the cost to the end user.  Perceived value.  A photo is only worth a buck - I buy photos for a buck therefore no photos are ever worth more than a buck again.  Okay, sure - some are not even worth than a buck - but most of the portfolios that I have had the privileged to view are very professional - and no, my 12 year old cannot make a rival portfolio on his iphone.

At SS, the customer is paying much much more.... he sees photos costing $249 for a quality subscription pack and most likely thinks about the $249 not the price of the individual photos.

Then there's this.  http://blog.melchersystem.com/2014/05/05/stock-photo-blindness/ (http://blog.melchersystem.com/2014/05/05/stock-photo-blindness/)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: disorderly on May 06, 2014, 15:18
Thats shocking if true.

Really?  From the agency that pays suppliers in Euros at a different rate than those of us who signed up with Dollar accounts?  I'd be more shocked if they weren't trying some sort of Divide & Conquer tactics.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: a1bercik on May 06, 2014, 15:23
Oh, my small pack of 260 images deactivated. What a shame.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: H2O on May 06, 2014, 15:28
I have watched quite a few video interviews of Tscheltzoff and he actually uses the wording at War with the other agencies.

This is part of Tscheltzoff mind set, while your all looking at $10 here and improvements there for... etc.. Fotolia have already worked out exactly what they are going to do ages ago when DPC was in development, they will have a critical path/strategy on how to proceed.

DPC has millions of images, break the competition and you dominate the market, I think this is how he sees it.

A quick and large return to the shareholders in the short term, using the stock they have at the moment.

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 06, 2014, 15:31
A 25 cent payout is definitely in the same ballpark as a 38 cent payout.  (Yes, poor - how did we get here???)  But, it is not the payout that concerns me the most - it is the cost to the end user.  Perceived value.  A photo is only worth a buck - I buy photos for a buck therefore no photos are ever worth more than a buck again.  Okay, sure - some are not even worth than a buck - but most of the portfolios that I have had the privileged to view are very professional - and no, my 12 year old cannot make a rival portfolio on his iphone.

At SS, the customer is paying much much more.... he sees photos costing $249 for a quality subscription pack and most likely thinks about the $249 not the price of the individual photos.

Then there's this.  [url]http://blog.melchersystem.com/2014/05/05/stock-photo-blindness/[/url] ([url]http://blog.melchersystem.com/2014/05/05/stock-photo-blindness/[/url])


Wow, thats interesting, thanks for posting. I guess thats why Stocksy does well. Hmmmm, time to do some thinking.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mantis on May 06, 2014, 15:36
Thats shocking if true.

Not really. They have behaved this way for some time and Istock/Getty cut special deals too.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: jarih on May 06, 2014, 15:37
What's next $5 or $3 "sub-pack"?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Desintegrator on May 06, 2014, 15:37
I have watched quite a few video interviews of Tscheltzoff and he actually uses the wording at War with the other agencies.

A war where his weapons are our images.
It is clear that no contributor should support it. Basicly our images fighting a war against their own value so some company owner can have some hope to end up with bigger market share.
We don't want Fotolia to fight against other agencies, they are only expected to find buyers for our photos. 
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: H2O on May 06, 2014, 15:43
I have watched quite a few video interviews of Tscheltzoff and he actually uses the wording at War with the other agencies.

A war where his weapons are our images.
It is clear that no contributor should support it. Basicly our images fighting a war against their own value so some company owner can have some hope to end up with bigger market share.
We don't want Fotolia to fight against other agencies, they are only expected to find buyers for our photos.


I agree entirely there supposed to be Agents for our hard work, the images we produce
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Dook on May 06, 2014, 16:11
Microstock agencies are doing what they've been doing from their beginning  (this time it's Fotolia) - lowering prices and devaluing our work. Aren't the agencies that we all work for the ones who cut the traditional stock prices and almost completely changed the stock photography market? Aren't we, microstock contributors, the ones how made profit out of this, since we were the ones who never made it into traditional stock, or weren't even aware of its existence?
Therefore, we could all see this coming. Even more, we all participated in this, nobody is innocent. We all agreed to work for 0.25$ ten years ago.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Desintegrator on May 06, 2014, 16:13
One more of the little things we can do...
It is almost certain that the funds for the advertising of DPC come from Fotolia. Probably it's almost nothing, still we can all ask or payout now. Normally i did it bout twice a year or so, but from now on i will request payout every time i reach 50 credits.
The same as I don't want my images to fight their silly war, neither do i want my money to be used for that.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Dook on May 06, 2014, 16:14
One more of the little things we can do...
It is almost certain that the funds for the advertising of DPC come from Fotolia. Probably it's almost nothing, still we can all ask or payout now. Normally i did it bout twice a year or so, but from now on i will request payout every time i reach 50 credits.
The same as I don't want my images to fight their silly war, neither do i want my money to be used for that.

Good point!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: PhotoBomb on May 06, 2014, 16:23
One more of the little things we can do...
It is almost certain that the funds for the advertising of DPC come from Fotolia. Probably it's almost nothing, still we can all ask or payout now. Normally i did it bout twice a year or so, but from now on i will request payout every time i reach 50 credits.
The same as I don't want my images to fight their silly war, neither do i want my money to be used for that.

Wow!  I'd never leave money with any agency a moment longer than required. It's always been my theory that the money is better, for me, in my bank account as opposed to theirs. And the memory of 'Lucky Oliver' going belly up leaving people with uncollectible earnings only reinforces my position. I don't know that any business is trustworthy enough to hold my money (including banks  :P )
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Red Dove on May 06, 2014, 16:31
What PhotoBomb said. Plus I hate to think of Oleg enjoying a Cohiba Gran Reserva lit with my money.

Pixart also nailed it in his comment above. FT are changing the perceived value of the work. It doesn't matter what they change on commissions or what other sweeteners they have in the pipeline to retain contributors, this is cannibalization of existing business and potentially, a silver bullet for someone else in the Top Tier. I have a feeling it won't be SS.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: DF_Studios on May 06, 2014, 16:45
Thanks for reminding me the payout was at $50.  Silly me waiting endlessly for it to reach $100.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on May 06, 2014, 17:16
Microstock agencies are doing what they've been doing from their beginning  (this time it's Fotolia) - lowering prices and devaluing our work. Aren't the agencies that we all work for the ones who cut the traditional stock prices and almost completely changed the stock photography market? Aren't we, microstock contributors, the ones how made profit out of this, since we were the ones who never made it into traditional stock, or weren't even aware of its existence?
Therefore, we could all see this coming. Even more, we all participated in this, nobody is innocent. We all agreed to work for 0.25$ ten years ago.

I don't think you have the history of microstock even close to accurate, and as a result have come to an inaccurate conclusion.

The huge differences are that microstock wasn't offering the same thing to the same audience at lower prices.

Microstock expanded the market by bringing new buyers who couldn't previously afford either stock or custom photo shoots. The shots were initially of very variable quality and for the most part had much lower production values. For some buyers that was a plus because it didn't look as plastic fantastic as some high end stock.

And just as a point of order, 10 years ago Shutterstock paid 20 cents a download, not 25 and iStock paid 10, 20 or 30 cents depending on S-M-L. Dreamstime was 50 cents on the $1 (and I forget if they had two or three sizes). CanStock was a little higher at first.

What Fotolia is doing is offering the same buyers the same product at a lower price - and they didn't ask the owners of the content if it was OK with them first. The lower price part of that is not only the low royalties but the lack of volume - you can buy in for $10 making it a massive giveaway as they get the high volume price for low volume purchases.

It's very very different.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on May 06, 2014, 17:51
...If anyone can directly contact any folks that are still on DPC, why not do it? It's painstaking to do this one email at a time, but it's better than not doing anything.

That email I sent? The contributor opted out. And just like that 10,000 more images are gone from DPC.

Send those emails, folks. It works.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: H2O on May 06, 2014, 18:02
...If anyone can directly contact any folks that are still on DPC, why not do it? It's painstaking to do this one email at a time, but it's better than not doing anything.

That email I sent? The contributor opted out. And just like that 10,000 more images are gone from DPC.

Send those emails, folks. It works.


Sending emails is a good idea but the only way to get real traction on opting out is to force the issue, the advertising and design press should be contacted in say New York, London, Paris this would rise the profile of the issue.

1. Sales at DPC would go up, the effect of which would be for contributers to question what is going on with such low returns.

2. The advertising and design community would get the message and the message would then spread to the contributers, because they are one and the same.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: bpepz on May 06, 2014, 18:23
-
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: OM on May 06, 2014, 19:33
I opted out my 1371 images a few days ago, somehow my images are all still up. I even made sure to hit "save". Anyone else notice this?

Takes 'em a few days to remove the images but when I opted out the images were still visible initially but not 'clickable'/downloadable.

BTW. I see that the Africa Studio factory is still innit2winnit there with more than 450,000 images!
Quick, someone send them an email. Probably wouldn't do any good. Maybe they're part-owned by FT.  ;D
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: emblem on May 06, 2014, 19:38
To the people who haven't opted out and are waiting for changes to DPC....doesn't it make any difference about the unethical and immoral way that Fotolia has gone about creating this aberration. If it wasn't for people rebelling against this, it would be too late now and the damage already done.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Elenathewise on May 06, 2014, 20:28
Well, since there's so much speculation about what I intend to do, I will chime in. 

First, I have not received ANY special inducement to stay opted in to DPC. 

Second, I understand that there are improvements to the program that are imminent and should alleviate a lot of the concern about cannibalization of credit sales. 

And Third, I am struggling to understand why .37 per download for an emerald on DPC is so much worse than .28 per download for every single non-exclusive on Istock subs and PP.  Not to mention most of my credit sales on FT are small and yield the same price as a sub.

I am not saying that I like the way things are going in stock.  It is obviously a race to the bottom at this point, however I struggle to understand why this one initiative is so much worse than everything else that's happened in the past couple of years. 

I reserve the right to opt out if there are not improvements or the improvements are not sufficient, but I don't plan to be goaded into it.  This is an individual business decision and I plan to make it myself based on the best information available and not based on a feeding frenzy in a forum.

Lisa, yes the difference is in the amount a customer is required to spend upfront, as other people mentioned before. Subscription model is very popular with businesses - it simplifies accounting greatly, no approvals per image, just one yearly (or monthly) fee to deal with. And of course they download a lot of images for their design and other needs, even though many images never even make it to final product. So sub system is here to stay, and, looking at everyone's earnings at SS is quite sustainable for photographers. What Fotolia is doing is different - their 10 images for $10 dollars deal is not aimed at big or medium businesses, but rather at individuals or small design shops. These customers would not bring a significant volume of sales - they would just get our work really cheap, while in many cases their budgets allow for at least $50 per image.  And I am still to meet an individual who actually pays for images for personal use - even if they are self-employed professionals. They will keep downloading free images because it's practically impossible to police.
Fotolia is not the only agency that tries to get ahead of competition by slashing prices, but I don't think it will work, partly because you can only push contributors so far, and partly because prices at the level they are now are not really a problem. SS is successful because of their advanced technology and marketing strategies, and they have never actually reduced prices. That's my take on this, but of course participation in DPC is everyone's personal decision, and no pressure should be applied to anyone.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: lisafx on May 06, 2014, 21:57
Well, since there's so much speculation about what I intend to do, I will chime in. 

First, I have not received ANY special inducement to stay opted in to DPC. 

Second, I understand that there are improvements to the program that are imminent and should alleviate a lot of the concern about cannibalization of credit sales. 

And Third, I am struggling to understand why .37 per download for an emerald on DPC is so much worse than .28 per download for every single non-exclusive on Istock subs and PP.  Not to mention most of my credit sales on FT are small and yield the same price as a sub.

I am not saying that I like the way things are going in stock.  It is obviously a race to the bottom at this point, however I struggle to understand why this one initiative is so much worse than everything else that's happened in the past couple of years. 

I reserve the right to opt out if there are not improvements or the improvements are not sufficient, but I don't plan to be goaded into it.  This is an individual business decision and I plan to make it myself based on the best information available and not based on a feeding frenzy in a forum.

Lisa, yes the difference is in the amount a customer is required to spend upfront, as other people mentioned before. Subscription model is very popular with businesses - it simplifies accounting greatly, no approvals per image, just one yearly (or monthly) fee to deal with. And of course they download a lot of images for their design and other needs, even though many images never even make it to final product. So sub system is here to stay, and, looking at everyone's earnings at SS is quite sustainable for photographers. What Fotolia is doing is different - their 10 images for $10 dollars deal is not aimed at big or medium businesses, but rather at individuals or small design shops. These customers would not bring a significant volume of sales - they would just get our work really cheap, while in many cases their budgets allow for at least $50 per image.  And I am still to meet an individual who actually pays for images for personal use - even if they are self-employed professionals. They will keep downloading free images because it's practically impossible to police.
Fotolia is not the only agency that tries to get ahead of competition by slashing prices, but I don't think it will work, partly because you can only push contributors so far, and partly because prices at the level they are now are not really a problem. SS is successful because of their advanced technology and marketing strategies, and they have never actually reduced prices. That's my take on this, but of course participation in DPC is everyone's personal decision, and no pressure should be applied to anyone.

Great post Elena and definitely food for thought. 
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: disorderly on May 06, 2014, 22:45
To put some numbers to Elena's remarks, I can get 10 images for $10 on DPC.  That's one heck of a cheap deal if I only need a few images.  How many do I really need before it looks like a steal?  One at $10?  Two at $5 each?  Three at $3.33?  Even if I only need a few, it's amazingly cheap.

Contrast that with Shutterstock, where two images in a Pay As You Go plan cost $14.50 each.  If I need three, they'll be $16.33 each (using the 5 image pack).  Four will be $12.25 each.  Five will be $9.80 each.  And things don't get cheaper until I buy a 25 image pack, which is $9.16 each, assuming of course I need all 25.

Subscriptions get you cheap images, but only if you need and download a lot over the course of your agreement.  Most clients download a small fraction of their monthly maximum, so each download isn't nearly as cheap as it seems.  And clients grab a lot of images they wouldn't take if they were paying by the download.  It's not a coincidence that I often see a lot of downloads from the same shoot.  I'm not the only one who benefits from clients' "might as well - I've already paid for them" attitude.

Problem is that DPC is the ideal subscription for the client who only needs a few images, and who wants the cheapest possible deal.  And even worse for us, it's not a subscription at all; it's a Pay As You Go credit model for those incredibly cheap images.  It's undercutting the competition by more than half, and that's why I opted out as soon as I could.  Oh, and I'm still slowly removing the last few images from Fotolia's main site.  Might as well get one or two more payouts on my way out the door.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: dirkr on May 07, 2014, 03:42
To add a few more numbers:

The smallest credit package on FT is 10 Credits, in Europe that costs 14€ (can't see $ prices here).
That will buy you 1 (ONE!) XXL file (of white or bronze level contributor).

14€ is roughly $19,30.

On DPC that buys you 19 XXL files (even those where the contributor has raised prices and that cost 36 credits on FT).

All they need to do is one mass e-mail to all their buyers and the credit business on FT will be dead almost instantly.
There is no case where buying with credits on FT will make (financial) sense to a buyer anymore.
Assuming the content is on DPC.

And that's not even considering the repercussions on the other agencies.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Desintegrator on May 07, 2014, 03:54
To add a few more numbers:

The smallest credit package on FT is 10 Credits, in Europe that costs 14€ (can't see $ prices here).
That will buy you 1 (ONE!) XXL file (of white or bronze level contributor).

14€ is roughly $19,30.

On DPC that buys you 19 XXL files (even those where the contributor has raised prices and that cost 36 credits on FT).

All they need to do is one mass e-mail to all their buyers and the credit business on FT will be dead almost instantly.
There is no case where buying with credits on FT will make (financial) sense to a buyer anymore.
Assuming the content is on DPC.

And that's not even considering the repercussions on the other agencies.

Exactly. And the strange thing is, that Fotolia recently raised prices. XXL is 12 credits now. Which is good. And they seem to be going well, quite big percentage of my Fotolia sales are those 8-10-12 credit ones, I like getting them. It's shame that they've tricked our images into this DPC scheme.

(by the way, you mention white and bronze contributors.. it's the same for silver and gold, one have to get to emerald for raising prices)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: MxR on May 07, 2014, 03:54
To add a few more numbers:

The smallest credit package on FT is 10 Credits, in Europe that costs 14€ (can't see $ prices here).
That will buy you 1 (ONE!) XXL file (of white or bronze level contributor).

14€ is roughly $19,30.

On DPC that buys you 19 XXL files (even those where the contributor has raised prices and that cost 36 credits on FT).

All they need to do is one mass e-mail to all their buyers and the credit business on FT will be dead almost instantly.
There is no case where buying with credits on FT will make (financial) sense to a buyer anymore.
Assuming the content is on DPC.

And that's not even considering the repercussions on the other agencies.

And my silver % of 19,30 is 2,50 (25% of 10 credit)... less than hateful IStock indie 15%
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: luissantos84 on May 07, 2014, 03:58
maths from the other day

at DPC
contributor gets from 0.2$ to 0.46$ (non exclusive)
FT 0.44$ to 0.8$ per file

at FT
XXL size Silver ranking - 12 credits - (contributor gets 3$, FT 9$)
XXL size can go up to 36$ (contributor gets 14.4$, FT 21.6$)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: dirkr on May 07, 2014, 04:14

(by the way, you mention white and bronze contributors.. it's the same for silver and gold, one have to get to emerald for raising prices)

Yes, I know, but for white and bronze the XXL price is still 10 Credits, from silver onwards is 12.
So to buy a silver XXL you need to buy the next credit package, which is showing as 26 credits for €28 (including some bonus credit promotion they are currently running...).
Even less incentive to buy via credits...
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: BaldricksTrousers on May 07, 2014, 04:54
Lisa - to add to what has been said, the traditional subscription offers - what? - 20 a day for a month? A person who only needs five images one week will download those 5 and then maybe another 50 to have a look or hoard for possible later use. Benefit to contributors 55 x 25c+ = $13.75.  A person with a $10, 10-image pack who needs 5 images will probably download almost all 10, and if that is paying 25c per sale the benefit to contributors is $2.50 (for an emerald you could substitute in 38c for SS and 37c for DPC, which makes things marginally worse).

That is an 80% drop in the overall payouts to contributors from subscriptions, even though in this example the payout per sale is the same. The destruction of contributor earnings is achieved by persuading buyers to change their behaviour.

In addition, encouraging small users to switch from credits packs to this supposed subscription model (which isn't really a subscription, except in so far as they will probably try to catch people with automatic renewals charged to their cards) means that the value of all your current credit pack sales will fall to subsciption sales levels.  That will wipe a few more percent off your earnings.

If Fotolia pulls this off, I would not be surprised to see a 75% drop in contributor earnings within three or four years. And your pictures and your permission to use them are the ammunition Fotolia is using to destroy your own earnings.

Fotolia probably isn't at all interested in whether this is good or bad for contributors. Its only interest will be in how bad it is for rival agencies.  Do you really want to join a campaign which has as its ultimate aim the complete destruction of SS, DT and iS and all the sales you get there, leaving you with DPC as your only source of sales? Do you trust Fotolia enough to participate in that?

There is a huge difference between this and the creation of microstock over a decade ago. Microstock was an inevitable consequence of digital replacing film as the photographic medium, and the possibilities that created for the likes of us. Microstock's target market was the untapped demand for cheap not very brilliant photos, it wasn't initially seen as posing a threat to the quality of good professionals supplying traditional stock site. This is not about technology and it's not about new markets; it is purely and simply about commercial manouevring to grab sales from rival companies - and companies that have been a lot better to us than this one.

What they have done is take the most attractive features of the two models and remix them in a way that is very harmful to suppliers
Subscription = high volume sales for every contract x very low unit prices
Credit packs = low volume sales per contract x high unit prices 
DPC = low volume sales per contract x very low prices

The DPC model can only work if it grabs a large part of the market share from the other models, and that means we get a lot fewer subscription sales and have credit-level commissions replaced by subscription level commissions, as explained above.

The only way DPC can be a success is by using our images to destroy our earnings.

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: stocked on May 07, 2014, 05:22
To add a few more numbers:

The smallest credit package on FT is 10 Credits, in Europe that costs 14€ (can't see $ prices here).
That will buy you 1 (ONE!) XXL file (of white or bronze level contributor).

14€ is roughly $19,30.

On DPC that buys you 19 XXL files (even those where the contributor has raised prices and that cost 36 credits on FT).

All they need to do is one mass e-mail to all their buyers and the credit business on FT will be dead almost instantly.
There is no case where buying with credits on FT will make (financial) sense to a buyer anymore.
Assuming the content is on DPC.

And that's not even considering the repercussions on the other agencies.

And my silver % of 19,30 is 2,50 (25% of 10 credit)... less than hateful IStock indie 15%
You have to consider the mini-subpackage at Fotolia 5 XXL-Downloads for 25,- € at saphire you get 0.37 per Download assuming the buyer uses its subpackage to its full extend than it results to 5x0.37= 1.85 that is only 7.5% commission assuming you are saphire and you are getting paid in € otherwise it's even worse.
iStock is bad regarding artists commission but Fotolia is much worse!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: luissantos84 on May 07, 2014, 05:28
well said Paul, it's a pity they don't use the free advice always written by you and a few other here at MSG
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: pictureman75 on May 07, 2014, 05:49
With all this informations given here about DPC (and other FT related things) I can't believe that there are a lot of contributors that didn't opt-out of DPC! And I don't mean that ones, who are not informed yet ... I mean people (and especially a lot of big players!), who are really and for sure well informed about DPC! It's a shame what they are doing, not only undermine their own business but our's and that of the whole microstockers too!!!

In german FT-forum there are some big players which normally are active there (e.g. complaining about decreasing RPD, etc.) and since the activity against DPC here, they are quiet!!! As I read in a former post I suppose too, that FT has contacted them and they have special deals with them ... it's really a shame!!!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: fujiko on May 07, 2014, 06:41
In short, DPC is subscription royalties for on demand model.

DPC is more expensive than a full subscription model where the buyer uses full quota of downloads. DPC is not trying to target those high volume buyers. They would be crazy to jump to a more expensive model.
DPC targets on demand buyers that don't want or need a full subscription and offers them a lower price than existing on demand plans.

DPC is a threat to the existing on demand market as it lowers the perceived value of on demand downloads but offers no volume in return when compared to existing subscription plans.

In the end the contributor will get subscription royalties with on demand volume.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mantis on May 07, 2014, 07:52
Lisa - to add to what has been said, the traditional subscription offers - what? - 20 a day for a month? A person who only needs five images one week will download those 5 and then maybe another 50 to have a look or hoard for possible later use. Benefit to contributors 55 x 25c+ = $13.75.  A person with a $10, 10-image pack who needs 5 images will probably download almost all 10, and if that is paying 25c per sale the benefit to contributors is $2.50 (for an emerald you could substitute in 38c for SS and 37c for DPC, which makes things marginally worse).

That is an 80% drop in the overall payouts to contributors from subscriptions, even though in this example the payout per sale is the same. The destruction of contributor earnings is achieved by persuading buyers to change their behaviour.

In addition, encouraging small users to switch from credits packs to this supposed subscription model (which isn't really a subscription, except in so far as they will probably try to catch people with automatic renewals charged to their cards) means that the value of all your current credit pack sales will fall to subsciption sales levels.  That will wipe a few more percent off your earnings.

If Fotolia pulls this off, I would not be surprised to see a 75% drop in contributor earnings within three or four years. And your pictures and your permission to use them are the ammunition Fotolia is using to destroy your own earnings.

Fotolia probably isn't at all interested in whether this is good or bad for contributors. Its only interest will be in how bad it is for rival agencies.  Do you really want to join a campaign which has as its ultimate aim the complete destruction of SS, DT and iS and all the sales you get there, leaving you with DPC as your only source of sales? Do you trust Fotolia enough to participate in that?

There is a huge difference between this and the creation of microstock over a decade ago. Microstock was an inevitable consequence of digital replacing film as the photographic medium, and the possibilities that created for the likes of us. Microstock's target market was the untapped demand for cheap not very brilliant photos, it wasn't initially seen as posing a threat to the quality of good professionals supplying traditional stock site. This is not about technology and it's not about new markets; it is purely and simply about commercial manouevring to grab sales from rival companies - and companies that have been a lot better to us than this one.

What they have done is take the most attractive features of the two models and remix them in a way that is very harmful to suppliers
Subscription = high volume sales for every contract x very low unit prices
Credit packs = low volume sales per contract x high unit prices 
DPC = low volume sales per contract x very low prices

The DPC model can only work if it grabs a large part of the market share from the other models, and that means we get a lot fewer subscription sales and have credit-level commissions replaced by subscription level commissions, as explained above.

The only way DPC can be a success is by using our images to destroy our earnings.

Spot on.  While I've opted 2800 images out of DPC I am seriously considering closing my FT account at the same time I close my Deposit Photos account. I suspect opting out will be meaningless in the coming months or year.  I believe that the only reason FT gave us an opt out is because DPC and FT will merge in some way and an opt out is their way to keep our opted out images in the FT collection so that they are available when they merge.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: pixsol on May 07, 2014, 08:01
FT may bring about changes (for the betterment of us contributors) to DPC only if the number of images in DPC drop below a threshold that they would have already calculated. Based on the fact that they offered a concealed OPT-OUT, I think that they have NOT counted on all 28 million FT images to be in DPC. Our only hope is to gently request fellow contributors to consider Opting-Out of DPC (thereby reducing the image count of DPC) until elements of DPC are changed for the better (for contributors).
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Dook on May 07, 2014, 08:09




I don't think you have the history of microstock even close to accurate, and as a result have come to an inaccurate conclusion.

The huge differences are that microstock wasn't offering the same thing to the same audience at lower prices.

Microstock expanded the market by bringing new buyers who couldn't previously afford either stock or custom photo shoots. The shots were initially of very variable quality and for the most part had much lower production values. For some buyers that was a plus because it didn't look as plastic fantastic as some high end stock.

And just as a point of order, 10 years ago Shutterstock paid 20 cents a download, not 25 and iStock paid 10, 20 or 30 cents depending on S-M-L. Dreamstime was 50 cents on the $1 (and I forget if they had two or three sizes). CanStock was a little higher at first.

What Fotolia is doing is offering the same buyers the same product at a lower price - and they didn't ask the owners of the content if it was OK with them first. The lower price part of that is not only the low royalties but the lack of volume - you can buy in for $10 making it a massive giveaway as they get the high volume price for low volume purchases.

It's very very different.

Microstock didn't take existing traditional RF stock buyers overnight. But, in longer run it did. Especialy low budget photos (objects on white, food, lifestyle etc).
Of course, it doesn't matter now. I don't want to hijack the thread anymore. I'm against DPC 100%, so let's keep on the topic - I don't even know why I wrote it. And I chose to be anonimous and, I admit, it's not fair to you, that I keep arguing about anything, it's just not right.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Anja_Kaiser on May 07, 2014, 08:38
In german FT-forum there are some big players which normally are active there (e.g. complaining about decreasing RPD, etc.) and since the activity against DPC here, they are quiet!!! As I read in a former post I suppose too, that FT has contacted them and they have special deals with them ... it's really a shame!!!
I guess I know whom you're talking about. Give them some more time to consider. Those high volume players also have a load of expenses and therefor probably can't even afford to lose their FT income in the nearer future. I don't even think it's about "special deals", but maybe just a little more information than the rest of us would get. Anyways, we shouldn't judge anyone for their business moves - there are a lot more arguments for people running a large business than the the facts, opinions and predictions posted in here. (Although I personally wished they would pull their contents as well, of course.)
edit: I'll try to reach out to them.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Anyka on May 07, 2014, 08:45
I cannot afford loosing my FT income either, but I did opt out of DPC.  Not because I am against Fotolia (Fotolia is my 2nd earner, so how could I be against them?), but because I believe that if a LARGE group of contributors opt out, Fotolia will listen to us.

We talk about Fotolia "changing DPC" in favour of their contributors.  What change would make you opt in again?

In my case it would be :  move DPC more towards big players by raising the 10 $ bar => 100 $.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Anja_Kaiser on May 07, 2014, 08:53
I cannot afford loosing my FT income either, but I did opt out of DPC.  Not because I am against Fotolia (Fotolia is my 2nd earner, so how could I be against them?), but because I believe that if a LARGE group of contributors opt out, Fotolia will listen to us.
Same here! I'm not trying to defend their decision (as far as they've already made up their mind), I just don't like this to become too personal/a witch hunt. (Esp. as such comments have already been posted at the FT forums as well.) All I wanted to say is that we don't have enough information about what happens behind the scenes in order to judge.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: fujiko on May 07, 2014, 09:06
FT may bring about changes (for the betterment of us contributors) to DPC only if the number of images in DPC drop below a threshold that they would have already calculated. Based on the fact that they offered a concealed OPT-OUT, I think that they have NOT counted on all 28 million FT images to be in DPC. Our only hope is to gently request fellow contributors to consider Opting-Out of DPC (thereby reducing the image count of DPC) until elements of DPC are changed for the better (for contributors).

In some sites advertising the launch of DPC the number they said the site has is 25+ million. I guess that's the number they calculated they would have after the dust settles and less than 3 million images are opted out.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: luissantos84 on May 07, 2014, 09:07
I cannot afford loosing my FT income either, but I did opt out of DPC.  Not because I am against Fotolia (Fotolia is my 2nd earner, so how could I be against them?), but because I believe that if a LARGE group of contributors opt out, Fotolia will listen to us.

We talk about Fotolia "changing DPC" in favour of their contributors.  What change would make you opt in again?

In my case it would be :  move DPC more towards big players by raising the 10 $ bar => 100 $.

for how many pictures?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on May 07, 2014, 09:20
...we shouldn't judge anyone for their business moves - there are a lot more arguments for people running a large business than the the facts, opinions and predictions posted in here. (Although I personally wished they would pull their contents as well, of course.)

Actually on this one, I'm judging. I know that sounds bad, but I think it's fair in this case. For two reasons: 1.) Opting in or out of DPC is easy, it's just a click on a link. Someone can opt out now in protest and opt back in later. 2.) Opting out now doesn't hurt anyone's income, not significantly anyway. You can opt out now and stay opted out in protest for a week, a month, whatever, and ultimately it costs you, what, a few bucks in DPC sales you might have had? It's fair to ask everyone to make that small sacrifice.

Usually I'd agree that decisions in this business are personal, and are based on things the public doesn't always see or know about. But in this case, there is really no good reason for anyone to stay opted-in right now. You can so easily opt out and opt in again later, it really just makes no sense to stay opted in.

Honestly, in my opinion, being opted in right now is a vote of confidence in the current DPC deal. No one should be surprised if Fotolia changes absolutely nothing about DPC going forward when they have what they could very easily call significant contributor confidence in what they are currently offering based on the number of people still opted in.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Desintegrator on May 07, 2014, 09:24
...we shouldn't judge anyone for their business moves - there are a lot more arguments for people running a large business than the the facts, opinions and predictions posted in here. (Although I personally wished they would pull their contents as well, of course.)

Actually on this one, I'm judging. I know that sounds bad, but I think it's fair in this case. For two reasons: 1.) Opting in or out of DPC is easy, it's just a click on a link. Someone can opt out now in protest and opt back in later. 2.) Opting out now doesn't hurt anyone's income, not significantly anyway. You can opt out now and stay opted out in protest for a week, a month, whatever, and ultimately it costs you, what, a few bucks in DPC sales you might have had? It's fair to ask everyone to make that small sacrifice.

Usually I'd agree that decisions in this business are personal, and are based on things the public doesn't always see or know about. But in this case, there is really no good reason for anyone to stay opted-in right now. You can so easily opt out and opt in again later, it really just makes no sense to stay opted in.

Honestly, in my opinion, being opted in right now is a vote of confidence in the current DPC deal. No one should be surprised if Fotolia changes absolutely nothing about DPC going forward when they have what they could very easily call significant contributor confidence in what they are currently offering based on the number of people still opted in.

Agree.
I opted out of DPC as soon as it was possible, but i didn't want to sacrifice my Fotolia earnings (yet I deleted a few hundred to support the protest on the 1st of May). After opting out, my Fotolia sales are still coming just as usual.

The thing which could hurt our earnings significantly in the long run is when DPC manages to succeed.
We really have to try everything we can to make it fail.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Anja_Kaiser on May 07, 2014, 09:32
Agreed, Mike.
I already reached out to him (because I noticed his portfolio on the DPC site) a couple of days ago and he told me he was abroad and not yet informed at all. Haven't heard back from him afterwards, but that was why I said he probably needed a little more time.
I'll try to discuss this matter again, although I'll most likely not be able to publicly share.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on May 07, 2014, 09:34
...The thing which could hurt our earnings significantly in the long run is when DPC manages to succeed.
We really have to try everything we can to make it fail.

Staying opted in is a short-term gain that could ultimately mean long-term loss. It's just not worth it. Opting in really can't be earning anyone that much money right now. DPC is still too new. So why do it?

I have to slightly disagree with your comment about making it fail, though. It doesn't need to fail, it just needs to change. DPC can exist in the market without doing any damage if it's restructured as a real subscription offering. Right now it's basically credit sales with a minor minimum buy-in and subscription royalties. As a real subscription system, with a respectable buy-in, it would be fine.

They should just remove the $10 option. One option, just $99, $1 images. I might still stay out of it, but at least then it wouldn't be as big a threat to the whole market.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Anyka on May 07, 2014, 09:39
I cannot afford loosing my FT income either, but I did opt out of DPC.  Not because I am against Fotolia (Fotolia is my 2nd earner, so how could I be against them?), but because I believe that if a LARGE group of contributors opt out, Fotolia will listen to us.

We talk about Fotolia "changing DPC" in favour of their contributors.  What change would make you opt in again?

In my case it would be :  move DPC more towards big players by raising the 10 $ bar => 100 $.

for how many pictures?

For 100 images.  I can easily ask an agency to drop a project completely or charge 100$ for 1 image, but that's asking for something they would never do.  If Fotolia would change the essence of DPC (which is 1 image for 1 $), they would loose face.  But if they would raise the bar to 100 images for 100 $, small buyers would be obliged to keep on buying credits.  DPC would become a very simple and effective subscription system.  Buyers who would buy a 100$-set would use it up, even if they only needed 60 images, which is the essence of a subscription system.  Fotolia can implement this without loosing face.  DPC would still be 1 image for 1 dollar.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Desintegrator on May 07, 2014, 09:40
...The thing which could hurt our earnings significantly in the long run is when DPC manages to succeed.
We really have to try everything we can to make it fail.

Staying opted in is a short-term gain that could ultimately mean long-term loss. It's just not worth it. Opting in really can't be earning anyone that much money right now. DPC is still too new. So why do it?

I have to slightly disagree with your comment about making it fail, though. It doesn't need to fail, it just needs to change. DPC can exist in the market without doing any damage if it's restructured as a real subscription offering. Right now it's basically credit sales with a minor minimum buy-in and subscription royalties. As a real subscription system, with a respectable buy-in, it would be fine.

But Fotolia itself offers subscription, why make another site for that? Also I wouldn't really want Fotolia to gain bigger share of subscription market, as they pay me .29 per sub download (although .31 soon) opposed to Shutterstock's .38 and Dreamstime's and Veer's 0.35.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Anyka on May 07, 2014, 09:42
They should just remove the $10 option. One option, just $99, $1 images. I might still stay out of it, but at least then it wouldn't be as big a threat to the whole market.

Okay ... I say 100$ for 100 images, you say 99$ for 99 images.  You're absolutely right, 99 sounds much better  ;D
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on May 07, 2014, 09:43
I was already unhappy with NAPP (National Association of Photoshop Professionals) - now merged with Scott Kelby's lynda.com-like training site, KelbyOne. They just jumped right on board the Creative Cloud bandwagon - saying they'd told Adobe how customers would hate it but now it was really great for us all. Members pay them money each year, but then they just suck up to their corporate buddies.

So I've been thinking I wouldn't renew my membership when it expires later this month. This morning's e-mail promoting Fotolia's Dollar Photo Club sealed the deal for me. KelbyOne is just a marketing/PR arm for Adobe and other corporate friends.

(http://www.digitalbristles.com/temp/KelbyOne.jpg)

"KelbyMediaGroup members like you can get preferred admission to Dollar Photo Club; just choose "KelbyMediaGroup" when asked which stock agencies you currently use - but hurry, places are strictly limited!"

Certainly designers are their members, not just photographers, and arguably (until enough photographers pull out of DPC) DPC is a great deal for designers - dirt cheap photos and illustrations with only a $10 a month commitment.

The "NEW VIRAL" video is the marketing video I'd posted a link to earlier. It's had 400K views which isn't bad, but most certainly isn't viral (I think they'd have needed to include a cute cat for that!).
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on May 07, 2014, 09:50
I made a screen grab of what I posted on KelbyOne's Facebook page saying what I thought about them promoting the DPC - I'm assuming they'll remove the comment.

(http://www.digitalbristles.com/temp/FB-post-KelbyOne.jpg)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on May 07, 2014, 10:00
But Fotolia itself offers subscription, why make another site for that?

To sell the $1 image perk. It's right in the site name. Even if Fotolia offers subscriptions already, DPC is subscriptions packaged in a somewhat different way and with a catchy name and marketing.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: jarih on May 07, 2014, 10:14
Search: People            
Fotolia   DPC   Difference      
3588726   2884164   704562   19,6%   
3589256   2878628   710628   19,8%   
3591601   2871059   720542   20,1%   
3596787   2837190   759597   21,1%   LAST
            
Search: Food            
Fotolia   DPC   Difference      
3793314   3114815   678499   17,9%   
3793491   3106698   686793   18,1%   
3796849   3098097   698752   18,4%   
3804036   3074552   729484   19,2%   LAST
            
Search: Nature            
Fotolia   DPC   Difference      
4457751   3618574   839177   18,8%   
4464918   3594315   870603   19,5%   LAST
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: luissantos84 on May 07, 2014, 10:15
grrrrrrrrr >:(
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Pixart on May 07, 2014, 10:50
Thanks Joann, they send so many emails I don't even open most of them.  So I sent this:

Quote
Kelbyone.  This morning I received an email from you promoting Fotolia's Dollar Photo Club. 

I am formally writing to let you know that MY COMPANY WILL NO LONGER TRANSACT BUSINESS WITH KELBYONE now that you are in bed with DOLLAR PHOTO CLUB and FOTOLIA et all.

Fotolia has technically "stolen" content of it's artists by slipping it onto DPC without notice and is tragically on it's way to destroy the lifeblood of stock photographers around the world.  Did you know that for a photographer to earn a paltry $20,000 per year they will have to sell 80000 licenses on DPC?   80,000 licenses!!!   And that Fotolia is banking on the fact that legitimate ethical agencies will be driven out of business - or forced to reduce their prices (and payments to photographers)?

I hope you feel wonderful associating with such an unethical snake, Fotolia.  I guess that tells me an awful lot about Kelbyone.  Unsubscribed.

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Pixart on May 07, 2014, 10:57
Has anyone contacted the other agencies on our behalf?  This stupid DPC project really deserves their attention.  If Shutterstock and Dreamstime sent a non-slanderous letter to all contributors asking them to consider dropping out of this deal it would have a huge impact.

Would they let us talk about it on their forums?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: dpimborough on May 07, 2014, 11:03
Has anyone contacted the other agencies on our behalf?  This stupid DPC project really deserves their attention.  If Shutterstock and Dreamstime sent a non-slanderous letter to all contributors asking them to consider dropping out of this deal it would have a huge impact.

Would they let us talk about it on their forums?


I'm sure they are already well aware (they'd have to be deaf dumb and blind not to notice  :o  :-X 8) )and there is a forum posting on the SS forum though apart from the comments in FT's forum there appears to be little said elsewhere :(

http://submit.shutterstock.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=138027 (http://submit.shutterstock.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=138027) :)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Anja_Kaiser on May 07, 2014, 11:16
And here: http://submit.shutterstock.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=138253 (http://submit.shutterstock.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=138253) (illustrators' forum)
They ARE aware. Definitely.  ;)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mantis on May 07, 2014, 12:13
...The thing which could hurt our earnings significantly in the long run is when DPC manages to succeed.
We really have to try everything we can to make it fail.

Staying opted in is a short-term gain that could ultimately mean long-term loss. It's just not worth it. Opting in really can't be earning anyone that much money right now. DPC is still too new. So why do it?

I have to slightly disagree with your comment about making it fail, though. It doesn't need to fail, it just needs to change. DPC can exist in the market without doing any damage if it's restructured as a real subscription offering. Right now it's basically credit sales with a minor minimum buy-in and subscription royalties. As a real subscription system, with a respectable buy-in, it would be fine.

But Fotolia itself offers subscription, why make another site for that? Also I wouldn't really want Fotolia to gain bigger share of subscription market, as they pay me .29 per sub download (although .31 soon) opposed to Shutterstock's .38 and Dreamstime's and Veer's 0.35.

I would venture to say because of the poor Fotolia brand. DPC allows them to rebrand with a clean slate. Istock did the same thing with thinkstock.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on May 07, 2014, 14:36

DPC has some sort of promo going with HOW, and it looks like Fotolia is listed as an exhibitor at HOW Design Live next week. What do you want to bet DPC features prominently into Fotolia's exhibition plans...
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: bunhill on May 07, 2014, 14:42
I am more and more certain that this is a somewhat desperate exit strategy - i.e. that it is about trying to get bought.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on May 07, 2014, 18:23
So one of the photographers I got in touch with - who has over 8,600 images - has just opted out (keeweeboy) and he told me he got another photographer to opt out too. I asked if it was OK to post this here (he said yes) as he doesn't participate.

Reminds me of an ancient TV commercial "I told two friends and they told two friends...." :)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mantis on May 07, 2014, 18:40
So one of the photographers I got in touch with - who has over 8,600 images - has just opted out (keeweeboy) and he told me he got another photographer to opt out too. I asked if it was OK to post this here (he said yes) as he doesn't participate.

Reminds me of an ancient TV commercial "I told two friends and they told two friends...." :)

Great job, Joanne.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: steheap on May 07, 2014, 19:46
If you are members of NAPP or Kelby One as it now is, I suggest you send a message to Member Services on this page: http://members.photoshopuser.com/contact-us/ (http://members.photoshopuser.com/contact-us/)

I've sent them a message saying how disappointed I am in them supporting this terrible business model and surely they must have known that a significant proportion of their members and readers must be working photographers and illustrators for whom this is a disaster in the making. I'll see if they reply, but it will be hard for them to ignore hundreds of messages from disappointed members.

Steve
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on May 07, 2014, 20:05
I just sent them a message - and added that I won't be renewing as a result (I've been a member for many years).

I doubt they'll care, but as you say, can't hurt to make our voices heard
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Beppe Grillo on May 08, 2014, 01:51
I have just written to the italian "associazione nazionale fotografi professionisti" (National Association of Professional Photographers), to tell them about the DPC situation (this thread, the boycottfotolia petition), asking them to spread the new through the italian photographers.

If some other italian/italian speaker photographers could write them it could give more weight to my request.
Here is their email address: [email protected]

I will write a similar letter to the French associations (and why not to the ones in Quebec, Belgium and Switzerland if I find the addresses).

I think that everyone of us should do the same with the associations in their own countries (it does not matter if they will receive more email from all of us ;) )

__
This is a battle and we have to win it!


_____
Edit: I have written to about 25 national associations, in Italy, France, Quebec and Switzerland.
I am not sure that it will have a great effect but to try cost nothing (just a little time)
And as they say: "The more the merrier!"
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: pictureman75 on May 08, 2014, 03:15
Hello Beppe,
very good initiative, thank you!
But one thing within your post bothers me ... what we do here is not a war ;-)
We - the contributors - should be and I think we all want to be partners of the microstock agencies - both have the same target: to make money with our work. And at the moment we need the agencies for this - and they need us!

That eyerybody - and at the moment especially Fotolia! - should realize as soon as possible ...

If you say, it's a war with words, arguments and as much other activities as possible, then I agree with you.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Red Dove on May 08, 2014, 03:26
My files are still visible at DPC after opting out but if you click to open up, nothing happens - or it reverts to the previously opened image.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: pixsol on May 08, 2014, 03:28
My files are still visible at DPC after opting out but if you click to open up, nothing happens - or it reverts to the previously opened image.

This is what happened to me for the first 3-4 days. Post that, it did not come up in the search at all.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Beppe Grillo on May 08, 2014, 03:28
Hello Beppe,
very good initiative, thank you!
But one thing within your post bothers me ... what we do here is not a war ;-)
We - the contributors - should be and I think we all want to be partners of the microstock agencies - both have the same target: to make money with our work. And at the moment we need the agencies for this - and they need us!

That eyerybody - and at the moment especially Fotolia! - should realize as soon as possible ...

If you say, it's a war with words, arguments and as much other activities as possible, then I agree with you.

So let's say it is a battle (I changed it)
btw I was not telling about a war against microstocks, but only against DPC (the subject of the thread).
This kind of site should simply… not exist.

And our action should be a very strong message for other microstock agencies, of course.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Desintegrator on May 08, 2014, 05:04
Made a friend with 4000 images opt out today.
Still a few million to go :)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: bpepz on May 08, 2014, 06:35
-
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: H2O on May 08, 2014, 08:37
I contacted the European Commission about this situation of selling our content on anther site without informing us and this is the reply I got:-


Thank you for your message.

According to the EU legislation (Directive 2001/29/EC), the Member States should provide the authors, in respect of the original of their works or of copies, the exclusive right to authorise or prohibit any form of distribution to the public by sale or otherwise (art. 4 of the Directive). This right is exhausted once the author gives the consent for the sale or other form of transfer of the ownership in the EU.

In this case, we advise you to contact the UK Intellectual Property Office for further assistance. You can find their contact details here:
http://www.ipo.gov.uk/ (http://www.ipo.gov.uk/)

For more information on the current legislative framework in the field of copyright and Directive 2001/29/EC specifically, we advise you to visit the website of the Directorate-General for the Internal Market and Services:
http://ec.europa.eu/internal_market/copyright/copyright-infso/index_en.htm#maincontentSec1 (http://ec.europa.eu/internal_market/copyright/copyright-infso/index_en.htm#maincontentSec1)

Should you have any further question, you can email directly the DG Internal Market and Services: [email protected]

We hope you find this information useful. Please contact us again if you have other questions.
With kind regards,
EUROPE DIRECT Contact Centre
http://europa.eu (http://europa.eu) - your shortcut to the EU!
Use your power.
Choose who's in charge in Europe
European Elections 2014.
Disclaimer
Please note that the information provided by EUROPE DIRECT is not legally binding.


In my opinion reading the above Mr Tsheltzoff and his Fotolia company have done is illegal, he should have asked us if we would like our content sold on anther site and the Terms and Conditions of that site before he went ahead and put our content on Dollar Photo Club - There should have been an OPT IN BUTTON.

I think he has become aware of this and that is the reason why he has put an OPT OUT BUTTON on Fotolia.

He still has not directly contacted any of the European Contributers with any information about DPC and whether we would like our content on this site, this is breaking the law in the EEC.

He and Fotolia are in clear breach of European Copy Write Law.

Even one sale on this DPC from a European Union citizen should have financial ramifications for Fotolia, it's not just about the money but the principle of stealing our work to sell somewhere else.

How to proceed forward with this I am unsure?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Svetlana on May 08, 2014, 09:57
As far as I understand Fotolia is a US company, so they're not so much worried about the European laws, I guess.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Desintegrator on May 08, 2014, 10:01
 .
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: DallasP on May 08, 2014, 10:08
I contacted the European Commission about this situation of selling our content on anther site without informing us and this is the reply I got:-


Thank you for your message.

According to the EU legislation (Directive 2001/29/EC), the Member States should provide the authors, in respect of the original of their works or of copies, the exclusive right to authorise or prohibit any form of distribution to the public by sale or otherwise (art. 4 of the Directive). This right is exhausted once the author gives the consent for the sale or other form of transfer of the ownership in the EU.

In this case, we advise you to contact the UK Intellectual Property Office for further assistance. You can find their contact details here:
[url]http://www.ipo.gov.uk/[/url] ([url]http://www.ipo.gov.uk/[/url])

For more information on the current legislative framework in the field of copyright and Directive 2001/29/EC specifically, we advise you to visit the website of the Directorate-General for the Internal Market and Services:
[url]http://ec.europa.eu/internal_market/copyright/copyright-infso/index_en.htm#maincontentSec1[/url] ([url]http://ec.europa.eu/internal_market/copyright/copyright-infso/index_en.htm#maincontentSec1[/url])

Should you have any further question, you can email directly the DG Internal Market and Services: [email protected]

We hope you find this information useful. Please contact us again if you have other questions.
With kind regards,
EUROPE DIRECT Contact Centre
[url]http://europa.eu[/url] ([url]http://europa.eu[/url]) - your shortcut to the EU!
Use your power.
Choose who's in charge in Europe
European Elections 2014.
Disclaimer
Please note that the information provided by EUROPE DIRECT is not legally binding.


In my opinion reading the above Mr Tsheltzoff and his Fotolia company have done is illegal, he should have asked us if we would like our content sold on anther site and the Terms and Conditions of that site before he went ahead and put our content on Dollar Photo Club - There should have been an OPT IN BUTTON.

I think he has become aware of this and that is the reason why he has put an OPT OUT BUTTON on Fotolia.

He still has not directly contacted any of the European Contributers with any information about DPC and whether we would like our content on this site, this is breaking the law in the EEC.

He and Fotolia are in clear breach of European Copy Write Law.

Even one sale on this DPC from a European Union citizen should have financial ramifications for Fotolia, it's not just about the money but the principle of stealing our work to sell somewhere else.

How to proceed forward with this I am unsure?


To be quite honest it's hard to say if it were "illegal" or not. I don't remember what is in the terms when I signed up (even if I did read them) as I'm sure most of you don't either. It's still poor business practice not to keep contributors informed.

I'm envious of Jo Ann and her efforts on this. I never even got a reply back from Robert of picworkflow and besides blogging and sharing . out of it on social media, that's been the extent of my effort.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: BaldricksTrousers on May 08, 2014, 10:26
Don't all the sites have something about the "agreement being governed by the laws of the State of New York/State of California/Alberta" etc?

Whether or not that entitles them to sell something in the EU that they wouldn't be able to sell if the contributor agreement was governed by EU law is something I have no idea about at all.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 08, 2014, 11:40
Microsoft and Google got hit hard by the EU enforcing their laws and ended up paying billions in fines. If you are a US company and you are doing business in Europe as eu.fotolia.com I am not sure if they get away with playing dumb. I would make http://www.ipo.gov.uk/ (http://www.ipo.gov.uk/) aware of the issue.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mantis on May 08, 2014, 12:33
I am more and more certain that this is a somewhat desperate exit strategy - i.e. that it is about trying to get bought.

I totally agree. I've been saying for about a year that their constant * with policy, threats, search etc that they are getting desperate. Now with the intro of DPC along with the Oleg's disruption comments pretty much proves it or at least proves that they are in dire straights.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: H2O on May 08, 2014, 12:55
Microsoft and Google got hit hard by the EU enforcing their laws and ended up paying billions in fines. If you are a US company and you are doing business in Europe as eu.fotolia.com I am not sure if they get away with playing dumb. I would make [url]http://www.ipo.gov.uk/[/url] ([url]http://www.ipo.gov.uk/[/url]) aware of the issue.


I would have thought that the US must have similar laws to Europe regarding Copy Right
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Rinderart on May 08, 2014, 15:16
4600 Opted out. good work guys.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Lucadp on May 08, 2014, 15:34
3791 opted out
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Spectral-Design.net on May 08, 2014, 15:39
.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: max headroom on May 09, 2014, 02:04
I have deleted half of the images in FT on May1st.
Opted out DPC as well.
Still waiting for the payment to close FT account.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: BaldricksTrousers on May 09, 2014, 02:12
Microsoft and Google got hit hard by the EU enforcing their laws and ended up paying billions in fines. If you are a US company and you are doing business in Europe as eu.fotolia.com I am not sure if they get away with playing dumb. I would make [url]http://www.ipo.gov.uk/[/url] ([url]http://www.ipo.gov.uk/[/url]) aware of the issue.


I would have thought that the US must have similar laws to Europe regarding Copy Right


It's not an ordinary copyright issue, though, is it? It's about the precise extent of the rights you pass to someone you ask to act as a salesman of your work. Can that person automatically assume the right to sub-contract sales to another party on different terms?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 09, 2014, 02:25
Microsoft and Google got hit hard by the EU enforcing their laws and ended up paying billions in fines. If you are a US company and you are doing business in Europe as eu.fotolia.com I am not sure if they get away with playing dumb. I would make [url]http://www.ipo.gov.uk/[/url] ([url]http://www.ipo.gov.uk/[/url]) aware of the issue.


I would have thought that the US must have similar laws to Europe regarding Copy Right


It's not an ordinary copyright issue, though, is it? It's about the precise extent of the rights you pass to someone you ask to act as a salesman of your work. Can that person automatically assume the right to sub-contract sales to another party on different terms?
Exactly, and the response the EU gave seems that FT is breaking EU laws. Now how do we get that looked into by the right people?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mellimage on May 09, 2014, 02:59
I made a screen grab of what I posted on KelbyOne's Facebook page saying what I thought about them promoting the DPC - I'm assuming they'll remove the comment.

([url]http://www.digitalbristles.com/temp/FB-post-KelbyOne.jpg[/url])


Equally disappointed with them. Told them so on their FB page.
Thanks JoAnn for bringing this to our attention. As of this morning (CET), your comment was still there.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: max headroom on May 09, 2014, 05:45
Yes they sell for $1 which is quite good price for customers.
BUT,
They are selling OUR photos.
We can STOP them IF we want.
Don't forget that CONTENT is more important than the price.
SO LET'S STOP THEM
CLOSE YOUR ACCOUNT

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on May 09, 2014, 08:23
deleted...
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Szakaly on May 09, 2014, 08:30
today 10.772 deactivated
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Shelma1 on May 09, 2014, 08:57
Finally got in...and opted out.  8)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: tickstock on May 09, 2014, 12:46
.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: mimadeo on May 09, 2014, 13:08
I opted out my 887 files  >:(
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Imagenomad on May 09, 2014, 13:46
I've closed my FT account.

It was only a small port but I feel a little better for it, all the same.

EDIT: I told them that the DPC was a factor in my decision too.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ipag on May 09, 2014, 16:22
1054 files out dpc
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: mike123 on May 09, 2014, 18:55
Opted out my small portfolio (180 files)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Oshoot on May 09, 2014, 20:00
Opted out. 861 files. YES!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Svetlana on May 11, 2014, 11:42
Judging by the statistics on this site: http://stockalliance.org/ru/imagestats.html (http://stockalliance.org/ru/imagestats.html), it would appear quite a lot of contributors have opted out of DPC recently.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: r2d2 on May 11, 2014, 16:51
Judging by the statistics on this site: [url]http://stockalliance.org/ru/imagestats.html[/url] ([url]http://stockalliance.org/ru/imagestats.html[/url]), it would appear quite a lot of contributors have opted out of DPC recently.


Great! Can you explain what is stockalliance.org ? Thx
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Svetlana on May 11, 2014, 23:28
Great! Can you explain what is stockalliance.org ? Thx
Initially, the creator of the website planned to provide a simple "alarm button" service, where contributors who want to be notified if something like DPC "happens" can leave their e-mail addresses. Then he decided to add more useful features, so at the moment there are some statistics and a small forum, and there will be more (for the moment only in Russian, but in the future the site will be translated into some other languages). I guess I'd better just quote the "About the project" page.

About the project
StockAlliance services aim at uniting all the contributors of the world into a unified network for notifying and informing, while providing various services to make their work more convenient. StockAlliance services include:

IDLast.info - a service for defining the time when the uploaded works are being processed by Shutterstock.com and using the technique for uploading one file to "reserve a place in the queue" and then uploading the rest of the files just before the first file is to be processed by SS inspectors (so that the other files have newer ids and appear higher in search results).
StockAlliance forum - a place where any microstock-related and other topics can be freely discussed.
"Alarm Button" service (in development) - for urgently informing all the participants about unexpected events
Stockalliance.org (in development) - a description and news of microstocks, analytics, test purchase operations and much more.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: r2d2 on May 12, 2014, 02:41
Great! Can you explain what is stockalliance.org ? Thx
Initially, the creator of the website planned to provide a simple "alarm button" service, where contributors who want to be notified if something like DPC "happens" can leave their e-mail addresses. Then he decided to add more useful features, so at the moment there are some statistics and a small forum, and there will be more (for the moment only in Russian, but in the future the site will be translated into some other languages). I guess I'd better just quote the "About the project" page.

About the project
StockAlliance services aim at uniting all the contributors of the world into a unified network for notifying and informing, while providing various services to make their work more convenient. StockAlliance services include:

IDLast.info - a service for defining the time when the uploaded works are being processed by Shutterstock.com and using the technique for uploading one file to "reserve a place in the queue" and then uploading the rest of the files just before the first file is to be processed by SS inspectors (so that the other files have newer ids and appear higher in search results).
StockAlliance forum - a place where any microstock-related and other topics can be freely discussed.
"Alarm Button" service (in development) - for urgently informing all the participants about unexpected events
Stockalliance.org (in development) - a description and news of microstocks, analytics, test purchase operations and much more.

thank you for explaining! Sounds good if we have an fast information service we can give imediatly strong answers to the agencies!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: fotorob on May 12, 2014, 02:50
I am confused why suddenly the site shows different projects that are related to stockalliance.org.

In the Google cache I found that in March 2014 there have been three big illegal WAREZ sites involved, see screenshot attached:
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Dook on May 12, 2014, 03:21
Great! Can you explain what is stockalliance.org ? Thx
Initially, the creator of the website planned to provide a simple "alarm button" service, where contributors who want to be notified if something like DPC "happens" can leave their e-mail addresses. Then he decided to add more useful features, so at the moment there are some statistics and a small forum, and there will be more (for the moment only in Russian, but in the future the site will be translated into some other languages). I guess I'd better just quote the "About the project" page.

About the project
StockAlliance services aim at uniting all the contributors of the world into a unified network for notifying and informing, while providing various services to make their work more convenient. StockAlliance services include:

IDLast.info - a service for defining the time when the uploaded works are being processed by Shutterstock.com and using the technique for uploading one file to "reserve a place in the queue" and then uploading the rest of the files just before the first file is to be processed by SS inspectors (so that the other files have newer ids and appear higher in search results).
StockAlliance forum - a place where any microstock-related and other topics can be freely discussed.
"Alarm Button" service (in development) - for urgently informing all the participants about unexpected events
Stockalliance.org (in development) - a description and news of microstocks, analytics, test purchase operations and much more.

Great to see DPC going down in terms of portfolio size!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ginasanders on May 12, 2014, 04:14
I am confused why suddenly the site shows different projects that are related to stockalliance.org.

In the Google cache I found that in March 2014 there have been three big illegal WAREZ sites involved, see screenshot attached:

This is very interesting!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: philipus on May 12, 2014, 04:17
+ 1 Opted out DPC
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: fotoramka on May 12, 2014, 04:33
I am confused why suddenly the site shows different projects that are related to stockalliance.org.

In the Google cache I found that in March 2014 there have been three big illegal WAREZ sites involved, see screenshot attached:

From start stockalliance.org site was created with cooperation with some stockers. We've had idea to share stocker's works which have bad/no sales on some warez sites to prevent piracy of works this stockers. So we've had good results from this but we need to close this idea due to no enough time to continue this.

At this moment i'm planning to transform this site (because domain name sounds good :) ) to stock portal with news, alarm button, microstock's analyse and "test purchases" from microstocks. English translation will be available later, after main functions of site will be created.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Lev on May 12, 2014, 04:39
We've had idea to share stocker's works which have bad/no sales on some warez sites to prevent piracy...

am i the only one who sees a nonsense here?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: fotoramka on May 12, 2014, 05:01
We've had idea to share stocker's works which have bad/no sales on some warez sites to prevent piracy...

am i the only one who sees a nonsense here?

Not only. But, the fact that we observed a 90% reduction in piracy of the project participants.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Lev on May 12, 2014, 05:08
fotoramka,
 
as far as i've read on russian forum, you are an employee of WAREZ site and do not even deny it.

i found it very surreal now to see WAREZ people who steal and re-distribute our works for free, pretending to fight for content providers rights.

from what i see now, pirates are trying to make some sort of "stock alliance".

sounds like breaking news for community.

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: fotoramka on May 12, 2014, 05:18
No, it isn't true. I'm employee of fileshare and work with DMCA abuses so my work - to help delete piracy files from file-shares. I haven't any relations with warez sites.

Lev, i understand that you and some of your colleagues targeted to blacken this project, because you and your colleagues will lose part of your audience in future if our project will popular, but in fact - it will made anyway, free, honest and independent.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: luissantos84 on May 12, 2014, 05:20
Lev, I am more surprised to see your 75k files at DPC
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Lev on May 12, 2014, 05:28
so, you're a worker of fileshare? which one, if i may ask? i seriously suspect that what you call fileshare is essentially a WAREZ site.

accompanied with the stories about you convinced some stock contributors to upload their works on WAREZ sites to fight piracy (still can't believe anyone bought this theory, you must be a genius of persuasion. it's like convincing people to commit a suicide in the name of death-fighting), i believe we have a sort of Charlie Manson'ish story in here.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Lev on May 12, 2014, 05:30
Lev, I am more surprised to see your 75k files at DPC

why surprised, Luis?

do you know something i don't about DPC?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: luissantos84 on May 12, 2014, 05:33
Lev, I am more surprised to see your 75k files at DPC

why surprised, Luis?

do you know something i don't about DPC?

no, I don't, maybe you can help us there!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Lev on May 12, 2014, 05:37
what kind of help are you asking from me? from what i remember, luissantos84, you were always very aggressively attacking me here on this forum, for some mysterious reason. i really have no intentions to help you any possible way,  sorry.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: luissantos84 on May 12, 2014, 05:43
hahaha good one mate, perhaps is the all professional attitude you have most times, anyway I wonder what positive will DPC bring to contributors and stock industry in general ::)

for sure you are seeing stuff we aren't because I am not alone thinking how dreadful DPC looks...
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Lev on May 12, 2014, 05:55
luissantos84, maybe if you will start to care more about your own portfolio and stop caring about ours, it will really help you with seeing stuff you do not yet.

also a little bit less "hahaha"s on forums is always helpful for both sales and understanding.

i have zero respect to you after all aggression i've seen from you before. in my opinion, nothing about you is any "professional", sorry. you're obviously not the one who can judge "professional attutude".

i'm not your mate. can you please stop any communication attempts with me? thank you!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: luissantos84 on May 12, 2014, 06:05
I am definitely not a professional and you are definitely away from being a community support person so don't come here like we own you anything or need your advice

have a wonderful day!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: BaldricksTrousers on May 12, 2014, 06:06
Is there some reasone warez people would want photos removed from DPC? I don't understand why anyone would support warez and be bothered about DPC. Perhaps someone can explain what all this means.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: fotorob on May 12, 2014, 06:09
Is there some reasone warez people would want photos removed from DPC? I don't understand why anyone would support warez and be bothered about DPC. Perhaps someone can explain what all this means.

I can only guess but I assume they were afraid that the DPC would ruin their planned "giving images away at warez sites" business scheme.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ginasanders on May 12, 2014, 06:10
Is there some reasone warez people would want photos removed from DPC? I don't understand why anyone would support warez and be bothered about DPC. Perhaps someone can explain what all this means.

Maybe because WAREZ sites have less turnover because DPC?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: fotoramka on May 12, 2014, 06:14
Is there some reasone warez people would want photos removed from DPC? I don't understand why anyone would support warez and be bothered about DPC. Perhaps someone can explain what all this means.

I can explain many things about Dolgachev and his targets, i think i can write detailed desription of his behavior and behavior of some russian-community admin later. Also i'm NOT a warez people. Please, read previous posts carefully.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: r2d2 on May 12, 2014, 06:18
Is there some reasone warez people would want photos removed from DPC? I don't understand why anyone would support warez and be bothered about DPC. Perhaps someone can explain what all this means.

I can explain many things about Dolgachev and his targets, i think i can write detailed desription of his behavior and behavior of some russian-community admin later. Also i'm NOT a warez people. Please, read previous posts carefully.

So speak clearly!

For what fileshare company are you employee ?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Lev on May 12, 2014, 06:19
I am definitely not a professional and you are definitely away from being a community support person so don't come here like we own you anything or need your advice

have a wonderful day!

so, luissantos84, you're basically trying to shut my mouth now when i came here to share info i have about "stock alliance", coz you're so "community" with your "hahaha"s and decided no one needs this information?

no way.

if you, luissantos84, do not need this information, it's natural.

just don't try to distract people from "stock alliance" subject by your personal attacks.

i will not respond to anything you'll write in future. my apology to the rest of community for giving you attention for this very last time now.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: luissantos84 on May 12, 2014, 06:24
have I commented anything about the stock alliance? have I said I am not interested in that?

my question was: why are you still supporting DPC with 75k, nothing else, go read it!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Lev on May 12, 2014, 06:24
Is there some reasone warez people would want photos removed from DPC? I don't understand why anyone would support warez and be bothered about DPC. Perhaps someone can explain what all this means.

I can explain many things about Dolgachev and his targets, i think i can write detailed desription of his behavior and behavior of some russian-community admin later. Also i'm NOT a warez people. Please, read previous posts carefully.

go for it, sure. people know me and people know who i am.  the only thing you can "explain" is your theory i'm afraid to lose audience from my forum. which is ridiculous as my forum is not nearly "alive" for years now.

can you please go back to subject and tell us a bit about YOU instead? what is the "fileshare" you're working for and convinced people to upload their works to?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 12, 2014, 06:27
The plot thickens....
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: fotoramka on May 12, 2014, 06:29
Is there some reasone warez people would want photos removed from DPC? I don't understand why anyone would support warez and be bothered about DPC. Perhaps someone can explain what all this means.

I can explain many things about Dolgachev and his targets, i think i can write detailed desription of his behavior and behavior of some russian-community admin later. Also i'm NOT a warez people. Please, read previous posts carefully.

So speak clearly!

For what fileshare company are you employee ?

Letitbit.net if it's so important. I can repeat one more time - i'm not a fileshare's admin, only employee which works with DMCA abuses.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Lev on May 12, 2014, 06:34
what WAREZ site did you convince people to upload their works to? was it leitibit or something else?

from what i know it was the one of three from Robert's Google cache screenshot.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: r2d2 on May 12, 2014, 06:48
Is there some reasone warez people would want photos removed from DPC? I don't understand why anyone would support warez and be bothered about DPC. Perhaps someone can explain what all this means.

I can explain many things about Dolgachev and his targets, i think i can write detailed desription of his behavior and behavior of some russian-community admin later. Also i'm NOT a warez people. Please, read previous posts carefully.

So speak clearly!

For what fileshare company are you employee ?

Letitbit.net if it's so important. I can repeat one more time - i'm not a fileshare's admin, only employee which works with DMCA abuses.

Thats very important. You have my trust absolutely lost
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Dook on May 12, 2014, 06:53
Why is it so important who Fotoramka works for and what do you guys do in Russian forums? This thread is about DPC. If Fotoramka is Letitbit emplyee it doesn't make DPC any more atractive, it doesn't mean we have to stop boycotting DPC. So if you want to continue discussing Fotoramka's personal life make a new topic please!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ginasanders on May 12, 2014, 07:12
For me it's important. Now I will let my 16.000 images in.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Svetlana on May 12, 2014, 07:24
Is there some reasone warez people would want photos removed from DPC? I don't understand why anyone would support warez and be bothered about DPC. Perhaps someone can explain what all this means.

I can explain many things about Dolgachev and his targets, i think i can write detailed desription of his behavior and behavior of some russian-community admin later. Also i'm NOT a warez people. Please, read previous posts carefully.

go for it, sure. people know me and people know who i am.  the only thing you can "explain" is your theory i'm afraid to lose audience from my forum. which is ridiculous as my forum is not nearly "alive" for years now.

can you please go back to subject and tell us a bit about YOU instead? what is the "fileshare" you're working for and convinced people to upload their works to?

Your forum has nothing to do with it, Lev, and you know it.

What you tried to do on another forum was convince people that boycotting Fotolia was unnecessary and stupid. You called the boycott "a circus" and overall showed your contempt for the initiative. You made it clear you regard the majority of the community as a bunch of "amateurs" (you didn't use the actual word but it was clear what you meant).

When some people tried to have a discussion with you and made some comments about your possible interest in this (seeing that you're rarely seen on forums and in this case your participation was really an active one), such comments were deleted and such people got a warning from the forum administration. It's worth mentioning that the comments were not aggressive or offensive in any way. Yet it seems they somehow struck a nerve.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Lev on May 12, 2014, 07:31
1. Svetlana (i have no idea who you are), can you please show people here the pictures you used as boycott advertisement? then everyone will see why i called it circus.

2. what i'm still trying to convince people is please check the background of "leaders" of this "boycott". don't be manipulated by WAREZ people. make your own business decisions. don't be a "herd" for those who wants to be sheppards now.

i have zero trust to people who pop-up from nowhere with already made boycott site and redirecting contributors to their "alliance" later.
people who say they are not stock contributors, but just have a big heart.
people who, on very easy inspection appear to be connected to WAREZ.

if anyone wants such a people to lead him/her or affect his/hers business - don't say you were not warned.

that's it.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: OM on May 12, 2014, 07:39
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Media_manipulation (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Media_manipulation)

Distraction by scapegoat.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: BaldricksTrousers on May 12, 2014, 07:40
1. Svetlana (i have no idea who you are), can you please show people here the pictures you used as boycott advertisement? then everyone will see why i called it circus.

2. what i'm still trying to convince people is please check the background of "leaders" of this "boycott". don't be manipulated by WAREZ people. make your own business decisions. don't be a "herd" for those who wants to be sheppards now.

The logic behind the boycott still seems perfectly sound to me.  I'm curious about why the organisers set to work on it because it is always good to know about motivations. But the fact that selling credit size packages at subscription type prices is going to be bad for everybody doesn't seem to be in doubt.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Svetlana on May 12, 2014, 07:42
1. Svetlana (i have no idea who you are), can you please show people here the pictures you used as boycott advertisement? then everyone will see why i called it circus.

2. what i'm still trying to convince people is please check the background of "leaders" of this "boycott". don't be manipulated by WAREZ people. make your own business decisions. don't be a "herd" for those who wants to be sheppards now.
1) No pictures were used for the boycott, Lev. Some contributors made some pictures, but they were only expressing their own feelings. I do not think the boycott needed to be advertized, btw. Many contributors felt strongly about this move by Fotolia behind their backs and many still do. You do not need advertizing for such things (as opposed to things like DPC - they do need advertizing, indeed).

2) How are the contributors manipulated, if I may ask? We all make our own decisions. If I think DPC is bad for me as a contributor, I sign the petition and opt out of DPC (actually, I deleted all my works from Fotolia). What possible manipulation should I expect from anyone? I make my own decisions, you make yours. I think it's fair that people know about DPC, you think they'd better shut up and let Fotolia do whatever it wants to do.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 12, 2014, 07:46
Are there multiple interests to see DPC fail?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: pixsol on May 12, 2014, 07:49
2. what i'm still trying to convince people is please check the background of "leaders" of this "boycott". don't be manipulated by WAREZ people. make your own business decisions. don't be a "herd" for those who wants to be sheppards now.

Since this thread is about the FT boycott with respect to DPC, is there something that you wanted to tell us regarding that ? I am not able to clearly understand the few posts that you have made today. Could you please elaborate on that ?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Lev on May 12, 2014, 07:49
i have nothing more to say.

"He who has ears to hear, let him hear!"

i know the activists of "alliance" will try to create a lot of "white noise" now, as they did on russian forums before they were kicked off for the very same "obvious warez connection" reason,
but i really hope initial message of Robert with prooflink will not get lost.

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mantis on May 12, 2014, 07:52
luissantos84, maybe if you will start to care more about your own portfolio and stop caring about ours, it will really help you with seeing stuff you do not yet.

also a little bit less "hahaha"s on forums is always helpful for both sales and understanding.

i have zero respect to you after all aggression i've seen from you before. in my opinion, nothing about you is any "professional", sorry. you're obviously not the one who can judge "professional attutude".

i'm not your mate. can you please stop any communication attempts with me? thank you!

I am inclined to support Luis because my opinion is that he is not necessarily creating a battle between you and him, rather supporting the broader impact of the micro stock industry and stating that you have 75k images on DPC is one nugget of many we're hoping to influence.  I think you would get a PILE of hearts on here if you chose not to participate in DPC, but that's your call.  DPC is a very destructive strategy to micro stock as a whole.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 12, 2014, 07:53
i have nothing more to say.

"He who has ears to hear, let him hear!"

i know the activists of "alliance" will try to create a lot of "white noise" now, as they did on russian forums before they were kicked off for the very same "obvious warez connection" reason,
but i really hope initial message of Robert with prooflink will not get lost.
What is the problem? Everyone is fighting for the same cause?

Why are you not removing your images? Is DPC a good deal or bad deal?

If DPC is a success your 75K images might no longer cover your cost.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Lev on May 12, 2014, 08:02
  I think you would get a PILE of hearts on here if you chose not to participate in DPC, but that's your call.  DPC is a very destructive strategy to micro stock as a whole.

i'm not in this business for hearts, but for money.

with 8 years of positive experience, we do trust major marketplaces we work with, regarding their marketing efforts.

it's up to you or anyone else to be opted-in or opted-out. none of my business.

i do not ask anyone to opt-in or opt-out. i'm asking you to get some understanding about people who leads the boycott.

if someone is blindfolded by witch hunt now and sees no reason to check "alliance" background - it's ok. like i already said, don't pretend you were unwarned later.

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: OM on May 12, 2014, 08:05
Are there multiple interests to see DPC fail?

Yep, thousands of individual artists who prefer credit downloads at every agency to subscription-size payments by DPC for effectively credit packages.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Desintegrator on May 12, 2014, 08:06
  I think you would get a PILE of hearts on here if you chose not to participate in DPC, but that's your call.  DPC is a very destructive strategy to micro stock as a whole.

i'm not in this business for hearts, but for money.

with 8 years of positive experience, we do trust major marketplaces we work with, regarding their marketing efforts.

it's up to you or anyone else to be opted-in or opted-out. none of my business.

i do not ask anyone to opt-in or opt-out. i'm asking you to get some understanding about people who leads the boycott.

if someone is blindfolded by witch hunt now and sees no reason to check "alliance" background - it's ok. like i already said, don't pretend you were unwarned later.

What is your opinion about the DPC business model and that fact that Fotolia tries everything to do it behind the backs of their own image supliers?  That's what this thread shoud be about. I don't care about these personal debates...
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mantis on May 12, 2014, 08:07
  I think you would get a PILE of hearts on here if you chose not to participate in DPC, but that's your call.  DPC is a very destructive strategy to micro stock as a whole.

i'm not in this business for hearts, but for money.

with 8 years of positive experience, we do trust major marketplaces we work with, regarding their marketing efforts.

it's up to you or anyone else to be opted-in or opted-out. none of my business.

i do not ask anyone to opt-in or opt-out. i'm asking you to get some understanding about people who leads the boycott.

if someone is blindfolded by witch hunt now and sees no reason to check "alliance" background - it's ok. like i already said, don't pretend you were unwarned later.

Your call.  Once your downloads are all for a penny...accross all MS sites....you know who to blame. Just go look in a mirror.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: loop on May 12, 2014, 08:11
1. Svetlana (i have no idea who you are), can you please show people here the pictures you used as boycott advertisement? then everyone will see why i called it circus.

2. what i'm still trying to convince people is please check the background of "leaders" of this "boycott". don't be manipulated by WAREZ people. make your own business decisions. don't be a "herd" for those who wants to be sheppards now.

i have zero trust to people who pop-up from nowhere with already made boycott site and redirecting contributors to their "alliance" later.
people who say they are not stock contributors, but just have a big heart.
people who, on very easy inspection appear to be connected to WAREZ.

if anyone wants such a people to lead him/her or affect his/hers business - don't say you were not warned.

that's it.

It's too easy to see where you come from. Don't expose yourself to further ridicule.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ginasanders on May 12, 2014, 08:15
  I think you would get a PILE of hearts on here if you chose not to participate in DPC, but that's your call.  DPC is a very destructive strategy to micro stock as a whole.

i'm not in this business for hearts, but for money.

with 8 years of positive experience, we do trust major marketplaces we work with, regarding their marketing efforts.

it's up to you or anyone else to be opted-in or opted-out. none of my business.

i do not ask anyone to opt-in or opt-out. i'm asking you to get some understanding about people who leads the boycott.

if someone is blindfolded by witch hunt now and sees no reason to check "alliance" background - it's ok. like i already said, don't pretend you were unwarned later.


+1!

Are we not all grown-up people? Can I decide how I want? This is my business. And I decide how I want!
DPC is not much worse than microstock for macro photographers a few years ago. Times are changing.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mantis on May 12, 2014, 08:20
  I think you would get a PILE of hearts on here if you chose not to participate in DPC, but that's your call.  DPC is a very destructive strategy to micro stock as a whole.

i'm not in this business for hearts, but for money.

with 8 years of positive experience, we do trust major marketplaces we work with, regarding their marketing efforts.

it's up to you or anyone else to be opted-in or opted-out. none of my business.

i do not ask anyone to opt-in or opt-out. i'm asking you to get some understanding about people who leads the boycott.

if someone is blindfolded by witch hunt now and sees no reason to check "alliance" background - it's ok. like i already said, don't pretend you were unwarned later.


+1!

Are we not all grown-up people? Can I decide how I want? This is my business. And I decide how I want!
DPC is not much worse than microstock for macro photographers a few years ago. Times are changing.

You're not much of a business person if your goal is to support the erosion of micro stock pricing.  Business people look at the business environment holistically, not through a microscope.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 12, 2014, 08:21
  I think you would get a PILE of hearts on here if you chose not to participate in DPC, but that's your call.  DPC is a very destructive strategy to micro stock as a whole.

i'm not in this business for hearts, but for money.

with 8 years of positive experience, we do trust major marketplaces we work with, regarding their marketing efforts.

it's up to you or anyone else to be opted-in or opted-out. none of my business.

i do not ask anyone to opt-in or opt-out. i'm asking you to get some understanding about people who leads the boycott.

if someone is blindfolded by witch hunt now and sees no reason to check "alliance" background - it's ok. like i already said, don't pretend you were unwarned later.
Unwarned for what? What is the problem of opting out of DPC? Doesnt matter who says what, the fact is that DPC is bad.

Dont you agree?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: r2d2 on May 12, 2014, 08:23
Is quite simple dpc needs to be boycotted.
But filehoster employees may not represent my interests as contributor.

However, I find it also surprising that the "big fishs" here is not clear position against dpc.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 12, 2014, 08:23
  I think you would get a PILE of hearts on here if you chose not to participate in DPC, but that's your call.  DPC is a very destructive strategy to micro stock as a whole.

i'm not in this business for hearts, but for money.

with 8 years of positive experience, we do trust major marketplaces we work with, regarding their marketing efforts.

it's up to you or anyone else to be opted-in or opted-out. none of my business.

i do not ask anyone to opt-in or opt-out. i'm asking you to get some understanding about people who leads the boycott.

if someone is blindfolded by witch hunt now and sees no reason to check "alliance" background - it's ok. like i already said, don't pretend you were unwarned later.


+1!

Are we not all grown-up people? Can I decide how I want? This is my business. And I decide how I want!
DPC is not much worse than microstock for macro photographers a few years ago. Times are changing.
It seems you are not understanding the difference between 1 dollar on demand images and 250 dollar subscription packages.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: BaldricksTrousers on May 12, 2014, 08:35

Are we not all grown-up people? Can I decide how I want? This is my business. And I decide how I want!
DPC is not much worse than microstock for macro photographers a few years ago. Times are changing.

And didn't microstock push down the prices on trad agencies by at least 50% or more in a few years?
Are you happy to be part of a scheme that will drive down your earnings from microstock by a similar amount?
Of course, it is your decision but it was a very bad example to pick. Go and ask any "macro" stock photographer whether he or she wishes the micros had never existed and you might find out how you may feel about DPC a few years on from now.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ginasanders on May 12, 2014, 08:46
Ohhh, I'm so a bad girl. :P
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 12, 2014, 08:49
Ohhh, I'm so a bad girl. :P
Is that a grown up response?

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: BaldricksTrousers on May 12, 2014, 08:49
Ohhh, I'm so a bad girl. :P

No, not bad. Just silly.  :)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ginasanders on May 12, 2014, 08:52

Are we not all grown-up people? Can I decide how I want? This is my business. And I decide how I want!
DPC is not much worse than microstock for macro photographers a few years ago. Times are changing.

And didn't microstock push down the prices on trad agencies by at least 50% or more in a few years?
Are you happy to be part of a scheme that will drive down your earnings from microstock by a similar amount?
Of course, it is your decision but it was a very bad example to pick. Go and ask any "macro" stock photographer whether he or she wishes the micros had never existed and you might find out how you may feel about DPC a few years on from now.

You are right!
I was Makrostocker for long time. Then thousands Micro Stocker have ruined the macro market. But I survived.
Now the time has turned further. And I'll survive again.

Good photographers can always live off their photos!


And that's all I have to say. Have fun and make new images.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ginasanders on May 12, 2014, 08:56
Ohhh, I'm so a bad girl. :P

No, not bad. Just silly.  :)


I'm sorry, I'm blonde
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: BaldricksTrousers on May 12, 2014, 08:58
I was Makrostocker for long time. Then thousands Micro Stocker have ruined the macro market. But I survived.
Now the time has turned further. And I'll survive again.

Good photographers can always live off their photos!


And that's all I have to say. Have fun and make new images.

I just don't understand how you think it will benefit you to undermine microstock - or maybe you just want revenge on us for wrecking macro .... or are a fotolia employee? .... or something?
Or maybe you just think - like one person I know does - that the microstock market is going to die anyway, this is the last gasp as it all goes down the drain and so you might as well be one of those who squeezes a last little bit of money from the end of it?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Monty-m-gue on May 12, 2014, 08:58
Gina, please don't derail this thread. The subject is too important.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Dook on May 12, 2014, 09:01
Deleted
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Sean Locke Photography on May 12, 2014, 09:11
This is why we can't have nice things.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: stocked on May 12, 2014, 09:54
Good ol`Oleg nearly swallowed his cigar now because of laughing. :(

DCP is a very bad move for whole industry just because of sheer market-share greed. We shouldn't fight each other we should fight for better conditions, prices and faire commissions.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Desintegrator on May 12, 2014, 10:03
Maybe we should open a new thread with different title about the way and the importance of opting out of this awful DPC thing, so the occasional forum visitor has more chance to notice.
I learned about DPC in this thread, opted out of DPC when the option was introduced, and supported the deactivation day.
But for many days before i was seeing this thread and I didn't read it, as I was pretty happy with my Fotolia sales, and the title didn't make me realize what is it about.
Also the date "May 1" can discourage some people from reading this thread.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: OM on May 12, 2014, 10:03
The only good business reason for not opting out of DPC as far as I can see is that the 'DPC-deniers' have >90% of all sales across all micro agencies as subs payments and that DPC offers yet another outlet for extra subs-price sales.

If not, then staying in does not make business sense and that some other, hitherto undivulged, argument must be in play when you try to convince others to stay in.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: lisafx on May 12, 2014, 12:27
From my perspective, when Getty allowed Google Drive to give away thousands of images for free, and then decided to give 35 million images away to bloggers for free, it was game over for microstock producers.   We are all on borrowed time since then,  whether or not we opt in to DPC.

To paraphrase one of Gostwyck's expressions, we are all just fighting about how to rearrange the deck chairs on the Titanic at this point.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on May 12, 2014, 12:32
i'm not in this business for hearts, but for money...

Same here. And I hope to continue the be able to make money doing this for several more years. But that's not possible if I can only earn subscription royalties on individual $1 sales with just a $10 minimum buy-in required of customers.

...with 8 years of positive experience, we do trust major marketplaces we work with, regarding their marketing efforts.

it's up to you or anyone else to be opted-in or opted-out. none of my business...

This is unlike anything you've seen in 8 years, I guarantee that. This isn't microstock, it's something entirely different. And of course it's entirely your decision to participate or not, but please don't look at this as just another microstock offering.

...i'm asking you to get some understanding about people who leads the boycott.

if someone is blindfolded by witch hunt now and sees no reason to check "alliance" background - it's ok. like i already said, don't pretend you were unwarned later.

I'm not part of any boycott alliance or anything like that. I, like a lot of folks here, made my decision based on the facts and how I interpreted them. It's not herd mentality. It's math, for me at least. I look at this offer, these prices, and the royalties associated with them, and I start to think that I may need to start looking for another way to make a living if this succeeds.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on May 12, 2014, 12:44
From my perspective, when Getty allowed Google Drive to give away thousands of images for free, and then decided to give 35 million images away to bloggers for free, it was game over for microstock producers.   We are all on borrowed time since then,  whether or not we opt in to DPC.

To paraphrase one of Gostwyck's expressions, we are all just fighting about how to rearrange the deck chairs on the Titanic at this point.

I'm going to try not to sound like a jerk asking this, but... why are you still here then? If it's over, why bother? The only thing worse than rearranging the deck chairs on the microstock Titanic would be wasting time in an Internet forum talking about rearranging the deck chairs.

And why speed up the sinking? To overuse the Titanic analogy once more, why punch more holes in the ship?

I plan to still be doing this years from now. I've got nothing else lined up, so I hope I can keep at this for a while longer anyway. And I suspect that everyone here has the same hope, otherwise we wouldn't be here. Even for the most pessimistic of us, there would be no point in discussing any of this if there really was no hope of changing anything in this business.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: BaldricksTrousers on May 12, 2014, 12:52
From my perspective, when Getty allowed Google Drive to give away thousands of images for free, and then decided to give 35 million images away to bloggers for free, it was game over for microstock producers.   We are all on borrowed time since then,  whether or not we opt in to DPC.

To paraphrase one of Gostwyck's expressions, we are all just fighting about how to rearrange the deck chairs on the Titanic at this point.

I'm going to try not to sound like a jerk asking this, but... why are you still here then? If it's over, why bother? The only thing worse than rearranging the deck chairs on the microstock Titanic would be wasting time in an Internet forum talking about rearranging the deck chairs.

And why speed up the sinking? To overuse the Titanic analogy once more, why punch more holes in the ship?

I plan to still be doing this years from now. I've got nothing else lined up, so I hope I can keep at this for a while longer anyway. And I suspect that everyone here has the same hope, otherwise we wouldn't be here. Even for the most pessimistic of us, there would be no point in discussing any of this if there really was no hope of changing anything in this business.

I don't know which of you is right but I do think it's over-optimistic not to prepare for the worst.
I've always had an exit strategy. The longer my earnings keep going (and I'm actually small fry compared with a lot of you "high-comm-value" guys) the better, but I've always had an eye on the day it all slides away.
Maybe I'm just one of nature's pessimists.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Dook on May 12, 2014, 13:26
-
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: jarih on May 12, 2014, 14:35
Let us remind what was most important on topic.

Search: People            
Fotolia   DPC   Difference      
3588726   2884164   704562   19,6%   
3589256   2878628   710628   19,8%   
3591601   2871059   720542   20,1%   
3596787   2837190   759597   21,1%   
3611176   2701936   909240   25,2%   LAST
            
Search: Food            
Fotolia   DPC   Difference      
3793314   3114815   678499   17,9%   
3793491   3106698   686793   18,1%   
3796849   3098097   698752   18,4%   
3804036   3074552   729484   19,2%   
3815427   2947655   867772   22,7%   LAST
            
Search: Nature            
Fotolia   DPC   Difference      
4457751   3618574   839177   18,8%   
4464918   3594315   870603   19,5%   
4469580   3581103   888477   19,9%   
4487254   3501574   985680   22,0%   LAST
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Shelma1 on May 12, 2014, 15:07
Am I reading that right...is it close to a million images difference in some categories? Does that mean more than a million have been opted out?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: lisafx on May 12, 2014, 15:14
From my perspective, when Getty allowed Google Drive to give away thousands of images for free, and then decided to give 35 million images away to bloggers for free, it was game over for microstock producers.   We are all on borrowed time since then,  whether or not we opt in to DPC.

To paraphrase one of Gostwyck's expressions, we are all just fighting about how to rearrange the deck chairs on the Titanic at this point.

I'm going to try not to sound like a jerk asking this, but... why are you still here then? If it's over, why bother? The only thing worse than rearranging the deck chairs on the microstock Titanic would be wasting time in an Internet forum talking about rearranging the deck chairs.

And why speed up the sinking? To overuse the Titanic analogy once more, why punch more holes in the ship?

I plan to still be doing this years from now. I've got nothing else lined up, so I hope I can keep at this for a while longer anyway. And I suspect that everyone here has the same hope, otherwise we wouldn't be here. Even for the most pessimistic of us, there would be no point in discussing any of this if there really was no hope of changing anything in this business.

I think you will find I have posted very little in this thread, and mostly to answer questions directed to me and references about me. 

Good luck with stretching this out as long as you can.  I'm doing the same.  We just disagree about the best strategy to do that.  To reference your post above, I'm making my decisions based on the facts and how I interpret them.

As for not having a backup plan to earn a living, I hope if you have a family relying on you that you come up with one, even if you never have to use it.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Desintegrator on May 12, 2014, 15:14
Am I reading that right...is it close to a million images difference in some categories? Does that mean more than a million have been opted out?

For those keywords yes.

I was following the search for "background". In the beginning it had about 8.5 million results on DPC, now it only 6,414,925.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: fotoramka on May 12, 2014, 15:22
Am I reading that right...is it close to a million images difference in some categories? Does that mean more than a million have been opted out?

Dollarphotoclub: 21 802 109 images (appr)
Fotolia: 28 126 945
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: cobalt on May 12, 2014, 15:26
Over 6 million images opted out?

The numbers opted out are very interesting, because it gives us an idea how many of the actively producing artist keep following the news in the industry. I don´t think that the majority of the content of any of the agencies would ever disappear because so much of the content consists of legacy files and old portfolios that are no longer being updated. I have always wondered how many files that could be. If 25% of the content has been opted out of dpc then how many of the currently active contributors have opted out?

For instance if 50% of the content is old legacy content it would mean that half the active artists have opted out. If the legacy content is just 20% it would be a much smaller group.

Fotolia will know that of course and hopefully they and other agencies will simply be more careful in the future. Give us honest information and opt in or opt out options from the beginning and let us make our own decisions. Convince us with solid arguments for your business ventures and don´t go behind our backs.

Fotolia is an agency that is earning many people a reliable income. I hope they keep investing in Fotolia as well and won´t ignore it in favor of DPC.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on May 12, 2014, 15:29
Dollarphotoclub: 21 802 109 images (appr)
Fotolia: 28 126 945

Whoa. Over 6 million images? Is that really possible?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: fotoramka on May 12, 2014, 15:34
Dollarphotoclub: 21 802 109 images (appr)
Fotolia: 28 126 945

Whoa. Over 6 million images? Is that really possible?

My script counts total qty of images in categories of DPC every hour. If you need detailed stats by categories for past days - i can try to make new stats.
Anyway i'm afraid that 6kk opted-out aren't opt-out in May durind D-day. I think some of big agency and stockers was opted out from start of DPC.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on May 12, 2014, 15:35
...Good luck with stretching this out as long as you can.  I'm doing the same.  We just disagree about the best strategy to do that.  To reference your post above, I'm making my decisions based on the facts and how I interpret them...

Can I ask what your interpretation is? I mean other than that DPC is an ok thing to be a part of. What made you decide to stick with it?

...As for not having a backup plan to earn a living, I hope if you have a family relying on you that you come up with one, even if you never have to use it.

Well, I have a backup plan to survive, which is basically "get a job". I could always go back into the graphic design business, either freelancing or as an employee. I guess when I said that I don't have anything else lined up, that was to say that as far as the stock image business goes I don't have anything else going on. I'm working on some more artistic high-end illustration work, stuff that I'd direct at higher-priced collections like Stocksy, Offset, etc. But it's just wishful thinking at this point.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on May 12, 2014, 15:38
My script counts total qty of images in categories of DPC every hour. If you need detailed stats by categories for past days - i can try to make new stats.
Anyway i'm afraid that 6kk opted-out aren't opt-out in May durind D-day. I think some of big agency and stockers was opted out from start of DPC.

That's amazing. Not that I'm doubting your numbers, just that so many images have been opted out. Honestly I didn't expect to see this much momentum behind opt-outs. I never thought that we'd ever see the DPC total go below 20 million, but at this rate it's very possible.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Pixart on May 12, 2014, 15:39
Didn't Fotolia purchase some content a few years ago?  Can't remember which library it was but those files would NEVER be deleted, the percentage of active participants may appear to be quite a bit lower if those libraries were struck out.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: lisafx on May 12, 2014, 15:55
...Good luck with stretching this out as long as you can.  I'm doing the same.  We just disagree about the best strategy to do that.  To reference your post above, I'm making my decisions based on the facts and how I interpret them...

Can I ask what your interpretation is? I mean other than that DPC is an ok thing to be a part of. What made you decide to stick with it?


I've pretty much already explained my thoughts on this, and I don't expect to convince anyone, nor do I want to be drawn into a long exchange about it, because as you already pointed out, it's a waste of time.  Since you seem genuinely curious:

1. Micro stock was over when Getty started giving everything away for free.
2. .37 beats the he11 out of .28, and even more so out of free.
3.  I hope Fotolia will offer improvements.
4.  I make business decisions based on careful consideration and not group pressure.

Anyone is free to disagree.  You won't find me attacking or judging anyone who has looked at the situation and come to different conclusions.

Let the negatives commence. ;)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: OM on May 12, 2014, 15:57
Didn't Fotolia purchase some content a few years ago?  Can't remember which library it was but those files would NEVER be deleted, the percentage of active participants may appear to be quite a bit lower if those libraries were struck out.

I'm pretty sure that Fotolia has a large number of bought in archives in their 'infinity' collection as they often insert 5 or more into every page of search. Some of that stuff also looks dated and must be legacy images. No way will that be in their DPC available files....prices for XXL are often $300+.
It's RF, Jim but not as we know it!  :)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: gbalex on May 12, 2014, 15:59
Over 6 million images opted out?

The numbers opted out are very interesting, because it gives us an idea how many of the actively producing artist keep following the news in the industry.

I don´t think that the majority of the content of any of the agencies would ever disappear because so much of the content consists of legacy files and old portfolios that are no longer being updated. I have always wondered how many files that could be. If 25% of the content has been opted out of dpc then how many of the currently active contributors have opted out?

For instance if 50% of the content is old legacy content it would mean that half the active artists have opted out. If the legacy content is just 20% it would be a much smaller group.

Fotolia will know that of course and hopefully they and other agencies will simply be more careful in the future. Give us honest information and opt in or opt out options from the beginning and let us make our own decisions. Convince us with solid arguments for your business ventures and don´t go behind our backs.

Fotolia is an agency that is earning many people a reliable income. I hope they keep investing in Fotolia as well and won´t ignore it in favor of DPC.

I think the majority of contributors who do not keep up to date with changes within the micro industry are far more likely to submit content that is LCV.  With a few exceptions contributors with HCV images are far more likely to keep abreast of site changes and as we are seeing with DPC they are choosing to opt out. The quality content available on DPC is likely to drop drastically as a result.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: miladin14 on May 12, 2014, 16:01
but at this rate it's very possible.

it's also known as herd behavior :)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Monty-m-gue on May 12, 2014, 16:12


3.  I hope Fotolia will offer improvements.

Much more likely with a united front from contributors. They weren't even planning on informing us of DPC before contributors banded together to put pressure on them. What do FT want at this moment? A divided opposition.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: cobalt on May 12, 2014, 16:15
but at this rate it's very possible.

it's also known as herd behavior :)

Keeping your files there is also herd behaviour.

After all we were not given a choice. Noone wrote to us to ask us for our files.

So instead of seeing how attractive DPC is to artist by following rising numbers of opted in portfolios, we can now only count the files that are being opted out.

Obviously if someone believes the DPC is good for their business I don´t think it is wrong to keep your files there. But if you do believe the offer should be improved or if you think that DPC is simply not good for your business it is normal to opt out and either wait for a better offer or just focus on Fotolia itself.

I sincerly doubt that an opt out button would have been offered without protest. But at least now we have choices.

So I hope that most of the files now on dpc are from people who have thought about it and think dpc is good for them.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: fotoramka on May 12, 2014, 16:26
http://stockalliance.org/ru/dpccatstats.html (http://stockalliance.org/ru/dpccatstats.html) - detailed stats by DPC categories. Maybe it'll help someone who needs analytics.

As shown by stats i think some of big contributors was opted-out during past 4 days.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on May 12, 2014, 16:36
...Since you seem genuinely curious:

1. Micro stock was over when Getty started giving everything away for free.
2. .37 beats the he11 out of .28, and even more so out of free.
3.  I hope Fotolia will offer improvements.
4.  I make business decisions based on careful consideration and not group pressure.

Thanks for the insight into your decision.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Red Dove on May 12, 2014, 16:53
but at this rate it's very possible.

it's also known as herd behavior :)

I don't mind being part of the herd. However, I do object to the feeling of being milked without my permission or prior consultation.

Personally, I dropped out of the DPC because I can afford to in the short term. If I were heavily invested in FT I would be more likely to adopt a "wait and see and measure" approach - purely on the basis that a significant number of the predictions about the future of microstock here and elsewhere have proved unfounded as far as my experience goes.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Desintegrator on May 12, 2014, 17:16
but at this rate it's very possible.

it's also known as herd behavior :)

I don't mind being part of the herd. However, I do object to the feeling of being milked without my permission or prior consultation.

Personally, I dropped out of the DPC because I can afford to in the short term. If I were heavily invested in FT I would be more likely to adopt a "wait and see and measure" approach - purely on the basis that a significant number of the predictions about the future of microstock here and elsewhere have proved unfounded as far as my experience goes.

Fortunetly  DPC is not significant yet, after opting out (and even deleting some old material at Fotolia) my Fotolia sales are just as usual.
So I think anyone can afford dropping DPC.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on May 12, 2014, 17:29
it's also known as herd behavior :)

Not if people are coming to the decision to opt-out on their own. I certainly didn't need anyone's help in figuring this one out.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Desintegrator on May 12, 2014, 17:40
I cannot see how anyone can doubt that the right response to Fotolia's sneaky move would be all of us just opting out and leave DPC with content obviously inferior to other sites.

This move is totally unneeded for microstock as whole, it's only greedy and desperate attempt of one company to steal market share from sites selling the same images.

Still we need to spread the world, i bet there are still plenty of contributors not knowing about DPC
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on May 12, 2014, 22:40
Customers are noticing the "missing" images - more than a few tweets like these over the last 10 days:

https://twitter.com/DollarPhotoClub/status/465744399767707648

https://twitter.com/DollarPhotoClub/status/465770470558937088
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: HughStoneIan on May 13, 2014, 02:23
Customers are noticing the "missing" images - more than a few tweets like these over the last 10 days:

https://twitter.com/DollarPhotoClub/status/465744399767707648

https://twitter.com/DollarPhotoClub/status/465770470558937088


Verrrry nice. Thanks, Jo Ann!

Would be great if everyone posted comments they find like those mentioned above.

ETA:  I love the question that one of those posters asked, "Why are so many images being deleted from the site?"   Duh......
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: loop on May 13, 2014, 04:27
Customers are noticing the "missing" images - more than a few tweets like these over the last 10 days:

https://twitter.com/DollarPhotoClub/status/465744399767707648

https://twitter.com/DollarPhotoClub/status/465770470558937088

The first comment talks about the difference betwween subscription and pay per download. The designer finds an image he likes, but instead of simply downloading it at full resolution (as he would have done with a subscription, having a daily limit), downloads a composite (and saves 1 whopping dollar!) and waits for his client opinion before deciding to buy. This is why you can't hope volume in DPC; and if volume occurs it just can be at the expense of other pay per download sites. The people who stays on DPC is shooting no just all of us in the foot, but in their own feet too.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: dpimborough on May 13, 2014, 05:19
Customers are noticing the "missing" images - more than a few tweets like these over the last 10 days:

https://twitter.com/DollarPhotoClub/status/465744399767707648

https://twitter.com/DollarPhotoClub/status/465770470558937088

Love it  8) https://twitter.com/bilalhouri/status/461699072261234688 (https://twitter.com/bilalhouri/status/461699072261234688)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Dook on May 13, 2014, 09:19
but at this rate it's very possible.

it's also known as herd behavior :)

How is it herd behaviour when majority of contributors are still opted in?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Pixart on May 13, 2014, 09:29
What are you earning on DPC?  I would like to hear from a couple higher ranking individuals.  Are you earning 40 cents per download?  I was under the understanding the everyone gets paid a quarter and cannisters don't matter.  Am I wrong?

DPC's response to a Kelbyone comment on facebook:
Quote
We'd like to clarify our intention with Dollar Photo Club. Dollar Photo Club payouts basically depend on the rank of the photographers. Payouts range from 25 cents to 40 cents, which is well in line with the market. Dollar Photo Club sales count towards for their ranking at Fotolia, on the same level as other Fotolia subscriptions. At Dollar Photo Club, contrary to standard subscriptions, unused downloads never expire. That is a very different model than standard subscriptions, where agencies get all the money from unused downloads. As a result, DollarPhotoClub is a subscription model where a higher percentage of money spent goes to the photographer. Please feel free to email me at [email protected] should you have any more queries! Thanks, Dinah
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: xst on May 13, 2014, 09:48
If everyone who opted put, would go and start tweeting there at DollarPhotoClub, it may get more visible. But it also may be promotion of them

Customers are noticing the "missing" images - more than a few tweets like these over the last 10 days:

https://twitter.com/DollarPhotoClub/status/465744399767707648

https://twitter.com/DollarPhotoClub/status/465770470558937088

Love it  8) https://twitter.com/bilalhouri/status/461699072261234688 (https://twitter.com/bilalhouri/status/461699072261234688)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: luissantos84 on May 13, 2014, 09:49
What are you earning on DPC?  I would like to hear from a couple higher ranking individuals.  Are you earning 40 cents per download?  I was under the understanding the everyone gets paid a quarter and cannisters don't matter.  Am I wrong?

there is no idea of what "you" are being paid or not, there are no reports (IS does report the sales from TS), I wonder if this doesn't bother the contributors still opted-in

BUT it doesn't matter because they all believe they will get richer, the microstocker thought!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Morphart on May 13, 2014, 10:13
Just opted-out, thanks for the thread!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on May 13, 2014, 10:47
I replied to the spin doctor's reply on the KelbyOne Facebook page (took a screen shot in case it gets pulled down

(http://www.digitalbristles.com/temp/FB-post-KelbyOne-reply.jpg)

It was also brought to my attention that DPC's tweets have now reduced the total number of images they're touting in their promotional posts :) 27 - 26 - 22 - 20 million images...

https://twitter.com/DollarPhotoClub/status/460734894168346624 (https://twitter.com/DollarPhotoClub/status/460734894168346624)

https://twitter.com/DollarPhotoClub/status/455983720432816128 (https://twitter.com/DollarPhotoClub/status/455983720432816128)

https://twitter.com/DollarPhotoClub/status/466224617833521153 (https://twitter.com/DollarPhotoClub/status/466224617833521153)

https://twitter.com/DollarPhotoClub/status/466130546578698240 (https://twitter.com/DollarPhotoClub/status/466130546578698240)

And then, for even more reinforcement that protesting can make a difference, images that DPC used in their promotional tweets that have been opted out (found on Fotolia, but gone from DPC)

https://twitter.com/DollarPhotoClub/status/448400459183566848 (https://twitter.com/DollarPhotoClub/status/448400459183566848) (search lioness teeth raindrop)

https://twitter.com/DollarPhotoClub/status/457103167310684160 (https://twitter.com/DollarPhotoClub/status/457103167310684160) (search gummy candy background valentine)

https://twitter.com/DollarPhotoClub/status/452017531671572480 (https://twitter.com/DollarPhotoClub/status/452017531671572480) (search aviator child helmet glasses)

https://twitter.com/DollarPhotoClub/status/461156667259097089 (https://twitter.com/DollarPhotoClub/status/461156667259097089) (search superhero boy cape)

https://twitter.com/DollarPhotoClub/status/458583794573139968 (https://twitter.com/DollarPhotoClub/status/458583794573139968) (search zebra balloon fly)

https://twitter.com/DollarPhotoClub/status/449542415989219329 (https://twitter.com/DollarPhotoClub/status/449542415989219329) (search woman think balloon daydream)

This one has somehow "gone missing" I may need to start keeping screen captures of these... https://twitter.com/DollarPhotoClub/status/466224617833521153 (https://twitter.com/DollarPhotoClub/status/466224617833521153) (search kid screaming megaphone)

There are probably more, but you get the idea :)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: luissantos84 on May 13, 2014, 10:50
Fotolia twitter (2754 tweets, Nov 2nd 2009, 6 so far today)
DollarPhotoClub twitter (411 tweets from Jan 14th, 44 so far today)

Fotolia facebook (102980 likes from Dec 29th 2009)
DollarPhotoClub facebook (25339 likes from Jan 8th)

(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/8294845/devil.JPG)

(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/8294845/10may.JPG)

(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/8294845/13may.JPG)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: luissantos84 on May 13, 2014, 10:57
 ;D ;D ;D

(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/8294845/ft%20followers.JPG)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: cobalt on May 13, 2014, 11:02
So dpc is being more aggressively marketed via social networks than fotolia (6 versus 44 tweets). This is what I meant worries me about Fotolia. That it will now be the unloved stepchild while they grow dpc. the same that happened to istock when getty started Thinkstock.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: luissantos84 on May 13, 2014, 11:05
they just lost 2 followers maybe because they tweeted the same ad 16 times in the last hour :o ;D

make that 17!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Pixart on May 13, 2014, 11:10
Wouldn't the attached sum it up?   (oops, why are there two?)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on May 13, 2014, 13:42
Anyone who speaks Portuguese want try try and contact Cristovao Oliveira, the author of this image? It'd be nice to get that one opted out :)

http://us.fotolia.com/id/58904976 (http://us.fotolia.com/id/58904976)

He's at Shutterstock and Dreamstime, but not at iStock (as far as I can tell). That image isn't at DT, but here's his profile

http://www.dreamstime.com/cristovao_info (http://www.dreamstime.com/cristovao_info)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on May 13, 2014, 14:00
And here are screen shots (minus the missing megaphone tweet) of the images Dollar Photo Club used in their promotional tweets and which are now opted out and thus unavailable to buyers (click for full size)

(http://www.digitalbristles.com/temp/TNFotolia-tweets-for-DPC.jpg) (http://www.digitalbristles.com/temp/Fotolia-tweets-for-DPC.jpg)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: MisterFX on May 13, 2014, 14:21
SHAME ON YOU, MICROSTOCK GROUP!!!!   If you haven't noticed, you have lost a more than nine-year member in good standing from this forum.  Thanks to the number of negative [-1] ratings on LisaFX's posts, her posts have been taken down.  She didn't use profanity, she wasn't personally insulting, and she didn't call out any of you by name, which is more than can be said for the way she was treated.  You were all ready and eager to rake her over the coals for a very tough decision she had to make as a business person, a wife, and a mother.  Do not, for a moment, think that she selfishly came to her decision lightly.  We have a daughter in college and need all the extra income we can get right now. 

The fact that her posts have gone dark because of too many [-1]s is the same as stifling her, gagging her.  You took away the one thing she has to offer you; sound advice.  She has given a great many of you countless hours of counseling, friendship, and guidance through tough times and decisions.  And you threw her out of your lives. 

I am not eloquent.  I am not a writer by nature, but you all deserve to founder in the dark without her guidance.  SHAME ON YOU, MICROSTOCK GROUP!!!!  
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: disorderly on May 13, 2014, 14:42
Sorry, MisterFX (but not really sorry), but as much as I have admired and respected Lisa over the years, I have to agree with those many minuses on her recent posts.  I don't know that she would have lost much income by opting out of DPC; I doubt and hope that there won't be much income from that source at all.  But I believe that there is only one right side in our dispute with Fotolia over DPC, and that we either stand up for fair treatment or accept that we are hurting not just ourselves but every other microstock provider.

I interpreted Lisa's remarks as believing that we're screwed no matter what we do, so we may as well do whatever gives us the best benefit in the short run.  I think she's wrong, and I think she's going to do significant damage by her decision.  Do you really expect everyone to just accept that damage without complaint?

For the record, I didn't vote any of her comments down.  I reserve that option for posts that are dishonest or willfully ignorant or just plain mean.  But I can't be sorry that others showed their displeasure in this way.  Fotolia needs to be dissuaded before they do incalculable and irreparable damage to everyone here.  My sympathy for your short term pain is real, but it's not enough to make me ignore my own long interests.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: stocked on May 13, 2014, 14:57
+1 for disorderly exactly my feelings I can't remember any bad words against Lisa and a vote down is nothing against the person it just shows the disagreement with an argument.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Shelma1 on May 13, 2014, 15:01
Agreed...I didn't see any put downs of LisaFX, simply people disagreeing. If DPC goes kaput, she earns more for her sales through Fotolia. I wish I had more files to opt out.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: BaldricksTrousers on May 13, 2014, 15:07
Has Lisa got barred from the forum because of those negatives, or has she just left? She certainly should not be barred, she's always been a very helpful and sensible voice. What's more, I can still see her posts though I can't see her profile.

I think using negative votes against someone just because they hold a different opinion from your own is not really a good way of proceeding. Vote people down for being rude or offensive, but not for stating what their position is and why.  And if there is some automatic banning system based on negative votes now, then I think that should be scrapped.

I hope she'll be back with us soon.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: mlwinphoto on May 13, 2014, 15:22
I didn't notice any personal attacks against Lisa either.  However, I will say that she and anyone else who decides it is in their best interest to stay in the DPC has every right to do so and that decision should be respected.  I'm not with Fotolia so I have no vested interest in the agency....and while I agree that the DPC is potentially harmful to the microstock industry I tend to agree with Lisa that it's problems run alot deeper than just Fotolia's actions.  I'm making the business decisions I need to make in order to get out of microstock as I really don't see what we can do to turn things around....it would require an international effort of cooperation among all MS contributors and that will never happen.....e.g. no content on the agencies, no agencies.

I'm also going to say that I think this heart/minus thing should be scrapped all together.  I can't think of any one thing that tempts divisiveness toward other contributors on this site more than that does.

Let the negatives begin..... ;)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: fujiko on May 13, 2014, 15:24
Sorry to see Lisa leave, I always thought she was a great contributor and forum member.
I don't understand why all this, it's only negatives and disagreement, nothing really serious.
As for her reasons for not opting out of DPC.

1. Micro stock was over when Getty started giving everything away for free.
2. .37 beats the he11 out of .28, and even more so out of free.

Those two, I think are wrong.
1. Getty started a dangerous trend of giving images for free, sure following google like mentality that content has to be free and the money is on big data, user data, ads... They say it's to fight piracy and they try to fight it using free content (embedded) against free content (pirated).
2. Is a short term gain. Fotolia is not trying to fight piracy with DPC, they can't win free with $1. They are going after existing on-demand clients. Low price with low volume. It will have far worse consequences for current market and prices because it targets the market itself, not the piracy.

Can't argue with points 3 and 4, hopes and business decisions are personal.

I hope she comes back.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Pixart on May 13, 2014, 15:24
How does one know they've got negative posts?  Are you actually supposed to go back and check if people like what you are saying? 

All families disagree at times.  Lisa knows we love her. I have popped in and out of this thread, I hope everyone has been respectful of my sistah. 
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 13, 2014, 15:34
My take is she didnt get banned, why on earth would she get banned, but she left. Which is a big loss to the forum. Period. I hope she comes back when this is over.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on May 13, 2014, 15:40

The fact that her posts have gone dark because of too many [-1]s is the same as stifling her, gagging her.  You took away the one thing she has to offer you; sound advice.

I know you aren't familiar with the forums, but anyone can see posts that have been hidden because of minus votes - it's not a gag and the post is there for everyone to read if they wish.

I'd also agree with other people that the + and - votes are about agreement or disagreement with a point of view, not a popularity contest or referendum on a person's value. Lisa has been a very valuable voice here and I'm sorry she chose to leave. I hope she decides to come back - that does happen, including with me. I left after a series of dust-ups with Gostwyck and later decided the value here was worth returning (this was several years ago now).

I strongly disagree with the point of view Lisa took over Fotolia's Dollar Photo Club, but there's no ill will - beyond a lot of ill will directed at the slimeballs that gave us anything about which to disagree. There's a very dark place waiting for those wretches, I hope.

I'm guessing I speak for more than just me when I ask Lisa to reconsider her departure. We don't have to agree with you to want you around here :)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Pixart on May 13, 2014, 15:57
Lisa signed out over DPC?  Wow.  Goes to show you what a hot button this topic is.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: luissantos84 on May 13, 2014, 15:59
You were all ready and eager to rake her over the coals for a very tough decision she had to make as a business person, a wife, and a mother.  Do not, for a moment, think that she selfishly came to her decision lightly.  We have a daughter in college and need all the extra income we can get right now. 

it's curious that the rest of the world and us microstock contributors here at MSG don't have any personal and financial issues just like you and your wife Lisa have, I understand that our own problems are always bigger than the other but that is unfair and far from accurate most of the times so don't play the victim without knowing other life stories

that said I don't think there is a single person in this forum that haven't been bullied, I have been many times and I have faced it like Lisa should do as well, anyway I don't think that anyone bullied her apart from disagreeing, Lisa is and was always respected in this forum, perhaps more than all

when we make a decision because we truly believe in it then we shouldn't worry with others opinion, it's a public forum and sometimes we don't hear what we wish
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Pixart on May 13, 2014, 16:09
I haven't had a conversation with her myself, but I'm guessing Lisa feels betrayed by MSG.  That is exactly how I feel by Fotolia.  Betrayed, deceived, taken advantage of.  That's whey everyone is so jumpy about this topic.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: leaf on May 13, 2014, 16:23

The fact that her posts have gone dark because of too many [-1]s is the same as stifling her, gagging her.  You took away the one thing she has to offer you; sound advice.

I know you aren't familiar with the forums, but anyone can see posts that have been hidden because of minus votes - it's not a gag and the post is there for everyone to read if they wish.

I'd also agree with other people that the + and - votes are about agreement or disagreement with a point of view, not a popularity contest or referendum on a person's value. Lisa has been a very valuable voice here and I'm sorry she chose to leave. I hope she decides to come back - that does happen, including with me. I left after a series of dust-ups with Gostwyck and later decided the value here was worth returning (this was several years ago now).

I strongly disagree with the point of view Lisa took over Fotolia's Dollar Photo Club, but there's no ill will - beyond a lot of ill will directed at the slimeballs that gave us anything about which to disagree. There's a very dark place waiting for those wretches, I hope.

I'm guessing I speak for more than just me when I ask Lisa to reconsider her departure. We don't have to agree with you to want you around here :)

Well written Jo Ann.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: leaf on May 13, 2014, 16:23

i think I should relabel the hard and down arrow with words 'agree' 'disagree'.  People often take much too much offense when they get a 'down vote'.  It really isn't a big deal if someone disagrees with you.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: loop on May 13, 2014, 16:24
I've had posts with many minuses, and I don't care at all. On the contrary, it's a good indication that the idea or comment I've exposed is not shared. That's all. I value and respect many members of these forums, and I admire Leaf, but the people whose opinions could really hurt me are friends and family of flesh and bone, living around me.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 13, 2014, 16:29

i think I should relabel the hard and down arrow with words 'agree' 'disagree'.  People often take much too much offense when they get a 'down vote'.  It really isn't a big deal if someone disagrees with you.
How about showing the actual tally? So many hearts, so many down.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: leaf on May 13, 2014, 16:31


i think I should relabel the hard and down arrow with words 'agree' 'disagree'.  People often take much too much offense when they get a 'down vote'.  It really isn't a big deal if someone disagrees with you.
How about showing the actual tally? So many hearts, so many down.

Yeah. I want to do that but it is a big hack to get it to work. I haven't attempted it yet.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: robhainer on May 13, 2014, 17:10
And here are screen shots (minus the missing megaphone tweet) of the images Dollar Photo Club used in their promotional tweets and which are now opted out and thus unavailable to buyers (click for full size)

([url]http://www.digitalbristles.com/temp/TNFotolia-tweets-for-DPC.jpg[/url]) ([url]http://www.digitalbristles.com/temp/Fotolia-tweets-for-DPC.jpg[/url])


My superhero photo. :( I didn't know they tweeted it. I could have gotten a boost before opting out.

To be honest, my sales at FT have gone in the crapper since opting out. I'm not sure it was the right decision.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mellimage on May 13, 2014, 17:12
For me - sales were crap all April before opting out - and remained crap after opting out.
Rob - not sure that your decline in sales is directly correlated to opting out to DPC.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: stock-will-eat-itself on May 13, 2014, 17:48
I am not a writer by nature, but you all deserve to founder in the dark without her guidance.  SHAME ON YOU, MICROSTOCK GROUP!!!!

Good grief, I thought she was a stock photographer not the embodiment of the second coming.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: sdeva on May 13, 2014, 18:19
I believe that the one thing we don't need, is to let emotions get in the way of what should be a direct business based approach.  And the other thing we don't need is for for contributors to start falling out among themselves.

As far as this one goes (and as already pointed out by others), I really don't think any malice was intended - it looked like expressions of contrary opinions and no more than that.

Whenever contributors get in solidly behind an issue, there's an impact!!  I hope we remember that. Its up to us to hang in together and make ours a unified and meaningful voice. 

Just my 2c  :)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: SNod on May 13, 2014, 19:02
Small portfolio, 2k opted out.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: KerinF on May 13, 2014, 21:18
Lucky for me  :-\ Fotolia seem to hate my photos.  I am too embarrassed to even say what the percentage is, but it is not reflective at all of acceptance levels elsewhere (which are around 80-90%).  I started submitting just iPhone photos to Fotolia through their Instant app, and then started submitting through the normal site. 

Given my small number of images, I am planning on deleting all my hi-res images from Fotolia altogether and not submitting any more, but I will probably leave my (very) ordinary iPhone images submitted through Instant there, and also leave them on DPC, at least until I reach the next payout.  Most of these were never taken with stock in mind but were just sitting on my phone anyway.

I am actually getting quite a few downloads for my iPhone images at Fotolia, don't know if that is through Fotolia or DPC. I don't really rate most of these images at all, and the fact that some of them sell for anything is a bit of a miracle.  I may continue to upload some iPhone photos (only) through Instant, if I can be bothered wasting the time given the 80% rejection rate (whoops, I said it) now that they have stopped handing out the 1 credit for each image accepted on Instant.

So upshot is, I see Fotolia/DPC as an occasional portal for my second-rate iPhone photos moving forward, but nothing more.

Please don't shoot me down in flames!  Just a perspective.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on May 13, 2014, 21:24
...You were all ready and eager to rake her over the coals for a very tough decision she had to make as a business person, a wife, and a mother.  Do not, for a moment, think that she selfishly came to her decision lightly.  We have a daughter in college and need all the extra income we can get right now...

A lot of people need every bit of income they can get right now. Many of us are in the same boat. Spouse, kids, mortgage, college down the road. My wife is pregnant with #2 right now, so we're a long way from college but don't think the vast expense of parenthood doesn't weigh on my mind anyway.

With all of the stresses of marriage and parenting in mind, I made my decision to opt-out of DPC and delete half of my Fotolia portfolio because I want to be able to still have my income for as long into the future as possible. Maybe microstock won't be around in 18 years when I've got one kid going into college and one coming out, but I'd still like to think I can still be in the business of making images and selling them, if I want to be. DPC is a threat to that. It's a reduction of stock image selling to a point where I'm not sure we'll ever be able to come back from if it takes hold, and there is no way that any of us can continue to earn, pay the bills, or put kids through college on nothing but subscription royalties.

You're offended that Lisa's opinion was beat up on in here. I get it. But I could take equal offense to your assertion that her point of view was so noble and respectable because of her role as a wife and mom. Matter of fact, I should be offended that Lisa's point of view is so short-sighted that it would seem she's only interested in scraping the last bits of money out of this business from any and all possible avenues, including DPC, even if that does irreparable harm to the industry and to people like me who need this business to survive not just in the short-term but in the long-term as well.

I like Lisa. I respect her right to make decisions about her business. But if someone comes into a public forum and makes it known that they are making decisions for short-term small gain and long-term who-gives-a-f***, I have the right to comment on that position. If only for the very reason you mentioned, that as a husband and dad, I have certain responsibilities to think about. Lisa took a position on this that, collectively with everyone else opted-in, puts my future at risk.

Frankly, I think Lisa got off easy with the responses she received here.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ferdinand on May 13, 2014, 23:27
My sales at ft are same as before opt out - very  good ...
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: jorgophotography on May 14, 2014, 00:39
SHAME ON YOU, MICROSTOCK GROUP!!!!   If you haven't noticed, you have lost a more than nine-year member in good standing from this forum.  Thanks to the number of negative [-1] ratings on LisaFX's posts, her posts have been taken down.[/b] [/color]

I have a lot of respect for Lisa, i've been watching her posts for a long time and think she is one of the most honest and open personalities on this forum. I do occasionally vote down posts when in disagreement with the statements being made. This is not a personal attack, but more a difference on opinion.

I do believe that the DPC model is at odds with on-demands sales and refuse to participate in this drive to devalue microstock.
Although i wont force my view down other microstockers throats, i do hope some of the people who have kept their image active on DPC, take some time to think through the long term implications of this decision.

Whatever decision you make Lisa, we hope to see you back here soon.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: BaldricksTrousers on May 14, 2014, 00:42
...
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Beppe Grillo on May 14, 2014, 02:17

i think I should relabel the hard and down arrow with words 'agree' 'disagree'.  People often take much too much offense when they get a 'down vote'.  It really isn't a big deal if someone disagrees with you.

I think that you have to remove these stupid buttons…
Are we on Facebook here?
Should I begin to post selfish and photos of my cat too?

If I agree or disagree I don't need a "button" to say it, I can write it clearly in a post and give the arguments to support my thesis.


Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Painter on May 14, 2014, 02:50
Why not just remove this vote down option? Is that anything grown-up people should be doing, giving minuses to other people??? Even if it maybe only means "disagree" in most cases, you NEVER know how the person in question will take it. And because it is even more anonymous than posting things using anonymous usernames here, some people may actually use this feature to vote down people they do not like.

Give hearts when you like a post, and if you disagree, do nothing or make a reply explaining why, or maybe just a simple "disagree", written with letters. A minus is something very negative... Really bad and hateful posts should be reported and removed, but that is something different.

This is not a union, opting out of DPC is not a strike, people who decide to stay on DPC for whatever reasons are not strikebreakers.

I am very negative to DPC. But I do respect anyone who wants to stay with them, for whatever reason.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: pixsol on May 14, 2014, 03:01
A humble request to let this thread stay on FT and DPC.

As for suggestions on up votes and down votes, please use this thread: http://www.microstockgroup.com/site-related/disappearing-posts/msg379375/?topicseen#new (http://www.microstockgroup.com/site-related/disappearing-posts/msg379375/?topicseen#new)

Thanks !
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ShadySue on May 14, 2014, 05:12
It was also brought to my attention that DPC's tweets have now reduced the total number of images they're touting in their promotional posts :) 27 - 26 - 22 - 20 million images...

Indeed.
From their Fb page:
8th May:
(http://www.lizworld.com/27.jpg)
Yesterday:
(http://www.lizworld.com/22.jpg)
Whoops, their promise of '27 million images. $1. Always.' turns out to be false advertising.
 :P
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: kaboom on May 14, 2014, 05:29
They must have somehow forgotten in their calculations that those millions of images dont belong to them but to contributors.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: BaldricksTrousers on May 14, 2014, 06:27
They would, no doubt, argue that ". Always" refers to the $ not to the number of images. The incorrect punctuation makes it impossible to know what is meant.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ShadySue on May 14, 2014, 07:44
They would, no doubt, argue that ". Always" refers to the $ not to the number of images. The incorrect punctuation makes it impossible to know what is meant.
The ASA has previous cases which have ruled against precisely that sort of ambiguity.
Though it could all be down to the interpretation of that hypothetical 'reasonable person'.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: robhainer on May 14, 2014, 12:42
Unless you all are going to offer to pay Lisa's bills, then you should just keep your criticisms to yourself. 
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: CatTheCat on May 14, 2014, 12:50
Oleg Tscheltzoff's on Graphic Design USA Magazine

http://blog.gdusa.com/the-next-step-in-simple/#more (http://blog.gdusa.com/the-next-step-in-simple/#more)

"The next step in simple, says stock industry veteran and serial entrepreneur Oleg Tscheltzoff, is the Dollar Photo Club. In an interview with GDUSA, it became clear that Tscheltzoff has thought long and hard about how to eliminate the last obstacles to easy image access. Honing in on the values of simplicity, predictability, and efficiency, he explains: ”Customers are tangled up in plans they don’t need, use, or even understand.

Pricing structures have become an unruly mess that needs to be scaled back and simplified for the benefit of customers — not for companies and shareholders … (do you see any reference to us here?  ::) )

So we’ve created Dollar Photo Club, which gets right to the point, offering straightforward access to over 25 million professional images for $1 each, at one low monthly fee.

Dollar Photo Club customers pay only for what they use, nothing more, and always just $1.”
...
"The bottomline, he says, is that simplifying the price will be a significant time-saver, since it eliminates shopping for price on traditional sites, does not require signing up for large plans with lots of credits or downloads. "

They were supposed to represent OUR interests, to be a sort of agency. Shame on them.

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: dirkr on May 14, 2014, 13:25
Oleg Tscheltzoff's on Graphic Design USA Magazine

[url]http://blog.gdusa.com/the-next-step-in-simple/#more[/url] ([url]http://blog.gdusa.com/the-next-step-in-simple/#more[/url])

"The next step in simple, says stock industry veteran and serial entrepreneur Oleg Tscheltzoff, is the Dollar Photo Club. In an interview with GDUSA, it became clear that Tscheltzoff has thought long and hard about how to eliminate the last obstacles to easy image access. Honing in on the values of simplicity, predictability, and efficiency, he explains: ”Customers are tangled up in plans they don’t need, use, or even understand.

Pricing structures have become an unruly mess that needs to be scaled back and simplified for the benefit of customers — not for companies and shareholders … (do you see any reference to us here?  ::) )

So we’ve created Dollar Photo Club, which gets right to the point, offering straightforward access to over 25 million professional images for $1 each, at one low monthly fee.

Dollar Photo Club customers pay only for what they use, nothing more, and always just $1.”
...
"The bottomline, he says, is that simplifying the price will be a significant time-saver, since it eliminates shopping for price on traditional sites, does not require signing up for large plans with lots of credits or downloads. "

They were supposed to represent OUR interests, to be a sort of agency. Shame on them.


Fully agree.

But obviously they still want to spin that thing to us.

... 
The interest of contributors and the agencies is aligned and our only goal is to grow the market and to grow commissions as a whole. 
...


What a joke!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: dpimborough on May 14, 2014, 14:21
And here are screen shots (minus the missing megaphone tweet) of the images Dollar Photo Club used in their promotional tweets and which are now opted out and thus unavailable to buyers (click for full size)

([url]http://www.digitalbristles.com/temp/TNFotolia-tweets-for-DPC.jpg[/url]) ([url]http://www.digitalbristles.com/temp/Fotolia-tweets-for-DPC.jpg[/url])


My superhero photo. :( I didn't know they tweeted it. I could have gotten a boost before opting out.

To be honest, my sales at FT have gone in the crapper since opting out. I'm not sure it was the right decision.


That's weird because I opted out of DPC and deleted over 50% of my portfolio on FT and sales went up  ???
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: stockmarketer on May 14, 2014, 15:12
SHAME ON YOU, MICROSTOCK GROUP!!!!   If you haven't noticed, you have lost a more than nine-year member in good standing from this forum.  Thanks to the number of negative [-1] ratings on LisaFX's posts, her posts have been taken down.[/b] [/color]

Lisa has always been my favorite member here.  A class act, and a lot of wisdom to share based on her years of experience doing this. 

I've pretty much remained silent for the past year or so, but this moves me enough to chime in and say if she's truly gone, I will miss her a great deal.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on May 14, 2014, 15:16
To be honest, my sales at FT have gone in the crapper since opting out. I'm not sure it was the right decision.

What's the connection? How could opting out of DPC impact sales at FT?

I don't see how that's possible.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 14, 2014, 15:23
To be honest, my sales at FT have gone in the crapper since opting out. I'm not sure it was the right decision.

What's the connection? How could opting out of DPC impact sales at FT?

I don't see how that's possible.
Isnt that exactly what you were afraid of? That DPC would take sales away from the agencies. It seems thats whats happening.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: CatTheCat on May 14, 2014, 15:39
I just only like to remember to all the contributors that argued against this boycott, that diminished it in some sort, that Fotolia offered an opt out from DPC, and are increasing the laughable commissions thanks to those who fought.


That's all I have to say, back to work now.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: robhainer on May 14, 2014, 15:57
To be honest, my sales at FT have gone in the crapper since opting out. I'm not sure it was the right decision.

What's the connection? How could opting out of DPC impact sales at FT?

I don't see how that's possible.

Because I was getting sales from DPC before I opted out, probably? How does that not make sense? They've been doing DPC since January, and you can't tell if you're getting DPC sales or regular FT sales.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 14, 2014, 15:59
I just only like to remember to all the contributors that argued against this boycott, that diminished it in some sort, that Fotolia offered an opt out from DPC, and are increasing the laughable commissions thanks to those who fought.


That's all I have to say, back to work now.
I have seen 2 people that said they wouldnt opt out.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on May 14, 2014, 18:54
What's the connection? How could opting out of DPC impact sales at FT?

I don't see how that's possible.
Isnt that exactly what you were afraid of? That DPC would take sales away from the agencies. It seems thats whats happening.

It can't be happening yet. It's too soon. Sure they launched in January, but they've only begun to heavily promote the site more recently. It takes time to see any significant shift in business from one place to another.

Even if it is happening to some degree, then why would only FT be showing the signs? Shouldn't we be seeing sales fall at Shutterstock, DT, etc?

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mantis on May 14, 2014, 19:10
What's the connection? How could opting out of DPC impact sales at FT?

I don't see how that's possible.
Isnt that exactly what you were afraid of? That DPC would take sales away from the agencies. It seems thats whats happening.

It can't be happening yet. It's too soon. Sure they launched in January, but they've only begun to heavily promote the site more recently. It takes time to see any significant shift in business from one place to another.

Even if it is happening to some degree, then why would only FT be showing the signs? Shouldn't we be seeing sales fall at Shutterstock, DT, etc?

I wonder if FT's brain trust is pushing their existing customer base into DPC? Offering all kinds of promises, perhaps.  I do think they are trying to kill off FT or they wouldn't be cutting off their own wangs like they are doing with DPC pricing. That could explain why FT contributors are feeling a pinch there but nowhere else. I simply wouldn't put it past them.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: LesPalenik on May 14, 2014, 22:02
Opted out. 565 old files still on FT.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Savo on May 15, 2014, 02:19
Is there some reasone warez people would want photos removed from DPC? I don't understand why anyone would support warez and be bothered about DPC. Perhaps someone can explain what all this means.

I can only guess but I assume they were afraid that the DPC would ruin their planned "giving images away at warez sites" business scheme.

So what exactly are you trying to say? Warez-People somehow manipulated our brains and make us believe, that DPC is a bad thing?  ???
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: File Sold on May 15, 2014, 02:32
Didn't remember to mention, but opted out 600+ images (about 400 are vectors) from DPC week ago.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: pkphotos on May 15, 2014, 02:36
I have deactivated my files from DFC as of a few minutes ago.

A few months ago I deleted all my footage clips as Fotolia couldn't be trusted to sell them for realistic prices. I've also deleted most of my photos apart from the best sellers. In time I may just delete everything. I agree, agencies who bottom feed and drag the industry down need to be punished by contributors - WE HAVE THE POWER OVER AGENCIES AS A UNITED WHOLE AND NOT THE OTHER WAY AROUND

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on May 15, 2014, 02:56
My latest blog post isn't all about Fotolia and DPC, but it's a highlight (lowlight) as I review the lack of progress towards fair trade since a similar post a year or so ago

http://www.digitalbristles.com/we-still-need-fair-trade/ (http://www.digitalbristles.com/we-still-need-fair-trade/)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: OM on May 15, 2014, 05:34
My latest blog post isn't all about Fotolia and DPC, but it's a highlight (lowlight) as I review the lack of progress towards fair trade since a similar post a year or so ago

[url]http://www.digitalbristles.com/we-still-need-fair-trade/[/url] ([url]http://www.digitalbristles.com/we-still-need-fair-trade/[/url])


Great article. Thanks.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: trek on May 15, 2014, 07:09
SHAME ON YOU, MICROSTOCK GROUP!!!!   If you haven't noticed, you have lost a more than nine-year member in good standing from this forum.  Thanks to the number of negative [-1] ratings on LisaFX's posts, her posts have been taken down.[/b] [/color]


Lisa has always been my favorite member here.  A class act, and a lot of wisdom to share based on her years of experience doing this. 

I've pretty much remained silent for the past year or so, but this moves me enough to chime in and say if she's truly gone, I will miss her a great deal.


I also appreciate Lisa's input and insight.  She has been generous and helpful to part timers like myself.  Lisa come back! 

Regarding DPC:  I am opted out because I prefer not to sell large size photos for one dollar.  I also opted out of Clashot for the same reason.  I also opted out of every possible partner program because I am not comfortable with dozens of third parties writing their own licensing terms for my material.  These are personal business decisions and I respect other points of views.

Regarding the future:  The top sites will have 100 million images by the end of the decade.  Cell phones with SLR like quality will soon add fuel to the fire.  The return per upload will drop but there will always be a need for fresh art and value in owning good or unique material.  So I do not see the stock photo industry as being doomed... just highly challenged. 

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: CatTheCat on May 15, 2014, 07:20
So, I am a potencial client.

I look on the Shutterstock library for something very specific.
I find the perfect image. So, a pack for 5 images: $49.
"Yeah, but let me just check if that image is on DPC"
...
"oh, yes it is! Sweet"
So that's 10 images for $10.

You are that contributor, now do some maths, it's not that complicated... do you still think it is a mistake to opt out?

What you think you will earn more in Fotolia, you will lose 10 times on the other places.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Monty-m-gue on May 15, 2014, 07:44
I'm seeing endless DPC ads on Facebook. They must be spending a small fortune on advertising. FT are clearly putting everything they've got behind this initiative....
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: CatTheCat on May 15, 2014, 07:49
I'm seeing endless DPC ads on Facebook. They must be spending a small fortune on advertising. FT are clearly putting everything they've got behind this initiative....

When I see the advertising, I click on it, for them to spend money for nothing. (They pay for each click)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Shelma1 on May 15, 2014, 07:51
I'm seeing endless DPC ads on Facebook. They must be spending a small fortune on advertising. FT are clearly putting everything they've got behind this initiative....

And I'm commenting on every one I see, telling people we're pulling our work.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mantis on May 15, 2014, 07:52
My latest blog post isn't all about Fotolia and DPC, but it's a highlight (lowlight) as I review the lack of progress towards fair trade since a similar post a year or so ago

[url]http://www.digitalbristles.com/we-still-need-fair-trade/[/url] ([url]http://www.digitalbristles.com/we-still-need-fair-trade/[/url])


I have to say publicly that you are an awesome steward for this industry.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Monty-m-gue on May 15, 2014, 08:02
This just arrived in my email inbox:

Dear Contributor,

We have some great news - our subscription payouts have all increased, starting from today!

Depending on whether your images are opt-out or opt-in with DPC, your new subscription payout will grow to either 20% or 25% of the face value of the download - with a guaranteed minimum of the commission you earn now.

So you can potentially earn five times more per subscription download (if you opt-in with DPC).

We notice you have opted out from DPC - to fully benefit from commission increases with Fotolia and additional revenue from untapped markets, we recommend you opt-in to our new fast-growing subscription website, Dollar Photo Club.

If you want to add your images back to Dollar Photo Club click here if not, then you need to do nothing.

We hope these changes will bring you significant additional revenues, starting now.

Thank you

The Fotolia Team
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mantis on May 15, 2014, 08:05
This just arrived in my email inbox:

Dear Contributor,

We have some great news - our subscription payouts have all increased, starting from today!

Depending on whether your images are opt-out or opt-in with DPC, your new subscription payout will grow to either 20% or 25% of the face value of the download - with a guaranteed minimum of the commission you earn now.

So you can potentially earn five times more per subscription download (if you opt-in with DPC).

We notice you have opted out from DPC - to fully benefit from commission increases with Fotolia and additional revenue from untapped markets, we recommend you opt-in to our new fast-growing subscription website, Dollar Photo Club.

If you want to add your images back to Dollar Photo Club click here if not, then you need to do nothing.

We hope these changes will bring you significant additional revenues, starting now.

Thank you

The Fotolia Team

Funny, I have never received an email from them.  I am only a silver I think, but I am opted out. 
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: H2O on May 15, 2014, 08:21
This just arrived in my email inbox:

Dear Contributor,

We have some great news - our subscription payouts have all increased, starting from today!

Depending on whether your images are opt-out or opt-in with DPC, your new subscription payout will grow to either 20% or 25% of the face value of the download - with a guaranteed minimum of the commission you earn now.

So you can potentially earn five times more per subscription download (if you opt-in with DPC).

We notice you have opted out from DPC - to fully benefit from commission increases with Fotolia and additional revenue from untapped markets, we recommend you opt-in to our new fast-growing subscription website, Dollar Photo Club.

If you want to add your images back to Dollar Photo Club click here if not, then you need to do nothing.

We hope these changes will bring you significant additional revenues, starting now.

Thank you

The Fotolia Team


Mr Tscheltzoff = Desperate Marketing

I like how he uses the word commission as if Fotolia are acting like an Agent.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Shelma1 on May 15, 2014, 08:39
Yep. Just received the email from them. It's time to get even more people to opt out.  8)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on May 15, 2014, 08:44
I'm seeing endless DPC ads on Facebook. They must be spending a small fortune on advertising. FT are clearly putting everything they've got behind this initiative....

They're heavily advertising in graphic design magazines as well, clearly targeting existing customers of competing stock image agencies. They've got the inside back cover of HOW Magazine this month. They have something going on with GDUSA, I haven't seen the latest issue but I imagine they have an ad or "advertorial" in there as well. Who knows how many other publications.

Fotolia is at the HOW Design Live Conference in Boston this week. I'm sure they're promoting DPC there.


Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ShadySue on May 15, 2014, 08:48
I noticed a tweet saying how wonderful the DPC is - a kick in the teeth for 'greedy photographers'.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on May 15, 2014, 08:52

Oh man.. check this out...

That DPC ad in the back cover of HOW Magazine? They crowdsourced the design and paid $270 for it in a contest: http://www.crowdspring.com/print-design/project/2368598_design-print-ad-for-dollar-photo-club/details/ (http://www.crowdspring.com/print-design/project/2368598_design-print-ad-for-dollar-photo-club/details/)

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: luissantos84 on May 15, 2014, 08:58
there is a picture from SS (http://www.crowdspring.com/print-design/project/2368598_design-print-ad-for-dollar-photo-club/entry/6562135_dollar-photo-club3/ (http://www.crowdspring.com/print-design/project/2368598_design-print-ad-for-dollar-photo-club/entry/6562135_dollar-photo-club3/))

and the other one from iStock
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Desintegrator on May 15, 2014, 09:14
How to notify even more contributors about all this DPC nonsense?
It would be so it easy to make it fail and disappear if we could reach everyone.
I don't see how anyone can decide to stay opted in.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ravens on May 15, 2014, 09:29
Yep. Just received the email from them. It's time to get even more people to opt out.  8)

Exactly!! I received that stupid email too.

Who would want to belong to anything called "Dollar Photo Club", anyway? It sounds like, my photography isn't that good anyway, and it is not worth more that a peanut.

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Desintegrator on May 15, 2014, 09:30
On 3rd May DPC had 18% less files than Fotolia (calculated with the search tearms Business, People, Animal, Nature and Beautiful).
On 10th May it was 21%.
Today it is 23,9% (or 6.750.000 files less).
I suppose that means that since the announcement of the higher subscription royalties, MORE files/contributors are opted out instead of less ...  ;D
I'm keeping my fingers crossed that their next move will be :  DPC entry level 99 $
Doesn't necessarily mean that, as it takes a few days for opted out files to disappear from the searches. But hopefully their numbers will keep on decreasing.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: fotoramka on May 15, 2014, 09:31
On 3rd May DPC had 18% less files than Fotolia (calculated with the search tearms Business, People, Animal, Nature and Beautiful).
On 10th May it was 21%.
Today it is 23,9% (or 6.750.000 files less).
I suppose that means that since the announcement of the higher subscription royalties, MORE files/contributors are opted out instead of less ...  ;D
I'm keeping my fingers crossed that their next move will be :  DPC entry level 99 $


Some contributors returns to DPC. But anyway, people continues to opt-out from DPC. You can check hourly changes in DPC by categories here: http://stockalliance.org/ru/dpccatstats.html (http://stockalliance.org/ru/dpccatstats.html)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: luissantos84 on May 15, 2014, 09:40
On 3rd May DPC had 18% less files than Fotolia (calculated with the search tearms Business, People, Animal, Nature and Beautiful).
On 10th May it was 21%.
Today it is 23,9% (or 6.750.000 files less).
I suppose that means that since the announcement of the higher subscription royalties, MORE files/contributors are opted out instead of less ...  ;D
I'm keeping my fingers crossed that their next move will be :  DPC entry level 99 $

how do you think the 99$ would make things any better? are we trying to push down the subscription prices? do we want to see SS pulling down the 250$ mark?

I really don't see the advantage of driving buyers from one agency to another to get the same or less, please tell me your thoughts, cheers!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Desintegrator on May 15, 2014, 09:45
Raising entry price to 99 alone would not make DPC supportable at all
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Shelma1 on May 15, 2014, 09:48
On 3rd May DPC had 18% less files than Fotolia (calculated with the search tearms Business, People, Animal, Nature and Beautiful).
On 10th May it was 21%.
Today it is 23,9% (or 6.750.000 files less).
I suppose that means that since the announcement of the higher subscription royalties, MORE files/contributors are opted out instead of less ...  ;D
I'm keeping my fingers crossed that their next move will be :  DPC entry level 99 $

how do you think the 99$ would make things any better? are we trying to push down the subscription prices? do we want to see SS pulling down the 250$ mark?

I really don't see the advantage of driving buyers from one agency to another to get the same or less, please tell me your thoughts, cheers!

I agree. Though it's a somewhat higher bar, it still undercuts everyone else because you still pay $1 per photo, which never expires. I think DPC just needs to go away completely.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on May 15, 2014, 09:54
The tweet about "greedy photogs" - if I have the one Liz was referring to - is more an anti-iStock/Getty rant (I think the poster assumes all that extra money is going to the photographer...

https://twitter.com/jordankettner/status/466655532812877824
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ShadySue on May 15, 2014, 09:56
The tweet about "greedy photogs" - if I have the one Liz was referring to - is more an anti-iStock/Getty rant (I think the poster assumes all that extra money is going to the photographer...

https://twitter.com/jordankettner/status/466655532812877824

That's the one, but the 'greedy photographers' quote was what riled me.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on May 15, 2014, 10:06
I wonder if these tweets are some type of paid promo for Dollar Photo Club? I replied to one back on April 27th and got a "Wow, I had no idea" reply, but...

https://twitter.com/franveal/status/460930204383600640

this morning I see yesterday's tweet - the same tweet from that person who seemed to have been enlightened - promoting DPC and a search for murder scenes (she's apparently not very savvy as if you click the link you get no results! You have to uncheck the Safe Search option to see anything - not that I'll bother to tell her that :)

https://twitter.com/franveal/status/466542258767273985
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 15, 2014, 10:12
I wonder if these tweets are some type of paid promo for Dollar Photo Club? I replied to one back on April 27th and got a "Wow, I had no idea" reply, but...

https://twitter.com/franveal/status/460930204383600640

this morning I see yesterday's tweet - the same tweet from that person who seemed to have been enlightened - promoting DPC and a search for murder scenes (she's apparently not very savvy as if you click the link you get no results! You have to uncheck the Safe Search option to see anything - not that I'll bother to tell her that :)

https://twitter.com/franveal/status/466542258767273985
thats what I mentioned in a previous comment. The tweets look fake, like small sales pitches. People dont tweet like that. You see the same kind of comments on slimming products. WOW, lost 15 kilos in 2 days. I can recommend these pills to everyone.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: luissantos84 on May 15, 2014, 10:18
she doesn't look fake to me with 23k tweets
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: robhainer on May 15, 2014, 10:20
"Greedy photogs" is a bit much. It's not like we're working on Wall Street making millions while producing nothing of value.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: roede-orm on May 15, 2014, 10:34
This just arrived in my email inbox:

Dear Contributor,

We have some great news - our subscription payouts have all increased, starting from today!

Depending on whether your images are opt-out or opt-in with DPC, your new subscription payout will grow to either 20% or 25% of the face value of the download - with a guaranteed minimum of the commission you earn now.

So you can potentially earn five times more per subscription download (if you opt-in with DPC).

We notice you have opted out from DPC - to fully benefit from commission increases with Fotolia and additional revenue from untapped markets, we recommend you opt-in to our new fast-growing subscription website, Dollar Photo Club.

If you want to add your images back to Dollar Photo Club click here if not, then you need to do nothing.

We hope these changes will bring you significant additional revenues, starting now.

Thank you

The Fotolia Team

This is simply not true, Fotolia! I've got the same subscription payouts today as before >:(
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: roede-orm on May 15, 2014, 10:34
double posting deleted
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on May 15, 2014, 10:41
I guarantee the $10 buy-in doesn't increase, ever. Or should I say "always". ;)

That number wasn't chosen at random. It's a sort of psychological tactic. 10 is a number that buyers are pretty used to in this business. $10 for a large photo is pretty common. Shutterstock's 5-pack and 25-pack amount to around $10 per image. Stock used to price large images around 10 credits. Some companies still do. Fotolia is aiming to get buyers to see $10 and think, "I used to just get 1 image for that price. Now I can get 10!".

That plus they'd royally annoy their newly-acquired customers jacking up the minimum so soon into this.

It's not going to happen. And adding to the list of things that won't happen, opt-outs won't take the image count below 20 million and DPC won't shut down.

Sorry, I hate to say it, but I think this effort is dead in the water. Looking at today's stats, image count at DPC is holding steady and isn't really any less than it was 2 days ago, hovering around 21.7 million. Opt-outs will be harder to encourage now that there's an incentive to opt-in in the form of an additional subscription raise at FT.

I've done what I can do. I emailed back and forth with Mat, but he seems convinced that this is a good thing for everyone. You could also add that to the list of things I think won't change. I got a few people to opt out, but at least one of them already seems to be wavering on the decision. Even if we did get a ton more people to opt out, Fotolia can just yank the opt-out option. Honestly I'm surprised they even have one. Other companies require participation in some partner programs. This could be the same.

I opted out myself and deleted half of my portfolio at FT. I guess I could do the other half but it doesn't matter really. I don't think FT even cares if FT is still around in a few years. DPC is their future. They're asking customers to go over there. So who would care if some contributors delete their portfolios?

The one and only way that this gets stopped is if other companies step in. And I'm not even sure what they could do, if anything. They could require their contributors to not do business with Fotolia, but I doubt most companies would want to go down that road and the legalities of such a move are questionable.

I'm done. Moving on. I'd rather not waste another minute worrying about DPC when there is really nothing more I can do about it. It's here to stay.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Shelma1 on May 15, 2014, 11:02
I respectfully disagree. I think the amount of images that have been opted out in just a few days is phenomenal, considering the number of years it took to build up that library. More buyers are getting aggravated with disappearing files and tweeting about it. More of us are making those buyers aware of the boycott and other options for images. I see the message getting out there even more.

I'm sure every boycott, protest, and revolution seemed impossible at the beginning. Yet many of them worked. If citizens can overthrow governments, we can shut down one little website.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: luissantos84 on May 15, 2014, 11:08
6 M files are 30 weeks of 200k files/week

it's a major achievement guys, so keep it up!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on May 15, 2014, 11:09
I respectfully disagree. I think the amount of images that have been opted out in just a few days is phenomenal, considering the number of years it took to build up that library. More buyers are getting aggravated with disappearing files and tweeting about it. More of us are making those buyers aware of the boycott and other options for images. I see the message getting out there even more.

I'm sure every boycott, protest, and revolution seemed impossible at the beginning. Yet many of them worked. If citizens can overthrow governments, we can shut down one little website.

I wish we could, but it's not going to happen. We can already see the stagnation of opt-outs. The image count isn't changing and will likely begin to go up.

Even if the protest succeeded in getting more images opted out, Fotolia has the trump card. They can just shut off the opt-out and force inclusion. There is no scenario in which they just agree to shut the thing down. It won't happen.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: H2O on May 15, 2014, 11:33
I respectfully disagree. I think the amount of images that have been opted out in just a few days is phenomenal, considering the number of years it took to build up that library. More buyers are getting aggravated with disappearing files and tweeting about it. More of us are making those buyers aware of the boycott and other options for images. I see the message getting out there even more.

I'm sure every boycott, protest, and revolution seemed impossible at the beginning. Yet many of them worked. If citizens can overthrow governments, we can shut down one little website.

I wish we could, but it's not going to happen. We can already see the stagnation of opt-outs. The image count isn't changing and will likely begin to go up.

Even if the protest succeeded in getting more images opted out, Fotolia has the trump card. They can just shut off the opt-out and force inclusion. There is no scenario in which they just agree to shut the thing down. It won't happen.

We need anther Opt Out Day Promotion to keep the momentum
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: LesPalenik on May 15, 2014, 12:10
Quote
Even if the protest succeeded in getting more images opted out, Fotolia has the trump card. They can just shut off the opt-out and force inclusion. There is no scenario in which they just agree to shut the thing down. It won't happen.

Not in my book! Since they won't be selling my images at DPC, they don't have the trump card.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on May 15, 2014, 12:36

Hey, can we all try to not harass buyers on twitter about this? Send one tweet to someone if you want, fine. But don't cross the line and repeatedly contact the same person even after they've asked you to stop.

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 15, 2014, 12:41
she doesn't look fake to me with 23k tweets
I didnt say she was fake, I said the tweet looks fake. She could have been hired to tweet for DPC.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: bunhill on May 15, 2014, 12:58
There are lots of services which allow you to buy tweets, retweets and followers. $2 gets your Tweet sent to 50K followers. Probably mostly bot accounts but it still affects the trending. For not much more you can get something which seems much more real. The services advertise themselves as being from real looking accounts with real followers (many people will still follow anyone who follows or retweets them - especially if they have a nice profile picture - so many of these accounts probably really do have real followers).

So there's an idea for anyone looking to get their message out to 50K people eh!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ArtesiaWells on May 15, 2014, 13:23
…so maybe Microstockgroup could open a Twitter account.
We could all follow it and retweet important messages.

Possible?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Fairplay on May 15, 2014, 13:52
https://twitter.com/microstockgroup
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on May 15, 2014, 13:56
We need anther Opt Out Day Promotion to keep the momentum

The momentum is already dead. Stats for today show an increase in the number of images at DPC. About 27,000 were removed while 30,000 were added.

I'm all for as many opt-outs as possible, but it's just not going to do anything in the end. It's a losing battle. We're working against people opting back in and people already opted in who are uploading more to Fotolia. Opt-outs will never be enough to counteract the uploads and opt-ins.

Opt-out, and tell whoever you know to opt out as well. But let's be realistic here and recognize that opt-outs aren't going to get anything done. If anyone really believes that DPC can be stopped, then there needs to be a new strategy to make that happen. The current one isn't going to get there.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 15, 2014, 14:05
We need anther Opt Out Day Promotion to keep the momentum

The momentum is already dead. Stats for today show an increase in the number of images at DPC. About 27,000 were removed while 30,000 were added.

I'm all for as many opt-outs as possible, but it's just not going to do anything in the end. It's a losing battle. We're working against people opting back in and people already opted in who are uploading more to Fotolia. Opt-outs will never be enough to counteract the uploads and opt-ins.

Opt-out, and tell whoever you know to opt out as well. But let's be realistic here and recognize that opt-outs aren't going to get anything done. If anyone really believes that DPC can be stopped, then there needs to be a new strategy to make that happen. The current one isn't going to get there.
Did anyone report it to that UK website someone got from the EU?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: CatTheCat on May 15, 2014, 14:06
We need anther Opt Out Day Promotion to keep the momentum

The momentum is already dead. Stats for today show an increase in the number of images at DPC. About 27,000 were removed while 30,000 were added.

I'm all for as many opt-outs as possible, but it's just not going to do anything in the end. It's a losing battle. We're working against people opting back in and people already opted in who are uploading more to Fotolia. Opt-outs will never be enough to counteract the uploads and opt-ins.

Opt-out, and tell whoever you know to opt out as well. But let's be realistic here and recognize that opt-outs aren't going to get anything done. If anyone really believes that DPC can be stopped, then there needs to be a new strategy to make that happen. The current one isn't going to get there.

Raise Your Head, a lot was achieved in 2 weeks and a lot more can be achieved. I was able to reach one more contributor today, he didn't know at all. More will see these treads in the following days, as the majority don't visit the forums everyday.
They could win the battle today  but they will lose the war.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: fotoramka on May 15, 2014, 14:18
Mike, you're wrong.
At first - Fotolia increases comissions for it pseudo-subscriptions so anyway, people who opted-out in DPC but continue cooperate with FT will get more honest earnings. Even this - big success for our boycott.

At this moment i think we need to work with customers. Let me explain - you should make posts and articles not for stockers, but for people who buy pictures in stock.
Why? Because they direct auditory on microstocks. So what advertisment DPC promote? Unique private club? Ok, write about it. But don't forget said that many stockers stopped upload and opt-out from it. Show difference in 25% between FT and DPC. Talk that FT lies to customers when promises exclusive content. Talk about your and your friends, that you're generate great images, but customer didn't find it on DPC.

You can't force all FT contributors to opt-out. But.... You can create bad reputation for DPC. You can make the buyer assume that DPC is shop for poor people with strictly limited content, with poor prospects and without great updates because many stockers stop upload to FT. That if he even will buy images - he can cheat image's author because these works can be sold without his knowledge so cheap.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ArtesiaWells on May 15, 2014, 14:35
https://twitter.com/microstockgroup

I was already a follower  ;)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 15, 2014, 14:41
I have sent the following message to '[email protected]' and '[email protected]'

Quote
Dear IPO office,

I am writing to you after being advices by the EU on copyright issues we as photographers are experiencing. Microstock agency Fotolia [url]http://eu.fotolia.com[/url] ([url]http://eu.fotolia.com[/url]) is a microstock photography agency that is selling intellectual property (images and photos) submitted by independent photographers. We allow Fotolia to sell our content, in return for royalties. But I am sure you know all about this. Recenty in 2014 Fotolia has started a sister site called Dollar Photo Club [url]http://www.dollarphotoclub.com[/url] ([url]http://www.dollarphotoclub.com[/url]) offering our images for a different pricing structure. The images on Fotolia are transferred to Dollar Photo Club without our consent, without any notification.

In my opinion reading the above Mr Tsheltzoff and his Fotolia company have done is illegal, he should have asked us if we would like our content sold on another site and the Terms and Conditions of that site before he went ahead and put our content on Dollar Photo Club.

He still has not directly contacted any of the European Contributors with any information about DPC and whether we would like our content on this site, this is breaking the law in the EEC. He and Fotolia seem to be in clear breach of European Copy Write Law.

Even one sale on this DPC from a European Union citizen should have financial ramifications for Fotolia, it's not just about the money but the principle of taking our intellectual property to sell somewhere else.

The EU has advised us to contact you, and here I am bringing this case to your attention. Can you please advice or help us in dealing with Fotolia and the Dollar Photo Club?

Many thanks
Ronald Bxxxxn
[url]http://semmickphoto.com[/url] ([url]http://semmickphoto.com[/url])
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on May 15, 2014, 14:50
Mike, you're wrong.
At first - Fotolia increases comissions for it pseudo-subscriptions so anyway, people who opted-out in DPC but continue cooperate with FT will get more honest earnings. Even this - big success for our boycott...

Why is that a success? DPC isn't intended to be an add-on for Fotolia. DPC can't exist without taking customers away from other places, including Fotolia itself. Or, worse yet, from places that pay better than Fotolia. Fotolia was even advertising DPC on it's own website recently. The increase in royalties at FT is negated by the loss of buyers.

You're buying in to what they're trying to sell you on, that some aspects of this are good for you. Please know this: None of what Fotolia has been doing lately is done for your best interests in any way. The royalty increase is an empty gesture intended to make you think you've achieved something. Obviously it's working.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Shelma1 on May 15, 2014, 14:52
A big success is the ability to opt out. Before you had to delete all your files. Now you can remove them with one hard-to-find click.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 15, 2014, 14:54
I have just sent two more emails, one to another EU office on copyright and one to the Netherlands permanent representative for the EU located at our Foreign Affairs ministry.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Cesar on May 15, 2014, 15:08
Thank you Ron!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: fotoramka on May 15, 2014, 15:15
Why is that a success? DPC isn't intended to be an add-on for Fotolia. DPC can't exist without taking customers away from other places, including Fotolia itself. Or, worse yet, from places that pay better than Fotolia. Fotolia was even advertising DPC on it's own website recently. The increase in royalties at FT is negated by the loss of buyers.

You're buying in to what they're trying to sell you on, that some aspects of this are good for you. Please know this: None of what Fotolia has been doing lately is done for your best interests in any way. The royalty increase is an empty gesture intended to make you think you've achieved something. Obviously it's working.

Oh, c'mon, Mike :) You're a bit pessimistic :)
Yes, this steps are very small - but even these steps would not have been if not for all of you activity
That's no reason to give up. Fighting with the DPC, of course, continues.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on May 15, 2014, 15:23
I just did a spot check on the work of someone who I had notified about opting out - to make sure they were still opted out. It occurred to me that fotolia might have a software "oops" that opted people back in. The files were still gone from DPC, but I noticed something interesting.

In the search that I did, 12 of the first 20 images in the search results (by downloads) on fotolia were missing from DPC.

60% gone.

I know overall numbers are important too, but it's about buyers giving up on DPC because they can't find what they want. Even if there are large chunks of images for a given search, there's a reason the ones up front are there and when a large chunk of those are missing, it matters.

Another interesting observation about this search. I did the same search on fotolia, DPC and Shutterstock. It made it clear how much more (and to a large extent how much better) Shutterstock's selection was than what fotolia had.

fotolia - 470
DPC - 343
SS - 3,216

Shutterstock has nearly 10 times what DPC has. And on the first page of SS results (by popularity; can't do downloads there) - 100 - very few of the images there were on DPC's first page of results.

I think the goal is to make DPC look as unattractive to buyers as possible and it will just go away or become irrelevant. Numbers don't tell the full story, although it's definitely part of it, in the impact that has been had so far.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on May 15, 2014, 15:26
Oh, c'mon, Mike :) You're a bit pessimistic :)
Yes, this steps are very small - but even these steps would not have been if not for all of you activity
That's no reason to give up. Fighting with the DPC, of course, continues.

Realistic, not pessimistic. If there's still a fight to be had, I'm all for it. I'm just saying that this isn't working. We never even got the image count at DPC below 21 million and it's already on it's way back up. We can't reach the vast majority of contributors who are basically anonymous, who don't even know about this forum, and many of whom don't even know they're on DPC. I'm sure that to some extent Fotolia was counting on that.

If you still want to do something, figure out how to reach those people. Otherwise this is pretty much already over.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 15, 2014, 15:33
Oh, c'mon, Mike :) You're a bit pessimistic :)
Yes, this steps are very small - but even these steps would not have been if not for all of you activity
That's no reason to give up. Fighting with the DPC, of course, continues.

Realistic, not pessimistic. If there's still a fight to be had, I'm all for it. I'm just saying that this isn't working. We never even got the image count at DPC below 21 million and it's already on it's way back up. We can't reach the vast majority of contributors who are basically anonymous, who don't even know about this forum, and many of whom don't even know they're on DPC. I'm sure that to some extent Fotolia was counting on that.

If you still want to do something, figure out how to reach those people. Otherwise this is pretty much already over.

Well, what can we do? What magazines, websites, newspapers do typical contributors read? Maybe we need to get a paid ad on/in those media. Maybe a journalist wants to pick up the story? Many people here have a day job as well, maybe they can help. Maybe they know people. Unfortunately I dont. One problem is that not everyone reads the same media as we are spread over many countries. But I think we need to target the USA, France, Germany, the UK and Russia and that is probably the majority of the contributors. I just have no idea how to do that. Lets hope the emails I have sent will have an affect. How does one get the EU to investigate if Fotolia broke the EU law? They investigated Microsoft, Google and Facebook, how did that happen?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 15, 2014, 15:46
I have just fired off an email to Neelie Kroes, she is famous for handing out massive fines to companies in violation of EU Laws. She really made Microsoft and Google pay through the nose.

I have always admired her, I am hoping maybe she has some insights.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neelie_Kroes#Commissioner_for_Competition (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neelie_Kroes#Commissioner_for_Competition)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 15, 2014, 15:50
Fotolia has offices in France, maybe someone from France can email their government representatives.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Desintegrator on May 15, 2014, 15:51
Oh, c'mon, Mike :) You're a bit pessimistic :)
Yes, this steps are very small - but even these steps would not have been if not for all of you activity
That's no reason to give up. Fighting with the DPC, of course, continues.

Realistic, not pessimistic. If there's still a fight to be had, I'm all for it. I'm just saying that this isn't working. We never even got the image count at DPC below 21 million and it's already on it's way back up. We can't reach the vast majority of contributors who are basically anonymous, who don't even know about this forum, and many of whom don't even know they're on DPC. I'm sure that to some extent Fotolia was counting on that.

If you still want to do something, figure out how to reach those people. Otherwise this is pretty much already over.

Well, what can we do? What magazines, websites, newspapers do typical contributors read? Maybe we need to get a paid ad on/in those media. Maybe a journalist wants to pick up the story? Many people here have a day job as well, maybe they can help. Maybe they know people. Unfortunately I dont. One problem is that not everyone reads the same media as we are spread over many countries. But I think we need to target the USA, France, Germany, the UK and Russia and that is probably the majority of the contributors. I just have no idea how to do that. Lets hope the emails I have sent will have an affect. How does one get the EU to investigate if Fotolia broke the EU law? They investigated Microsoft, Google and Facebook, how did that happen?


It may not be the nicest thing to do, but Photodune has a list of contributors sorted by number of sales and lets you send them an email. So we could start with the biggest contributors, and move all the way down. We don't know who of them is still on DPC, but maybe the ones opted out could just ignore the message and move.

If some could sum up the situation in a convincing and good way in a not too long message to be sent to everyone?
My English and communication skill may not be good enough for it.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Monty-m-gue on May 15, 2014, 15:54
I just did a spot check on the work of someone who I had notified about opting out - to make sure they were still opted out. It occurred to me that fotolia might have a software "oops" that opted people back in. The files were still gone from DPC, but I noticed something interesting.

In the search that I did, 12 of the first 20 images in the search results (by downloads) on fotolia were missing from DPC.

60% gone.

I know overall numbers are important too, but it's about buyers giving up on DPC because they can't find what they want. Even if there are large chunks of images for a given search, there's a reason the ones up front are there and when a large chunk of those are missing, it matters.

Another interesting observation about this search. I did the same search on fotolia, DPC and Shutterstock. It made it clear how much more (and to a large extent how much better) Shutterstock's selection was than what fotolia had.

fotolia - 470
DPC - 343
SS - 3,216

Shutterstock has nearly 10 times what DPC has. And on the first page of SS results (by popularity; can't do downloads there) - 100 - very few of the images there were on DPC's first page of results.

I think the goal is to make DPC look as unattractive to buyers as possible and it will just go away or become irrelevant. Numbers don't tell the full story, although it's definitely part of it, in the impact that has been had so far.

That's really interesting, Jo Ann - and supports the thesis that current, active contributors are the ones opting out. If that's the case then DPC will be starved of fresh, new content moving forward. DPC will hopefully be left with an out of date offering and become known as the poor man's stock library..
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 15, 2014, 15:54
Here is the message from Jo Ann, it just needs to be shortened. I am not native English either.

http://semmickphoto.com/2014/05/02/microstock-agency-fotolia-leads-race-bottom/ (http://semmickphoto.com/2014/05/02/microstock-agency-fotolia-leads-race-bottom/)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Desintegrator on May 15, 2014, 16:00
Here is the page if your logged in  http://photodune.net/author/top_authors (http://photodune.net/author/top_authors)
Does Envato's vector site have something similar? I'm not familiar with that.

If we agree upon the message to send, we could divide the task like someone doing page one, other one doing page 2, etc..
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: DonLand on May 15, 2014, 16:09
Another reason to not be in DollarPhotoClub is the using of the credit as seen here where it is simply credited to DollarPhotoClub! I'm not sure if this is a rogue instance, or if all of the images are credited to DPC only.

http://careertipperblog.com/2014/03/07/dress-and-speak-success/ (http://careertipperblog.com/2014/03/07/dress-and-speak-success/)

I then downloaded the image. It is HUGE. 6317x5062 pixels!
Why would a site have the original hi-res file available for download is beyond me.
The image number on both FT and DPC is 61312360.
Finally the Copyright Credit in the file reads: FotolEdhar - Fotolia

On another note I'm wondering if Oleg is setting Fotolia up for sale.
This site looks like a bad language conversion to English but its still readable.

http://newsduet.net/dollarphotoclub-expands-into-more-markets-hits-11000-users/ (http://newsduet.net/dollarphotoclub-expands-into-more-markets-hits-11000-users/)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: stokfoto on May 15, 2014, 16:22
are they actually giving option to opt out, I sent an email to request it, the reply was just advertising how good that dollar club thing was, I am running out of patince with them, I am not away from that magical click and remove my work!!!!!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 15, 2014, 16:22
Here is the page if your logged in  [url]http://photodune.net/author/top_authors[/url] ([url]http://photodune.net/author/top_authors[/url])
Does Envato's vector site have something similar? I'm not familiar with that.

If we agree upon the message to send, we could divide the task like someone doing page one, other one doing page 2, etc..
Be careful with that, PD might consider that to be spamming. And I think the top 40 of that list has been informed already.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Desintegrator on May 15, 2014, 16:24
are they actually giving option to opt out, I sent an email to request it, the reply was just advertising how good that dollar club thing was, I am running out of patince with them, I am not away from that magical click and remove my work!!!!!

My Account / My Profile / Contributor Parameters..  below "Sell my files on DPC", click "Modify" next to it. Make the text change to "don't sell my files on DPC", save settings
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 15, 2014, 16:25


[url]http://newsduet.net/dollarphotoclub-expands-into-more-markets-hits-11000-users/[/url] ([url]http://newsduet.net/dollarphotoclub-expands-into-more-markets-hits-11000-users/[/url])


I think Scott Braut from SS said they have millions of buyers. 11,000 is a drop in the ocean compared to that. So far DPC doesnt seem to be a threat to SS.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ShadySue on May 15, 2014, 17:07


[url]http://newsduet.net/dollarphotoclub-expands-into-more-markets-hits-11000-users/[/url] ([url]http://newsduet.net/dollarphotoclub-expands-into-more-markets-hits-11000-users/[/url])


I think Scott Braut from SS said they have millions of buyers. 11,000 is a drop in the ocean compared to that. So far DPC doesnt seem to be a threat to SS.


How long has the DPC been promoting so heavily? Buyers at the other sites, even Ft itself, will be using up existing subs/credit packs first, even if they are thinking of trying out DPC.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 15, 2014, 17:13


[url]http://newsduet.net/dollarphotoclub-expands-into-more-markets-hits-11000-users/[/url] ([url]http://newsduet.net/dollarphotoclub-expands-into-more-markets-hits-11000-users/[/url])


I think Scott Braut from SS said they have millions of buyers. 11,000 is a drop in the ocean compared to that. So far DPC doesnt seem to be a threat to SS.


How long has the DPC been promoting so heavily? Buyers at the other sites, even Ft itself, will be using up existing subs/credit packs first, even if they are thinking of trying out DPC.
Still, its going to take marketing of gigantuoes proportions to shift millions of buyers. It aint gonna happen. FT already to take out a loan. They are not as cash heavy as SS. Like many people have said, SS is providing an experience and a service that is unmatched in stock world. FT with their cheap offerings and incompetent customer service will never be able to touch SS. They cant even properly remove thumbnails from images that have been opted out on DPC. Customer are already having a bad experience, and once they walk they wont come back. Its all about first impression, and DPC sucks. The only thing they have going at the moment is being cheap. That doesnt keep buyers for long if the rest svcks donkeys. We will prevail. Fotolia and Oleg can sod off  :)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on May 15, 2014, 17:32
Here is the message from Jo Ann, it just needs to be shortened. I am not native English either.

[url]http://semmickphoto.com/2014/05/02/microstock-agency-fotolia-leads-race-bottom/[/url] ([url]http://semmickphoto.com/2014/05/02/microstock-agency-fotolia-leads-race-bottom/[/url])


Do you need something done? If so, if you want me to do it I can, but someone needs to tell me what needs to happen - as in shortened to what length and who's the intended audience.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: KerinF on May 15, 2014, 21:11
Ron, I hate to disappoint you, but writing to the IPO in the UK will get you absolutely nowhere.  They are responsible for registering IP rights (e.g. trade marks, patents, designs) and provide some general information on IP, but the IPO does not have any investigative or prosecution powers at all.   

IP enforcement is considered a commercial matter and it is up to rights owners to bring private action.  Investigating copyright infringement is simply not part of their remit.  The only exception is some criminal IP activity (e.g. counterfeit goods) where in some jurisdictions the police have powers to investigate.  Not relevant here. In any event, the IPO is only concerned with UK law - correct me if I am wrong, but Fotolia are not UK-based.

Like it or not, this is really a contractual matter and, more specifically, what the t&c between contributors and Fotolia allow, and whether Fotolia has breached those terms.  Yes, copyright infringement might be relevant if there is a clear breach of the contractual terms, but the contract is the starting point. And that is a private law matter.

The only other government body with any investigative power might be competition authorities, in Australia the ACCC and in the US it would be the FTC.  Can't recall off the top of my head what the UK / EU equivalent is.  They may be interested if there are anti-trust or anti-competitive issues, or if Fotolia / DPC have engaged in misleading or deceptive conduct (either in dealings with contributors or customers), but again, don't hold your breath for them to get involved.  Again, these sorts of disputes are seen as private matters.

I think Mike is partly right though clearly the action taken to date has had some effect.  One reason for this is that DPC has entered into contractual arrangements with customers.  So they probably can't just go and up the prices, or substantially change the terms, because they will have irate customers on their hands and, frankly, they probably care more about that.

Just saying...
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: LesPalenik on May 15, 2014, 21:27
Quote
Well, what can we do? What magazines, websites, newspapers do typical contributors read? Maybe we need to get a paid ad on/in those media. Maybe a journalist wants to pick up the story? Many people here have a day job as well, maybe they can help. Maybe they know people. Unfortunately I dont. One problem is that not everyone reads the same media as we are spread over many countries. But I think we need to target the USA, France, Germany, the UK and Russia and that is probably the majority of the contributors. I just have no idea how to do that. Lets hope the emails I have sent will have an affect. How does one get the EU to investigate if Fotolia broke the EU law? They investigated Microsoft, Google and Facebook, how did that happen?

Maybe we should write also an open letter to Scott Kelby's company to review their ways. They recently did a mass mailing how good DPC is for photographers who need some cheap images. After all, this is the same outfit that used to promote heavily IS in its heydays.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: KerinF on May 15, 2014, 21:28
Oh, I was behind the thread.  Ron, same goes with other IP offices in other countries in Europe, or the OHIM or EPO (EU bodies). Simply not part of their role to investigate copyright disputes. You are wasting your time there.

I see you have also mentioned writing to some EU competition body or politician. That might possible be more relevant, but frankly, don't hold your breath for them to get involved.  Also, as I said, their concern will be competition or deceptive practices, not copyright law.

Short of having an expensive legal contractual fight, and I bet Fotolia's terms are pretty generous in their favour, then commercial pressure is really the only realistic avenue.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: LesPalenik on May 15, 2014, 22:14
Quote
I respectfully disagree. I think the amount of images that have been opted out in just a few days is phenomenal, considering the number of years it took to build up that library. More buyers are getting aggravated with disappearing files and tweeting about it. More of us are making those buyers aware of the boycott and other options for images. I see the message getting out there even more.

I'm sure every boycott, protest, and revolution seemed impossible at the beginning. Yet many of them worked. If citizens can overthrow governments, we can shut down one little website.

Very true, Michelle! And to paraphrase Neil Armstrong, it is just one small step as one little agency goes, but a giant leap for the community of creative photographers and illustrators.

Ability to voice our opinions on this board, creation of Symbiostock, establishment of a new type of artist co-op Stocksy agency, and other new agencies emulating their approach, and now a successful joint action to withdraw our images from DPC are all important milestones in reversing the previous trends to devalue images and exploit the authors. All these very concrete accomplishments would have seemed like an impossible dream just a few years ago.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: pkphotos on May 16, 2014, 00:46
I respectfully disagree. I think the amount of images that have been opted out in just a few days is phenomenal, considering the number of years it took to build up that library. More buyers are getting aggravated with disappearing files and tweeting about it. More of us are making those buyers aware of the boycott and other options for images. I see the message getting out there even more.

I'm sure every boycott, protest, and revolution seemed impossible at the beginning. Yet many of them worked. If citizens can overthrow governments, we can shut down one little website.

I wish we could, but it's not going to happen. We can already see the stagnation of opt-outs. The image count isn't changing and will likely begin to go up.

Even if the protest succeeded in getting more images opted out, Fotolia has the trump card. They can just shut off the opt-out and force inclusion. There is no scenario in which they just agree to shut the thing down. It won't happen.

That is a defeatist mindset. If you have photos at DFC make sure you opt out - everyone should be opting out and sending a clear message that this sort of business model is not acceptable. Nobody will miss the pittance royalties generated by DFC, only the owners of Fotolia
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: pixsol on May 16, 2014, 01:01
I still hope that the DPC image count will drop below the 20 million mark. I continue to see people OPT OUT and more importantly to know that many contributors are hearing about DPC and more importantly the OPT OUT option only now. As the word spreads (thanks to all our efforts), the image count will continue to drop.

Granted that after the mail from FT (about increase in some of the subscriptions) a few may have OPTed IN. There is nothing that we can do about it.

Also, some of the top earners from FT might still be contemplating about this. It is a huge decision for them to OPT OUT. We need to give them more time for them to make their decisions.

It is clear that if DPC survives and grows, every one of us (low / medium / high earners), will have to be happy with 0.25 (to 0.40) sales. And with words like "never expire", "always" the sale count may not take an upward trend.

Let us keep fighting for what we think is the right thing for a vast majority of us :)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: BaldricksTrousers on May 16, 2014, 01:49
We need anther Opt Out Day Promotion to keep the momentum

The momentum is already dead. Stats for today show an increase in the number of images at DPC. About 27,000 were removed while 30,000 were added.

Which actually means that 90% of Fotolia's inspectors' efforts were damage control and only 10% went on building the DPC collection. Having to employ 10 people to get the results produced by one person is not really a sustainable option for any company.
Also, remember that Fotolia pretty much claimed that the competition it faced was making it go bust which is why it had to cut the prices of high-ranking contributors. Of course, that might just have been greed and the finances could be as healthy as anything - though the willingness to divert customers to a cheaper option in order to try to win market share suggests they don't value the Fotolia brand too highly.
We have no information about Fotolia's financial position and no way of knowing if it is fragile or not. Maybe the place is mortgaged up to the hilt - Getty is - and is vulnerable to any shock .... or maybe it is rolling in cash and absolutely invulnerable. We simply have no idea.
So nobody outside the company can know whether this campaign is a real threat to Fotolia's future or not. Don't let the fact that it is a "big 4" site kid you into thinking that it must, therefore, be financially sound because the two things are quite different (remember Enron?). 

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 16, 2014, 02:04
KerinF, thank you for your input. If my emails dont have an effect, they certainly do no harm. I just thought when a company is not abiding by EU laws, someone in politics might take action. I mean,  the EU went after Microsoft, Google and Facebook when they broke EU laws.

Anyhoo, we will see what happens. I appreciate your input none the less. I wish I had a ton of cash to splash on a lawyer.  :)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: KerinF on May 16, 2014, 02:50
KerinF, thank you for your input. If my emails dont have an effect, they certainly do no harm. I just thought when a company is not abiding by EU laws, someone in politics might take action. I mean,  the EU went after Microsoft, Google and Facebook when they broke EU laws.

Anyhoo, we will see what happens. I appreciate your input none the less. I wish I had a ton of cash to splash on a lawyer.  :)

No problem, I was just trying to offer some thoughts on where your energies might be better directed knowing everyone is time-limited and, unfortunately, IP offices aren't the right avenue.  You may get some more traction on competition issues, but the relevant authorities would need to be convinced that some sort of anti-trust / anti-competitive conduct in a strictly legal sense was going on, i.e. misuse of market power, predatory pricing or something along those lines.  Yes, you are right about Google, etc. But of course each case is different. Unfortunately, though, just because something is unfair or unreasonable, doesn't necessarily mean it is illegal. But you never know, you might get a sniff of interest..will be interesting hear what response you get. (Yes, my day job is an IP lawyer, but not in the EU, and these are just general comments not legal advice  ;)  :-X )
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: LesPalenik on May 16, 2014, 03:19
Quote
KerinF, thank you for your input. If my emails dont have an effect, they certainly do no harm. I just thought when a company is not abiding by EU laws, someone in politics might take action. I mean,  the EU went after Microsoft, Google and Facebook when they broke EU laws.

If nothing else, it will set their pants on fire.
And any other agency that is watching this development, will think twice before attempting a similar scheme.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Petr Toman on May 16, 2014, 03:23
I replied to the spin doctor's reply on the KelbyOne Facebook page (took a screen shot in case it gets pulled down

....

I sent also a private msg to Scott, they probably have a contract already so they have to promote. But it would be good, if first they check what they are promoting. It is sad to sii it on Kelby.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 16, 2014, 03:25
KerinF, thank you for your input. If my emails dont have an effect, they certainly do no harm. I just thought when a company is not abiding by EU laws, someone in politics might take action. I mean,  the EU went after Microsoft, Google and Facebook when they broke EU laws.

Anyhoo, we will see what happens. I appreciate your input none the less. I wish I had a ton of cash to splash on a lawyer.  :)

No problem, I was just trying to offer some thoughts on where your energies might be better directed knowing everyone is time-limited and, unfortunately, IP offices aren't the right avenue.  You may get some more traction on competition issues, but the relevant authorities would need to be convinced that some sort of anti-trust / anti-competitive conduct in a strictly legal sense was going on, i.e. misuse of market power, predatory pricing or something along those lines.  Yes, you are right about Google, etc. But of course each case is different. Unfortunately, though, just because something is unfair or unreasonable, doesn't necessarily mean it is illegal. But you never know, you might get a sniff of interest..will be interesting hear what response you get. (Yes, my day job is an IP lawyer, but not in the EU, and these are just general comments not legal advice  ;)  :-X )
Thanks Kerin, good to know.  8)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Beppe Grillo on May 16, 2014, 03:25
As some of you will remember I have contacted some photographers associations in some countries (Canada, France, Italy and Switzerland) about the DPC affair (and you? *)

Well, only two have answered that they will help the best as they can
One answered that they will not do nothing (TAU Visual Italia - and I am not surprised about it…)
Some did not answered at all (it does not mean that they did not received the message).

Okay, two is better than zero.
We should continue to spread the voice.

* more associations we will contact, more photographers will know about it, so what are you waiting?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Dook on May 16, 2014, 03:29
As some of you will remember I have contacted some photographers associations in some countries (Canada, France, Italy and Switzerland) about the DPC affair (and you? *)

Well, only two have answered that they will help the best as they can
One answered that they will not do nothing (TAU Visual Italia - and I am not surprised about it…)
Some did not answered at all (it does not mean that they did not received the message).

Okay, two is better than zero.
We should continue to spread the voice.

* more associations we will contact, more photographers will know about it, so what are you waiting?

I don't think photographers associations are right place to target microstock photographers.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 16, 2014, 03:32
Quote
Thank you for your e-mail. It has been registered and you will receive a reply asap, within 15 working days. We ask your understanding for this delay, which is due to the  large number of messages that we receive daily. Please feel free to send a follow up message if your request incurred further delays.

    Cabinet of Mrs Neelie Kroes

    Vice-President responsible for the Digital Agenda
    Mail Registry Unit
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Beppe Grillo on May 16, 2014, 03:52
As some of you will remember I have contacted some photographers associations in some countries (Canada, France, Italy and Switzerland) about the DPC affair (and you? *)

Well, only two have answered that they will help the best as they can
One answered that they will not do nothing (TAU Visual Italia - and I am not surprised about it…)
Some did not answered at all (it does not mean that they did not received the message).

Okay, two is better than zero.
We should continue to spread the voice.

* more associations we will contact, more photographers will know about it, so what are you waiting?

I don't think photographers associations are right place to target microstock photographers.

I think that every place where there are photographers to reach is a good target.

"Many little acorns grow"
Spanish have a similar proverb that I like a lot for the assonance: «Muchos pocos hacen un mucho…» (Many littles make a big one)
In France they say: « Les petits ruisseaux font les grandes rivières » (Little streams make big rivers)

……
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ArtesiaWells on May 16, 2014, 03:55
My story with Fotolia

Uploaded 10 about a year ago. Felt appalled by a sense of greed and stopped.
In the beginning of April I thought what the heck and began to upload more, about 200 files.
End of April learned about the D-Day and I opted out of DPC (Don't Puff Cigars) and deleted all - but one.

This one I had a sale on the day after…

Thinking of closing up the account but I have some money there and I hate to leave it, even if it is a small amount.

Today I got this in the mail

"Hello,
 
We're sorry to see you have recently removed some files from your portfolio.
If you change your mind please remember that you can just send us a ticket and we'll put all your files back online. However, this must be done within the next 30 days.
Also, we would like to remind you that you can choose to opt in or opt out your images from DPC in your photographers' parameters.
We hope to see you back soon and will be doing all to grow your income.

Kind Regards,

The Fotolia Team"

I would like to do the right thing and the whole situation feels rotten.

What to do… Go for the trickle of pennies or stand up straight?
Put those images back and then not upload anymore?
 :-\


Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Petr Toman on May 16, 2014, 04:01
My story with Fotolia

Uploaded 10 about a year ago. Felt appalled by a sense of greed and stopped.
In the beginning of April I thought what the heck and began to upload more, about 200 files.
End of April learned about the D-Day and I opted out of DPC (Don't Puff Cigars) and deleted all - but one.

This one I had a sale on the day after…

Thinking of closing up the account but I have some money there and I hate to leave it, even if it is a small amount.

Today I got this in the mail

"Hello,
 
We're sorry to see you have recently removed some files from your portfolio.
If you change your mind please remember that you can just send us a ticket and we'll put all your files back online. However, this must be done within the next 30 days.
Also, we would like to remind you that you can choose to opt in or opt out your images from DPC in your photographers' parameters.
We hope to see you back soon and will be doing all to grow your income.

Kind Regards,

The Fotolia Team"

I would like to do the right thing and the whole situation feels rotten.

What to do… Go for the trickle of pennies or stand up straight?
Put those images back and then not upload anymore?
 :-\

Received the same mail :) they are trying hard.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Svetlana on May 16, 2014, 04:03
ArtesiaWells, only you can decide what is right for you.
Just wanted to say that there's no need to wait for a minimum payout amount - if you're closing your account before reaching the minimum amount, you get your earnings minus 1$ (Fotolia's commission in such cases).
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ArtesiaWells on May 16, 2014, 04:11
ArtesiaWells, only you can decide what is right for you.
Just wanted to say that there's no need to wait for a minimum payout amount - if you're closing your account before reaching the minimum amount, you get your earnings minus 1$ (Fotolia's commission in such cases).

Thanks!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: BaldricksTrousers on May 16, 2014, 04:22


"Many little acorns grow"
Spanish have a similar proverb that I like a lot for the assonance: «Muchos pocos hacen un mucho…» (Many littles make a big one)
In France they say: « Les petits ruisseaux font les grandes rivières » (Little streams make big rivers)

……
Or "Mony a mickle maks a muckle" from Scotland.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Desintegrator on May 16, 2014, 04:42
After some browsing on DPC here are a few big a good portfolios i have bumped into.
Do you recognize any of these contributors? Maybe some of you know how to get in touch with some of them.

Andrey Starostin 57,173 http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=200372439 (http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=200372439)
.shock 55,279 http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=5387 (http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=5387)
ra2 studio 37,988 http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=201929192 (http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=201929192)
Matthew Cole 36,230 http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=200825211 (http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=200825211)
Pakhnyushchyy 29,111 http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=303405 (http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=303405)
lenets_tan 21,825 http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=202762530 (http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=202762530)
Galyna Andrushko 20,591 http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=57392 (http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=57392)
Natika 19,411 http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=200470261 (http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=200470261)
olly 17870 http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=200460681 (http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=200460681)
Yuriy Shevtsov 17,541 http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=200927967 (http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=200927967)
Viorel Sima 15,605 http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=200901067 (http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=200901067)
Voyagerix 14,468 http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=200558077 (http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=200558077)
iko 14,244 http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=16372 (http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=16372)
Luis Louro 13,065 http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=200884309 (http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=200884309)
Kirsty Pargeter 12,364 http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=22441 (http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=22441)
Gorilla 12,191 http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=39953 (http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=39953)
peshkova 10,894 http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=202049166 (http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=202049166)
blankstock 10,186 http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=203708829 (http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=203708829)
Hemeroskopion 9,956 http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=201065439 (http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=201065439)
underworld 9,644 http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=200884422 (http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=200884422)
jayfish 9,497 http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=302411 (http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=302411)
magann 7,733 http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=299402 (http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=299402)
Warren Goldswain 7,689 http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=201220858 (http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=201220858)
Giuseppe Porzani 8,286 http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=199694 (http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=199694)
william87 7,445 http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=200903171 (http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=200903171)
oly5 7423 http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=202819061 (http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=202819061)
BlueOrange Studio 7,136 http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=358031 (http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=358031)
jovannig 6531 http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=200879245 (http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=200879245)
Coka 6,355 http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=93857 (http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=93857)
Leonid & Anna Dedukh 6,320 http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=200759559 (http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=200759559)
Sailorr 6,259 http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=200736646 (http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=200736646)
adrenalinapura 6,271 http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=201571389 (http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=201571389)
Iakov Kalinin 6,119 http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=200570294 (http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=200570294)
Gino Santa Maria 6,098 http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=54959 (http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=54959)
puckillustrations 6,096 http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=200952641 (http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=200952641)
Nik_Merkulov 6,066 http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=202316842 (http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=202316842)
merydolla 5,762 http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=203366513 (http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=203366513)
Nomad_Soul 5,756 http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=201587450 (http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=201587450)
Kushnirov Avraham 5,688 http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=131180 (http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=131180)
Roman Sigaev  5,576 http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=124096 (http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=124096)
Kalim 4,324 http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=200520350 (http://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Search?creator_id=200520350)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: File Sold on May 16, 2014, 05:30
After some browsing on DPC here are a few big a good portfolios i have bumped into.
Do you recognize any of these contributors? Maybe some of you know how to get in touch with some of them.

...

Google + facebook might find most of them. Message should be clear in case if they haven't heard of DPC before.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: dirkr on May 16, 2014, 05:46
My story with Fotolia

Uploaded 10 about a year ago. Felt appalled by a sense of greed and stopped.
In the beginning of April I thought what the heck and began to upload more, about 200 files.
End of April learned about the D-Day and I opted out of DPC (Don't Puff Cigars) and deleted all - but one.

This one I had a sale on the day after…

Thinking of closing up the account but I have some money there and I hate to leave it, even if it is a small amount.

Today I got this in the mail

"Hello,
 
We're sorry to see you have recently removed some files from your portfolio.
If you change your mind please remember that you can just send us a ticket and we'll put all your files back online. However, this must be done within the next 30 days.
Also, we would like to remind you that you can choose to opt in or opt out your images from DPC in your photographers' parameters.
We hope to see you back soon and will be doing all to grow your income.

Kind Regards,

The Fotolia Team"

I would like to do the right thing and the whole situation feels rotten.

What to do… Go for the trickle of pennies or stand up straight?
Put those images back and then not upload anymore?
 :-\

Why not just write back to them and tell them that you would love to do business with them if they revise their concept of DPC, as it is detrimental to contributors.

If they get tons of those messages maybe that helps them make up their mind.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Dook on May 16, 2014, 07:57
As some of you will remember I have contacted some photographers associations in some countries (Canada, France, Italy and Switzerland) about the DPC affair (and you? *)

Well, only two have answered that they will help the best as they can
One answered that they will not do nothing (TAU Visual Italia - and I am not surprised about it…)
Some did not answered at all (it does not mean that they did not received the message).

Okay, two is better than zero.
We should continue to spread the voice.

* more associations we will contact, more photographers will know about it, so what are you waiting?

I don't think photographers associations are right place to target microstock photographers.

I think that every place where there are photographers to reach is a good target.

"Many little acorns grow"
Spanish have a similar proverb that I like a lot for the assonance: «Muchos pocos hacen un mucho…» (Many littles make a big one)
In France they say: « Les petits ruisseaux font les grandes rivières » (Little streams make big rivers)

……
I don't think. It doesn't matter who is right. I was just explaining you why I'm not making the same effort - contacting photo associations. Since you asked "AND YOU?".
Anyway, I contacted the second contributor from the big contributors list above, we speak the same language.  He used to be regular here before. I hope he'll respond.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on May 16, 2014, 08:32
That is a defeatist mindset. If you have photos at DFC make sure you opt out - everyone should be opting out and sending a clear message that this sort of business model is not acceptable. Nobody will miss the pittance royalties generated by DFC, only the owners of Fotolia

I opted out as soon as the opt-out was available, and I deleted half of my Fotolia portfolio. I've tweeted about this, blogged about it, posted on Facebook, and contacted several people who then also opted out. I even had a direct email correspondence with Mat about this and tried to get him to see the harm this can cause. I think I've done a lot about DPC, and maybe it's defeatist to give up now, but I think I'm being a realist and looking at the big picture and seeing this for what it is, something we really have no power to stop.

The image count is going up at DPC. It has been up every hour so far today. Forget going under 20 million, DPC will be back over 22 million images by the start of next week.

Like I said yesterday, I'm happy to stay in the fight if there is a fight. But right now, there isn't. There's just no real way to disrupt DPC to the point where Fotolia has no choice but to respond. They have too many ways to stop any progress we could make, as we've already seen. They offer a little raise at FT and the opt-outs slow to the point of having no effect. Even if we somehow made things more difficult for them, they can just remove the opt-out option. They can force inclusion in DPC, and guess what... lots of people would stay because they do well enough with Fotolia and wouldn't want to lose that income.

There is one and only one way in which DPC can be stopped, and that's if Shutterstock says they'll no longer do business with any contributor who has work in DPC. But that will never happen, I can't imagine Shutterstock going down that road, so as far as I'm concerned this fight is already over.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 16, 2014, 08:42
Quote
Dear Ronald,

 Thank you for your email,

I have forwarded your email to the [email protected] team, they will be in touch as soon as possible.

Yours sincerely

Gxxxxh Mxxxxxxn
IP Advisor

 
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Svetlana on May 16, 2014, 09:48

The image count is going up at DPC. It has been up every hour so far today. Forget going under 20 million, DPC will be back over 22 million images by the start of next week.

I think it's worth comparing the numbers to those of Fotolia. For example:
On Fotolia: 16-05-2014 17:04:00    28 237 357    12 677
On DPC: 16-05-2014 17:08:58    21 747 761    3 551

These could easily be images of contributors who don't know anything about the club or the button.
(Don't know how long it takes for Fotolia to add new images to DPC - maybe the last DPC change correlates with the previous change on Fotolia.)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Svetlana on May 16, 2014, 10:05

The image count is going up at DPC. It has been up every hour so far today. Forget going under 20 million, DPC will be back over 22 million images by the start of next week.

I think it's worth comparing the numbers to those of Fotolia. For example:
On Fotolia: 16-05-2014 17:04:00    28 237 357    12 677
On DPC: 16-05-2014 17:08:58    21 747 761    3 551

These could easily be images of contributors who don't know anything about the club or the button.
(Don't know how long it takes for Fotolia to add new images to DPC - maybe the last DPC change correlates with the previous change on Fotolia.)

Interesting.
Suppose those 3551 are the files of 1 contributor who opted back in.
That would mean that NOT ONE image of the 12677  new Fotolia files got into DPC ... so every submitter of the last hour has opted out?
Embermike, I would call that a success, not a lost battle ...
Well, no, not necessarily :)
I am not sure how much time it takes to get images from Fotolia to DPC. For all I know these 12677 could be there in an hour or two.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on May 16, 2014, 10:14

See what you think of this:

(recipient's name),

You don't know me, but I'm a stock photographer too (give link or user name). I'm not sure if you're aware of Fotolia's new (started in January 2014) project, the Dollar Photo Club. It's a subscription-like, low price site where for $10 a month, a buyer gets 10 images (any size) or vectors and additional images are $1 each.

By default, all Fotolia content is opted in for sale at the Dollar Photo Club (DPC), and contributor receives a subscription royalty (according to level) on each sale even though the terms of these "image packs", chiefly that they roll over, make them more like incredibly cheap credit sales.

Why opt out? Contributors are concerned about converting existing buyers from credit purchases - which net the contributor much more - to DPC because of the incredibly low buy-in. To get subscription deals at Shutterstock or Fotolia, a buyer has to spend $249 a month, but at DPC it's just $10. On Fotolia you have to pay $14 for the smallest package of credits (10) which will get you just one XXL image, so even if a buyer needed just one image, it'd be cheaper to get it via DPC.

In summary, DPC gives huge volume discounts without a volume commitment.

In an interview Fotolia's CEO gave, he made it clear that he's looking to move buyers from Shutterstock and iStock to DPC, which for almost all contributors would result in a big drop in income.

http://techcrunch.com/2014/04/29/dollarphotoclub-expands-into-more-markets-hits-11000-users/ (http://techcrunch.com/2014/04/29/dollarphotoclub-expands-into-more-markets-hits-11000-users/)

If you already know all about this, then there’s no need to read further - thank  you for your time.

If you were not aware of DPC, I'd like to strongly urge you to opt your portfolio out of DPC sales. Here's how to do that (as it's hard to find):

Go to your Contributor page.
Under My Account, select My Profile (https://us.fotolia.com/Member/Modify (https://us.fotolia.com/Member/Modify)).
Select Contributor Parameters (https://us.fotolia.com/Member/Modify/Contributor (https://us.fotolia.com/Member/Modify/Contributor)).
Find Sell my files on DPC and click Modify.
Save parameters
Check that where you ticked actually says, "do not share on DPC" - it's a toggle and can easily get switched

Another thing to consider is suspending uploads to Fotolia until the terms of the sales via DPC are improved - where that would involve the contributor getting credit towards level from DPC sales and the minimum monthly and annual ($99 a year for 99 images) buy-ins be raised.

It's also worth pointing out that the opt out was not initially available - contributors were told by Fotolia support that they'd have to remove their portfolios from Fotolia to remove them from DPC. A group of contributors started a boycott and at the beginning of May close to 1 million images were removed from Fotolia portfolios, prompting Fotolia to offer an opt out choice.

Fotolia has since also raised the contributor royalties on monthly subscriptions (but not for sales through DPC) hoping to stem the tide of images opted out - close to 6 million images are now opted out from DPC, disproportionately among the best selling selections. Buyers have taken notice!

I'd be happy to answer any questions you have, or provide you with more links to where you can read about this. Check out this set of links for a start.

http://www.microstockgroup.com/fotolia-com/how-to-opt-out-of-dollar-photo-club/msg379729/#msg379729 (http://www.microstockgroup.com/fotolia-com/how-to-opt-out-of-dollar-photo-club/msg379729/#msg379729)

regards,

(your name)

admin edit: removed quote as requested by quotee
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ruxpriencdiam on May 16, 2014, 10:28
FT is taking a hit.

They are now sending emails to contributors that deleted their FT accounts asking them to come back and they will still have them opted out of the DPC deal.

So they must be getting hurt pretty bad.

Quote
I got an email from FT this morning asking me to come back, and that all I have to do is open ticket and they'll put my files back, and that they'll opt me out of DPC.


http://submit.shutterstock.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=138027&start=600 (http://submit.shutterstock.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=138027&start=600)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Svetlana on May 16, 2014, 10:37
Jo Ann, I am not a native speaker, but I think this is great. Thank you, I just love your texts :)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Reckless on May 16, 2014, 11:15
After receiving the email asking me to re-instate deleted files, I have decided to take down another 20 to make sure they know I'm serious about them killing off DPC.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on May 16, 2014, 11:26

And thanks Svetlana - it could be a ton shorter than the above, but it would be a whole lot ruder :)

May I suggest that if people are going to write, we need to keep track of who has been contacted? I don't have time to manage that right now though.

And that before you write you are sure that the contributor is (a) still on Fotolia and (b) still opted in to DPC (if you click on one of their images in a DPC search and you don't see the larger preview, it means they've opted out but it hasn't yet gone from search)? We don't want to contact the same people multiple times or badger those already opted out.

PhotoBomb contacted me with a list he'd assembled with some contributors and e-mail addresses. I started checking portfolios last night and found several were already opted out (Danny Smythe/rimglow and Daniel Dash). I have already contacted keeweeboy (opted out)

admin edit: removed quote as requested by quotee
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: PhotoBomb on May 16, 2014, 11:56

And thanks Svetlana - it could be a ton shorter than the above, but it would be a whole lot ruder :)

May I suggest that if people are going to write, we need to keep track of who has been contacted? I don't have time to manage that right now though.

And that before you write you are sure that the contributor is (a) still on Fotolia and (b) still opted in to DPC (if you click on one of their images in a DPC search and you don't see the larger preview, it means they've opted out but it hasn't yet gone from search)? We don't want to contact the same people multiple times or badger those already opted out.

PhotoBomb contacted me with a list he'd assembled with some contributors and e-mail addresses. I started checking portfolios last night and found several were already opted out (Danny Smythe/rimglow and Daniel Dash). I have already contacted keeweeboy (opted out) PhotoEuphoria (no reply) Leah-Anne Thompson and Ljupco (not aware of DPC and will look into it).  We can't put people's e-mail addresses into a public forum, so I won't post the list, but if it's OK with him, I can post a link to the spreadsheet with the information that's in my dropbox folder.

admin edit: removed quote as requested by quotee

That's fine with me. I need to figure out now how to add to the list.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: CatTheCat on May 16, 2014, 12:08
I see some contributors opted in to DPC, like ****

not very clever...
what people do for a 5% commission... 
 ::)
In some months don't come back mourning about your drop of On Demands on Shutterstock.

admin edit: name removed. this shouldn't be a witch hunt.  let people decide to do what they please. 
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 16, 2014, 12:14
I see some contributors opted in to DPC, like xxxxxxx,

not very clever...
what people do for a 5% commission... 
 ::)
In some months don't come back mourning about your drop of On Demands on Shutterstock.
Lets not make this a witch hunt. Everyone is free to do what they want. Its not about getting a 5% commission, its about losing a lot more money for people that probably need the money. Dont name and shame.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: CatTheCat on May 16, 2014, 12:22
They must be laughing so hard right now....  :P
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Pixart on May 16, 2014, 12:25
Didn't they privately sweeten the pot for some of the contributors they really wanted to keep? 

That was a question - not a statement....This thread is so long I am not going to look for it.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: pixsol on May 16, 2014, 12:30
They must be laughing so hard right now....  :P

I dont know about that. It is still early days and as they say "he who laughs last laughs longest".

As Ron said, let us not comment about anyone's decision to remain in DPC. Let us hope for the best as we create more DPC awareness and hopefully more OPT OUTs.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on May 16, 2014, 12:31
I've removed this post about a list of names.

This is all getting way too complicated.

I'll try to help as I can, but I just don't have much time and can't think of any other quick and easy way to coordinate but still respect people's privacy.

And for what it's worth, I think the e-mails on the list were obtained from PhotoDune - in other words there was nothing in there that wasn't already on a web site.

Leaf - there are two posts that quote what used to be in this post. The link was still in the quotes (with your text saying you'd blocked it; something's not right with how that is working) but I have removed the file from my public folder so clicking on the link gets a 404 error.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: CatTheCat on May 16, 2014, 12:40
They must be laughing so hard right now....  :P

I dont know about that. It is still early days and as they say "he who laughs last laughs longest".

As Ron said, let us not comment about anyone's decision to remain in DPC. Let us hope for the best as we create more DPC awareness and hopefully more OPT OUTs.

Yeah I know but I am just in shock right now... I think people need to think and to remain strong and together. At least I hoped they would.
As I said before, the opt out and the increase where achieved thanks to those who fought.

Anyway, my work will be on Shutterstock from now on... No yes-i-accept-whatever-you-do-with-my-work for me.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: pixsol on May 16, 2014, 12:42
They must be laughing so hard right now....  :P

I dont know about that. It is still early days and as they say "he who laughs last laughs longest".

As Ron said, let us not comment about anyone's decision to remain in DPC. Let us hope for the best as we create more DPC awareness and hopefully more OPT OUTs.

Yeah I know but I am just in shock right now... I think people need to think and to remain strong and together. At least I hoped they would.
As I said before, the opt out and the increase where achieved thanks to those who fought.

Anyway, my work will be on Shutterstock from now on... No yes-i-accept-whatever-you-do-with-my-work for me.

I understand and thanks for your stance on this issue :)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: H2O on May 16, 2014, 13:07
So here's the list that PhotoBomb made (and I've added the extra set of names you e-mailed me)

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/12956972/LINK REMOVED DUE TO PUBLIC DISPLAY OF EMAIL ADDRESSES

Let me know if you have any trouble accessing it - Steve (PhotoBomb) said it didn't work for him. If that doesn't work I can try GoogleDrive instead (with Google's spreadsheet which anyone can edit online).

Perhaps an email should be sent to Mat Hayward
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: DallasP on May 16, 2014, 13:09
Interesting ...
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: leaf on May 16, 2014, 13:10
Personally i'm sort of on the fence about this whole DPC thing.  I'm opted out but not 100% certain it'll stay that way always - especially if they make some changes to DPC such as a higher buy in.

What I'd like to say however is, I'm happy the Fotolia seems to be listening to contributors and that banding together is possible and can show an agency how we feel - but don't make this a witch hunt.  That isn't how we work as a team or support eachother.  If members who are opted in (or out) are listed for ridcule or similar, the post will be removed.  One name has already been removed from a post.

I didn't realize that link to the excel sheet contained the email addresses to people.   Publishing peoples email address online without their consent is not OK for any reason.  I've blocked that link now.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: fotoramka on May 16, 2014, 13:15
So here's the list that PhotoBomb made (and I've added the extra set of names you e-mailed me)

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/12956972/LINK REMOVED DUE TO PUBLIC DISPLAY OF EMAIL ADDRESSES

Let me know if you have any trouble accessing it - Steve (PhotoBomb) said it didn't work for him. If that doesn't work I can try GoogleDrive instead (with Google's spreadsheet which anyone can edit online).

Perhaps an email should be sent to Mat Hayward

Why do we send this letter to Fotolia's employee?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Kamran on May 16, 2014, 13:19
I deleted all my files from fotolia few days ago, today received email that if I wish, they will put all my files back.

Is fotolia keeping our hi-res files, even if we delete it.?


Following is email from them.

Hello,
 We're sorry to see you have recently removed some files from your portfolio.
If you change your mind please remember that you can just send us a ticket and we'll put all your files back online. However, this must be done within the next 30 days.
Also, we would like to remind you that you can choose to opt in or opt out your images from DPC in your photographers' parameters.
We hope to see you back soon and will be doing all to grow your income.

Kind Regards,

The Fotolia Team
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: stealthmode on May 16, 2014, 13:41
To everyone posting lists, names, and now even e-mail addresses - btw a public link to Dropbox is no different than posting directly on a public forum:

Are you joking?



Informing is fine.
Cold-calling or emailing is borderline.
Personal attacks are way over the top.

Note that I had to open an anonymous account here since I'm afraid of speaking freely lately.
All you will gain is more and more people staying away from important discussions.

PS: And everyone is entitled to do what they want with their photos.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: leaf on May 16, 2014, 13:47
I didn't realize that link to the excel sheet contained the email addresses to people.   Publishing peoples email address online without their consent is not OK for any reason.  I've blocked that link now.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ShadySue on May 16, 2014, 14:01
Remember Groundhog Day and the Istock boycott?  This DPC action is a LOT bigger, but even Istock has learned from it (at least I have not seen any new Google-drive jokes again).
We haven't seen anything like the Google-drive disaster, but they have forced all our files into subs, even though the fact that some exclusives had chosen not to participate in TS/PP, and it's a reasonable assumption that many of these would not choose to be in the new subs scheme either.

Then there's the Getty embed free to avoid piracy deal.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: H2O on May 16, 2014, 14:36
I agree, it should not be a witch hunt, but this is a very serious issue, Mr Oleg Tsheltzoff has made a cold and calculating decision to dump over 20 million images at $1 each, he fully understands exactly the consequences of his actions.

He developed the DPC site over a period of time: site design, servers, technicians, coders, marketing strategy, advertising, all take a lot of time, energy and money, which we are paying for.

He has done this in a totally underhand way, by not informing any of Fotolia's contributers about this new site. If the Dollar Photo Club site is such a good idea why didn't he 'shout it from the roof tops' to inform us, the contributers about the launch of this great new way of selling OUR content.

An opt out was only given 4 months after the DPC site was started and I suspect that this was only because it had been drawn to his attention by the companies lawyers, that it is illegal in the EEC and probably in the US to take our images and put them on another site without giving us this basic option. I do not believe it was pressure from the contributers.

He will be looking at stock statistics and movements in the micro stock market every day, he will know exactly how much market share he is taking off the other stock sites.

He will be reading this.

His strategy is obvious to bust the market with the outcome being he and his shareholders make a load of money at the expense of the people who have supplied Fotolia's content.

He has manipulated people and the media to take on his message about DPC, he cannot be trusted.

It is plain and simple an abuse of market position with our content.

He do's not have the best interests of the contributers at heart as an Agent should, its a real shame that he didn't put the same amount of effort into Fotolia.

I call for Mr Oleg Tsheltzoff to resign from Fotolia and have nothing more to do with selling OUR IMAGES he should go now for the good of all!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on May 16, 2014, 15:01
...An opt out was only given 4 months after the DPC site was started and I suspect that this was only because it had been drawn to his attention by the companies lawyers, that it is illegal in the EEC and probably in the US to take our images and put them on another site without giving us this basic option...

Is it illegal? I doubt it. Fotolia has tons of partners and API users and we have no opt-out for those. I'm sure there is something in our contracts/agreements that requires we agree to our images being used in partnerships. And I'm sure DPC could qualify as an affiliated site or an approved partner.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ruxpriencdiam on May 16, 2014, 15:03
I deleted all my files from fotolia few days ago, today received email that if I wish, they will put all my files back.

Is fotolia keeping our hi-res files, even if we delete it.?


Following is email from them.

Hello,
 We're sorry to see you have recently removed some files from your portfolio.
If you change your mind please remember that you can just send us a ticket and we'll put all your files back online. However, this must be done within the next 30 days.
Also, we would like to remind you that you can choose to opt in or opt out your images from DPC in your photographers' parameters.
We hope to see you back soon and will be doing all to grow your income.

Kind Regards,

The Fotolia Team
That is a good question because they are supposed to delete them!

Still having them is leaving anyones files that were supposedly deleted available to anyone at anytime for anything they want!!!!!!!

Something is fishy with this statement!!!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: PixelBytes on May 16, 2014, 15:03

I call for Mr Oleg Tsheltzoff to resign from Fotolia and have nothing more to do with selling OUR IMAGES he should go now for the good of all!

LOLOL!  Sure, thats gonna happen.  Maybe you should ask for his first born kid too? 

How about keeping it realistic?! 
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on May 16, 2014, 15:14
That is a good question because they are supposed to delete them!

Still having them is leaving anyones files that were supposedly deleted available to anyone at anytime for anything they want!!!!!!!

Something is fishy with this statement!!!

Fotolia keeps images available for 3 months after deletion for customers who light-boxed images and need to purchase them. Images are permanently deleted after 3 months. We all agreed to this when we signed up.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: H2O on May 16, 2014, 15:24

I call for Mr Oleg Tsheltzoff to resign from Fotolia and have nothing more to do with selling OUR IMAGES he should go now for the good of all!

LOLOL!  Sure, thats gonna happen.  Maybe you should ask for his first born kid too? 

How about keeping it realistic?!

I am being realistic, in fact I am deadly serious Mr Tsheltzoff will not be the only one reading this sites comments, his shareholders will be too.

His shareholders will have approved serious money to make DPC work, they will not like the problems that Mr Tsheltzoff has created, if DPC fails or looks like it will fail they will force him to go.

I believe that if enough people take a proper stand about this there will be an effect on his position within the company.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 16, 2014, 15:30
Fotolia is a private company, he is CEO and he is going nowhere.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: PixelBytes on May 16, 2014, 15:37
Fotolia is a private company, he is CEO and he is going nowhere.

Bingo! 
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: H2O on May 16, 2014, 15:39
Fotolia is a private company, he is CEO and he is going nowhere.

You are right about him going nowhere.

Fotolia has shareholders even though it is a private company and pressure applied will work
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ArtesiaWells on May 16, 2014, 15:43
Fotolia is a private company, he is CEO and he is going nowhere.


If these guys see a risk with their investment, he may...
http://blog.fotolia.com/en/2013/04/17/fotolia-appoints-two-new-board-members/ (http://blog.fotolia.com/en/2013/04/17/fotolia-appoints-two-new-board-members/)

"Philipp Justus, former CEO of Zanox, and Simon Levene, venture capitalist and private angel investor, have joined the board of Fotolia

NEW YORK, NY, USA – April 4, 2013 – Fotolia, one of the leading microstock companies, has named two new members to the company’s supervisory board. Oleg Tscheltzoff, Founder and CEO of Fotolia, said: “Both Philipp and Simon have extensive online marketplace insights as well as remarkable management expertise. We are delighted that they join our board to support the next stage of Fotolia’s internationalization. Philipp and Simon, together with Martin Veilleux, whom we appointed as CFO last year, will further strengthen our world-class team.”

Over the past 13 years, Philipp Justus has held several senior leadership positions at various leading online marketplace corporations: From 2010-2013, he served as CEO of the performance advertising network Zanox.de AG. Philipp drove significant international growth and helped to transform the company into the leading affiliate marketing network in Europe. Prior to Zanox, Philipp had spent ten years with eBay Inc. He was the General Manager of eBay Europe and Senior Vice President of PayPal’s Global Markets.

Simon Levene is a London-based venture capitalist as well as a private angel investor. He focuses on Internet services and applications across multiple stages from seed to growth. Simon brings over 18 years of successful company building in Europe and the US, both as an operator and an investor. Operationally, he spent a decade in executive management roles at Yahoo! and Excite@Home (based in Silicon Valley). As an investor, he is currently working with several Internet marketplace businesses including Etsy, Shapeways, and Shipserv.

Fotolia’s new board member Philipp Justus pointed out: “Having managed a variety of online marketplaces in the fields of e-commerce, payments, and online advertising, I look forward to sharing my experiences and accompanying Fotolia on its continuous growth track.” Simon Levene added: “Fotolia is already the leading microstock company in Europe and is ranked among the top stock photography websites globally. I am honoured to join its board with its exceptional team and support the further development of Fotolia with my long-time investment know-how.”

In 2012, Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co. L.P. (KKR) made a $150 million growth equity investment in Fotolia. Since this transaction, Philipp Freise, Partner and head of KKR’s European Media Investment Team, chairs Fotolia’s supervisory board which has a total of 6 members."
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: PixelBytes on May 16, 2014, 15:45

I call for Mr Oleg Tsheltzoff to resign from Fotolia and have nothing more to do with selling OUR IMAGES he should go now for the good of all!

LOLOL!  Sure, thats gonna happen.  Maybe you should ask for his first born kid too? 

How about keeping it realistic?!

I am being realistic, in fact I am deadly serious Mr Tsheltzoff will not be the only one reading this sites comments, his shareholders will be too.

His shareholders will have approved serious money to make DPC work, they will not like the problems that Mr Tsheltzoff has created, if DPC fails or looks like it will fail they will force him to go.

I believe that if enough people take a proper stand about this there will be an effect on his position within the company.

Why are all your posts calling out this guy Tsheltzoff by name?  Seems personal with you.  Did this guy sleep with your wife or something?

I can't be bothered reading all 47 or whatever pages of this, but when did the it change from protecting the stock industry to personally attacking people by name, posting hit lists, etc?  Somewhere along the line seems like this whole thing jumped the shark.   
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: H2O on May 16, 2014, 15:51

I call for Mr Oleg Tsheltzoff to resign from Fotolia and have nothing more to do with selling OUR IMAGES he should go now for the good of all!

LOLOL!  Sure, thats gonna happen.  Maybe you should ask for his first born kid too? 

How about keeping it realistic?!

I am being realistic, in fact I am deadly serious Mr Tsheltzoff will not be the only one reading this sites comments, his shareholders will be too.

His shareholders will have approved serious money to make DPC work, they will not like the problems that Mr Tsheltzoff has created, if DPC fails or looks like it will fail they will force him to go.

I believe that if enough people take a proper stand about this there will be an effect on his position within the company.

Why are all your posts calling out this guy Tsheltzoff by name?  Seems personal with you.  Did this guy sleep with your wife or something?

I can't be bothered reading all 47 or whatever pages of this, but when did the it change from protecting the stock industry to personally attacking people by name, posting hit lists, etc?  Somewhere along the line seems like this whole thing jumped the shark.   

It is personal, all companies are run from the top, what the boss says gets done, the ethos of a company is created by the boss, that's where the buck stops.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: PixelBytes on May 16, 2014, 15:56
It is personal, all companies are run from the top, what the boss says gets done, the ethos of a company is created by the boss, that's where the buck stops.

Yeah, you might want to look up *personal* in the dictionary.  You just seem like a guy with an axe to grind.

Whatever dude.  Enjoy that heart attack your working yourself up into.   :-X
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: BaldricksTrousers on May 16, 2014, 15:58
Whatever dude.  Enjoy that heart attack your working yourself up into.   :-X

That sounds quite personal, too.
Let's just focus on the DPC and ways of resisting it.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: H2O on May 16, 2014, 16:05
It is personal, all companies are run from the top, what the boss says gets done, the ethos of a company is created by the boss, that's where the buck stops.

Yeah, you might want to look up *personal* in the dictionary. 

Whatever dude.  Enjoy that heart attack your working yourself up into.   :-X

Heart Attack? In business I'v had people say to me its not personal its just business, well I can assure you any human interaction is personal and not as some people would want you to believe
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: leaf on May 16, 2014, 16:41
Let's return to the conversation.  If the thread deteriorates it will be locked.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Kamran on May 16, 2014, 22:31
That is a good question because they are supposed to delete them!

Still having them is leaving anyones files that were supposedly deleted available to anyone at anytime for anything they want!!!!!!!

Something is fishy with this statement!!!

Fotolia keeps images available for 3 months after deletion for customers who light-boxed images and need to purchase them. Images are permanently deleted after 3 months. We all agreed to this when we signed up.

Thanks EmberMike for clarification
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Savo on May 17, 2014, 03:12

Fotolia keeps images available for 3 months after deletion for customers who light-boxed images and need to purchase them. Images are permanently deleted after 3 months. We all agreed to this when we signed up.

Does it mean, that costumers can buy images after images (or profile) have been delated?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Kamran on May 17, 2014, 04:07
Images are not visible in our profile after deletion. How can customer can purchase a file, when it has been deleted and not visible.

Dont know, what happened to deleted images which are added in lightboxes
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Justanotherphotographer on May 17, 2014, 07:23
Dollar Photo Club promises that photos will always be $1, and it is in the name. What happens in a few years when the real value of the dollar is half what it is now, with inflation? Or when they have captured the maximum number of customers they can and they want to increase their profit? They can't raise prices to a more reasonable level, only pay us even less of an ever smaller amount in real terms.

As someone has said here before it feels like we are getting less and less every year but actually my sales statistics show that I on average get more for a download now than six years ago. Dollar Photo Club will put an end to this. It is built into the model.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mantis on May 17, 2014, 08:16
I know this would be VERY HARD for many of us, but I am seriously considering closing my entire relationship with FT, closing down my Fotolia account in addition to DPC. We have them on the run now and it would be prudent to crush the crumbs that are left. That is probably too much to ask but it sure would send a message to the industry as a whole.  I get it, we'd need millions of art killed at FT for them to be worried but the PR in and of itself could be good for us as contributors.  For ME PERSONALLY I have NEVER grown at FT.  I have always made between $50- $80 a month with nearly 3000 images. So that, combined with DPC and all their other cheating, sneaky past maneuvers, has just about done it for me.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: mayaartist on May 17, 2014, 10:01
Quote
Posted by: Mantis
« on: Today at 08:16 » Insert Quote
I know this would be VERY HARD for many of us, but I am seriously considering closing my entire relationship with FT, closing down my Fotolia account in addition to DPC. We have them on the run now and it would be prudent to crush the crumbs that are left. That is probably too much to ask but it sure would send a message to the industry as a whole.  I get it, we'd need millions of art killed at FT for them to be worried but the PR in and of itself could be good for us as contributors.  For ME PERSONALLY I have NEVER grown at FT.  I have always made between $50- $80 a month with nearly 3000 images. So that, combined with DPC and all their other cheating, sneaky past maneuvers, has just about done it for me.

I absolutely agree with you. And I had almost the same money per month ($50-$70) with 700 images plus videos. I deleted all my images and videos on may 1 and just left one. But now I think I'm ready to close my account completely. 
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on May 17, 2014, 11:11
I know this would be VERY HARD for many of us, but I am seriously considering closing my entire relationship with FT, closing down my Fotolia account in addition to DPC. We have them on the run now and it would be prudent to crush the crumbs that are left...

I'm all for people deleting portfolios. I've only done half of mine, and am still on the fence about the other half. But I applaud anyone who takes this kind of step.

That said, I think we need to be realistic about this. Fotolia is not "on the run". DPC isn't threatened either. DPC gained over 30,000 images in the past day. We're not stopping anything here, FT and DPC are here to stay.

I don't think anyone should delete their portfolio because they think they are taking part in a collective action that will stop any of this. Let's face facts, there is no way to stop this now. But if you're inclined to delete your portfolio at any agency, it should be because you personally object to what they're doing.

Individually or collectively it doesn't matter, we'll never be able to stop companies from trying to exploit us at every turn for every last cent they can squeeze out of us. I'm sure other DPCs will pop up in the future. Once one of these things pop up you can be sure others will try to copy it. Dollar Photo Gang, Dollar Stock Photo, Dollar Store Stock, whatever. And there will always be people willing to work with them for the chance to make just a penny or two. As we've seen in this case, there are good photographers and artists who will literally take anything these companies throw at them. They'll opt in and just say, "Well, it's another way to earn," or, "If I opt-out I'm losing money," or some other such excuse to make them feel ok about it. 

But let's not pretend that we'll ever shut any of these companies down. That's not going to happen. This is the Walmart-ization of the stock image business, where companies can treat people terribly and pay them the bare minimum. And just like Walmart, as bad as this stuff is it isn't going to go away.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: gbalex on May 17, 2014, 11:21
I do not agree, I think that if we continue to spread the word to our friends we will continue to make progress.  Almost everyone I have contacted personally has opted out and many have deleted their ports.

Keep spreading the word, it is as simple as this.  If we think we cant make a difference we make it a certainty that we won't make a difference.

Thanks to those who are and were willing to bring about change in this industry, you have proved that we are not powerless.

I don't for a minute believe that we are doomed.  It is time for us to step up to the plate and take care of our assets.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: steheap on May 17, 2014, 11:21
This question of earnings per online file on Fotolia got me thinking. My earnings have been flat with them, even though I continued to upload. I decided to plot the results over the past three years:
(http://www.backyardsilver.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/Earnings-per-online-file-Fotolia.jpg)

Worse than I thought. Earnings per online images have dropped by more than 50% over the past 3 years. Why on earth did I keep uploading images and suffering their mindless upload process with its complex categories and their high rejection rates.... I've again recommended that the readers of my blog ignore this latest attempt to bribe us with minute increases in payments.

Steve

Update: This is on 3000 images so is statistically valid. My earnings last month - $63!!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Shelma1 on May 17, 2014, 11:27
I do not agree, I think that if we continue to spread the word to our friends we will continue to make progress.  Almost everyone I have contacted personally has opted out and many have deleted their ports.

Keep spreading the word, it is as simple as this.  If we think we cant make a difference we make it a certainty that we won't make a difference.

Thanks to those who are and were willing to bring about change in this industry, you have proved that we are not powerless.

I don't for a minute believe that we are doomed.  It is time for us to step up to the plate and take care of our assets.

I do think it's a matter of communication. If everyone was aware their files appeared in DPC, there would be many more people opting out. That's why Fotolia kept it quiet.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Dook on May 17, 2014, 11:34
.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on May 17, 2014, 11:36
I do not agree, I think that if we continue to spread the word to our friends we will continue to make progress.  Almost everyone I have contacted personally has opted out and many have deleted their ports...

What progress? DPC added 30k images since yesterday. It doesn't matter how many people opt out, more people stay opted in or opt back in for the added FT subscription royalty incentive. And eventually, opt-outs can't keep up with new uploads at FT that get ported over to DPC.

...Thanks to those who are and were willing to bring about change in this industry, you have proved that we are not powerless.

I don't for a minute believe that we are doomed.  It is time for us to step up to the plate and take care of our assets.

I don't believe we're doomed either. Actually I think there is a lot of opportunity in this business still. It's just not with these jokers like the folks running DPC. I don't even think it's with most of the major companies out there today. I've been saying for years that true change will come from a smaller company. Stocksy is one of those types of companies. Stockfresh could have been, but they squandered the opportunity years ago to offer a real alternative to iStock for both disgruntled buyers as well as contributors.

I'm just not interested in wasting time trying to get the jokers shut down. That will never happen. We may not be powerless, but we're certainly not powerful enough to stop an entire company.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: gostwyck on May 17, 2014, 11:50
I know this would be VERY HARD for many of us, but I am seriously considering closing my entire relationship with FT, closing down my Fotolia account in addition to DPC. We have them on the run now and it would be prudent to crush the crumbs that are left. That is probably too much to ask but it sure would send a message to the industry as a whole.  I get it, we'd need millions of art killed at FT for them to be worried but the PR in and of itself could be good for us as contributors.  For ME PERSONALLY I have NEVER grown at FT.  I have always made between $50- $80 a month with nearly 3000 images. So that, combined with DPC and all their other cheating, sneaky past maneuvers, has just about done it for me.

I agree. I've already decided to not upload any more images to FT and am seriously thinking about deleting my entire account with them.

Fotolia is like an abusive partner and the sooner we just accept that and move on without them the better we will be.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Shelma1 on May 17, 2014, 11:52
Where they got the idea from:

https://www.dollarshaveclub.com (https://www.dollarshaveclub.com)

They even use the same font in their logo. Copyright infringement?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on May 17, 2014, 12:31
I'm just not interested in wasting time trying to get the jokers shut down.

We don't need to shut them down. We just need to remove a significant portion of the important (high sales) images. It can limp along with whatever images it can get without harming any of those of us who are opted out or not/no longer on Fotolia.

What we don't want is Shutterstock like growth out of a company with such a toxic business model - for contributors (I can see why buyers would love this)

Stock agencies haven't been hurt by those freebie sites with tons of images because there is a vast difference in the quality of the content they offer. As long as DPC looks more like the freebie sites and less like Shutterstock, I'd consider this effort a huge victory.

And I saw this morning that someone I contacted on Thursday has opted out of DPC - 14,000+ images gonzo

The key thing seems to be that so many contributors don't know about this. If they know and choose to opt in then that's their choice, however much I wish they wouldn't.

That's how we can make a difference - letting contributors know. I wouldn't waste time on buyers as I'd guess only a small portion would walk away from a great deal because it wasn't fair to suppliers.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: stokfoto on May 17, 2014, 12:39
are they actually giving option to opt out, I sent an email to request it, the reply was just advertising how good that dollar club thing was, I am running out of patience with them, I am not away from that magical click and remove my work!!!!!

My Account / My Profile / Contributor Parameters..  below "Sell my files on DPC", click "Modify" next to it. Make the text change to "don't sell my files on DPC", save settings

Thank you very much, much appreciated!!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Shelma1 on May 17, 2014, 12:57
How one woman has organized a bunch of Nebraska farmers to fight the Keystone pipeline:

http://www.nytimes.com/2014/05/18/magazine/jane-kleeb-vs-the-keystone-pipeline.html?hp&_r=0 (http://www.nytimes.com/2014/05/18/magazine/jane-kleeb-vs-the-keystone-pipeline.html?hp&_r=0)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: CatTheCat on May 17, 2014, 13:13
I have been searching for 'vector' on DPC everyday and until now, the number of files is always decreasing.  :)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Will on May 17, 2014, 13:18

Fotolia is like an abusive partner and the sooner we just accept that and move on without them the better we will be.

Abusive is certainly the correct description for Fotolia and the DPC. If we now just continue to be passive we will lose any hope of earning decent money in the micro market and it will rapidly be destroyed especially for the single contributor.
If anything we should be pushing for much better returns from all subscription sites and a minimum of 50% for any other type of sales! Years ago when agency marketing and distribution was much more expensive and harder to do the standard royalty was 50%. We accept so much less today, because collectively we've been far to passive.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: pixsol on May 17, 2014, 13:23
For me personally, it would be better if we had a handful of fair microstock agencies rather than just one or two. I still believe FT can make some changes to FT and DPC that make it worthwhile for the contributors. If they think a little differently, they possibly can gain market share by not reducing the prices of our hard work.

Throughout this thread various contributors have made a few suggestions that can improve FT and DPC:
- Having the ability to opt-in specific images to DPC (not the existing option of all or none).
- Increasing the upfront amount that buyers need to pay to buy images for a dollar in DPC thereby committing to a higher number of images to purchase in a month (conforming to a true subscription model).
- Clearer terms to distinguish between standard and enhanced licenses.

Each of us have different thresholds as to when to participate in DPC or not at all or move out of FT.

I hope that in some time there will be positive changes to FT and DPC. If nothing else will happen, I guess everyone will make their own decisions and that is always the best thing to happen.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: LesPalenik on May 17, 2014, 13:34
This question of earnings per online file on Fotolia got me thinking. My earnings have been flat with them, even though I continued to upload.

Worse than I thought. Earnings per online images have dropped by more than 50% over the past 3 years. Why on earth did I keep uploading images and suffering their mindless upload process with its complex categories and their high rejection rates.... I've again recommended that the readers of my blog ignore this latest attempt to bribe us with minute increases in payments.

Update: This is on 3000 images so is statistically valid. My earnings last month - $63!!

On top of it, there is also a very real possibility that if those images had not been offered on FT, they could have sold on the other agencies for higher price.
 
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on May 17, 2014, 13:48

I wish we could get this kind of energy around supporting a single fair agency and propping them up instead of wasting it on Fotolia and Dollar Photo Club.

I'm done worrying about this. I've done what I can, time to get back to focusing on new work and getting it submitted to agencies that matter.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: H2O on May 17, 2014, 13:49
The launch of the site has all been done in a totally underhand way by Fotolia, why would they improve the offer, they had no intention of doing it from the start, a few crumbs here and their maybe, but that will be it.

Fotolia will have been prepared for exactly how this is going to pan out they believe they are one step ahead of us. They would have watched the istock debacle.

I think Jo Ann Snover has the right idea pressure from loss of quality content.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on May 17, 2014, 13:52
The launch of the site has all been done in a totally underhand way by Fotolia, why would they improve the offer, they had no intention of doing it from the start, a few crumbs here and their maybe, but that will be it.

Fotolia will have been prepared for exactly how this is going to pan out they believe they are one step ahead of us. They would have watched the istock debacle...

100% right. If anyone is waiting for the $10 minimum to go up, forget it. It's not going to happen. From what I've heard from Fotolia, they seem pretty happy with the $10 price point. They hope people go in for $10 and then buy more, but as far as I understand there is no discussion happening around raising the minimum. It's not going to happen.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Shelma1 on May 17, 2014, 14:09

I wish we could get this kind of energy around supporting a single fair agency and propping them up instead of wasting it on Fotolia and Dollar Photo Club.

I'm done worrying about this. I've done what I can, time to get back to focusing on new work and getting it submitted to agencies that matter.

Which would you recommend? And how would you get buyers to switch?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on May 17, 2014, 14:19
Which would you recommend? And how would you get buyers to switch?

Haha... nobody likes the one I always recommend. :)

I still think Stockfresh is the "sleeper" of microstock. If they could just get out of their own way long enough to do anything. Marketing is their weak point. They recently hired a new marketing guy, but there's still not a peep out of them that buyers can see. They need to start spending on advertising to get buyers to even notice them.

And they badly need a site redesign. They're still clinging to that old StockXpert site design. Lots of white space, featured images are too small, those silly pixel coin graphics, etc.

On the contributor side, they need images. Just over 3 million last I heard, they need to get up in the 10 million range to compete.

If they updated the site, contributors backed them up with uploads and got them over 10 million, then went on a marketing blitz, they'd have something.

They always seem to hover in the upper part of the Low Earners bracket. I think it's possible to see them move up to Middle Tier with a little effort. Just imagine that, a 50% agency with simple yet fair pricing that can actually get buyers?

But this would all take effort from us to help, and we'd all rather complain about the jokers in this business than to try and help push a decent company up the ladder for everyone's benefit.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Shelma1 on May 17, 2014, 14:27
It sounds like first it would take a lot of effort from them.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: cobalt on May 17, 2014, 14:43

I wish we could get this kind of energy around supporting a single fair agency and propping them up instead of wasting it on Fotolia and Dollar Photo Club.

I'm done worrying about this. I've done what I can, time to get back to focusing on new work and getting it submitted to agencies that matter.

stocksy is the only fair trade agency that was started recently with a clear intent for growth and to be able to build enough momentum to allow their artist to create living wages.  But they had to limit it to a very small group of people to succeed. It seems to be working great for those that are in, but it is an edited collection, not an open plattform for thousands of artist and a huge range in styles.

pond5 does really well with video. but photo sales are slow.

macrografiks has beautiful work, but so far I haven´t had any sales. You need a lot of money to make your site visible.

I also think many smaller agencies are only interested to grow to a point where their owners can make a living. But to get good earnings for thousands of artists you need people who are ready to commit to building a large company with a few hundred employees. You need a management team who is prepared to "go corporate" with all the stress this involves.

This is why I believe the established big players have nothing to fear. Hardly anyone has the resources and the drive to really get into the group of top 4 agencies.

So shaming Fotolia or any other agency into changing what we find unacceptable is probably a realistic way to go.

You don´t have to love a company to work with them. Just establish clear limits how much drama you are ready to accept. And of course favor those that treat you well.

The overall winner here (again) is Shutterstock. With every new disaster - getty google deal, deposit shotshop, dpc, it is always Shutterstock whose trust index in the industry keeps going up.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: gbalex on May 17, 2014, 21:11
I'm just not interested in wasting time trying to get the jokers shut down.

We don't need to shut them down. We just need to remove a significant portion of the important (high sales) images. It can limp along with whatever images it can get without harming any of those of us who are opted out or not/no longer on Fotolia.

What we don't want is Shutterstock like growth out of a company with such a toxic business model - for contributors (I can see why buyers would love this)

Stock agencies haven't been hurt by those freebie sites with tons of images because there is a vast difference in the quality of the content they offer. As long as DPC looks more like the freebie sites and less like Shutterstock, I'd consider this effort a huge victory.

And I saw this morning that someone I contacted on Thursday has opted out of DPC - 14,000+ images gonzo

The key thing seems to be that so many contributors don't know about this. If they know and choose to opt in then that's their choice, however much I wish they wouldn't.

That's how we can make a difference - letting contributors know. I wouldn't waste time on buyers as I'd guess only a small portion would walk away from a great deal because it wasn't fair to suppliers.

Completely agree, I think they are losing some of their best HCV images and over time that will make a difference. There is a large portion of junk on all sites and they count on the top 20% of HCV images to make the lions share of profit.

If we just keep spreading the word, we will send a important message to all of the sites.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 18, 2014, 02:02

I wish we could get this kind of energy around supporting a single fair agency and propping them up instead of wasting it on Fotolia and Dollar Photo Club.

I'm done worrying about this. I've done what I can, time to get back to focusing on new work and getting it submitted to agencies that matter.
Mike why the sudden change of opinion? You disagreed with Lisa but now I think youre taking the same opinion as her. I am not saying thats wrong, Maybe Lisa wasnt that wrong either? You seem to have given up, which I find sad to see, as you were always full of fight and I admired you for that. Maybe you have come to the same conclusion as Lisa now.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 18, 2014, 02:07
We all supported Graphic Leftovers in the beginning of 2013 as the fair agency, and it got us nowhere. As Shelma said, it takes a lot of effort from the agency as well, to succeed, just pumping images into an agency doesnt work. SS is so successful because they spent a ton on marketing and not making to many drastic changes for contribs.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Justanotherphotographer on May 18, 2014, 02:15

I wish we could get this kind of energy around supporting a single fair agency and propping them up instead of wasting it on Fotolia and Dollar Photo Club.

I'm done worrying about this. I've done what I can, time to get back to focusing on new work and getting it submitted to agencies that matter.
Mike why the sudden change of opinion? You disagreed with Lisa but now I think youre taking the same opinion as her. I am not saying thats wrong, Maybe Lisa wasnt that wrong either? You seem to have given up, which I find sad to see, as you were always full of fight and I admired you for that. Maybe you have come to the same conclusion as Lisa now.
According to their posts Mike has opted out and deleted half of his portfolio on Fotolia, he hasn't given up and put his work into the site. He has just moved on to other things and doesn't want to waste his time on Fotolia anymore. Which hopefully more people will do once they are informed, he has also done his bit informing as many people as possible.

Lisa thinks that the industry is dead so may as well try and get a little more out of her portfolio before the curtains close. An opinion I have heard from another talented person who has left their work on there. That it is so bad that talented and long term contributors see it as the nail in microstock's coffin says a lot.

I am not judging either decision, but they aren't the same. Also both are damaging to DPC. People with either point of view wont be producing lots of new work for the site.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 18, 2014, 02:23
They both share the opinion at this point that taking action is futile. I do not fully disagree with that either, but I do think the right action is hard to achieve.

We need money and a good lawyer. I still dont understand that non of the agencies have ever been sued for all the malpractice we have seen over the years. I think it takes one good court case to hang one of these agencies to stop the rest from exploiting us once and for all.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: r2d2 on May 18, 2014, 02:29

I wish we could get this kind of energy around supporting a single fair agency and propping them up instead of wasting it on Fotolia and Dollar Photo Club.

I'm done worrying about this. I've done what I can, time to get back to focusing on new work and getting it submitted to agencies that matter.
Mike why the sudden change of opinion? You disagreed with Lisa but now I think youre taking the same opinion as her. I am not saying thats wrong, Maybe Lisa wasnt that wrong either? You seem to have given up, which I find sad to see, as you were always full of fight and I admired you for that. Maybe you have come to the same conclusion as Lisa now.

FT has emailed the opted out contributors. They anounce new comissions. It is normaly that this huge campaign take some small effects. But the image-counter now already goes down.
There is no doubt FT and Mat is watching us. And our message is stop DPC or we will stop it.

We are strong, many and united!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Svetlana on May 18, 2014, 02:36
We need money and a good lawyer. I still dont understand that non of the agencies have ever been sued for all the malpractice we have seen over the years. I think it takes one good court case to hang one of these agencies to stop the rest from exploiting us once and for all.
I think the necessary funds could be raised through crowdsourcing. If each of us contributed a small amount, the total amount might be more than enough to hire a lawyer.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: BaldricksTrousers on May 18, 2014, 05:22
We need money and a good lawyer. I still dont understand that non of the agencies have ever been sued for all the malpractice we have seen over the years. I think it takes one good court case to hang one of these agencies to stop the rest from exploiting us once and for all.
I think the necessary funds could be raised through crowdsourcing. If each of us contributed a small amount, the total amount might be more than enough to hire a lawyer.

That was tried once. It involved someone (not me!) in a lot of work getting people to pool some funds contacting lawyers, getting initial advice, moving on to getting more advice from a specialist in the field. It's a slow and uncertain (and expensive) process. In the end it faded out, I think that was because even the few who put money up front started to flake off so the amount of extra needed from those remaining in order to take it through the courts just went up and up. Also, at the court stage people need to put their names forward - and who wants to be branded as a legal problem for the agencies?
I'm pretty sure the fact that people earn maybe a few hundred dollars a month from stock makes them reluctant to commit thousands to launching a test case. If you crowdsource the cash then you need to have a lot of faith in the person all the money is being sent to.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Shelma1 on May 18, 2014, 05:43
I believe a class action lawsuit in the U.S. is free until you win; then the attorneys take 1/3. But you do need a group of people to initiate things and follow through and an attorney who thinks the case has merit and potential monetary damages are worth taking on the case.

For a still-small player like DPC, it's so much easier to simply choke off their revenue by opting out and starving them of product. The problem is getting in touch with all the contributors.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Beppe Grillo on May 18, 2014, 07:14
They both share the opinion at this point that taking action is futile. I do not fully disagree with that either, but I do think the right action is hard to achieve.

We need money and a good lawyer. I still dont understand that non of the agencies have ever been sued for all the malpractice we have seen over the years. I think it takes one good court case to hang one of these agencies to stop the rest from exploiting us once and for all.

I agree that if we create a precedent it will be easier then

I think the necessary funds could be raised through crowdsourcing. If each of us contributed a small amount, the total amount might be more than enough to hire a lawyer.

I think that the first step is to find a lawyer and ask him a quote.
Then decide what it is possible to really do, and how
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 18, 2014, 07:16
Not sure why you keep mocking me on MSG today, Beppe, but I guess its because its Sunday and you are bored.

You changed your comment after I posted.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Beppe Grillo on May 18, 2014, 07:26
Not sure why you keep mocking me on MSG today, Beppe, but I guess its because its Sunday and you are bored.

You changed your comment after I posted.

You are so fast to answer to posts that I suspect that you you have nothing more to do than to stay in front of your monitor continually clicking the page refresh button of your browser.

And no, you are far to be the center of my attention, sorry too delude you.

(The edit at at 15:19 was related to Svetlana's post)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 18, 2014, 08:00
You are lying, Ive read your comment, it was about Erin Brockovich and then changed it. I am not deluded, dont worry about my sanity. 

I dont want Leaf to lock this thread. Please ignore this spat and keep on topic.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Beppe Grillo on May 18, 2014, 08:18
You are lying, Ive read your comment, it was about Erin Brockovich and then changed it. I am not deluded, dont worry about my sanity. At least I am not a sneak.

I don't admit that you offend me calling me liar or sneak!!
I am not lying!
I never said or written that I did not change my comment!
I have made two edits:
- the first to change my comment "Ask Erin Brokovitch" in "I agree that if we create a precedent it will be easier then" because after reflection I decided that it was not a good comment. (in the while you wrote your answer, before that I sent my first edit - these are things that happen on forums).
- the second at 15.19 to insert in my post a quote from Svetlana and the answer.

Nothing more.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Beppe Grillo on May 18, 2014, 08:30

I dont want Leaf to lock this thread. Please ignore this spat and keep on topic.

No problem Ron.
I agree.
I have nothing personal against you, and never had.

+1
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Svetlana on May 18, 2014, 08:53
Changes in the number of images on DPC today (Moscow time):

  Date and time            Images on DPC   Change
18-05-2014 17:09:01    21,775,858    -11,583
18-05-2014 14:09:00    21,787,441    5,016
18-05-2014 11:08:58    21,782,425    -1,795
18-05-2014 08:08:59    21,784,220    -909
18-05-2014 06:08:58    21,785,129    -1,033
18-05-2014 05:08:53    21,786,162    -558
18-05-2014 03:09:00    21,786,720    -1,297
18-05-2014 01:08:56    21,788,017    1,679
18-05-2014 00:09:00    21,786,338    -289
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: pkphotos on May 18, 2014, 08:59
Keep opting out fellow contributors so we can be united and bring about the downfall of DFC!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on May 18, 2014, 09:23
Lawsuits - even if successful - are slow. DPC needs to not get off the ground, not be shut down a decade from now

I think the complexity of this international internet business (from a legal point of view) plus the ability of any agency to terminate any contributor at any time for no reason make that a non productive option
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: robhainer on May 18, 2014, 10:17
I believe a class action lawsuit in the U.S. is free until you win; then the attorneys take 1/3. But you do need a group of people to initiate things and follow through and an attorney who thinks the case has merit and potential monetary damages are worth taking on the case.

For a still-small player like DPC, it's so much easier to simply choke off their revenue by opting out and starving them of product. The problem is getting in touch with all the contributors.

It depends on the lawyer. There's nothing that says class action lawsuits must pay that way, it's just there's a whole sector of that profession that seeks out winnable class action lawsuits and takes the proceeds if they win.

I don't think a trial lawyer would take this case.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on May 18, 2014, 10:28
Mike why the sudden change of opinion? You disagreed with Lisa but now I think youre taking the same opinion as her. I am not saying thats wrong, Maybe Lisa wasnt that wrong either? You seem to have given up, which I find sad to see, as you were always full of fight and I admired you for that. Maybe you have come to the same conclusion as Lisa now.

I haven't changed anything about my opinion of DPC. As mentioned, I'm opted out and deleted half of my portfolio at FT. I contacted other contributors and helped get over 10,000 more images opted out. And I never said the industry was dead. So as far as I can tell, I'm pretty much the complete opposite of Lisa who is of the opinion that microstock is dead and that it's ok to just try and scrape whatever last few pennies we can out of the business by any means necessary, and to hell with the long-term vitality of microstock.

I'm giving up on trying to stop DPC, though. Again, doesn't mean I changed any opinion about it. I just know it's a losing battle, and there is no point wasting time on it anymore. The image count at DPC isn't going down, contrary to what some selective views of the numbers might suggest here. It's at 21.77 million right now. It was under 21.7 earlier this week. And as mentioned several times in this thread already, there is no way that opt-outs can out-pace uploads at FT that are opted in. Eventually you'll run out of people to try and get opted out, but uploads to FT won't stop and there will always be plenty of people still opted in to have those uploads moved over to DPC.

Fighting these companies doesn't work. Fighting them to the extent of putting them out of business (which a disturbing number of people in here have suggested is the end goal) is insanity. It will never happen. We can't even get the number of images at DPC under 20 million, and even if we did, all they really need to stay in business is probably 10 million.

Also as mentioned already, I am all for continuing to fight if the fight makes sense. What is going on right now, just trying to squeeze out a few more opt-outs and maybe get the image count to go down slightly, it isn't working and never will. I was happy to participate and try to make a difference, and I did exactly that along with you and everyone else. But it failed. So it's time to move on.

Maybe I'm just coming to that realization a bit before everyone else. Eventually, everyone will have to acknowledge that this can't win, it's impossible. Looking at the numbers, hearing directly from FT that they are happy with the $10 minimum, this stuff isn't going to change. I don't understand why so many people don't see that yet. There is no fight left to rally everyone around. It's already over.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Dook on May 18, 2014, 10:36
Changes in the number of images on DPC today (Moscow time):

  Date and time            Images on DPC   Change
18-05-2014 17:09:01    21,775,858    -11,583
18-05-2014 14:09:00    21,787,441    5,016
18-05-2014 11:08:58    21,782,425    -1,795
18-05-2014 08:08:59    21,784,220    -909
18-05-2014 06:08:58    21,785,129    -1,033
18-05-2014 05:08:53    21,786,162    -558
18-05-2014 03:09:00    21,786,720    -1,297
18-05-2014 01:08:56    21,788,017    1,679
18-05-2014 00:09:00    21,786,338    -289

It good to see DPC going down again. Someone here said that we lost the battle cause DPC is going up. Well, that changed now.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on May 18, 2014, 11:03
Changes in the number of images on DPC today (Moscow time):

  Date and time            Images on DPC   Change
18-05-2014 17:09:01    21,775,858    -11,583
18-05-2014 14:09:00    21,787,441    5,016
18-05-2014 11:08:58    21,782,425    -1,795
18-05-2014 08:08:59    21,784,220    -909
18-05-2014 06:08:58    21,785,129    -1,033
18-05-2014 05:08:53    21,786,162    -558
18-05-2014 03:09:00    21,786,720    -1,297
18-05-2014 01:08:56    21,788,017    1,679
18-05-2014 00:09:00    21,786,338    -289

It good to see DPC going down again. Someone here said that we lost the battle cause DPC is going up. Well, that changed now.

It was under 21.7 million a few days ago. Just because today it's down, on a longer timeline, it is in fact, up.

Doesn't matter if it goes down just for a day. Let's see how the next few days go.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ShadySue on May 18, 2014, 11:07
Is there really no equivalent of the ASA in the US?
I see on their front page, they're advertising "100,000 new images every week".
If that doesn't happen, is there really no simple way of making them accountable?

(Hmmm, from what EmberMike says, they seem to be hitting that target.)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: BaldricksTrousers on May 18, 2014, 11:10
Ember Mike, you might be right - there's a very good chance that you are. But, then again, there's a chance that you're wrong, too.

The only way we can be sure of having lost is by giving up.

Yesterday, in the Italian tennis, Andy Murray thrashed Rafael Nadal in the first set. It was obvious that Nadal was losing - but then the Spaniard won the next two sets. If only he'd given up after the first set, then our boy would have won!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Shelma1 on May 18, 2014, 11:17
Is there really no equivalent of the ASA in the US?
I see on their front page, they're advertising "100,000 new images every week".
If that doesn't happen, is there really no simple way of making them accountable?

(Hmmm, from what EmberMike says, they seem to be hitting that target.)

My guess is they're more likely to stop making that claim now that you've pointed it out, just like they dropped the claim about how many millions were one dollar forever.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on May 18, 2014, 11:56

I love that I get down votes for stating a fact about the DPC numbers.

Good luck with the revolution, folks. I'm out.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 18, 2014, 12:03
Thanks for helping out Mike. I am sorry to see you go, honestly. I think you are important to us and you have great experience and a lot of knowledge. Thanks again.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: pixsol on May 18, 2014, 12:10
Thanks for helping out Mike. I am sorry to see you go, honestly. I think you are important to us and you have great experience and a lot of knowledge. Thanks again.

+1
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: roede-orm on May 18, 2014, 12:17
I believe a class action lawsuit in the U.S. is free until you win; then the attorneys take 1/3. But you do need a group of people to initiate things and follow through and an attorney who thinks the case has merit and potential monetary damages are worth taking on the case.

For a still-small player like DPC, it's so much easier to simply choke off their revenue by opting out and starving them of product. The problem is getting in touch with all the contributors.

It depends on the lawyer. There's nothing that says class action lawsuits must pay that way, it's just there's a whole sector of that profession that seeks out winnable class action lawsuits and takes the proceeds if they win.

I don't think a trial lawyer would take this case.

Why you need a lawyer? A crime must be pursued in most western countries by the state. It is sufficient a complaint with the police.  It should be examined whether the unsolicited disclosure of material to the DPC is a crime or not.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: BaldricksTrousers on May 18, 2014, 13:26
Why you need a lawyer? A crime must be pursued in most western countries by the state. It is sufficient a complaint with the police.  It should be examined whether the unsolicited disclosure of material to the DPC is a crime or not.

That depends on if it is a violation of contract which is a civil offence where you claim financial compensation, or a breach of the law which is criminal where you complain to the police and the State takes over the case. 
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: pkphotos on May 19, 2014, 02:25
I searched main categories on DFC and Fotolia (photos, vectors, illustrations) to see what the numbers are. DPC numbers seem to be approx 75% of Fotolia. That is a positive start and theoretically means many contributors have opted out of DPC. However in order to really pressure Fotolia and DPC we have to try and get that % down to 50% and under so that DPC is only half the size of Fotolia. Once clients begin realizing that DPC has limited options compared to Fotolia and other micros, they should be put off buying subscriptions.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Desintegrator on May 19, 2014, 05:27
I'm following the number of search results for "background" and after a brief rise i thinks it's back to an all time low again :). That's good.

Anyone know who's behind "Africa Studio"? Would be nice to see those over 400.000 high quality images go. (although it's not impossible that Fotolia gave some special deals for contributors that important..)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Beppe Grillo on May 19, 2014, 07:26
Africa Studio should be the studio of Olga Chernetskaya in Ukraine,  I think.
Or she worked with them (there are identical photos on both sites).
I am trying to find them too, but it is not very easy.
http://www.istockphoto.com/user_view.php?id=2535718 (http://www.istockphoto.com/user_view.php?id=2535718)

_
Edit: I have written her right now, asking her if she can give me the contact with Africa Studio and inviting her to participate to the forum.
Difficult to do more at this time.
Let's see…
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: PhotoBomb on May 19, 2014, 12:06
I have personally contacted over 90 artists many of whom haven't heard about DPC and many are opting out.
We need to keep up the battle.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Anno on May 19, 2014, 13:12
From their Facebook: (I removed the asker name)



Dollar Photo Club Hi S.........., currently there are not strict criteria and so getting membership is easy
May 12 at 8:34am · Like

S......... So what is the criteria that IS in place?
May 12 at 8:36am · Like

Dollar Photo Club Please send a message to https://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Support/new (https://www.dollarphotoclub.com/Support/new) and someone will explain
May 12 at 8:36am · Like

S.............. already have. not getting responses
May 12 at 8:37am · Like

S............ That's why I asked here.
May 12 at 8:39am · Like

S.......... Are you saying. Currently there isnt a criteria or that there isnt a strict one?
May 12 at 8:40am · Like

Dollar Photo Club We've been accepting most requests from launch yet the criteria is more large agencies/companies however we're flexible. Sorry I don't have more details, I understand you want more but for that I am afraid you'll have to send a message




So much for their "exclusive club" and 30% acceptance rate.....
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Desintegrator on May 19, 2014, 13:19
I hope someone can still reply and post about the truth on their facebook page. I had been blocked too weeks ago :)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Svetlana on May 19, 2014, 13:30
From SS forum:
Quote from: anyaivanova
I had came upon an interesting statistics concerning the DPC website:
[url]http://www.alexa.com/siteinfo/dollarphotoclub.com[/url] ([url]http://www.alexa.com/siteinfo/dollarphotoclub.com[/url])

Two things to note. (1) Almost half visitors on the DPC at the moment are from the US. (2) 1.5% of visitors have came to the DPC website from Shutterstock. Good news for their wallets. Bad news for our Demands on Shutterstock...

So far it does not look too bad. But I do not want to look at this page in, say, half a year time... 'cause I have a bad feeling about all that.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on May 19, 2014, 15:09
Thanks for helping out Mike. I am sorry to see you go, honestly. I think you are important to us and you have great experience and a lot of knowledge. Thanks again.

Thanks, Ron. I'm not leaving MSG. Just need to get out of this DPC thing. I've gone as far as I'm willing to go with it, that's all.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: KerinF on May 19, 2014, 17:42
I hope someone can still reply and post about the truth on their facebook page. I had been blocked too weeks ago :)

DPC on Twitter still makes an interesting read (a) customers starting to complain about images they had earmarked having disappeared and (b) contributors explaining why.  I don't really understand Twitter but perhaps harder to control or block # or user handles?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 19, 2014, 17:57
Thanks for helping out Mike. I am sorry to see you go, honestly. I think you are important to us and you have great experience and a lot of knowledge. Thanks again.

Thanks, Ron. I'm not leaving MSG. Just need to get out of this DPC thing. I've gone as far as I'm willing to go with it, that's all.
Thats what I meant :) Cheers Mike. See you around
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Svetlana on May 20, 2014, 00:15
Recent changes in the number of images on DPC (Moscow time):

Date and time            Images on DPC   Change
20-05-2014 10:09:01   21,719,458    -7 163
20-05-2014 09:08:54   21,726,621   -7,736
20-05-2014 07:08:58   21,734,357   -2,379
20-05-2014 04:08:59   21,736,736   -542
20-05-2014 01:09:02   21,737,278   128
19-05-2014 23:09:02   21,737,150   -514
19-05-2014 20:09:00   21,737,664   165
19-05-2014 18:08:59   21,737,499   256
19-05-2014 15:09:00   21,737,243   -10,820
19-05-2014 13:08:56   21,748,063   -7,810
19-05-2014 12:08:56   21,755,873   -430
19-05-2014 11:08:56   21,756,303   -3,648
19-05-2014 10:08:56   21,759,951   -879
19-05-2014 08:08:59   21,760,830   -2,126
19-05-2014 05:08:59   21,762,956   -1,480
19-05-2014 02:09:06   21,764,436   -1,163
18-05-2014 23:09:02   21,765,599   -1,759
18-05-2014 22:08:53   21,767,358   -162
18-05-2014 20:09:00   21,767,520   -8,338
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 20, 2014, 02:27
Recent changes in the number of images on DPC (Moscow time):

Date and time            Images on DPC   Change
20-05-2014 10:09:01   21,719,458    -7 163
20-05-2014 09:08:54   21,726,621   -7,736
20-05-2014 07:08:58   21,734,357   -2,379
20-05-2014 04:08:59   21,736,736   -542
20-05-2014 01:09:02   21,737,278   128
19-05-2014 23:09:02   21,737,150   -514
19-05-2014 20:09:00   21,737,664   165
19-05-2014 18:08:59   21,737,499   256
19-05-2014 15:09:00   21,737,243   -10,820
19-05-2014 13:08:56   21,748,063   -7,810
19-05-2014 12:08:56   21,755,873   -430
19-05-2014 11:08:56   21,756,303   -3,648
19-05-2014 10:08:56   21,759,951   -879
19-05-2014 08:08:59   21,760,830   -2,126
19-05-2014 05:08:59   21,762,956   -1,480
19-05-2014 02:09:06   21,764,436   -1,163
18-05-2014 23:09:02   21,765,599   -1,759
18-05-2014 22:08:53   21,767,358   -162
18-05-2014 20:09:00   21,767,520   -8,338

Your list shows an increase of 48k images, I am not sure how you get to your numbers, but its not going down, its going up.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Anyka on May 20, 2014, 02:39
That was my first impression too, but Ron, look at the dates ...
The list shows the most recent date on TOP, so it's going down, despite the daily growth on Fotolia
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ferdinand on May 20, 2014, 02:41
 ...since i opted out of dpc ( 1. may) i have even more credit sales at ft - could it be that credit buyers buy for one dollar at dpc - and when they see that some image, like mine, is not in dpc - they buy it on ft -

 ...so those who are opted in will sale their images for 1 dollar (earning 0,30 or something) and I will sale my images at ft  earning  2 or 3 credits (dollars -euros) -

 ....if this is a case - its fine with me
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: r2d2 on May 20, 2014, 02:45
Recent changes in the number of images on DPC (Moscow time):

Date and time            Images on DPC   Change
20-05-2014 10:09:01   21,719,458    -7 163
20-05-2014 09:08:54   21,726,621   -7,736
20-05-2014 07:08:58   21,734,357   -2,379
20-05-2014 04:08:59   21,736,736   -542
20-05-2014 01:09:02   21,737,278   128
19-05-2014 23:09:02   21,737,150   -514
19-05-2014 20:09:00   21,737,664   165
19-05-2014 18:08:59   21,737,499   256
19-05-2014 15:09:00   21,737,243   -10,820
19-05-2014 13:08:56   21,748,063   -7,810
19-05-2014 12:08:56   21,755,873   -430
19-05-2014 11:08:56   21,756,303   -3,648
19-05-2014 10:08:56   21,759,951   -879
19-05-2014 08:08:59   21,760,830   -2,126
19-05-2014 05:08:59   21,762,956   -1,480
19-05-2014 02:09:06   21,764,436   -1,163
18-05-2014 23:09:02   21,765,599   -1,759
18-05-2014 22:08:53   21,767,358   -162
18-05-2014 20:09:00   21,767,520   -8,338

Your list shows an increase of 48k images, I am not sure how you get to your numbers, but its not going down, its going up.

Hey Ron,
it goes down look at the dates!
We all are succesfull keep going on!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Svetlana on May 20, 2014, 02:49
Ron, I know it's a bit confusing, sorry, but look at the dates and time. The number is going down.

The total number is calculated by adding together the numbers by categories. As the total number of the images is not available on DPC, there is no other way to get it that I know of.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 20, 2014, 02:55
Ok, gotcha, I see it now.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: LesPalenik on May 20, 2014, 03:33
Well, it could be summarized that the DPC outfit is:
- cheap for an average buyer who needs just run-of-the-mill imagery
- profitable for the agency owner who doesn't need to spend money on image uploader, inspections and pays pittance for the image royalties
- not so great for the poor souls who didn't opt out (or don't even know about the whole circus)

 
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: stealthmode on May 20, 2014, 03:34
...until i opted out of dpc ( 1. may) i have even more credit sales at ft

do you mean "since"?

"until" means to me that you had more credit sales before!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: r2d2 on May 20, 2014, 03:40
Well, it could be summarized that the DPC outfit is:

- profitable for the agency owner who doesn't need to spend money on image uploader, inspections and pays pittance for the image royalties


agree.
We should dont forget FT makes millions with this DPC scam and our work >:(.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ferdinand on May 20, 2014, 04:07
...until i opted out of dpc ( 1. may) i have even more credit sales at ft

do you mean "since"?

"until" means to me that you had more credit sales before!


yes - "since" - I have changed it -
tnx
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: fotorob on May 20, 2014, 05:03
By default, all Fotolia content is opted in for sale at the Dollar Photo Club (DPC), but sales there do not count towards your Fotolia level. The contributor receives a subscription royalty (according to level) on each sale.

The part about "DPC sales not counting towards the Fotolia ranking level is not true.

One DPC sales counts like a regular sub sale at Fotolia (1/4).
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Lizard on May 20, 2014, 05:12
.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ferdinand on May 20, 2014, 05:53
By default, all Fotolia content is opted in for sale at the Dollar Photo Club (DPC), but sales there do not count towards your Fotolia level. The contributor receives a subscription royalty (according to level) on each sale.

The part about "DPC sales not counting towards the Fotolia ranking level is not true.

One DPC sales counts like a regular sub sale at Fotolia (1/4).

"...is not true." .... - harsh word - you could say : "... it is not correct."
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: fotorob on May 20, 2014, 06:04
By default, all Fotolia content is opted in for sale at the Dollar Photo Club (DPC), but sales there do not count towards your Fotolia level. The contributor receives a subscription royalty (according to level) on each sale.

The part about "DPC sales not counting towards the Fotolia ranking level is not true.

One DPC sales counts like a regular sub sale at Fotolia (1/4).

"...is not true." .... - harsh word - you could say : "... it is not correct."

Call it as you like.

I just wanted to say that if you reach out to other photographers you should stick to the facts, because otherwise it looks strange.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Will on May 20, 2014, 09:10
By default, all Fotolia content is opted in for sale at the Dollar Photo Club (DPC), but sales there do not count towards your Fotolia level. The contributor receives a subscription royalty (according to level) on each sale.

The part about "DPC sales not counting towards the Fotolia ranking level is not true.

One DPC sales counts like a regular sub sale at Fotolia (1/4).

"...is not true." .... - harsh word - you could say : "... it is not correct."

Call it as you like.

I just wanted to say that if you reach out to other photographers you should stick to the facts, because otherwise it looks strange.

Whoopee.... what a relief for the clubbers!
Another thing that looks strange to me is professionals staying opted in to the DPC.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: luissantos84 on May 20, 2014, 09:14
By default, all Fotolia content is opted in for sale at the Dollar Photo Club (DPC), but sales there do not count towards your Fotolia level. The contributor receives a subscription royalty (according to level) on each sale.

The part about "DPC sales not counting towards the Fotolia ranking level is not true.

One DPC sales counts like a regular sub sale at Fotolia (1/4).

"...is not true." .... - harsh word - you could say : "... it is not correct."

Call it as you like.

I just wanted to say that if you reach out to other photographers you should stick to the facts, because otherwise it looks strange.

Whoopee.... what a relief for the clubbers!
Another thing that looks strange to me is professionals staying opted in to the DPC.

you need to understand they have expenses and all major problems, we don't!  :o ;D
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: H2O on May 20, 2014, 09:20
you need to understand they have expenses and all major problems, we don't!  :o ;D

Yes this is true, if you have no sense, destroying your own sales is the way to financial disaster.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on May 20, 2014, 09:41
By default, all Fotolia content is opted in for sale at the Dollar Photo Club (DPC), but sales there do not count towards your Fotolia level. The contributor receives a subscription royalty (according to level) on each sale.

The part about "DPC sales not counting towards the Fotolia ranking level is not true.

One DPC sales counts like a regular sub sale at Fotolia (1/4).

If what I wrote is incorrect of course I'll change it.

I can't find anything on the Fotolia site that says how API subscription sales are handled with respect to level credit - it clearly says that subscription sales on site count 4 subs = 1 credit sale for ranking. I see lots of posts where people say they can't tell from their stats which are partner sales and which from Fotolia's own site. Does anyone track their sales and ranking credits closely enough to know if partner sales count?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on May 20, 2014, 09:42
Oh, and another 3K+ images opted out
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ethan on May 20, 2014, 09:46
I spoke with two advertising/design agencies today (OK I know a tiny, tiny sample) but both are SS subscription accounts. They both said they have signed up to DPC and will next month both cancel their respective SS subscription plans. By chance they both reach their annuity at almost the same time, which is pure coincidence.

One of them sent me an email they received last week - attached.

"An offer we can't refuse" was their exact comment.

As they're designers, I have to say I don't blame them, they're even going to get 10 XXL downloads completely free. I know they charge 50-150 dollars to their clients for images purchased and used in their designs, so they are going to clean out well over $1000 right off the bat, sheer profit, just for joining DPC :(

I'm actually really pi$$ed by this, they used to buy my images (occasionally) and I don't have any images on FT (aka DPC).

And also, I used to get between 40-55 D/L every (week) day at SS and since last week it's been single digits every day.

If that's the DPC effect I'm bu**ered - it't only taken one month of DPC to see my SS sales drop 80%. And this is only the very beginning :(

How many days left before SS issue a profits warning for this quarter?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 20, 2014, 09:53
I have no idea if this is related but my earnings are pants across the board. May sucks donkeys.

Shutterstock, Fotolia, Photodune, 123RF, Canstockphoto and even Fine Art America are all down (I am not with any other agency, except DT but they only have 58 images). There is no growth in spite of adding images (except for FT, havent added much there since November 2013).

I am not sure if this is DPC kicking in, but its something to keep an eye on.

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Pixart on May 20, 2014, 09:54
By default, all Fotolia content is opted in for sale at the Dollar Photo Club (DPC), but sales there do not count towards your Fotolia level. The contributor receives a subscription royalty (according to level) on each sale.

The part about "DPC sales not counting towards the Fotolia ranking level is not true.

One DPC sales counts like a regular sub sale at Fotolia (1/4).
It's really fantastic too.  You only need 36,000 sales on DPC to go from Silver to Gold! 
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: H2O on May 20, 2014, 10:04
I spoke with two advertising/design agencies today (OK I know a tiny, tiny sample) but both are SS subscription accounts. They both said they have signed up to DPC and will next month both cancel their respective SS subscription plans. By chance they both reach their annuity at almost the same time, which is pure coincidence.

One of them sent me an email they received last week - attached.

"An offer we can't refuse" was their exact comment.

As they're designers, I have to say I don't blame them, they're even going to get 10 XXL downloads completely free. I know they charge 50-150 dollars to their clients for images purchased and used in their designs, so they are going to clean out well over $1000 right off the bat, sheer profit, just for joining DPC :(

I'm actually really pi$$ed by this, they used to buy my images (occasionally) and I don't have any images on FT (aka DPC).

And also, I used to get between 40-55 D/L every (week) day at SS and since last week it's been single digits every day.

If that's the DPC effect I'm bu**ered - it't only taken one month of DPC to see my SS sales drop 80%. And this is only the very beginning :(

How many days left before SS issue a profits warning for this quarter?

Don't worry to much about DPC, this will not last its just a question of time, you said it yourself they used to buy your images, as this go's on and the buyers will find that the content becomes more and more rubbish they will go back to the other sites.

Any photographer or illustrator who is good will be removing their content, nobody can afford to sell at these prices, it just takes time for the message to get out there.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ethan on May 20, 2014, 11:38
^ I appreciate the words of comfort, my only point is what do I do right now? If my SS sales continue to be slashed by 80% a day, and it is the result of DPC, and it is persistent, and I am not the only one seeing it and suffering it, then what's next?

SS is a PLC.

I believe there are two words (on the lips of or in the job title of a few) SS employees that you're unlikely to hear spoken today, those words being 'contributor success'.

Conversely however, there are three letters that every single, solitary employee of SS is mentored into muttering as a mantra 24/7/365.

What are they?

EPS,EPS, EPS, EPS,EPS, EPS, EPS,EPS, EPS, EPS,EPS, EPS, EPS,EPS, EPS, EPS,EPS, EPS, EPS,EPS, EPS, EPS,EPS, EPS, EPS,EPS, EPS, EPS,EPS, EPS, EPS,EPS, EPS, EPS,EPS, EPS..................

Earnings per share is everything. If it's not, SS, as a trading company is dead.

If subscriptions from agencies fall off the cliff (as a result of DPC or in fact, any new competitor venture) EPS will not, and cannot, be allowed to suffer.

So where do they make the cuts to protect EPS?

US.

Royalties will be slashed and earnings reduced to whatever they can get away with just to maintain EPS. And that's a slashed royalty on already rapidly falling downloads.

Thats the real concern that should concern all SS contributors, including those lucky folks that have yet to see a drop n their daily downloads.

If I'm right (and you have no idea how much I'm praying I'm wrong) we're all fu**ed.

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: disorderly on May 20, 2014, 12:22
If my SS sales continue to be slashed by 80% a day, and it is the result of DPC, and it is persistent, and I am not the only one seeing it and suffering it, then what's next?

Those are four separate questions, and I would dispute all but the first.  I believe you if you say your sales are down so far.  Mine aren't; in fact at this moment I'm on track for a record month.  It could still tank, especially with a holiday weekend coming up in the US.  But I'm doing very well at SS this month and I doubt I'm in the minority.

And even if lots of people are down, is it all because of DPC?  Maybe but I doubt it.  As the old saying goes, "The plural of anecdote is not data."  That a few clients may decide to sample DPC is bad, but it's not enough to make me panic over the whole market.  Especially when a lot of suppliers have either pulled their content or won't put up any more.  Fotolia is also at risk here; if DPC costs them new and valuable content at both their sites, they may have hastened their collapse.  I can only hope.

There's another saying that's relevant here: "Post hoc ergo propter hoc."  That means "After, therefore because of."  Sometimes it's true, but it's often not.  The establishment of DPC may precede a decrease in sales for some suppliers to some other sites, but that doesn't mean that it's the cause of that decrease.  We look for patterns, and we often see them when they aren't there because we expect and want the Universe to behave in an orderly fashion.  That's why people see the face of Jesus in toast.  It's not a miracle; it's just a belief system gone haywire.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Anno on May 20, 2014, 12:39
Those are four separate questions, and I would dispute all but the first.  I believe you if you say your sales are down so far.  Mine aren't; in fact at this moment I'm on track for a record month.  It could still tank, especially with a holiday weekend coming up in the US.  But I'm doing very well at SS this month and I doubt I'm in the minority.

And even if lots of people are down, is it all because of DPC?  Maybe but I doubt it.  As the old saying goes, "The plural of anecdote is not data."  That a few clients may decide to sample DPC is bad, but it's not enough to make me panic over the whole market.  Especially when a lot of suppliers have either pulled their content or won't put up any more.  Fotolia is also at risk here; if DPC costs them new and valuable content at both their sites, they may have hastened their collapse.  I can only hope.

There's another saying that's relevant here: "Post hoc ergo propter hoc."  That means "After, therefore because of."  Sometimes it's true, but it's often not.  The establishment of DPC may precede a decrease in sales for some suppliers to some other sites, but that doesn't mean that it's the cause of that decrease.  We look for patterns, and we often see them when they aren't there because we expect and want the Universe to behave in an orderly fashion.  That's why people see the face of Jesus in toast.  It's not a miracle; it's just a belief system gone haywire.

One of the most factual and intelligent posts lately, thank you!

I am tired of all those doomsayers complaints. I am having the best month ever, my earnings this year are 4 times bigger than in 2008 (yes I work hard but no more than 7 hours a day on average). Thanks to microstock business model (especially thanks to Shutterstock and Fotolia) I lead the life I want and I am sure it continues as long as I love what I do.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Dook on May 20, 2014, 13:17


And even if lots of people are down, is it all because of DPC?  Maybe but I doubt it.  As the old saying goes, "The plural of anecdote is not data."  That a few clients may decide to sample DPC is bad, but it's not enough to make me panic over the whole market.  Especially when a lot of suppliers have either pulled their content or won't put up any more.  Fotolia is also at risk here; if DPC costs them new and valuable content at both their sites, they may have hastened their collapse.  I can only hope.


I stopped uploading to Fotolia since this DPC thing started. Not a big deal, but 300 new files less for Fotolia. And these files are present at SS and 123RF.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on May 20, 2014, 17:09
Someone had said that the tweets saying how wonderful Dollar Photo Club is were fake (purchased) and when I looked this morning and saw a familar name yet again, I thought I'd check. I could make (ugly) wallpaper out of these - they go back further (click for larger)

(http://www.digitalbristles.com/temp/TN-DPC-fake-tweets.jpg) (http://www.digitalbristles.com/temp/DPC-fake-tweets.jpg)

How bad does your product have to be that you pay a writer of romance novels (I guess not all that successful or they wouldn't be doing paid tweets) to cut and paste the same message day after day?

Advertising is understandable, but fake testimonials? Sleazy IMO
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 20, 2014, 17:33
Someone had said that the tweets saying how wonderful Dollar Photo Club is were fake (purchased) and when I looked this morning and saw a familar name yet again, I thought I'd check. I could make (ugly) wallpaper out of these - they go back further (click for larger)

([url]http://www.digitalbristles.com/temp/TN-DPC-fake-tweets.jpg[/url]) ([url]http://www.digitalbristles.com/temp/DPC-fake-tweets.jpg[/url])

How bad does your product have to be that you pay a writer of romance novels (I guess not all that successful or they wouldn't be doing paid tweets) to cut and paste the same message day after day?

Advertising is understandable, but fake testimonials? Sleazy IMO
That was me, and thanks for confirming. The tweets looked manufactured, its what I thought. Typical fotolia.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on May 20, 2014, 19:14
By default, all Fotolia content is opted in for sale at the Dollar Photo Club (DPC), but sales there do not count towards your Fotolia level. The contributor receives a subscription royalty (according to level) on each sale.

The part about "DPC sales not counting towards the Fotolia ranking level is not true.

One DPC sales counts like a regular sub sale at Fotolia (1/4).

If what I wrote is incorrect of course I'll change it.

I can't find anything on the Fotolia site that says how API subscription sales are handled with respect to level credit - it clearly says that subscription sales on site count 4 subs = 1 credit sale for ranking. I see lots of posts where people say they can't tell from their stats which are partner sales and which from Fotolia's own site. Does anyone track their sales and ranking credits closely enough to know if partner sales count?

I still haven't found anything specific on Fotolia or DPC on the credits issue, so I've changed my template letter and blog post to reflect only what I know.

The template now says:

"By default, all Fotolia content is opted in for sale at the Dollar Photo Club (DPC), and contributor receives a subscription royalty (according to level) on each sale even though the terms of these "image packs", chiefly that they roll over, make them more like incredibly cheap credit sales."

My blog post now says:

"It’s unclear (nothing specified on the web site) whether credit for level purposes – which at Fotolia is based on units for credit sales and 1 credit for every 4 subscriptions – is the same as for subscriptions on Fotolia’s own site. Shutterstock bases increases in royalties on the dollar total you earn regardless of which type of sale it comes from. Levels are important because if Fotolia credit sales migrate to the image packs that are effectively what the DPC represents, contributors will be receiving 1/4 credit for an XXL sale instead of 10 and over time see slower increases in their royalty rate."

For the record, the primary objections to the Dollar Photo Club are unrelated to this, so I don't think the error would have substantially mislead anyone who otherwise was inclined to love DPC. In other words, for those who sent letters based on the template, I don't think it's necessary to send them all out again saying that they will probably get 1/4 credit for their DPC sales.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ava Glass on May 20, 2014, 20:59
About that romance author, it's more likely that she set up some kind of automated system that repeats tweets. A book cover site I follow does that.

And yes, the self-publishing community has heard of and likes the DPC. I've seen at least two authors notice the disappearing images though.

ETA: I bet some of them are annoyed that Konrad Bak pulled his images. He's a stock photographer that some authors know by name as in "I'll just put a Konrad Bak on my short story."
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: WindyTai on May 20, 2014, 21:27
Just to confirm you guys more information, now one of the head of Thai microstocker are trying very hard to inform EVERY Thai stocker about DCP and he do a significant job on spreading news across many Thai forum and won't stop. The detail about DCP is similar to what Jo Ann write in my language. It shows that many Thai contributor didn't know about this and continue to Opt out.

I think there are over 50 Thai people that are Opt out.
I help spreading news as well. So lift your chins up! and please don't give up!   
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: pkphotos on May 20, 2014, 23:11
By default, all Fotolia content is opted in for sale at the Dollar Photo Club (DPC), but sales there do not count towards your Fotolia level. The contributor receives a subscription royalty (according to level) on each sale.

The part about "DPC sales not counting towards the Fotolia ranking level is not true.

One DPC sales counts like a regular sub sale at Fotolia (1/4).

"...is not true." .... - harsh word - you could say : "... it is not correct."

Call it as you like.

I just wanted to say that if you reach out to other photographers you should stick to the facts, because otherwise it looks strange.

Whoopee.... what a relief for the clubbers!
Another thing that looks strange to me is professionals staying opted in to the DPC.

Professionals would have more business sense, integrity and respect for their work to remain in DPC. Only complete amateurs with no idea about stock would remain in DPC if they were aware of what DPC offers contributors.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: pkphotos on May 20, 2014, 23:17
Some numbers

DPC                     19/5/14        21/5/14

ANIMALS          1058615      1050740
NATURE           3498867       3491283
PEOPLE           2643565         2639228
BUSINESS       2956605        2949852
TRANSPORT    348705          348092
MEDICAL          388809          387119
SPORT             885643           884704
FASHION         1431000       1429219
UNDERWATER 73364          72925

Every category saw a small decrease in the numbers. Well done, keep it up and keep spreading the word to contributors not yet in the know.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: HerMajesty on May 21, 2014, 03:43
Some numbers

DPC                     19/5/14        21/5/14

ANIMALS          1058615      1050740
NATURE           3498867       3491283
PEOPLE           2643565         2639228
BUSINESS       2956605        2949852
TRANSPORT    348705          348092
MEDICAL          388809          387119
SPORT             885643           884704
FASHION         1431000       1429219
UNDERWATER 73364          72925

Every category saw a small decrease in the numbers. Well done, keep it up and keep spreading the word to contributors not yet in the know.

Hope my 2000+ images are included in that drop :)
Generally Fotolia is the only site where I see a consistent drop in income, despite regular uploading on my side. Why would I support that Dollar Club thing? Undercutting your core business doesn't make much sense to me.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ogm on May 21, 2014, 05:08
I would suggest to the admin to include DPC in the Microstock Poll Results on the right.

It would be interesting!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: luissantos84 on May 21, 2014, 05:19
I would suggest to the admin to include DPC in the Microstock Poll Results on the right.

It would be interesting!

are you opted in? do you have any reports from FT regarding DPC?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mantis on May 21, 2014, 05:22
Some numbers

DPC                     19/5/14        21/5/14

ANIMALS          1058615      1050740
NATURE           3498867       3491283
PEOPLE           2643565         2639228
BUSINESS       2956605        2949852
TRANSPORT    348705          348092
MEDICAL          388809          387119
SPORT             885643           884704
FASHION         1431000       1429219
UNDERWATER 73364          72925

Every category saw a small decrease in the numbers. Well done, keep it up and keep spreading the word to contributors not yet in the know.

Most of the underwater reductions are from me pulling all my work from DPC.  They don't make up much but they are niche images and many sell very well everywhere else, especially my great white shark images.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ogm on May 21, 2014, 05:40
I would suggest to the admin to include DPC in the Microstock Poll Results on the right.

It would be interesting!

are you opted in? do you have any reports from FT regarding DPC?

I'm opted out 4 weeks ago and will stay! We can only see the difference in the number of files between Fotolia and DPC but I think it would be interesting how are the sales there!
Nobody here is posted such information!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: r2d2 on May 21, 2014, 05:55
I would suggest to the admin to include DPC in the Microstock Poll Results on the right.

It would be interesting!

are you opted in? do you have any reports from FT regarding DPC?

I'm opted out 4 weeks ago and will stay! We can only see the difference in the number of files between Fotolia and DPC but I think it would be interesting how are the sales there!
Nobody here is posted such information!


But there is no way to differ DPC-payments from the FT-payments!?
You dont see where the buyer (FT or DPC) has bought the Image.

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ogm on May 21, 2014, 06:12
I would suggest to the admin to include DPC in the Microstock Poll Results on the right.

It would be interesting!

are you opted in? do you have any reports from FT regarding DPC?

I'm opted out 4 weeks ago and will stay! We can only see the difference in the number of files between Fotolia and DPC but I think it would be interesting how are the sales there!
Nobody here is posted such information!


But there is no way to differ DPC-payments from the FT-payments!?
You dont see where the buyer (FT or DPC) has bought the Image.



Yes, it could say only opted in contributors and for all their sales unfortunately...!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: luissantos84 on May 21, 2014, 06:51
I would suggest to the admin to include DPC in the Microstock Poll Results on the right.

It would be interesting!

are you opted in? do you have any reports from FT regarding DPC?

I'm opted out 4 weeks ago and will stay! We can only see the difference in the number of files between Fotolia and DPC but I think it would be interesting how are the sales there!
Nobody here is posted such information!


But there is no way to differ DPC-payments from the FT-payments!?
You dont see where the buyer (FT or DPC) has bought the Image.



Yes, it could say only opted in contributors and for all their sales unfortunately...!

opted in contributors don't have any kind of reports, if they had at least one would report here and also FT would explain further that matter but again FT don't care and never will
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Svetlana on May 21, 2014, 07:16
Latest changes in the number of images on DPC (Moscow time) (the current number is on top of the list):

Date and time            Images on DPC   Change
21-05-2014 16:08:59   21,708,365   -1,097
21-05-2014 14:08:56   21,709,462   167
21-05-2014 13:08:56   21,709,295   113
21-05-2014 12:08:54   21,709,182   -243
21-05-2014 11:08:58   21,709,425   -1,477
21-05-2014 10:08:54   21,710,902   -97
21-05-2014 09:08:59   21,710,999   -3,550
21-05-2014 07:08:53   21,714,549   -67
21-05-2014 06:08:59   21,714,616   -3,074
21-05-2014 05:08:53   21,717,690   -23
21-05-2014 04:08:55   21,717,713   23
21-05-2014 03:08:56   21,717,690   281
21-05-2014 01:08:57   21,717,409   -633
21-05-2014 00:09:00   21,718,042   -133
20-05-2014 22:08:59   21,718,175   171
20-05-2014 20:08:57   21,718,004   -16
20-05-2014 19:08:54   21,718,020   197
20-05-2014 18:08:57   21,717,823   -102
20-05-2014 16:08:53   21,717,925   -534
20-05-2014 15:08:58   21,718,459   -15
20-05-2014 13:08:57   21,718,474   -984
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 21, 2014, 07:29
Doesnt help us much, but here is the first reply I got from one of my emails.

Quote
Dear Mr Bxxxxxx,

Thank you for your message.

The Directive (2004/48/EC) on the enforcement of intellectual property rights such as copyright and related rights, trademarks, designs or patents was adopted in April 2004.

The Directive requires all Member States to apply effective, dissuasive and proportionate remedies and penalties against those engaged in counterfeiting and piracy and so creates a level playing field for right holders in the EU. It means that all Member States will have a similar set of measures, procedures and remedies available for rightholders to defend their intellectual property rights (be they copyright or related rights, trademarks, patents, designs, etc) if they are infringed.

You may find more information here:
[url]http://ec.europa.eu/internal_market/iprenforcement/directive/index_en.htm[/url] ([url]http://ec.europa.eu/internal_market/iprenforcement/directive/index_en.htm[/url])

Additionally, you may contact the Enterprise Europe Network (EEN) which also offers support and advice to businesses across Europe. It is specifically designed for small and medium enterprises and helps them on business-related EU affairs. A list of the offices available in both EU and non-EU countries can be found at:
[url]http://een.ec.europa.eu/about/branches[/url] ([url]http://een.ec.europa.eu/about/branches[/url])

We hope you find this information useful. Please contact us again if you have other questions.

With kind regards,
EUROPE DIRECT Contact Centre
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: HerMajesty on May 21, 2014, 07:51
Latest changes in the number of images on DPC (Moscow time) (the current number is on top of the list):

Date and time            Images on DPC   Change
21-05-2014 16:08:59   21,708,365   -1,097
21-05-2014 14:08:56   21,709,462   167
21-05-2014 13:08:56   21,709,295   113
21-05-2014 12:08:54   21,709,182   -243
21-05-2014 11:08:58   21,709,425   -1,477
21-05-2014 10:08:54   21,710,902   -97
21-05-2014 09:08:59   21,710,999   -3,550
21-05-2014 07:08:53   21,714,549   -67
21-05-2014 06:08:59   21,714,616   -3,074
21-05-2014 05:08:53   21,717,690   -23
21-05-2014 04:08:55   21,717,713   23
21-05-2014 03:08:56   21,717,690   281
21-05-2014 01:08:57   21,717,409   -633
21-05-2014 00:09:00   21,718,042   -133
20-05-2014 22:08:59   21,718,175   171
20-05-2014 20:08:57   21,718,004   -16
20-05-2014 19:08:54   21,718,020   197
20-05-2014 18:08:57   21,717,823   -102
20-05-2014 16:08:53   21,717,925   -534
20-05-2014 15:08:58   21,718,459   -15
20-05-2014 13:08:57   21,718,474   -984

The numbers are falling, but it's still nothing compared to the 21 million they're left.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: BaldricksTrousers on May 21, 2014, 08:10
The first quoted figure I seem able to find in this thread is for about six MILLION more images than this, which means that almost a quarter of the collection has been pulled out, maybe more than a quarter given that they have been adding new approvals at the same time images are being taken down. That's a huge achievement and shows how strongly the creative community rejects this scheme, particularly as there must still be a large number of contributors who are still unaware of it - along with those who have abandoned small portfolios that just sit there, and there will be a lot of those.

Given that at least 80% of earnings is reckoned to come from the top 20% of the files, the disappearance of 25% of the work of the most active contributors has got to be a huge blow to this project.



Latest changes in the number of images on DPC (Moscow time) (the current number is on top of the list):

Date and time            Images on DPC   Change
21-05-2014 16:08:59   21,708,365   -1,097
21-05-2014 14:08:56   21,709,462   167
21-05-2014 13:08:56   21,709,295   113
21-05-2014 12:08:54   21,709,182   -243
21-05-2014 11:08:58   21,709,425   -1,477
21-05-2014 10:08:54   21,710,902   -97
21-05-2014 09:08:59   21,710,999   -3,550
21-05-2014 07:08:53   21,714,549   -67
21-05-2014 06:08:59   21,714,616   -3,074
21-05-2014 05:08:53   21,717,690   -23
21-05-2014 04:08:55   21,717,713   23
21-05-2014 03:08:56   21,717,690   281
21-05-2014 01:08:57   21,717,409   -633
21-05-2014 00:09:00   21,718,042   -133
20-05-2014 22:08:59   21,718,175   171
20-05-2014 20:08:57   21,718,004   -16
20-05-2014 19:08:54   21,718,020   197
20-05-2014 18:08:57   21,717,823   -102
20-05-2014 16:08:53   21,717,925   -534
20-05-2014 15:08:58   21,718,459   -15
20-05-2014 13:08:57   21,718,474   -984

The numbers are falling, but it's still nothing compared to the 21 million they're left.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: gbalex on May 21, 2014, 08:53
Once again we need to thank those who had the courage to facilitate this change, it just goes to show a few people can and do make a difference.

I am sick to the gills with the mantra we can do nothing to change the micro situation, we have been telling this to ourselves so long we believe this business fallacy. It is absolutely not true. More of us need Russian balls, the entire industry would change for the better.

More change is needed and we should not stop until pricing and royalties are sustainable for contributors. Shutterstocks long term pricing strategy brings about changes like DPC, because it is the only way other sites can compete. We need to put pressure on all sites to raise prices. The 9 years at shutterstock without price increases is having a very negative effect on the industry. And they fully admit that they are doing it to gain market share. 

Quote from: BaldricksTrousers link=topic=22487.msg380 552#msg380552 date=1400677828
The first quoted figure I seem able to find in this thread is for about six MILLION more images than this, which means that almost a quarter of the collection has been pulled out, maybe more than a quarter given that they have been adding new approvals at the same time images are being taken down. That's a huge achievement and shows how strongly the creative community rejects this scheme, particularly as there must still be a large number of contributors who are still unaware of it - along with those who have abandoned small portfolios that just sit there, and there will be a lot of those.

Given that at least 80% of earnings is reckoned to come from the top 20% of the files, the disappearance of 25% of the work of the most active contributors has got to be a huge blow to this project.


Latest changes in the number of images on DPC (Moscow time) (the current number is on top of the list):

Date and time            Images on DPC   Change
21-05-2014 16:08:59   21,708,365   -1,097
21-05-2014 14:08:56   21,709,462   167
21-05-2014 13:08:56   21,709,295   113
21-05-2014 12:08:54   21,709,182   -243
21-05-2014 11:08:58   21,709,425   -1,477
21-05-2014 10:08:54   21,710,902   -97
21-05-2014 09:08:59   21,710,999   -3,550
21-05-2014 07:08:53   21,714,549   -67
21-05-2014 06:08:59   21,714,616   -3,074
21-05-2014 05:08:53   21,717,690   -23
21-05-2014 04:08:55   21,717,713   23
21-05-2014 03:08:56   21,717,690   281
21-05-2014 01:08:57   21,717,409   -633
21-05-2014 00:09:00   21,718,042   -133
20-05-2014 22:08:59   21,718,175   171
20-05-2014 20:08:57   21,718,004   -16
20-05-2014 19:08:54   21,718,020   197
20-05-2014 18:08:57   21,717,823   -102
20-05-2014 16:08:53   21,717,925   -534
20-05-2014 15:08:58   21,718,459   -15
20-05-2014 13:08:57   21,718,474   -984

The numbers are falling, but it's still nothing compared to the 21 million they're left.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Shelma1 on May 21, 2014, 08:57
The fact that the numbers continue to shrink means even more people are opting out than we realize, because the non-opted-out contributors continue to add new images. That means the opt-outs outweigh the growth from all the other contributors.

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: gbalex on May 21, 2014, 09:05
The fact that the numbers continue to shrink means even more people are opting out than we realize, because the non-opted-out contributors continue to add new images. That means the opt-outs outweigh the growth from all the other contributors.

Exactly why we need to keep information about the opt out visible for people who do not visit the forums often. We need to continue to inform our micro friends and encourage them to do the same. 
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 21, 2014, 09:36
I makes me sick to the gills that Gbalex uses this thread about FT/DPC for his own agenda to rile up the troops against SS where a lot of people in the Russian community are happily selling their work.

Being anonymous talking about having Russian balls. Are you fecking joking me.



Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: r2d2 on May 21, 2014, 09:37
This is a great success.
Please never forget we are fighting against a huge PR-Machine.
David against Goliath.
However we are many international (24/7 support) David´s!

we need to move on.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Will on May 21, 2014, 09:52
Once again we need to thank those who had the courage to facilitate this change, it just goes to show a few people can and do make a difference.

I am sick to the gills with the mantra we can do nothing to change the micro situation, we have been telling this to ourselves so long we believe this business fallacy. It is absolutely not true. More of us need Russian balls, the entire industry would change for the better.

More change is needed and we should not stop until pricing and royalties are sustainable for contributors. Shutterstocks long term pricing strategy brings about changes like DPC, because it is the only way other sites can compete. We need to put pressure on all sites to raise prices. The 9 years at shutterstock without price increases is having a very negative effect on the industry. And they fully admit that they are doing it to gain market share. 

I agree, but what do we do? People seem too reluctant to transition to fair trade agencies because they lose so much of their present income. Simply advocating for better terms seems a weak strategy. Boycotting a nasty Fotolia may hurt and hopefully cripple them but in the end doesn't really improve our circumstances, since other lowlife  agencies will try to fill the gap. Somehow... we have to come up with our own solution if we want to stay in this game.

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 21, 2014, 10:03
A fair trade agency, with fair royalties is nothing without buyers. There are plenty of honest agencies, problem is they dont have enough buyers and not enough money for marketing.

You cant beat Shutterstock and Getty who splash dozens of millions on marketing.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: gbalex on May 21, 2014, 10:43
Once again we need to thank those who had the courage to facilitate this change, it just goes to show a few people can and do make a difference.

I am sick to the gills with the mantra we can do nothing to change the micro situation, we have been telling this to ourselves so long we believe this business fallacy. It is absolutely not true. More of us need Russian balls, the entire industry would change for the better.

More change is needed and we should not stop until pricing and royalties are sustainable for contributors. Shutterstocks long term pricing strategy brings about changes like DPC, because it is the only way other sites can compete. We need to put pressure on all sites to raise prices. The 9 years at shutterstock without price increases is having a very negative effect on the industry. And they fully admit that they are doing it to gain market share. 

I agree, but what do we do? People seem too reluctant to transition to fair trade agencies because they lose so much of their present income. Simply advocating for better terms seems a weak strategy. Boycotting a nasty Fotolia may hurt and hopefully cripple them but in the end doesn't really improve our circumstances, since other lowlife  agencies will try to fill the gap. Somehow... we have to come up with our own solution if we want to stay in this game.

Fatalist thinking put us in this situation to begin with. There is always something we can do. To start we can quit putting our best work on the micros. Let them get what they pay for.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Dook on May 21, 2014, 11:07
Guys, let's keep this thread about DPC.
There is a recent thread exactly about what you are discussing now
http://www.microstockgroup.com/general-stock-discussion/protect-the-market/ (http://www.microstockgroup.com/general-stock-discussion/protect-the-market/)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: LesPalenik on May 21, 2014, 11:48
This just in:

Quote
Dear Contributor,

Did you know that Extended Licenses are now available on Dollar Photo Club?

This means that Contributors who opted in to Dollar Photo Club can now sell Extended Licenses to customers from untapped markets, all with a fixed commission of 30 Credits paid on your Fotolia account.

This new license was a popular request from our customers, so we expect a lot of Extended License sales on Dollar Photo Club.

If you wish to opt your images back in you can do that anytime by following this link.

These guys are clearly getting worried.
But realistically, how many ELs? One in thousands? Yeah, I can already see the bargain hunters who spent $10 to get in the club, shelling out for EL. Negligible expense to FT, negligible benefit to contributors.


Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Dook on May 22, 2014, 04:01
People continue opting out
http://stockalliance.org/ru/imagestats.html (http://stockalliance.org/ru/imagestats.html)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 22, 2014, 04:35
FT / DPC difference is 6,686,335

So whilst FT is adding images we managed to get another 600,000 images opted out. WOW.

Lets get it to 7 million guys.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: r2d2 on May 22, 2014, 04:50
DPC under 20 million is a nice between target too. :-*
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: HerMajesty on May 22, 2014, 05:43
I wonder what's the take on this situation in other companies. If people are able to boycott a site and take a significant amount of images down that should give them something to think about and how to avoid a similar fate.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Beppe Grillo on May 22, 2014, 07:57
I wonder what's the take on this situation in other companies. If people are able to boycott a site and take a significant amount of images down that should give them something to think about and how to avoid a similar fate.

Yes, but do the other sites know about DPC and the deactivation from the contributors?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Desintegrator on May 22, 2014, 08:11
I wonder what's the take on this situation in other companies. If people are able to boycott a site and take a significant amount of images down that should give them something to think about and how to avoid a similar fate.

Yes, but do the other sites know about DPC and the deactivation from the contributors?

I'm sure they are following it.
Also there is a long thread about it on Shutterstock's forums.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: r2d2 on May 22, 2014, 08:22
FT read here. They have their own community-promotion-programm (look @mat).

These are not jerks but hard nosed businessmen.
DPC-Images continues going down.
Time for a new contributor email @FT?  ;D
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Dook on May 22, 2014, 08:26
FT read here. They have their own community-promotion-programm (look @mat).

These are not jerks but hard nosed businessmen.
DPC-Images continues going down.
Time for a new contributor email @ FT?  ;D
They are businessmen, but very lousy businessmen. If it was a soccer game, we could say they lost against SS 10:0 in the last few years. And all the other agencies, too.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: gbalex on May 22, 2014, 09:05
I wonder what's the take on this situation in other companies. If people are able to boycott a site and take a significant amount of images down that should give them something to think about and how to avoid a similar fate.


Yes, but do the other sites know about DPC and the deactivation from the contributors?


I'm sure they are following it.
Also there is a long thread about it on Shutterstock's forums.


I think it is safe to say they are following the situation.

http://tinyurl.com/pfhp2fv (http://tinyurl.com/pfhp2fv)

http://www.whois.com/whois/boycottistockphoto.com (http://www.whois.com/whois/boycottistockphoto.com)

You wonder why they feel the need to procure these domains. Dreamstime has not followed suit.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 22, 2014, 09:27
Sorry guys, not much luck here either. UK Gov cant do much.

Quote
Dear Mr Bxxxxx,

Thank you for your query.

Please be aware that the Copyright Enquiries service is only able to provide general advice regarding current UK Copyright law and cannot provide legal advice regarding how the law should be interpreted in specific cases.

We are sorry but, as stated above, we are only able to provide general advice in relation to copyright. Whether or not there is infringement here would first depend on the contract you (or your company) has with the website fotolia. If the contract does not permit the sale of the photos through another site then there may be an infringement in which case the important point would be: where is the infringement taking place? Unfortunately there is no definitive answer. It is possible that infringing acts are taking place both in the place the purchaser of the photos is based, and the place where the website is based (which appears to be the US). We would suggest that you seek legal advice if you wish to pursue the matter further.

I hope this response has been of some assistance.

Best regards,

Copyright Enquiries.

Still waiting for 3 others to come back to me.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ArtesiaWells on May 22, 2014, 09:38
I thought I'd let you know what I decided - I am closing with Fotolia.
Looking forward to payday... 8)


Dear Fotolia

I found the one and only image that I left in my account with you on this (Chinese) page
http://www.artgalore.ca/PhotosByArtist.php?ArtistID=202540410&ArtistName=artesiawells (http://www.artgalore.ca/PhotosByArtist.php?ArtistID=202540410&ArtistName=artesiawells)

Since I am engaged with other agencies with much of my portfolio I need to know where my copyrighted work is being published and for sale. This new find together with the insecurities of the past month, I consider it to be of the utmost urgency that I close my account with Fotolia.

I look forward to your confirmation and a payout of the equivalent of 3.3 credits as soon as possible.


Sincerely,
xxArtesiaWells


On Fri, May 16, 2014 at 10:35 AM, Fotolia.com <[email protected]> wrote:
    
Fotolia   View in your browser
 
       
    

"Hello,
 
We're sorry to see you have recently removed some files from your portfolio.
If you change your mind please remember that you can just send us a ticket and we'll put all your files back online. However, this must be done within the next 30 days.
Also, we would like to remind you that you can choose to opt in or opt out your images from DPC in your photographers' parameters.
We hope to see you back soon and will be doing all to grow your income.

Kind Regards,

The Fotolia Team"
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Pixart on May 22, 2014, 09:40
We need a publicist.  Someone to send out press releases to techcrunch and the nytimes (?) "Artists Revolt".  There is a story here.   (And a backstory with Istock Dday)  They just need to know that they want it!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ArtesiaWells on May 22, 2014, 11:38
I wonder what's the take on this situation in other companies. If people are able to boycott a site and take a significant amount of images down that should give them something to think about and how to avoid a similar fate.


Yes, but do the other sites know about DPC and the deactivation from the contributors?


I think they do - Agefotostock's CEO Alfonso Gutierrez was aware. He is also president of CEPIC for what that is worth. I am sure the business are in touch when something like this starts whirling around.

Here he is on LinkedIn if someone feels tempted to ask.
http://www.linkedin.com/pub/alfonso-gutierrez/6/609/222 (http://www.linkedin.com/pub/alfonso-gutierrez/6/609/222)

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Shelma1 on May 22, 2014, 11:44
We need a publicist.  Someone to send out press releases to techcrunch and the nytimes (?) "Artists Revolt".  There is a story here.   (And a backstory with Istock Dday)  They just need to know that they want it!


Well, I can write a press release, and we can pay to distribute it. I've never used a service like this before, though, so not sure how effective it is. PR firms pay for placement, I believe.

http://lp.prweb.com (http://lp.prweb.com)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: BaldricksTrousers on May 22, 2014, 11:53
We need a publicist.  Someone to send out press releases to techcrunch and the nytimes (?) "Artists Revolt".  There is a story here.   (And a backstory with Istock Dday)  They just need to know that they want it!


Well, I can write a press release, and we can pay to distribute it. I've never used a service like this before, though, so not sure how effective it is. PR firms pay for placement, I believe.

[url]http://lp.prweb.com[/url] ([url]http://lp.prweb.com[/url])


I think you would do better selecting target publications and submitting a release directly to the appropriate desk or individual. Unfortunately places where Fotolia advertises may not show much interest, though a neutral-sounding article might slip through.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: gbalex on May 22, 2014, 12:03
We need a publicist.  Someone to send out press releases to techcrunch and the nytimes (?) "Artists Revolt".  There is a story here.   (And a backstory with Istock Dday)  They just need to know that they want it!

DPC has been using prnewswire, the cost are minimal. It is common for companies to use it to spread company promotional info.

https://ireach.prnewswire.com/orders/price-options.aspx
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: gbalex on May 22, 2014, 12:24
I makes me sick to the gills that Gbalex uses this thread about FT/DPC for his own agenda to rile up the troops against SS where a lot of people in the Russian community are happily selling their work.

Being anonymous talking about having Russian balls. Are you fecking joking me.

You are entitled to your own honest opinion, just as I am entitled to express my own.

You spend an inordinate amount of time worring about who I am and making comments that vilify my point of view. I would expect this from a gatekeeper shill. As usual your comments coinside with your agenda to vilify, distract, discredit, refruit and suppress the facts.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 22, 2014, 12:27
I have no agenda. Period.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: roede-orm on May 23, 2014, 00:38
Just to mention it. Fotolia also offers videos, DPC does not. This makes also a part of the difference.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: pictureman75 on May 23, 2014, 01:09
... don't forget Infinite Collection!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: mayaartist on May 23, 2014, 13:21
I've deleted all my images on 1 of May. And Yesterday, I closed my account on Fotolia. I feel good.   
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: pkphotos on May 23, 2014, 23:17
DPC                     19/5/14        21/5/14           24/5/14

ANIMALS          1058615      1050740         1026113
NATURE           3498867       3491283        3475332
PEOPLE           2643565         2639228      2647552
BUSINESS       2956605        2949852        2932357
TRANSPORT    348705          348092          347936
MEDICAL          388809          387119         383001
SPORT             885643           884704         883388
FASHION         1431000       1429219        1422145
UNDERWATER 73364          72925               72956

A couple of categories up but most down. I see now DPC have caved and are offering $50 extended licenses. That kind of makes a mockery of their catch line '$1 An Image Always'. Just a farce to try and suck in gullible contributors.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Justanotherphotographer on May 24, 2014, 01:38
How can they be allowed to still have a message saying "100,000+ new images every week" on the site? Numbers have been dropping for weeks. Someone needs to get on to the BBB about false advertising
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: PZF on May 24, 2014, 02:00
Great news! :)

Re press releases - the glitch is how to avoid giving yet more publicity.  Artists angry about really exciting new site which makes it easy for everyone to get great value photos, legally, for their website, blog etc....... :(
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Svetlana on May 24, 2014, 04:18
Interesting changes in yesterday's and today's stats on DPC (+21,798 ... -17,026... -14,652).
The latest number is on top of the list (Moscow time):

Date and time            Images on DPC   Change
24-05-2014 13:08:55   21,683,460   -14,652
24-05-2014 12:08:58   21,698,112   -4,736
24-05-2014 09:08:57   21,702,848   -13
24-05-2014 08:08:55   21,702,861   -9
24-05-2014 07:08:57   21,702,870   17
24-05-2014 04:08:59   21,702,853   101
24-05-2014 03:08:56   21,702,752   -17,026
24-05-2014 01:08:59   21,719,778   -6,960
24-05-2014 00:08:54   21,726,738   -3,706
23-05-2014 22:08:59   21,730,444   -522
23-05-2014 19:09:00   21,730,966   21,798
23-05-2014 17:08:55   21,709,168   4,599
23-05-2014 16:08:57   21,704,569   5,314
23-05-2014 14:09:00   21,699,255   369
23-05-2014 13:08:54   21,698,886   19
23-05-2014 12:08:57   21,698,867   545
23-05-2014 11:08:55   21,698,322   -126
23-05-2014 09:08:59   21,698,448   -1,672
23-05-2014 08:08:55   21,700,120   109
23-05-2014 07:08:58   21,700,011   404
23-05-2014 04:08:59   21,699,607   533
23-05-2014 03:08:53   21,699,074   439
23-05-2014 01:08:58   21,698,635   851
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: r2d2 on May 24, 2014, 06:31
Interesting changes in yesterday's and today's stats on DPC (+21,798 ... -17,026... -14,652).
The latest number is on top of the list (Moscow time):

Date and time            Images on DPC   Change
24-05-2014 13:08:55   21,683,460   -14,652
24-05-2014 12:08:58   21,698,112   -4,736
24-05-2014 09:08:57   21,702,848   -13
24-05-2014 08:08:55   21,702,861   -9
24-05-2014 07:08:57   21,702,870   17
24-05-2014 04:08:59   21,702,853   101
24-05-2014 03:08:56   21,702,752   -17,026
24-05-2014 01:08:59   21,719,778   -6,960
24-05-2014 00:08:54   21,726,738   -3,706
23-05-2014 22:08:59   21,730,444   -522
23-05-2014 19:09:00   21,730,966   21,798
23-05-2014 17:08:55   21,709,168   4,599
23-05-2014 16:08:57   21,704,569   5,314
23-05-2014 14:09:00   21,699,255   369
23-05-2014 13:08:54   21,698,886   19
23-05-2014 12:08:57   21,698,867   545
23-05-2014 11:08:55   21,698,322   -126
23-05-2014 09:08:59   21,698,448   -1,672
23-05-2014 08:08:55   21,700,120   109
23-05-2014 07:08:58   21,700,011   404
23-05-2014 04:08:59   21,699,607   533
23-05-2014 03:08:53   21,699,074   439
23-05-2014 01:08:58   21,698,635   851

looks as FT would fight with us.
But we are stronger.
We not only prevent the DPC grows we also press DPC down.  :-*

Thanks to all who make this possible!

We need to stay tuned.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mantis on May 24, 2014, 07:38
Interesting changes in yesterday's and today's stats on DPC (+21,798 ... -17,026... -14,652).
The latest number is on top of the list (Moscow time):

Date and time            Images on DPC   Change
24-05-2014 13:08:55   21,683,460   -14,652
24-05-2014 12:08:58   21,698,112   -4,736
24-05-2014 09:08:57   21,702,848   -13
24-05-2014 08:08:55   21,702,861   -9
24-05-2014 07:08:57   21,702,870   17
24-05-2014 04:08:59   21,702,853   101
24-05-2014 03:08:56   21,702,752   -17,026
24-05-2014 01:08:59   21,719,778   -6,960
24-05-2014 00:08:54   21,726,738   -3,706
23-05-2014 22:08:59   21,730,444   -522
23-05-2014 19:09:00   21,730,966   21,798
23-05-2014 17:08:55   21,709,168   4,599
23-05-2014 16:08:57   21,704,569   5,314
23-05-2014 14:09:00   21,699,255   369
23-05-2014 13:08:54   21,698,886   19
23-05-2014 12:08:57   21,698,867   545
23-05-2014 11:08:55   21,698,322   -126
23-05-2014 09:08:59   21,698,448   -1,672
23-05-2014 08:08:55   21,700,120   109
23-05-2014 07:08:58   21,700,011   404
23-05-2014 04:08:59   21,699,607   533
23-05-2014 03:08:53   21,699,074   439
23-05-2014 01:08:58   21,698,635   851

looks as FT would fight with us.
But we are stronger.
We not only prevent the DPC grows we also press DPC down.  :-*

Thanks to all who make this possible!

We need to stay tuned keep pushing artists who are in DPC to get out.

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mantis on May 24, 2014, 07:57
We need to stay tuned keep pushing artists who are in DPC to get out.

(almost) agree!  Just replace "pushing" by "informing" ?

Yes, mush better.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on May 24, 2014, 11:46
https://twitter.com/DollarPhotoClub/status/469815178574696448

I don't think the issues are in any way resolved - so I tweeted that just to the person asking the question

https://twitter.com/joannsnover/status/470243913866166272
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Shelma1 on May 24, 2014, 11:50
I got a nice thank you from a buyer on twitter after mentioning the boycott and suggesting an alternative (I suggested Symbiostock). It's a nice opportunity to point buyers to the site(s) you feel give you the fairest deal as a contributor.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: disorderly on May 24, 2014, 11:58
[url]https://twitter.com/DollarPhotoClub/status/469815178574696448[/url] ([url]https://twitter.com/DollarPhotoClub/status/469815178574696448[/url])

I don't think the issues are in any way resolved - so I tweeted that just to the person asking the question

[url]https://twitter.com/joannsnover/status/470243913866166272[/url] ([url]https://twitter.com/joannsnover/status/470243913866166272[/url])


A good reply, Jo Ann, although mentioning the price might encourage a few cheapies.  My reply:
http://twitter.com/disorderly/status/470247099104108545 (http://twitter.com/disorderly/status/470247099104108545)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on May 24, 2014, 12:07
This may be another paid shill for DPC - his tweet had 232 retweets!!

https://twitter.com/joannsnover/status/470249594535034880
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on May 24, 2014, 12:47
This may be another paid shill for DPC - his tweet had 232 retweets!!

https://twitter.com/joannsnover/status/470249594535034880

You should google that guy's name. I highly doubt he's someone who cares about anyone getting fairly paid for anything.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Shelma1 on May 24, 2014, 12:55
This may be another paid shill for DPC - his tweet had 232 retweets!!

[url]https://twitter.com/joannsnover/status/470249594535034880[/url] ([url]https://twitter.com/joannsnover/status/470249594535034880[/url])


You should google that guy's name. I highly doubt he's someone who cares about anyone getting fairly paid for anything.


Holy cow! Lol:

"Facebook Spammer Tries to Cash in on $873 Million Fine"

http://www.pcworld.com/article/207046/article.html (http://www.pcworld.com/article/207046/article.html)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on May 24, 2014, 13:09
http://www.adamguerbuez.com/ (http://www.adamguerbuez.com/)

It's not clear if he's certifiable or just a huckster, but he's 100% sleeze. Never heard of this guy before, but if DPC/Fotolia hired him to promote their project, they have even lower standards than I gave them credit for.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: dpimborough on May 24, 2014, 15:06
[url]http://www.adamguerbuez.com/[/url] ([url]http://www.adamguerbuez.com/[/url])

It's not clear if he's certifiable or just a huckster, but he's 100% sleeze. Never heard of this guy before, but if DPC/Fotolia hired him to promote their project, they have even lower standards than I gave them credit for.


100% overweight turd  ;D

I see he's going to town advertising stalker tools on twitter too jeez what a sad sack ::)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: LesPalenik on May 24, 2014, 20:10
I got a nice thank you from a buyer on twitter after mentioning the boycott and suggesting an alternative (I suggested Symbiostock). It's a nice opportunity to point buyers to the site(s) you feel give you the fairest deal as a contributor.

Yes, it is a great opportunity to mention Symbiostock as an alternative even if the payback is not immediate.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on May 24, 2014, 20:25
What a charmer this guy is - here's his reply

https://twitter.com/AdamGuerbuez/status/470338905309708288

"Paying $10 for 10 hi-res stock photos to use freely in sites/promotions is great, even if they go out of biz all I lose is $10" Sort of the polar opposite of community spirit...
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Beppe Grillo on May 25, 2014, 02:46
What a charmer this guy is - here's his reply

https://twitter.com/AdamGuerbuez/status/470338905309708288

"Paying $10 for 10 hi-res stock photos to use freely in sites/promotions is great, even if they go out of biz all I lose is $10" Sort of the polar opposite of community spirit...

Sad to say, but from his point of view can we say that it is wrong?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: roede-orm on May 25, 2014, 02:56
What a charmer this guy is - here's his reply

https://twitter.com/AdamGuerbuez/status/470338905309708288

"Paying $10 for 10 hi-res stock photos to use freely in sites/promotions is great, even if they go out of biz all I lose is $10" Sort of the polar opposite of community spirit...

Sad to say, but from his point of view can we say that it is wrong?

From his point of view it may be right at the moment. But - let them get what they're paying for! No more quality pictures to Fotolia and the DPC! Never again!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: BaldricksTrousers on May 25, 2014, 03:17
.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: fujiko on May 25, 2014, 07:25
What a charmer this guy is - here's his reply

https://twitter.com/AdamGuerbuez/status/470338905309708288

"Paying $10 for 10 hi-res stock photos to use freely in sites/promotions is great, even if they go out of biz all I lose is $10" Sort of the polar opposite of community spirit...

For $10 all he will get are photos that will make him go out of biz  ;)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: deepdreamer on May 25, 2014, 08:40
Better late than never ;) . I just opted-out of DPC (2000+images)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: IvonneW on May 25, 2014, 14:33
Opted out with portfolio size about 25.000 images.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: marthamarks on May 25, 2014, 15:30
Hooray for DeepDreamer and IvonneW!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: PhotoBomb on May 25, 2014, 15:30
Opted out with portfolio size about 25.000 images.

Thanks Ivonne
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: WindyTai on May 26, 2014, 00:30
Thank you for the people who are Opting out.

This motivate me a lot. I gotta find more contributors to Opt out. Couldn't stop.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: pkphotos on May 26, 2014, 01:21
Opted out with portfolio size about 25.000 images.

Oh now I'm sooooo looking forward to a new update of Pkphotos' and Svetlana's category checks!

you can quite easily check category numbers by yourself. I did a quick check today, unfortunately numbers were up a bit. How do we contact the thousands of photographers who must still be opted in?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Svetlana on May 26, 2014, 01:54
I have to say, the stats are not spectacular atm.
The latest number is on top of the list (Moscow time):

Date and time            Images on DPC   Change
26-05-2014 08:09:00   21,678,942   -2,647
26-05-2014 06:08:54   21,681,589   -307
26-05-2014 05:09:00   21,681,896   -609
26-05-2014 02:08:59   21,682,505   94
26-05-2014 01:08:54   21,682,411   66
26-05-2014 00:08:55   21,682,345   101
25-05-2014 23:09:02   21,682,244   435
25-05-2014 21:08:56   21,681,809   -4
25-05-2014 20:08:58   21,681,813   139
25-05-2014 18:09:00   21,681,674   772
25-05-2014 16:08:58   21,680,902   962
25-05-2014 15:08:53   21,679,940   251
25-05-2014 13:08:59   21,679,689   1,150
25-05-2014 10:09:00   21,678,539   813
25-05-2014 08:08:58   21,677,726   3,362
25-05-2014 05:09:00   21,674,364   1,689
25-05-2014 03:08:59   21,672,675   5,802
25-05-2014 00:09:00   21,666,873   951
24-05-2014 22:08:59   21,665,922   546
24-05-2014 19:09:00   21,665,376   627
24-05-2014 18:08:55   21,664,749   228
24-05-2014 17:08:56   21,664,521   394
24-05-2014 16:08:58   21,664,127   -19,132
24-05-2014 14:08:55   21,683,259   -201

By categories for the same period of time:
   
  Category    24 May    26 May    Change 
  Nature    1,529,893    1,530,445    552 
  Arch    1,535,743    1,536,763    1,020 
  People    5,421,534    5,400,652    -20,882 
  Flora & Fauna    2,232,518    2,234,253    1,735 
  Objects    3,443,598    3,448,255    4,657 
  Transport    349,304    349,583    279 
  Food    3,217,757    3,216,057    -1,700 
  Sport    417,693    417,909    216 
  Backgrounds    1,427,923    1,429,596    1,673 
  Abstract    957,226    963,590    6,364 
  Other    1,150,070    1,151,839    1,769 
 

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Dook on May 26, 2014, 02:15
How long is it going to take them to remove IvonneW's 25 000 files? The stats still don't show it.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Svetlana on May 26, 2014, 02:19
Dook, I wish I knew. Only Fotolia knows that.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Dook on May 26, 2014, 02:21
Thanks! I hope it will be soon.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: pixsol on May 26, 2014, 03:15
I have a question to FT contributors with a good sized portfolio who have OPTed OUT (>1000 images). Have you seen any trends in your FT sales post the OPT OUT taking effect ? One of the things that I was hoping was to see FT-only contributors getting more non-subscription sales. My thinking is that customers who may have moved to DPC may buy most of their images on the so-called DPC subscription but may pick up on credit sale the images that they want but dont see in DPC. A trend that may signal customers looking at DPC as a high volume dollar bin and looking elsewhere for low volume special buys.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: scandurica on May 26, 2014, 03:59
Hi,
Thanks for this topic.
Just opted out.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Desintegrator on May 26, 2014, 05:00
Better late than never ;) . I just opted-out of DPC (2000+images)

Good decision.
Don't forget to inform every contributor you can reach.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Shelma1 on May 26, 2014, 08:13
I continue to get favorites and thank-you's on Twitter by simply mentioning the boycott and the amount of images removed and suggesting alternative sites. :)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Anyka on May 26, 2014, 08:44
I have a question to FT contributors with a good sized portfolio who have OPTed OUT (>1000 images). Have you seen any trends in your FT sales post the OPT OUT taking effect ? One of the things that I was hoping was to see FT-only contributors getting more non-subscription sales. My thinking is that customers who may have moved to DPC may buy most of their images on the so-called DPC subscription but may pick up on credit sale the images that they want but dont see in DPC. A trend that may signal customers looking at DPC as a high volume dollar bin and looking elsewhere for low volume special buys.

No, I don't see any positive or negative trend.  I opted out with 7000 images mid May.  Fotolia is not doing well for me, but the downward trend started more than 12 months ago, so has nothing to do with DPC.
May is a disaster, but May is always a disaster compared to March and April, so I don't see a link with DPC here either.

Also :  from the point of view of a customer, DPC is a different site from Fotolia.  So why would a customer always go to Fotolia if they cannot find an image on DPC?  You can bet Fotolia is not suggesting "if you cannot find what you need, Fotolia still has 7.000.000 more images at higher prices"  ;)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: pixsol on May 26, 2014, 09:02
I have a question to FT contributors with a good sized portfolio who have OPTed OUT (>1000 images). Have you seen any trends in your FT sales post the OPT OUT taking effect ? One of the things that I was hoping was to see FT-only contributors getting more non-subscription sales. My thinking is that customers who may have moved to DPC may buy most of their images on the so-called DPC subscription but may pick up on credit sale the images that they want but dont see in DPC. A trend that may signal customers looking at DPC as a high volume dollar bin and looking elsewhere for low volume special buys.

No, I don't see any positive or negative trend.  I opted out with 7000 images mid May.  Fotolia is not doing well for me, but the downward trend started more than 12 months ago, so has nothing to do with DPC.
May is a disaster, but May is always a disaster compared to March and April, so I don't see a link with DPC here either.

Thanks Anyka !

Also :  from the point of view of a customer, DPC is a different site from Fotolia.  So why would a customer always go to Fotolia if they cannot find an image on DPC?  You can bet Fotolia is not suggesting "if you cannot find what you need, Fotolia still has 7.000.000 more images at higher prices"  ;)

:) I was looking at it from the point of view of existing FT customers who may have moved to DPC. You are correct in the sense if it is a new non-FT customer, they may not check in FT if they dont find what they want in DPC.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Rinderart on May 26, 2014, 10:17
I have a question to FT contributors with a good sized portfolio who have OPTed OUT (>1000 images). Have you seen any trends in your FT sales post the OPT OUT taking effect ? One of the things that I was hoping was to see FT-only contributors getting more non-subscription sales. My thinking is that customers who may have moved to DPC may buy most of their images on the so-called DPC subscription but may pick up on credit sale the images that they want but dont see in DPC. A trend that may signal customers looking at DPC as a high volume dollar bin and looking elsewhere for low volume special buys.

No, I don't see any positive or negative trend.  I opted out with 7000 images mid May.  Fotolia is not doing well for me, but the downward trend started more than 12 months ago, so has nothing to do with DPC.
May is a disaster, but May is always a disaster compared to March and April, so I don't see a link with DPC here either.

Also :  from the point of view of a customer, DPC is a different site from Fotolia.  So why would a customer always go to Fotolia if they cannot find an image on DPC?  You can bet Fotolia is not suggesting "if you cannot find what you need, Fotolia still has 7.000.000 more images at higher prices"  ;)

Nor do I . I see no difference in the terrible sales at FT for over a year. 7/8 payouts per month was the norm for a long time, then  Boom about a year ago. Not even worth time uploading to anymore. I stay only because of the time it took to upload.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: pixsol on May 26, 2014, 10:54
Thanks Laurin for your response :)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: PhotoBomb on May 27, 2014, 16:01
Just heard form another photographer that has opted out his 5,400 images.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Rinderart on May 27, 2014, 23:33
Just Curious...are we still resolute about this?? I know lots of folks over the years. The majority I talk to is staying in. I do respect there decision and then I shut up. I send them every Link. What more can I do? any Ideas????
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: pixsol on May 28, 2014, 00:54
Just Curious...are we still resolute about this?? I know lots of folks over the years. The majority I talk to is staying in. I do respect there decision and then I shut up. I send them every Link. What more can I do? any Ideas????

Yes Laurin. I see quite a few resolute contributors who have been spreading the word and reporting successful OPT OUTs. I saw a few on the SS forum also. I think we will see more OPT OUTs in small and mid-level contributors. We may not see much in high-volume contributors as I think many of them may be exclusive to FT.

Hearing the feedback from many posters here on this thread that DPC is being heard for the first time by many only from a fellow contributor makes me think that this will continue on for some more time.

Meanwhile, I saw that the image count on FT has reached 28.5M (it dropped lower than 28M in the start of May). In all likelihood a good majority of these 500K images made it to DPC. But to see that DPC image count is still showing some reduction (based on the figures in this thread a day or 2 ago), tells me that the OPT OUTs are still ON.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: LesPalenik on May 28, 2014, 02:19
I think, that quite a few contributors do not read forums and are not even aware that their images are on DPC. As long as we keep it up, more contributors will find out about it and many will opt out.

On one hand, even 20 million images is a huge collection for a viable distribution, on the other hand, if best images are removed from there, many buyers will start looking elsewhere.


 
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Svetlana on May 28, 2014, 03:14
The latest changes in the number of images in the DPC collection:

Date and time            Images on DPC   Change
28-05-2014 12:08:57   21,690,873   -164
28-05-2014 09:08:59   21,691,037   917
28-05-2014 06:09:00   21,690,120   -415
28-05-2014 04:08:57   21,690,535   -346
28-05-2014 02:08:54   21,690,881   695
28-05-2014 01:08:58   21,690,186   2,902
27-05-2014 22:08:59   21,687,284   -1,841
27-05-2014 20:08:55   21,689,125   414
27-05-2014 19:08:59   21,688,711   3,461
27-05-2014 17:08:55   21,685,250   -8,651
27-05-2014 16:08:57   21,693,901   36
27-05-2014 15:08:54   21,693,865   548
27-05-2014 14:08:59   21,693,317   522
27-05-2014 11:09:00   21,692,795   896
27-05-2014 08:08:59   21,691,899   -17
27-05-2014 06:08:55   21,691,916   1,649
27-05-2014 05:08:57   21,690,267   24
27-05-2014 04:08:56   21,690,243   -11
27-05-2014 02:08:58   21,690,254   3,286
27-05-2014 01:08:57   21,686,968   172
27-05-2014 00:08:57   21,686,796   1,903
26-05-2014 23:08:56   21,684,893   791
26-05-2014 22:08:55   21,684,102   40
26-05-2014 21:08:54   21,684,062   417
26-05-2014 20:08:57   21,683,645   1,015
26-05-2014 17:09:00   21,682,630   800
26-05-2014 16:08:54   21,681,830   651
26-05-2014 14:08:59   21,681,179   1,785
26-05-2014 11:09:01   21,679,394   452

As of this moment, according to calculations by categories on DPC and the total number specified on FT, there are 28,515,003 images on FT and 21,690,873 on DPC. The difference amounts to 6,824,130 images.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: BaldricksTrousers on May 28, 2014, 04:04
Changes in the number of images on DPC today (Moscow time):

  Date and time            Images on DPC   Change
18-05-2014 17:09:01    21,775,858    -11,583
18-05-2014 14:09:00    21,787,441    5,016
18-05-2014 11:08:58    21,782,425    -1,795
18-05-2014 08:08:59    21,784,220    -909
18-05-2014 06:08:58    21,785,129    -1,033
18-05-2014 05:08:53    21,786,162    -558
18-05-2014 03:09:00    21,786,720    -1,297
18-05-2014 01:08:56    21,788,017    1,679
18-05-2014 00:09:00    21,786,338    -289

It good to see DPC going down again. Someone here said that we lost the battle cause DPC is going up. Well, that changed now.

It was under 21.7 million a few days ago. Just because today it's down, on a longer timeline, it is in fact, up.

Doesn't matter if it goes down just for a day. Let's see how the next few days go.

10 days have passed and it is back below 21.7 million.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 28, 2014, 13:02
Reply from Cabinet of Vice President Neelie Kroes

Quote
Dear Mr xxxxxx,
On behalf of Vice-President Kroes I would like to thank you for your e-mail. I would like to inform you that your e-mail has been forwarded to Commissioner Barnier since the question raised in your e-mail falls under his portfolio. His Cabinet will reply to you directly.

Kind regards,
xxxxxx
Cabinet of Vice President Neelie Kroes


http://ec.europa.eu/commission_2010-2014/barnier/index_en.htm (http://ec.europa.eu/commission_2010-2014/barnier/index_en.htm)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: U11 on May 28, 2014, 14:25
Sorry if this  old 2011 email from fotolia was posted in the topic already
Quote
Over the last few months, we've seen new competitors offering pricing
and commission rates that are lower than our white ranking levels.
This is a threat to our business, for the market as whole, and for
you, our contributors. This is an issue that must be addressed for us
to remain competitive.

We have been obliged to modify our pricing and payment policies to
allow Fotolia to adjust prices/commissions on a case by case basis.
When a contributor sells on sites with significantly lower pricing and
commissions, we will reset their rank to white to allow for
competition.

Together, we'll work towards building a stronger stock photography
market, and continue to enhance Fotolia's reputation and
competitiveness as a leading microstock agency.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 29, 2014, 01:11
Quote
From: Chad Bridwell [mailto: [email protected] ]
Sent: 29 May 2014 00:33
To: xxxxx@ semmick.com
Subject: Fotolia account closed

Dear Mr. Ron Bxxxxxx,

In accordance with Fotolia's terms and conditions we have closed your account. Please forward the Paypal or Moneybooker address where we shall send the remaining funds in your account.

Sincerely,

Chad Bridwell
Director of Operations
Fotolia.com
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: luissantos84 on May 29, 2014, 01:22
unbelievable... does this mean we cannot email anybody regarding FT decisions? back to 1500!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: stealthmode on May 29, 2014, 03:16
unbelievable... does this mean we cannot email anybody regarding FT decisions? back to 1500!

Caught in the crossfire of agencies and fellow contributors - if you speak the truth against agencies or you don't undersign the compulsory boycott, respectively.

This is the reason why some of us are anonymous here.
I prefer to be anonymous and free, although it's not an easy decision to renounce to my identity.
However I promise I will never ever use my anonymity for personal attacks or as an excuse to say words that don't belong in a public forum.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: roede-orm on May 29, 2014, 04:32
What I can't understand: Fotolia is a strong brand name, at least in Europe and
especially in the German-speaking countries. Why this strong brand is devalued to such activities like founding the dpc?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: BaldricksTrousers on May 29, 2014, 06:08
What I can't understand: Fotolia is a strong brand name, at least in Europe and
especially in the German-speaking countries. Why this strong brand is devalued to such activities like founding the dpc?
Money. Simply.
They want (or maybe need) more.
Look at Getty, it's the market leader but is so heavily mortgaged that rating agencies have expressed doubts about its ability to repay its debts.  Every business is under pressure to deliver double-digit earnings growth (and to fund that, we are expected to be happy with ever-shrinking returns).  DPC is an attempt to corner the market, boosting profits by slashing prices and thereby taking customers en-masse from the bigger agencies.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: cobalt on May 29, 2014, 06:54
What I can't understand: Fotolia is a strong brand name, at least in Europe and
especially in the German-speaking countries. Why this strong brand is devalued to such activities like founding the dpc?

This is the part I really don´t understand. Fotolia is such a huge agency and strong brand in Europe and especially here in Germany. Why would you risk the reputation of Fotolia with DPC? The internet has no borders and the contributors are often buyers (designers,ad agency people..)

I just read what happened to Ron and Anyka. I really don´t understand what they want to do. Is DPC really so much more important than Fotolia???

This is all really scary. I just don´t understand the logic at all. Just like I didn´t understand how istock handled the Getty Google deal.

Looks like istock and Fotolia are doing all they can to increase the trust factor of Shutterstock. Can´t they see that a major driving force of SS success is their excellent understanding of how internet communities work?

No dramas - better business -  more money..
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: BaldricksTrousers on May 29, 2014, 07:12
Is DPC really so much more important than Fotolia???

It may well be. The business model seems to indicate that they are willing to sacrifice Fotolia's sales by transferring them to DPC at a loss. That only makes sense if they are calculating on taking a huge number of customers off other agencies.

Shutterstock is much larger than Fotolia but it still has only a surprisingly small share of the overall market - a few percent, I think, I can't remember exactly what they reported - so Fotolia might have only 1% or 2% of the overall market. If DPC could trawl in 10% of the market it might give a huge boost to its earnings, making the loss of Fotolia insignificant.

That's why it is so important to try to stop them. I've long since left Fotolia but they could well take away my earnings from Shutterstock and iSTock if this works.

Anyone getting booted out of Fotolia for fighting this can console themselves with the thought that, with luck, the loss from that will be less than they would have suffered if they had just gone along with DPC and allowed it to turn iStock and SS sales into DPC sales.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mantis on May 29, 2014, 07:15
Is DPC really so much more important than Fotolia???

It may well be. The business model seems to indicate that they are willing to sacrifice Fotolia's sales by transferring them to DPC at a loss. That only makes sense if they are calculating on taking a huge number of customers off other agencies.

Shutterstock is much larger than Fotolia but it still has only a surprisingly small share of the overall market - a few percent, I think, I can't remember exactly what they reported - so Fotolia might have only 1% or 2% of the overall market. If DPC could trawl in 10% of the market it might give a huge boost to its earnings, making the loss of Fotolia insignificant.

That's why it is so important to try to stop them. I've long since left Fotolia but they could well take away my earnings from Shutterstock and iSTock if this works.

Anyone getting booted out of Fotolia for fighting this can console themselves with the thought that, with luck, the loss from that will be less than they would have suffered if they had just gone along with DPC and allowed it to turn iStock and SS sales into DPC sales.

Has this been documented?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: BaldricksTrousers on May 29, 2014, 07:19
Is DPC really so much more important than Fotolia???


It may well be. The business model seems to indicate that they are willing to sacrifice Fotolia's sales by transferring them to DPC at a loss. That only makes sense if they are calculating on taking a huge number of customers off other agencies.

Shutterstock is much larger than Fotolia but it still has only a surprisingly small share of the overall market - a few percent, I think, I can't remember exactly what they reported - so Fotolia might have only 1% or 2% of the overall market. If DPC could trawl in 10% of the market it might give a huge boost to its earnings, making the loss of Fotolia insignificant.

That's why it is so important to try to stop them. I've long since left Fotolia but they could well take away my earnings from Shutterstock and iSTock if this works.

Anyone getting booted out of Fotolia for fighting this can console themselves with the thought that, with luck, the loss from that will be less than they would have suffered if they had just gone along with DPC and allowed it to turn iStock and SS sales into DPC sales.


Has this been documented?


Well, they haven't stated the reason, but Ron and Anyka have suddenly found themselves with their marching orders
http://www.microstockgroup.com/fotolia-com/fotolia-still-at-it-they-closed-my-account/msg381858/ (http://www.microstockgroup.com/fotolia-com/fotolia-still-at-it-they-closed-my-account/msg381858/)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: gbalex on May 29, 2014, 07:24
What I can't understand: Fotolia is a strong brand name, at least in Europe and
especially in the German-speaking countries. Why this strong brand is devalued to such activities like founding the dpc?

This is the part I really don´t understand. Fotolia is such a huge agency and strong brand in Europe and especially here in Germany. Why would you risk the reputation of Fotolia with DPC? The internet has no borders and the contributors are often buyers (designers,ad agency people..)

I just read what happened to Ron and Anyka. I really don´t understand what they want to do. Is DPC really so much more important than Fotolia???

This is all really scary. I just don´t understand the logic at all. Just like I didn´t understand how istock handled the Getty Google deal.

Looks like istock and Fotolia are doing all they can to increase the trust factor of Shutterstock. Can´t they see that a major driving force of SS success is their excellent understanding of how internet communities work?

No dramas - better business -  more money..

To understand this you need to look to who is navigating the ship. These moves are driven by pure greed and egocentrism.

This does not increase my trust in shutterstock, in fact it makes me more nervous for our future. I think in the end we will see them make similar moves, after all they have been undercutting the competition for 9 years now as an admitted business strategy to garner market share. Not raising sub prices for 9 years is base on pure greed and you do not see this happen in any other business model.

They are in good part responsible for the desperation we now see at other agencies who have lost market share as a result. These agencies will take profits at our expense as long as we willingly allow them to do so. 
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 29, 2014, 07:28
Lets keep this about Fotolia and the DPC
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mantis on May 29, 2014, 07:44
Lets keep this about Fotolia and the DPC

Just saw the thread about closing your account, Ron.  Sorry.  As I posted in that thread, I am wondering if they actually got a call?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Shelma1 on May 29, 2014, 08:22
Is DPC really so much more important than Fotolia???

It may well be. The business model seems to indicate that they are willing to sacrifice Fotolia's sales by transferring them to DPC at a loss. That only makes sense if they are calculating on taking a huge number of customers off other agencies.

Shutterstock is much larger than Fotolia but it still has only a surprisingly small share of the overall market - a few percent, I think, I can't remember exactly what they reported - so Fotolia might have only 1% or 2% of the overall market. If DPC could trawl in 10% of the market it might give a huge boost to its earnings, making the loss of Fotolia insignificant.

That's why it is so important to try to stop them. I've long since left Fotolia but they could well take away my earnings from Shutterstock and iSTock if this works.

Anyone getting booted out of Fotolia for fighting this can console themselves with the thought that, with luck, the loss from that will be less than they would have suffered if they had just gone along with DPC and allowed it to turn iStock and SS sales into DPC sales.

I've read that Shutterstock has 4% of the potential market, but I'm not sure what market share it has vs. its competition. That would be interesting.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: gbalex on May 29, 2014, 09:22
Is DPC really so much more important than Fotolia???

It may well be. The business model seems to indicate that they are willing to sacrifice Fotolia's sales by transferring them to DPC at a loss. That only makes sense if they are calculating on taking a huge number of customers off other agencies.

Shutterstock is much larger than Fotolia but it still has only a surprisingly small share of the overall market - a few percent, I think, I can't remember exactly what they reported - so Fotolia might have only 1% or 2% of the overall market. If DPC could trawl in 10% of the market it might give a huge boost to its earnings, making the loss of Fotolia insignificant.

That's why it is so important to try to stop them. I've long since left Fotolia but they could well take away my earnings from Shutterstock and iSTock if this works.

Anyone getting booted out of Fotolia for fighting this can console themselves with the thought that, with luck, the loss from that will be less than they would have suffered if they had just gone along with DPC and allowed it to turn iStock and SS sales into DPC sales.

I've read that Shutterstock has 4% of the potential market, but I'm not sure what market share it has vs. its competition. That would be interesting.

It would be interesting to know what Shutterstocks and Getty/Istock's actual market share is VS promotional info that comes from press releases or Earnings Conference Calls.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: gbalex on May 29, 2014, 09:27
Lets keep this about Fotolia and the DPC

Your comments are always on the side of shutterstock protectionism. I would expect this from a shutterstock ambassador. Notice you had no comment for cobalt who is praising shutterstock.

None of these sites exists in a vacuum. Their business moves affect the entire market and to ignore this fact is analogous to sticking your head in the sand.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on May 29, 2014, 12:09
You see, my comment was directed at everyone, not you alone, but you chose to play victim. If I had meant only for you, I would have quoted you. Stop feeling so self important.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: stocked on May 29, 2014, 14:04
I generally agree in your statements about SS gbalex but would prefer too to keep this thread about Fotolia/DPC!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Desintegrator on May 30, 2014, 06:17
Fotolia contacted me in email asking if i'm available for a call about rejoining DPC. I just replied explaining my thoughts on DPC, and that i'm totally against it. Got no call :D

It really seems to be that they are making an effort to get contributors back. I'm far from being among the really big contributors.
So we are making an impact on them. That's good.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Monty-m-gue on May 30, 2014, 06:29
Fotolia contacted me in email asking if i'm available for a call about rejoining DPC. I just replied explaining my thoughts on DPC, and that i'm totally against it. Got no call :D

It really seems to be that they are making an effort to get contributors back. I'm far from being among the really big contributors.
So we are making an impact on them. That's good.

I haven't received such a message - but I know others who have. It seems that if you make your thought on DPC clear they don't call.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: cobalt on May 30, 2014, 06:30
Talking to artists directly is very good. Banning them is bad.

I think if they offered opt in for individual files, they might get some more content.

But it looks like their plan was to offer high quality microstock content at prices that are just a fraction of what the overall market sets.

Why would we do that?

When they made up this plan, did they really think we don't care and just upload everything everywhere?

If I wanted to opt in I would have to treat Fotolia itself as the 1 dollar agency, because that is the portal for dpc. This would mean I could only send them lower quality content and I would have to remove what I believe should be set at higher prices from fotolia.

It makes no sense to work like that.

Anyway, don't they have enough images? DPC would probably still work if they just had 5 million files.

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Monty-m-gue on May 30, 2014, 06:31
Talking to artists directly is very good. Banning them is bad.

I think if they offered opt in for individual files, they might get some more content.

But it looks like their plan was to offer high quality microstock content at prices that are just a fraction of what the overall market sets.

Why would we do that?

When they made up this plan, did they really think we don't care and just upload everything everywhere?

Anyway, don't they have enough images? DPC would probably still work if they just had 5 million files.

depends which 5 million files they are left with...
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mantis on May 30, 2014, 08:00
Talking to artists directly is very good. Banning them is bad.

I think if they offered opt in for individual files, they might get some more content.

But it looks like their plan was to offer high quality microstock content at prices that are just a fraction of what the overall market sets.

Why would we do that?

When they made up this plan, did they really think we don't care and just upload everything everywhere?

If I wanted to opt in I would have to treat Fotolia itself as the 1 dollar agency, because that is the portal for dpc. This would mean I could only send them lower quality content and I would have to remove what I believe should be set at higher prices from fotolia.

It makes no sense to work like that.

Anyway, don't they have enough images? DPC would probably still work if they just had 5 million files.

Exactly.  The communication should have been much further upstream and at least it would be somewhat perceived as "a good faith effort" by FT.  But after reading Bobby Deal's post and talking to him personally, FT is now on top over DP for me to close my account altogether. Oleg has in my opinion made it clear as gin that it's his personal goal to squeeze whatever juice he can get out of this industry and us contributors without one iota of concern as to how it affects the imagery industry as a whole in the longer term.

I want to say something here that maybe belongs in another thread but I think it's appropriate.  My income overall has gone up in the last year, not because I produced more work. My mother's death and my role as trustee has consumed my time so I have not been shooting in nearly a year.  But yet my income has gone up. I can thank Shutterstock for that.  They have gone out and strategically created products (licenses, license packages) that have organically grown my revenue without me having to do a thing.  THAT, my friends, is how a representative of my work, an agent, should behave. Will it last? Don't know but I am happy SS has done this.  I got a nice $90 dl yesterday which kicked me over a grand for May.  FT is taking the exact opposite approach, a destructive strategy for short term gain.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on May 30, 2014, 13:58
Happened to see that Fotolia was tweeting about a new blog post featuring Ruth Black's stunning work (and a recipe she shared).

http://blog.fotolia.com/en/2014/05/28/warning-delicious-images-ahead/ (http://blog.fotolia.com/en/2014/05/28/warning-delicious-images-ahead/)

Seemed to me worth pointing out that you won't find Ruth's work on the Dollar Photo Club...

https://twitter.com/joannsnover/status/472451296822566912 (https://twitter.com/joannsnover/status/472451296822566912)

Hoping the blog brings Ruth many Fotolia sales - she's such a talented photographer/baker.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: BaldricksTrousers on May 31, 2014, 17:47
How are the stats going?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ArtesiaWells on May 31, 2014, 19:54
Happened to see that Fotolia was tweeting about a new blog post featuring Ruth Black's stunning work (and a recipe she shared).

[url]http://blog.fotolia.com/en/2014/05/28/warning-delicious-images-ahead/[/url] ([url]http://blog.fotolia.com/en/2014/05/28/warning-delicious-images-ahead/[/url])

Seemed to me worth pointing out that you won't find Ruth's work on the Dollar Photo Club...

[url]https://twitter.com/joannsnover/status/472451296822566912[/url] ([url]https://twitter.com/joannsnover/status/472451296822566912[/url])

Hoping the blog brings Ruth many Fotolia sales - she's such a talented photographer/baker.


Beautiful images. Good she is not on DPC at least.
RuthBlack is also featured on Photodune this week.

http://photodune.net/item/vintage-cupcakes/1900941?WT.ac=featured_author&WT.z_author=RuthBlack (http://photodune.net/item/vintage-cupcakes/1900941?WT.ac=featured_author&WT.z_author=RuthBlack)

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Rinderart on May 31, 2014, 23:56
How are the stats going?

My question also.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Svetlana on June 01, 2014, 01:13
The stats for DPC (Moscow time):

Date and time            Images on DPC   Change
01-06-2014 08:08:59   21,756,707   6,542
01-06-2014 06:08:53   21,750,165   166
01-06-2014 05:08:58   21,749,999   708
01-06-2014 02:09:04   21,749,291   2,617
01-06-2014 01:08:57   21,746,674   462
01-06-2014 00:09:01   21,746,212   3,231
31-05-2014 21:08:59   21,742,981   7,808
31-05-2014 19:08:54   21,735,173   492
31-05-2014 18:08:57   21,734,681   1,516
31-05-2014 17:08:55   21,733,165   4,645
31-05-2014 15:08:59   21,728,520   322
31-05-2014 12:09:00   21,728,198   1,656
31-05-2014 10:08:59   21,726,542   1,245
31-05-2014 08:08:57   21,725,297   243
31-05-2014 05:08:59   21,725,054   -775
31-05-2014 02:09:02   21,725,829   11,372
30-05-2014 23:09:00   21,714,457   2,137
30-05-2014 20:08:59   21,712,320   198
30-05-2014 17:09:00   21,712,122   11,590
30-05-2014 09:08:56   21,700,532   -1,032
30-05-2014 08:08:56   21,701,564   -159
30-05-2014 06:09:01   21,701,723   3,857
30-05-2014 04:08:57   21,697,866   639
30-05-2014 03:08:56   21,697,227   279
30-05-2014 01:08:59   21,696,948   808
30-05-2014 00:08:59   21,696,140   869
29-05-2014 23:08:58   21,695,271   1,453
29-05-2014 21:08:56   21,693,818   1,538
29-05-2014 20:08:56   21,692,280   510

Latest numbers:
Fotolia: 28,601,269
DPC: 21,756,707
Difference: 6,844,562
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: BaldricksTrousers on June 01, 2014, 02:54
Still some significant portfolios being pulled out, judging from the three points where there were fairly big drops in the total. That's really quite extraordinary more than a month after people started fighting this.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Noedelhap on June 01, 2014, 06:20
I thought I'd let you know what I decided - I am closing with Fotolia.
Looking forward to payday... 8)


Dear Fotolia

I found the one and only image that I left in my account with you on this (Chinese) page
[url]http://www.artgalore.ca/PhotosByArtist.php?ArtistID=202540410&ArtistName=artesiawells[/url] ([url]http://www.artgalore.ca/PhotosByArtist.php?ArtistID=202540410&ArtistName=artesiawells[/url])

Since I am engaged with other agencies with much of my portfolio I need to know where my copyrighted work is being published and for sale. This new find together with the insecurities of the past month, I consider it to be of the utmost urgency that I close my account with Fotolia.

I look forward to your confirmation and a payout of the equivalent of 3.3 credits as soon as possible.


Sincerely,
xxArtesiaWells


On Fri, May 16, 2014 at 10:35 AM, Fotolia.com <[email protected]> wrote:
    
Fotolia   View in your browser
 
       
    

"Hello,
 
We're sorry to see you have recently removed some files from your portfolio.
If you change your mind please remember that you can just send us a ticket and we'll put all your files back online. However, this must be done within the next 30 days.
Also, we would like to remind you that you can choose to opt in or opt out your images from DPC in your photographers' parameters.
We hope to see you back soon and will be doing all to grow your income.

Kind Regards,

The Fotolia Team"


Chinese page? It's Canadian.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Maximilian on June 01, 2014, 09:21
-
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Desintegrator on June 01, 2014, 09:44
The stats suggest that some contributors have opted back in... which is sad.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Svetlana on June 01, 2014, 10:08
The stats suggest that some contributors have opted back in... which is sad.
Not necessarily. Could be new images uploaded to Fotolia by contributors who didn't opt out.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Desintegrator on June 01, 2014, 10:15
But the growth of DPC's collection is bigger than in Fotolia's
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: donding on June 01, 2014, 10:45
I dropped Fotolia a long time ago because of their unethical practices, but I've been reading this topic for a couple of days now. I want to say I admire Ron and Anyka for standing up for what is right. They paid the price for it and continue their push. Sean paid the price for standing up against iStock. It sad that these agencies don't listen to their contributors and I'll say it again, I do admire you for your stand. Keep pushing forward.

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: PhotoBomb on June 03, 2014, 21:08
Any updates, I don't think we should let this fall off the front page.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: luissantos84 on June 03, 2014, 21:24
Any updates, I don't think we should let this fall off the front page.

the newest update from my FT account: 1 download this month :o
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: jarih on June 03, 2014, 23:16
the newest update from my FT account: 1 download this month :o
Same here!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Svetlana on June 04, 2014, 01:29
Latest stats:
Fotolia: 28,715,484 images
DPC: 21,826,093 images
Difference: 6,889,391 images
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: emblem on June 04, 2014, 01:48
the newest update from my FT account: 1 download this month :o
Same here!

Same here as well.....if I didn't know better you'd think we were being punished in search for opting out of DPC.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: pkphotos on June 04, 2014, 02:30
SUCCESS! Let's keep up this effort. A few hours ago I did a quick search on DFC, found the number one ranked photo for a particular subject, did a google search, found and emailed the photographer via their website. I received a rapid response from them having alerted them to this thread, and they promptly opted out their 1500+ high quality photos. That took me minimal effort. If we all had two or three successes using this method we'd make a big impact on DPC
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Desintegrator on June 04, 2014, 06:17
Just a note: i don't feel beining punished for opting out (opted out on may 1, even deleted files from Fotolia), sale are going fine, getting nice credit sale to. Such a pity Fotolia don't concentrate the effort on those instead o this DPC madness.

It's getting harder and harder to contact more contriburos about this, but we have to keep up. Everyone deserves to know that they are using our content against our interests.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: dpimborough on June 04, 2014, 06:22
SUCCESS! Let's keep up this effort. A few hours ago I did a quick search on DFC, found the number one ranked photo for a particular subject, did a google search, found and emailed the photographer via their website. I received a rapid response from them having alerted them to this thread, and they promptly opted out their 1500+ high quality photos. That took me minimal effort. If we all had two or three successes using this method we'd make a big impact on DPC

Keep up the good work :)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: pkphotos on June 04, 2014, 06:28
SUCCESS! Let's keep up this effort. A few hours ago I did a quick search on DFC, found the number one ranked photo for a particular subject, did a google search, found and emailed the photographer via their website. I received a rapid response from them having alerted them to this thread, and they promptly opted out their 1500+ high quality photos. That took me minimal effort. If we all had two or three successes using this method we'd make a big impact on DPC

Keep up the good work :)


It requires a united effort from united photographers. 5 minutes less time browsing this forum spent emailing one photographer with photos on DPC is effort well spent
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ferdinand on June 04, 2014, 08:21
Just a note: i don't feel beining punished for opting out (opted out on may 1, even deleted files from Fotolia), sale are going fine, getting nice credit sale to. Such a pity Fotolia don't concentrate the effort on those instead o this DPC madness.


same here
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: pkphotos on June 04, 2014, 08:37
SUCCESS! Let's keep up this effort. A few hours ago I did a quick search on DFC, found the number one ranked photo for a particular subject, did a google search, found and emailed the photographer via their website. I received a rapid response from them having alerted them to this thread, and they promptly opted out their 1500+ high quality photos. That took me minimal effort. If we all had two or three successes using this method we'd make a big impact on DPC

EMAIL SENT TO ANOTHER PHOTOGRAPHER, WHO PROMPTLY OPTED OUT!!!!!!!!!! This time the photographer had over 8000 photos and they are A+ grade creative photos. This photographer opted out with one simple email. Therefore it has to be assumed that a large number of photographers are not aware of DFC. I simply point them to this forum thread and give them a bit of encouragement.

It'd be great if some of you give it a go, simply find a photographer name in DPC, google their website and email them. It's that easy.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on June 04, 2014, 08:52
It requires a united effort from united photographers. 5 minutes less time browsing this forum spent emailing one photographer with photos on DPC is effort well spent

I disagree. DPC numbers are going back up again. This effort is going nowhere.

I'd much rather see people spend 5 minutes doing something to help a good company. Upload some images to a small company that pays 50% or more. Post to fb or twitter about a good company you support and encourage people to check out. Instead of emailing contacting contributors to get them to opt out, maybe contact contributors and encourage them to upload to a lesser-known site that pays well.

I view things like this as equally (if not more more) important than trying to get DPC numbers down (which obviously isn't working anyway). Imagine if we rallied around a small company in the same way we tried to rally against DPC and added 7 million images to an up-and-comer. Fotolia doesn't care if we took away 7 million images from DPC. But maybe they'd take more notice if we took away 7 million images and then helped push one of their competitors a little further up in the tiers.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Shelma1 on June 04, 2014, 09:05
It requires a united effort from united photographers. 5 minutes less time browsing this forum spent emailing one photographer with photos on DPC is effort well spent

I disagree. DPC numbers are going back up again. This effort is going nowhere.

I'd much rather see people spend 5 minutes doing something to help a good company. Upload some images to a small company that pays 50% or more. Post to fb or twitter about a good company you support and encourage people to check out. Instead of emailing contacting contributors to get them to opt out, maybe contact contributors and encourage them to upload to a lesser-known site that pays well.

I view things like this as equally (if not more more) important than trying to get DPC numbers down (which obviously isn't working anyway). Imagine if we rallied around a small company in the same way we tried to rally against DPC and added 7 million images to an up-and-comer. Fotolia doesn't care if we took away 7 million images from DPC. But maybe they'd take more notice if we took away 7 million images and then helped push one of their competitors a little further up in the tiers.

This is a bit of a false dichotomy, no? It's not one thing or the other. You can email contributors about DPC and upload to sites that pay a higher percentage, if you wish.

The more photographers know about it, the more they might tell their friends to opt out as well.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Desintegrator on June 04, 2014, 09:09
It requires a united effort from united photographers. 5 minutes less time browsing this forum spent emailing one photographer with photos on DPC is effort well spent

I disagree. DPC numbers are going back up again. This effort is going nowhere.

I'd much rather see people spend 5 minutes doing something to help a good company. Upload some images to a small company that pays 50% or more. Post to fb or twitter about a good company you support and encourage people to check out. Instead of emailing contacting contributors to get them to opt out, maybe contact contributors and encourage them to upload to a lesser-known site that pays well.

I view things like this as equally (if not more more) important than trying to get DPC numbers down (which obviously isn't working anyway). Imagine if we rallied around a small company in the same way we tried to rally against DPC and added 7 million images to an up-and-comer. Fotolia doesn't care if we took away 7 million images from DPC. But maybe they'd take more notice if we took away 7 million images and then helped push one of their competitors a little further up in the tiers.

I partly agree, partly not.

Generally agree about the a positive approach could be better, like supporting the good thing instead of fighting against the bad.

Still, these efforts are never in vain. As you can see there are still contributors with no idea about DPC. Even if we can't stop DPC, they at least deserve to know what's happening to their images, to the stock market, and the more opt out the better.

Also to do the thing you described we need to contact buyers, which for many of us seems to be way more hopeless than finding other contributors. Basicly that's way we are using agencies. I have really now idea who are the people who actually buy stock images, where to find them, where to contact them. That kind of an invisible world for me. Of course it can e different for some of you.
But i' seeing much better chance to find contributors to inform than to find buyers.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on June 04, 2014, 09:11
This is a bit of a false dichotomy, no? It's not one thing or the other. You can email contributors about DPC and upload to sites that pay a higher percentage, if you wish.

The more photographers know about it, the more they might tell their friends to opt out as well.

Sure you can do both. I was commenting more on the idea of taking 5 minutes and doing something. I'd personally rather use 5 more minutes to do something to add to a good company than worry about taking something away from a bad company. Especially when taking images out of DPC clearly isn't working anymore. The image count is back over 21.8 million and rising.

My point is that we've done the "let's pull our images" thing for years at various agencies and it hasn't done much. And as hard as it is to get people to rally behind a good company I really wish we'd at least try. It can't be any less effective than what we're doing now.

I'm just tired of being negative about things and I'm looking at ways to make positive change. Focusing on the negative and the companies behaving badly isn't helping us. It's time for a new strategy.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ShadySue on June 04, 2014, 09:16
Also to do the thing you described we need to contact buyers,...
Risky strategy - contacting buyers is a double-edged sword.
Assuming buyers don't know already about DPC, there would be a highish proportion who would be delighted that there is a cheaper place to buy images.
Some would be concerned about fair trade, and might respond in the way contributors would like. I'm sure a lot think we're not chained to our cameras/computers in a sweat shop, so if our work is somewhere, we're happy with the deal.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on June 04, 2014, 09:17
...Also to do the thing you described we need to contact buyers, which for many of us seems to be way more hopeless than finding other contributors. Basicly that's way we are using agencies. I have really now idea who are the people who actually buy stock images, where to find them, where to contact them. That kind of an invisible world for me. Of course it can e different for some of you.
But i' seeing much better chance to find contributors to inform than to find buyers.

That's understandable. We're contributors so the contributor world is more accessible to us. Buyers, maybe not so much.

If contributors are who someone has access to, then by all means, contact contributors. But maybe instead of just asking them to opt out of DPC, also mention a good company you recommend. I'd have to assume that if so many contributors aren't aware of DPC (probably contributors who don't participate in this forum, read contributor blogs, etc) then they might also not know about some of the good lesser-known companies available to them. I think we could see just as much positive change for a good company as we've seen in negative change for DPC, adding more images to a good agency and giving them more to work with, more to sell, more to offer their customers.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Desintegrator on June 04, 2014, 09:21
Also to do the thing you described we need to contact buyers,...
Risky strategy - contacting buyers is a double-edged sword.
Assuming buyers don't know already about DPC, there would be a highish proportion who would be delighted that there is a cheaper place to buy images.
Some would be concerned about fair trade, and might respond in the way contributors would like. I'm sure a lot think we're not chained to our cameras/computers in a sweat shop, so if our work is somewhere, we're happy with the deal.

I was meaning informing buyers about fair agencies and driving them there to buy our images. There's relly no use in telling them how bad DPC is, as it's not bad for them..
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Desintegrator on June 04, 2014, 09:25
...Also to do the thing you described we need to contact buyers, which for many of us seems to be way more hopeless than finding other contributors. Basicly that's way we are using agencies. I have really now idea who are the people who actually buy stock images, where to find them, where to contact them. That kind of an invisible world for me. Of course it can e different for some of you.
But i' seeing much better chance to find contributors to inform than to find buyers.

That's understandable. We're contributors so the contributor world is more accessible to us. Buyers, maybe not so much.

If contributors are who someone has access to, then by all means, contact contributors. But maybe instead of just asking them to opt out of DPC, also mention a good company you recommend. I'd have to assume that if so many contributors aren't aware of DPC (probably contributors who don't participate in this forum, read contributor blogs, etc) then they might also not know about some of the good lesser-known companies available to them. I think we could see just as much positive change for a good company as we've seen in negative change for DPC, adding more images to a good agency and giving them more to work with, more to sell, more to offer their customers.

yes, that's good approach. When explaining why is DPC bad for the market it's convenient to include examples of agencies which show progress in selling images at higher price points and even giving better commissions.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: marthamarks on June 04, 2014, 09:27
...also mention a good company you recommend. I'd have to assume that if so many contributors aren't aware of DPC (probably contributors who don't participate in this forum, read contributor blogs, etc) then they might also not know about some of the good lesser-known companies available to them. I think we could see just as much positive change for a good company as we've seen in negative change for DPC, adding more images to a good agency and giving them more to work with, more to sell, more to offer their customers.

In case one of those unaware contributors happens to read this thread... what would your recommendation be if somebody asked you to name a "good lesser-known company"?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Shelma1 on June 04, 2014, 09:30
...Also to do the thing you described we need to contact buyers, which for many of us seems to be way more hopeless than finding other contributors. Basicly that's way we are using agencies. I have really now idea who are the people who actually buy stock images, where to find them, where to contact them. That kind of an invisible world for me. Of course it can e different for some of you.
But i' seeing much better chance to find contributors to inform than to find buyers.

That's understandable. We're contributors so the contributor world is more accessible to us. Buyers, maybe not so much.

If contributors are who someone has access to, then by all means, contact contributors. But maybe instead of just asking them to opt out of DPC, also mention a good company you recommend. I'd have to assume that if so many contributors aren't aware of DPC (probably contributors who don't participate in this forum, read contributor blogs, etc) then they might also not know about some of the good lesser-known companies available to them. I think we could see just as much positive change for a good company as we've seen in negative change for DPC, adding more images to a good agency and giving them more to work with, more to sell, more to offer their customers.

Recommending other agencies is a good and helpful strategy, and I've been doing that on Twitter.

If you want to encourage folks to upload to and support other sites, why not start a thread about it?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on June 04, 2014, 09:50
In case one of those unaware contributors happens to read this thread... what would your recommendation be if somebody asked you to name a "good lesser-known company"?

Stockfresh.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on June 04, 2014, 09:54
...If you want to encourage folks to upload to and support other sites, why not start a thread about it?

I have, and those threads generally don't go anywhere because as a community, we are pretty terrible at getting behind anything in a positive way. We're really good at pointing out everything that's wrong with an agency, which is exactly what happens when anyone tries to get people to rally behind 1 or 2 good companies. Everyone has some problem with any company suggested. Or people get all pissy because they got rejected by that company. Or in the case of the company I'd recommend (see previous post) people can't let go of the past and will shun a good company out of spite.

I'd love to start another thread about this. But I'm not sure that we're at a place yet where enough people can put their egos aside and have a real discussion about what's good for us collectively. Those threads always devolve into more complaining and bickering.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: PhotoBomb on June 04, 2014, 10:00
Just heard from another big contributor, 20,000+ images that they have opted out.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Shelma1 on June 04, 2014, 10:01
Well, now I need to know what Stockfresh did to have people shun them.  8)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on June 04, 2014, 10:52
Well, now I need to know what Stockfresh did to have people shun them.  8)

I don't shun them, but I have no hope that they'll ever do the marketing they promised. My files are still there, but sales are very, very sluggish.

Peter (owner) originally said he'd start marketing once they reached xx million images. They reached that ages ago, but as far as I know, they've done nothing.

There's no spite, but once you start breaking promises, why would contributors root for you?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Shelma1 on June 04, 2014, 11:14
...If you want to encourage folks to upload to and support other sites, why not start a thread about it?

I have, and those threads generally don't go anywhere because as a community, we are pretty terrible at getting behind anything in a positive way. We're really good at pointing out everything that's wrong with an agency, which is exactly what happens when anyone tries to get people to rally behind 1 or 2 good companies. Everyone has some problem with any company suggested. Or people get all pissy because they got rejected by that company. Or in the case of the company I'd recommend (see previous post) people can't let go of the past and will shun a good company out of spite.

I'd love to start another thread about this. But I'm not sure that we're at a place yet where enough people can put their egos aside and have a real discussion about what's good for us collectively. Those threads always devolve into more complaining and bickering.

Fear and anger...the two great motivators. People are angry that their images are suddenly being sold for a dollar, and fearful that it will have a negative impact on earnings. It finally reached a point where fear and anger overcame inertia.

It's a hard sell to get people to do all the work required to upload to a new agency, and even harder to convince them they need to help with marketing because the owner isn't doing it but is still keeping 50% of sales (in the case of StockFresh, for example).

If there was a site with both great royalties and great sales, I'm sure everyone would be behind it in a New York minute. But for now it seems the easiest and most motivating thing to do is try to squash DPC to at least protect the earnings we're getting from all the work we've already done.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Rinderart on June 04, 2014, 11:30
If ya go back to the beginning, we have come a long ways But, we have a long ways yet to go and the last thing or Place we should never be. Is going backwards.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: PixelBytes on June 04, 2014, 15:20
If ya go back to the beginning, we have come a long ways But, we have a long ways yet to go and the last thing or Place we should never be. Is going backwards.

I would love to go backwards a couple years to when we were making good money and the websites treated us good.  Can we please go backwards to that? 
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Will on June 04, 2014, 15:27
...If you want to encourage folks to upload to and support other sites, why not start a thread about it?


I have, and those threads generally don't go anywhere because as a community, we are pretty terrible at getting behind anything in a positive way. We're really good at pointing out everything that's wrong with an agency, which is exactly what happens when anyone tries to get people to rally behind 1 or 2 good companies. Everyone has some problem with any company suggested. Or people get all pissy because they got rejected by that company. Or in the case of the company I'd recommend (see previous post) people can't let go of the past and will shun a good company out of spite.

I'd love to start another thread about this. But I'm not sure that we're at a place yet where enough people can put their egos aside and have a real discussion about what's good for us collectively. Those threads always devolve into more complaining and bickering.


http://www.microstockgroup.com/general-stock-discussion/protect-the-market/ (http://www.microstockgroup.com/general-stock-discussion/protect-the-market/)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: pkphotos on June 04, 2014, 18:40
...Also to do the thing you described we need to contact buyers, which for many of us seems to be way more hopeless than finding other contributors. Basicly that's way we are using agencies. I have really now idea who are the people who actually buy stock images, where to find them, where to contact them. That kind of an invisible world for me. Of course it can e different for some of you.
But i' seeing much better chance to find contributors to inform than to find buyers.

That's understandable. We're contributors so the contributor world is more accessible to us. Buyers, maybe not so much.

If contributors are who someone has access to, then by all means, contact contributors. But maybe instead of just asking them to opt out of DPC, also mention a good company you recommend. I'd have to assume that if so many contributors aren't aware of DPC (probably contributors who don't participate in this forum, read contributor blogs, etc) then they might also not know about some of the good lesser-known companies available to them. I think we could see just as much positive change for a good company as we've seen in negative change for DPC, adding more images to a good agency and giving them more to work with, more to sell, more to offer their customers.

Talking about the issues isn't productive. Enlightening unaware photographers that their photos are on DPC is. The fact that both photogs I emailed were unaware about DFC and then took immediate opt out action means we can achieve a lot if we take ACTION. You take a million photos out of DFC and it hurts them a lot, especially if you are emailing contributors with photos that appear at the top of searches.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on June 04, 2014, 21:37
Well, now I need to know what Stockfresh did to have people shun them.  8)

They sold out. Which, on the surface, I suppose is a valid concern, that they'll just do it again and we'll be left holding the bag.

Except they didn't truly "sell out" like some folks would have you believe, selling to Getty and getting StockXpert shut down in the process. They sold to Jupiter, which was then sold to Getty and StockXpert got closed in that deal because StockXpert and iStock were too similar. Getty already had iStock, no need for StockXpert.

I honestly don't believe that the StockXpert crew thought that they'd end up in the hands of Getty or that StockXpert would be closed. They probably thought that in the hands of Jupiter, StockXpert could go on for a long time. Who knew that Jupiter (and everything they owned) would go to Getty shortly thereafter?

And really, who cares anyway? You can't fault them for selling to Jupiter, and really who can be upset about what Peter and company did with StockXpert while it was still up and running? We made a lot of money with StockXpert. I was making about $500 per month towards the end. Sure I would have liked to see that continue. But I don't blame Peter for what happened. I have no idea what they got in the Jupiter deal but I imagine that few of us would have turned down that kind of money either, if given the chance.

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Rinderart on June 04, 2014, 23:55
I thought Peter and Stock Expert was a great site, very sad what happened. best reviewers anywhere. wonderful Site. I made a lot of Money.


Question...... are we still On This DPC thing. Are we petering Out like we do most things??
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Svetlana on June 04, 2014, 23:56
Recent numbers:
Fotolia: 28,746,698 images
DPC: 21,845,945 images
Difference: 6,900,753 images
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: WindyTai on June 05, 2014, 01:43
Great work "pkphoto"

I appreciate your effort!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Snow on June 05, 2014, 03:02
...If you want to encourage folks to upload to and support other sites, why not start a thread about it?

I have, and those threads generally don't go anywhere because as a community, we are pretty terrible at getting behind anything in a positive way. We're really good at pointing out everything that's wrong with an agency, which is exactly what happens when anyone tries to get people to rally behind 1 or 2 good companies. Everyone has some problem with any company suggested. Or people get all pissy because they got rejected by that company. Or in the case of the company I'd recommend (see previous post) people can't let go of the past and will shun a good company out of spite.

I'd love to start another thread about this. But I'm not sure that we're at a place yet where enough people can put their egos aside and have a real discussion about what's good for us collectively. Those threads always devolve into more complaining and bickering.

Don't forget the groupies who think their best earner is the holy grail, not realising that particular agency is just better at covering it all up. Or actual agency staff who tries to steer these threads in their advantage.
Imagine if some of those contributor friendly agencies would get the upper hand, the top tiers would either try to destroy them or buy them out.
As for us, deep down we know agencies do not have any respect for their contributors but do we still have any self respect?
Looking at some of the high quality and artistic work some provide while selling them under the worst possible conditions it seems not.
It's as if we are punishing ourselves by supporting the crooked and then like to spend our time complaining about it like a bunch of old grannies. No action but lots of talk.
The smart ones out there are taking action by moving into other outlets, taking a stand (recent deals) or start building their own site, some with success, others without but at least they have tried and know there is more out there or that we can manipulate as much as the agencies do. Others don't seem to have a clue of what is happening or where this business is heading and have the illusion they are still going forward.
For those that are aware we know it's our own fault by getting involved with them. We know how this business model works and that it doesn't work in our best interest. Agencies expect people that are looking for a side income, be it hobbyists or commissioned photographers/illustrators dumping stuff that would otherwise collect dust on their drives and that is exactly how they treat us, like a bunch of hobbyists looking for a few bucks. Some like to use the word "professional" but there is nothing professional about microstock, never was really.
Will we ever get together, big and small players and support the fair agencies? I think we are better of changing the name of this site to Microstocksolo :)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ArtesiaWells on June 05, 2014, 04:06
I thought I'd let you know what I decided - I am closing with Fotolia.
Looking forward to payday... 8)


Dear Fotolia

I found the one and only image that I left in my account with you on this (Chinese) page
[url]http://www.artgalore.ca/PhotosByArtist.php?ArtistID=202540410&ArtistName=artesiawells[/url] ([url]http://www.artgalore.ca/PhotosByArtist.php?ArtistID=202540410&ArtistName=artesiawells[/url])

Since I am engaged with other agencies with much of my portfolio I need to know where my copyrighted work is being published and for sale. This new find together with the insecurities of the past month, I consider it to be of the utmost urgency that I close my account with Fotolia.

I look forward to your confirmation and a payout of the equivalent of 3.3 credits as soon as possible.


Sincerely,
xxArtesiaWells


On Fri, May 16, 2014 at 10:35 AM, Fotolia.com <[email protected]> wrote:
    
Fotolia   View in your browser
 
       
    

"Hello,
 
We're sorry to see you have recently removed some files from your portfolio.
If you change your mind please remember that you can just send us a ticket and we'll put all your files back online. However, this must be done within the next 30 days.
Also, we would like to remind you that you can choose to opt in or opt out your images from DPC in your photographers' parameters.
We hope to see you back soon and will be doing all to grow your income.

Kind Regards,

The Fotolia Team"


Chinese page? It's Canadian.


Sorry about that - it was not my intention to add to the drama or confusion - of course it is Canadian.
The reason I got Chinese was that I ended up on a Chinese page when I checked on a few other things around the same time.



Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on June 05, 2014, 04:21
I assume that every contributor has a limit. The straw that break the camel's back? Every time one of those back breaking straws is added, a contributor will take action, one contributor at a time. Its a slow process but in the end enough is enough. Something has to give at some point.

Only concern is that a lot of contributors are seeing this as extra income, like me, if it all got taken away from me today, I would still have my day job. The other type of contributor is the one living in a country where the earnings are very big, even at pennies, for their country.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on June 05, 2014, 09:39
...Will we ever get together, big and small players and support the fair agencies?...

I wish we would. I think it's a far better way to spend our time trying to make change happen in this business. The DPC effort was a good one. And it did achieve some impressive results. Something like 7 million images removed from the site. That's pretty amazing.

Unfortunately the image count at DPC is on it's way back up. And really there is no way we could have ever gotten enough images off of DPC to really make them even blink. Even if somehow the image count dropped below 20 million, that's still a lot of images, more than enough to run an agency with.

But going the other way, adding images to a small start-up company or a potential up-and-comer, that could be huge. Imagine some little agency offering a fair deal for contributors and fair prices for buyers, but not attracting enough contributor attention because they're small and unproven. It's a common story in this business today. People don't want to waste time with an agency that might not make it, even though an agency stands a much better chance at competing if they have a collection that is comparable in size to the other big companies.

What if we could add 7 million images to a small company? We could jump-start a start-up with a nice collection of 7 million images right off the bat. Or boost a small existing collection. Stockfresh has something like 3 million images. A boost like this puts them over 10 million.

We've tried the "pull our images" route many times. It doesn't work. The agencies know that we could never manage to get enough images pulled from any company to do any real damage. Not when some of them have 20 or 30 million (or more) images.

Maybe it's time to go the other way. I just don't know how we mobilize around an effort like that. For some reason, it's a lot harder to get people to support something that would boost a company rather than try to damage it.

There is also the issue of not everyone getting in to every agency. This can be a very fickle crowd, going from being supportive to brandishing pitchforks when a rejection email comes in. I remember when Stocksy launched there was someone who said in this forum that they would actively work against Stocksy simply because they had gotten rejected. Rather than helping a good thing along and being supportive, some folks here would rather see it burn down if they can't be a part of it at this very moment. No matter how shortsighted that is or that they could just re-apply later on.

I'd love to see us rally behind a small company, but I just don't see how it's possible given the way things seem to work around here and the negative attitudes of far too many people.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: loop on June 05, 2014, 09:47
That, although not ended, is just the first deactivations wave. The second and harder one will come in some time when (if DPC is succedssful), people begin to wonder what happened with their sales at other sites. The ones that knew about DPC but choosed to stay there, will understand that they have shot themselves in the foot. The people that really dind't know what's happening, will know.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Shelma1 on June 05, 2014, 11:04
What if we could add 7 million images to a small company? We could jump-start a start-up with a nice collection of 7 million images right off the bat. Or boost a small existing collection. Stockfresh has something like 3 million images. A boost like this puts them over 10 million.

Maybe it's time to go the other way. I just don't know how we mobilize around an effort like that. For some reason, it's a lot harder to get people to support something that would boost a company rather than try to damage it.

Because mobilizing an effort like that is a lot harder for everyone.

It's much easier to opt out all your images (3 minutes) than to upload hundreds, or in my case, thousands of images to a new site. That would take me many, many hours, and I want to see a financial return for all that time. And if I have to pitch in with marketing because they're not doing it, I want to be paid for that, too.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Rinderart on June 05, 2014, 12:58
...If you want to encourage folks to upload to and support other sites, why not start a thread about it?

I have, and those threads generally don't go anywhere because as a community, we are pretty terrible at getting behind anything in a positive way. We're really good at pointing out everything that's wrong with an agency, which is exactly what happens when anyone tries to get people to rally behind 1 or 2 good companies. Everyone has some problem with any company suggested. Or people get all pissy because they got rejected by that company. Or in the case of the company I'd recommend (see previous post) people can't let go of the past and will shun a good company out of spite.

I'd love to start another thread about this. But I'm not sure that we're at a place yet where enough people can put their egos aside and have a real discussion about what's good for us collectively. Those threads always devolve into more complaining and bickering.

Don't forget the groupies who think their best earner is the holy grail, not realising that particular agency is just better at covering it all up. Or actual agency staff who tries to steer these threads in their advantage.
Imagine if some of those contributor friendly agencies would get the upper hand, the top tiers would either try to destroy them or buy them out.
As for us, deep down we know agencies do not have any respect for their contributors but do we still have any self respect?
Looking at some of the high quality and artistic work some provide while selling them under the worst possible conditions it seems not.
It's as if we are punishing ourselves by supporting the crooked and then like to spend our time complaining about it like a bunch of old grannies. No action but lots of talk.
The smart ones out there are taking action by moving into other outlets, taking a stand (recent deals) or start building their own site, some with success, others without but at least they have tried and know there is more out there or that we can manipulate as much as the agencies do. Others don't seem to have a clue of what is happening or where this business is heading and have the illusion they are still going forward.
For those that are aware we know it's our own fault by getting involved with them. We know how this business model works and that it doesn't work in our best interest. Agencies expect people that are looking for a side income, be it hobbyists or commissioned photographers/illustrators dumping stuff that would otherwise collect dust on their drives and that is exactly how they treat us, like a bunch of hobbyists looking for a few bucks. Some like to use the word "professional" but there is nothing professional about microstock, never was really.
Will we ever get together, big and small players and support the fair agencies? I think we are better of changing the name of this site to Microstocksolo :)


Perfect..+1
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Rinderart on June 05, 2014, 12:59
...Will we ever get together, big and small players and support the fair agencies?...

I wish we would. I think it's a far better way to spend our time trying to make change happen in this business. The DPC effort was a good one. And it did achieve some impressive results. Something like 7 million images removed from the site. That's pretty amazing.

Unfortunately the image count at DPC is on it's way back up. And really there is no way we could have ever gotten enough images off of DPC to really make them even blink. Even if somehow the image count dropped below 20 million, that's still a lot of images, more than enough to run an agency with.

But going the other way, adding images to a small start-up company or a potential up-and-comer, that could be huge. Imagine some little agency offering a fair deal for contributors and fair prices for buyers, but not attracting enough contributor attention because they're small and unproven. It's a common story in this business today. People don't want to waste time with an agency that might not make it, even though an agency stands a much better chance at competing if they have a collection that is comparable in size to the other big companies.

What if we could add 7 million images to a small company? We could jump-start a start-up with a nice collection of 7 million images right off the bat. Or boost a small existing collection. Stockfresh has something like 3 million images. A boost like this puts them over 10 million.

We've tried the "pull our images" route many times. It doesn't work. The agencies know that we could never manage to get enough images pulled from any company to do any real damage. Not when some of them have 20 or 30 million (or more) images.

Maybe it's time to go the other way. I just don't know how we mobilize around an effort like that. For some reason, it's a lot harder to get people to support something that would boost a company rather than try to damage it.

There is also the issue of not everyone getting in to every agency. This can be a very fickle crowd, going from being supportive to brandishing pitchforks when a rejection email comes in. I remember when Stocksy launched there was someone who said in this forum that they would actively work against Stocksy simply because they had gotten rejected. Rather than helping a good thing along and being supportive, some folks here would rather see it burn down if they can't be a part of it at this very moment. No matter how shortsighted that is or that they could just re-apply later on.

I'd love to see us rally behind a small company, but I just don't see how it's possible given the way things seem to work around here and the negative attitudes of far too many people.

Great Post.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on June 05, 2014, 13:58
Because mobilizing an effort like that is a lot harder for everyone.

It's much easier to opt out all your images (3 minutes) than to upload hundreds, or in my case, thousands of images to a new site. That would take me many, many hours, and I want to see a financial return for all that time. And if I have to pitch in with marketing because they're not doing it, I want to be paid for that, too.

And that right there is why there's no point in even trying to mobilize any effort like what I suggested. Everyone wants something but they don't want to assume any risk themselves. Apparently not even if we managed to come to some sort of community consensus on what the most fair company in the business is and that everyone should make an effort to support that company.

I'd rather spend hours doing something that might actually make a difference than 3 minutes doing something that has been done before and never seems to work.

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Shelma1 on June 05, 2014, 14:57
Because mobilizing an effort like that is a lot harder for everyone.

It's much easier to opt out all your images (3 minutes) than to upload hundreds, or in my case, thousands of images to a new site. That would take me many, many hours, and I want to see a financial return for all that time. And if I have to pitch in with marketing because they're not doing it, I want to be paid for that, too.

And that right there is why there's no point in even trying to mobilize any effort like what I suggested. Everyone wants something but they don't want to assume any risk themselves. Apparently not even if we managed to come to some sort of community consensus on what the most fair company in the business is and that everyone should make an effort to support that company.

I'd rather spend hours doing something that might actually make a difference than 3 minutes doing something that has been done before and never seems to work.

https://www.facebook.com/SymbiostockPage (https://www.facebook.com/SymbiostockPage)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: disorderly on June 05, 2014, 15:23
Well, now I need to know what Stockfresh did to have people shun them.  8)

Shun them?  Not at all.  They have ⅔ of my Shutterstock port, and until recently I was still uploading there.  Call it the triumph of reason over crazy optimism, but in four years they've shown me no sign of life.  I make as much in a month at 123RF as I have in four years at Stockfresh.  As best I can tell, they've done nothing to deliver customers to me.  Why would I expect that to change?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Shelma1 on June 05, 2014, 16:12
Because mobilizing an effort like that is a lot harder for everyone.

It's much easier to opt out all your images (3 minutes) than to upload hundreds, or in my case, thousands of images to a new site. That would take me many, many hours, and I want to see a financial return for all that time. And if I have to pitch in with marketing because they're not doing it, I want to be paid for that, too.

And that right there is why there's no point in even trying to mobilize any effort like what I suggested. Everyone wants something but they don't want to assume any risk themselves. Apparently not even if we managed to come to some sort of community consensus on what the most fair company in the business is and that everyone should make an effort to support that company.

I'd rather spend hours doing something that might actually make a difference than 3 minutes doing something that has been done before and never seems to work.

https://www.facebook.com/SymbiostockPage (https://www.facebook.com/SymbiostockPage)

In case you thought I was just mentioning Symbiostock. I created the Symbio Facebook page and have been posting on it and promoting the network as a whole for months. In fact, if I remember correctly, I promoted some of your work and blogged about your Symbio site as one of the best-looking. (You quit Symbiostock soon after.) I also paid for advertising for Symbiostock on Facebook and got donations from others in the network for ads. Several of us have been retweeting about each others' sites as well.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Svetlana on June 06, 2014, 10:28
Recent numbers:
Fotolia: 28,787,358 images
DPC: 21,891,992 images
Difference: 6,895,366 images
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on June 06, 2014, 17:26
In case you thought I was just mentioning Symbiostock. I created the Symbio Facebook page and have been posting on it and promoting the network as a whole for months. In fact, if I remember correctly, I promoted some of your work and blogged about your Symbio site as one of the best-looking. (You quit Symbiostock soon after.) I also paid for advertising for Symbiostock on Facebook and got donations from others in the network for ads. Several of us have been retweeting about each others' sites as well.

Symbiostock won't be a viable option until buyers don't need a separate account at every site. Even though the network makes it possible to search across many sites, buying is still the problem. It's way too much to ask a buyer to set up a new account for each site they want to buy from.

I think it's great that people are willing to put up their own money to help advertise and promote Symbiostock. I just don't see the point until it's really ready for buyers to use in a seamless way.

Just so you know, I quit Symbiostock when my site broke and I couldn't fix it. It was too buggy and I opted to shut it down and maybe restart it some day. I'm not inclined to do that any time soon, though, after not even covering my costs and struggling with maintaining the site.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Svetlana on June 07, 2014, 07:37
Latest stats:
Fotolia: 28,803,691 images
DPC: 21,893,144 images
Difference: 6,910,547 images
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Shelma1 on June 07, 2014, 07:39
Latest stats:
Fotolia: 28,803,691 images
DPC: 21,893,144 images
Difference: 6,910,547 images

So the difference between the two sites keeps growing. Great!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mantis on June 07, 2014, 07:51
Latest stats:
Fotolia: 28,803,691 images
DPC: 21,893,144 images
Difference: 6,910,547 images

So the difference between the two sites keeps growing. Great!

Awesome.  I've contacted a couple of people I know who have large ports there. Waiting to hear back.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Svetlana on June 08, 2014, 02:25
Stats:
Fotolia: 28,808,585 images
DPC: 21,888,576 images (latest change: 08-06-2014 11:08:59 (Moscow time) -13,424 images)
Difference: 6,920,009 images
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mantis on June 08, 2014, 07:45
Stats:
Fotolia: 28,808,585 images
DPC: 21,888,576 images (latest change: 08-06-2014 11:08:59 (Moscow time) -13,424 images)
Difference: 6,920,009 images

WOW the delta keeps getting bigger and bigger.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on June 08, 2014, 17:20
Stats:
Fotolia: 28,808,585 images
DPC: 21,888,576 images (latest change: 08-06-2014 11:08:59 (Moscow time) -13,424 images)
Difference: 6,920,009 images

WOW the delta keeps getting bigger and bigger.

Is that significant? I'm not sure how the difference matters, especially to buyers. At this point I think buyers are just satisfied to know that a site has more than X number of images, with X being whatever they are comfortable with.

DPC has 21.8 million images and growing. What else would matter to buyers?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: stock-will-eat-itself on June 08, 2014, 17:33

DPC has 21.8 million images and growing. What else would matter to buyers?

Maybe?

What does seem to be happening is these rebellions are growing in size, first iStock with the Google fiasco and now Fotolia with DPC.

There is a definite mood change from contributors, the masses are not happy any more thats for sure.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mantis on June 08, 2014, 18:52
Stats:
Fotolia: 28,808,585 images
DPC: 21,888,576 images (latest change: 08-06-2014 11:08:59 (Moscow time) -13,424 images)
Difference: 6,920,009 images

WOW the delta keeps getting bigger and bigger.

Is that significant? I'm not sure how the difference matters, especially to buyers. At this point I think buyers are just satisfied to know that a site has more than X number of images, with X being whatever they are comfortable with.

DPC has 21.8 million images and growing. What else would matter to buyers?

I disagree. If OLEG the magnificent and his FT business were doing so well then:
1. Why didn't they start with an opt out to DPC?
2. Why did they add an opt out? Because they were in my opinion breaking the law and the community reacted accordingly.
3. Why did FOTOLIA NOT email all of their contributors explaining the opt out option? We know why. Greed.
4. When people started to opt out, why did they concoct an EL option to lure people back, why not do it up front? Greed.
5. Why did FOTOLIA then start an email campaign asking contributors to opt back in?
6. Why did FOTOLIA start kicking people out of FOTOLIA for OLEG's own greed?
7. Why did FOTOLIA hire a fake customer (or customers) to keep tweeting how great DPC is?
8. Why couldn't FT get real buyers to tweet how great DPC is?

If 6 million images isn't bothering them.............hmmmmm then why the above?
 
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on June 08, 2014, 20:59
There is a definite mood change from contributors, the masses are not happy any more thats for sure.

Sorry but that's just false. The "masses"? 21% of Fotolia's images have been opted out of DPC. I don't think 21% qualifies as "masses" when it's not even the majority.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on June 08, 2014, 21:06
If 6 million images isn't bothering them.............hmmmmm then why the above?

Because that's all they did. If they were really bothered by losing 6 million images, there is a lot more they could do. Starting with no opt-out. Contrary to popular belief, Fotolia doesn't have to offer an opt-out. And if they lost enough images, you can bet that they'd yank the opt-out and force inclusion, much like what iStock does with non-exclusives in their partner program. Or is anyone under the illusion that Thinkstock is illegal, too?

There is a lot more that Fotolia could do. The fact they they are sending out some emails and tweets is nothing. Just like 6 million images is nothing to them. They still have 22 million, more than enough to carry on without blinking an eye at any contributor unrest.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ariene on June 09, 2014, 02:12
Quote
WOW the delta keeps getting bigger and bigger.

Wow, FT's ignorance is just stunning!

If OLEG the magnificent and his FT business were doing so well then:
1. Why didn't they start with an opt out to DPC?
2. Why did they add an opt out? Because they were in my opinion breaking the law and the community reacted accordingly.
3. Why did FOTOLIA NOT email all of their contributors explaining the opt out option? We know why. Greed.
4. When people started to opt out, why did they concoct an EL option to lure people back, why not do it up front? Greed.
5. Why did FOTOLIA then start an email campaign asking contributors to opt back in?
6. Why did FOTOLIA start kicking people out of FOTOLIA for OLEG's own greed?
7. Why did FOTOLIA hire a fake customer (or customers) to keep tweeting how great DPC is?
8. Why couldn't FT get real buyers to tweet how great DPC is?

If 6 million images isn't bothering them.............hmmmmm then why the above?

Golden points here above!

Is that all-opt out from DPC and...?

I just can't understand why people keep their PF with places like FT if they are treated like this  ::) All ethical limits were crossed and authors still upload to that place, help to grow? Sorry, what I'm missing here?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: BaldricksTrousers on June 09, 2014, 03:27
It's not six million, it's seven million. It was six million a week or two ago. Seven million is a quarter of the collection, and probably the best quarter of it. Well to be exact it is 24% (which is not the 21% that Mike somehow calculates).

Sure, Fotolia could make it compulsory to participate but maybe they are afraid they would simply lose 24% of their entire collection if they do that to people who have made the effort to opt out. Maybe they don't want even more bad publicity alerting even more people to what they are up to.

Mike, why are you constantly trying to sabotage this effort? It's as if you want Fotolia to succeed in further devaluing the market.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ctpult on June 09, 2014, 05:00
I am wondering how much bigger the difference of images count between Fotolia and DPC would be if no one would have deleted images from Fotolia or stopped uploading to them, but just have opted out from DPC instead. Currently I am not uploading to Fotolia, but this makes me think if uploading to Fotolia and being opted out from DPC would make DPC less attractive for the buyers, as the images count difference between Fotolia and DPC would grow bigger.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: cobalt on June 09, 2014, 05:46
Fotolia is the largest European agency and the strongest here in Germany. Many people earn more on Fotolia than on Shutterstock or istock or even both combined. Fotolia also pays out up to 63 % to their exclusive artists. Even at my lowly bronze level I would already be earning 40% with higher pricing if I was fully artist exclusive.

So this is a really major player for many of us and people will not just walk away.

Here in Germany Fotolia is also reaching out directly, in the German forum people are reporting that fotolia is calling up many artists and not just top level people to ask about DPC and invite them back in. They also ask about Fotolia in general etc...but I am not hearing that anyone was convinced and opted back in. Maybe some do but don´t share that in the forums, I don´t know.

There is a very active stock artist community around Fotolia, they are deeply involved in "fotocommunity" the German version of flickr.

Fotolia even has a gallery in Berlin that showcases the work of their artists.

Many artists would love to see more attention given to Fotolia and to have Fotolias presence expanded to the US, not DPC.

I understand that for many US artists Fotolia only brings in a negligible income, so giving it up completely is easy. But for the artists here the situation is different. Shutterstock, istock or anyone else is not bringing in the same level of income.

Personally, I have opted out of DPC, but I will continue to work with Fotolia, inspite of the known communication problems and surprising changes. But I don´t think that what they do is worse than istock/getty (they are still planning to pay for content...) and as an independent my risk is spread over several sites.

I have content for many price levels and many different agencies. Fotolia is in the "normal micro stock" group. I have more specific content for macro sites and lower value content for extremely cheap sites, or sites I am still new to and don´t know what to expect.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: disorderly on June 09, 2014, 06:09
I am wondering how much bigger the difference of images count between Fotolia and DPC would be if no one would have deleted images from Fotolia or stopped uploading to them, but just have opted out from DPC instead. Currently I am not uploading to Fotolia, but this makes me think if uploading to Fotolia and being opted out from DPC would make DPC less attractive for the buyers, as the images count difference between Fotolia and DPC would grow bigger.

I can't imagine that any customers care.  Some of us may obsess over the relative numbers, but buyers will only be concerned with the quality and quantity of product and the quality of service.  As long as they find a reasonable selection of images that meet their needs, why would the relative size of DPC vs. the Fotolia Mother Ship matter to them?

Me, I'm opted out from DPC and continuing to delete my Fotolia port one image at a time.  I can't change buyers' behavior, but at least I can avoid supporting those who work against my interests.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on June 09, 2014, 08:57
Mike, why are you constantly trying to sabotage this effort? It's as if you want Fotolia to succeed in further devaluing the market.

Sabotage? Are you serious? I got people to opt out, after I did so myself. I blogged, tweeted, and posted on facebook about this. I communicated directly with Mat about this in hopes of getting him to understand why this is such a bad thing for contributors. I've been a part of this effort and have never supported DPC.

Furthermore, I've stated all along that I support efforts to change the course of things in this business, as long as those efforts are going somewhere. I still would support any effort to stop DPC if it were even remotely possible to have an impact, but unfortunately this opt-out effort isn't working and it's a waste of time. However I have always (and still do) welcome different strategies to effect change.

I highly resent your implication that I'm trying to sabotage anything, that I want DPC to succeed, or that I want to devalue anyone's work. The fact that your accusations are getting up votes is even more disturbing. Really makes me wonder why I keep coming back here.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Shelma1 on June 09, 2014, 09:25
I am wondering how much bigger the difference of images count between Fotolia and DPC would be if no one would have deleted images from Fotolia or stopped uploading to them, but just have opted out from DPC instead. Currently I am not uploading to Fotolia, but this makes me think if uploading to Fotolia and being opted out from DPC would make DPC less attractive for the buyers, as the images count difference between Fotolia and DPC would grow bigger.

I can't imagine that any customers care.  Some of us may obsess over the relative numbers, but buyers will only be concerned with the quality and quantity of product and the quality of service.  As long as they find a reasonable selection of images that meet their needs, why would the relative size of DPC vs. the Fotolia Mother Ship matter to them?

Me, I'm opted out from DPC and continuing to delete my Fotolia port one image at a time.  I can't change buyers' behavior, but at least I can avoid supporting those who work against my interests.

It may or may not matter to buyers. To the buyers who put images in their cart only to find that they couldn't buy them because they'd been removed, it mattered enough to tweet and complain about it. It could matter enough for them to look elsewhere.

If more images went missing, even more people wouldn't be able to buy the images they thought they could, and DPC would get a bad reputation. A bad reputation alone could kill them.

We've already succeeded in cutting their library by 24%, having at least a few buyers wonder what kind of crazy operation they are when images keep disappearing, and basically forcing Fotolia into offering an opt out lest they risk losing millions of images in their main collection.

Just because we didn't shut them down completely in one month doesn't mean the effort is a failure. Even if it just makes us feel like we can finally come together and make some kind of positive change it's a success. And it's not over. People keep opting out.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: pkphotos on June 09, 2014, 09:55
The collective effort is definitely having an effect on Fotolia. I just got an email from a photographer whom I alerted to DPC. They said Fotolia rang them for the first time ever and wanted to know why they'd opted out of DPC. This is desperation on the part of Fotolia and illustrates how poorly they treat and understand the needs of their main asset, us photographers. If the gap keeps growing between DPC and Fotolia that should mean DPC should struggle long term because clients will certainly note the difference in choice.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: BaldricksTrousers on June 09, 2014, 12:01
Mike, why are you constantly trying to sabotage this effort? It's as if you want Fotolia to succeed in further devaluing the market.

Sabotage? Are you serious? I got people to opt out, after I did so myself. I blogged, tweeted, and posted on facebook about this. I communicated directly with Mat about this in hopes of getting him to understand why this is such a bad thing for contributors. I've been a part of this effort and have never supported DPC.

Furthermore, I've stated all along that I support efforts to change the course of things in this business, as long as those efforts are going somewhere. I still would support any effort to stop DPC if it were even remotely possible to have an impact, but unfortunately this opt-out effort isn't working and it's a waste of time. However I have always (and still do) welcome different strategies to effect change.

I highly resent your implication that I'm trying to sabotage anything, that I want DPC to succeed, or that I want to devalue anyone's work. The fact that your accusations are getting up votes is even more disturbing. Really makes me wonder why I keep coming back here.

Sorry, but that's the way it's coming across. You noted first that the number of files was slightly more at one point than it had been a week earlier and therefore discounted a one-day drop as being irrelevant because, you said, the effort had failed. You added that we should wait a week or so to see where things were going. 10 days later the tally was LOWER than it had been when you came up with that test of achievement, but you didn't acknowledge it.
You tell people that the effort they are making is a waste of time, that they've only reduced tally by 6 million images (when it's 7 million) and that simply will have no effect on Fotolia at all. You dismiss the letters Fotolia has sent to people asking them to reconsider as signifying nothing, you say there is only a 21% difference between Fotolia and DFC, when it is actually 24% difference. And hyou tell everyone that if they do start having an effect on Fotolie they will simply be forced to participate, which is merely speculation.
In short, you underplay every achievement of the boycott campaign and play up every difficulty it faces. If you don't want to sabotage the campaign then you have adopted the most defeatist attitude imaginable and seem to want to share the misery with all those who are still being positive.  It's a real pity when, as has been pointed out, the community is being more active and effective than it has ever been in standing up to this.
I'm sure we all know how heavily the odds are weighted against the campaign succeeding. But we also know that the one absolute guarantee of DPC coming out on top would be for everybody to adopt the negative attitude that you have expressed for the past three or four weeks.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: marthamarks on June 09, 2014, 15:05
But we also know that the one absolute guarantee of DPC coming out on top would be for everybody to adopt the negative attitude that you have expressed for the past three or four weeks.

Amen to everything you said. Very well put.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: leaf on June 09, 2014, 15:43
Mike, why are you constantly trying to sabotage this effort? It's as if you want Fotolia to succeed in further devaluing the market.

Sabotage? Are you serious? I got people to opt out, after I did so myself. I blogged, tweeted, and posted on facebook about this. I communicated directly with Mat about this in hopes of getting him to understand why this is such a bad thing for contributors. I've been a part of this effort and have never supported DPC.

Furthermore, I've stated all along that I support efforts to change the course of things in this business, as long as those efforts are going somewhere. I still would support any effort to stop DPC if it were even remotely possible to have an impact, but unfortunately this opt-out effort isn't working and it's a waste of time. However I have always (and still do) welcome different strategies to effect change.

I highly resent your implication that I'm trying to sabotage anything, that I want DPC to succeed, or that I want to devalue anyone's work. The fact that your accusations are getting up votes is even more disturbing. Really makes me wonder why I keep coming back here.


Agreed, I hardly think that EmberMike is doing anything to sabotage anything.  And since when is someone posting their opinion a sabotage.  That is the whole point of this site, to share opinions and discuss topics.  If we all agree about something, the discussion gets rather boring.  Debate about a subject is what we want.  I welcome people to have a different opinion, especially when it is expressed in a mature and professional way.  Keep at it EmberMike (and others).

[/soapbox]
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on June 09, 2014, 15:50
I dont think Mike is sabotaging anything. I think he just feels powerless against the agencies, to a point of frustration.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on June 09, 2014, 15:52
...You noted first that the number of files was slightly more at one point than it had been a week earlier and therefore discounted a one-day drop as being irrelevant because, you said, the effort had failed. You added that we should wait a week or so to see where things were going. 10 days later the tally was LOWER than it had been when you came up with that test of achievement, but you didn't acknowledge it....

I also didn't comment every time it went up. I wasn't ignoring anything, I just don't feel the need to comment on every change in numbers. For the record, I was right, though, the number is going up. But feel free to keep quibbling over the minutia of what I've said.

...
You tell people that the effort they are making is a waste of time, that they've only reduced tally by 6 million images (when it's 7 million) and that simply will have no effect on Fotolia at all. You dismiss the letters Fotolia has sent to people asking them to reconsider as signifying nothing, you say there is only a 21% difference between Fotolia and DFC, when it is actually 24% difference. And hyou tell everyone that if they do start having an effect on Fotolie they will simply be forced to participate, which is merely speculation...

I didn't come up with the 6 million number, I was just going by what others had stated here. And although technically it is in fact less than 7 million, rounding up is appropriate. I stand corrected.

But that's a far cry from "sabotage". And my point is still perfectly valid. Reducing the DPC collection by 24% is far from what would force Fotolia's hand to do something more significant. DPC can live on perfectly fine with 24% fewer images. I'd wager they'd still keep cruising along just fine with 50% fewer images really. How many images do you think they need to lose before they have to change course? I guarantee it's a lot more than 24%.

...
In short, you underplay every achievement of the boycott campaign and play up every difficulty it faces. If you don't want to sabotage the campaign then you have adopted the most defeatist attitude imaginable and seem to want to share the misery with all those who are still being positive...

Simply not true. I think I actually have a more positive attitude than most around here. I'm not interested in wasting time fighting these companies, it just doesn't work. I'm interested in positive action. Supporting good companies, collectively rallying around 1 or 2 of the most "fair trade" companies and trying to push them up the ladder. I believe that positive actions will have a far greater effect on the bad companies by putting pressure on them to act in the interests of contributors.

If you want to talk about underplaying efforts, you should look into my past threads here. Every time I (or anyone) has suggested that we band together behind a good company, those efforts are thwarted by naysayers, disgruntled contributors who were rejected by that company, or people just looking to be negative about things in general.

My attitude is not defeatist. It is progressive, as in, let's progress to the next plan and try to do something different. Frankly I think it's more defeatist to ignore the reality that opting out images isn't working but to simply keep on that losing path. Defeat is all but guaranteed if the majority of folks here are content to ignore reality and just keep hoping for the impossible.

...
I'm sure we all know how heavily the odds are weighted against the campaign succeeding. But we also know that the one absolute guarantee of DPC coming out on top would be for everybody to adopt the negative attitude that you have expressed for the past three or four weeks.

The one way to guarantee that DPC comes out on top is to ignore the hard facts. There is absolutely zero chance that DPC goes under 20 million images. I think they'd still be functional with 10 million (many companies operate fine with even less). So it is a near certainty that opting out images won't force any significant change. If more people had my attitude and were willing to move on to other efforts, then we might have something. Unfortunately very few people are interested in silly things like facts around here. And far fewer are interested in making change happen in a way that doesn't involve boycotts or opt-outs.

Again, we've done this all before. It doesn't work. I'm simply suggesting that we need to try something different. And that suggestion seems to be interpreted as sabotage, negative attitude, and defeatism.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: BaldricksTrousers on June 09, 2014, 16:20
OK, Mike, it's just a different point of view, then.
To me, DPC looks like a cancer that threatens the entire microstock body. It may not be possible to destroy it, but ignoring it and moving on to something else is not a good option, in my opinion.
I guess you see it as a minor problem that won't cause too much trouble if it is left to get on with whatever it will do.
I still don't understand why you started off joining in the campaign against it and then switched to announcing it was a lost cause and people should switch their attention to trying to activate a moribund site run by people who took our images, sold the previous site for $10m or whatever, and then set up another site and asked everyone to supply once more the images the site owners had already cashed in on once.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on June 09, 2014, 16:45
OK, Mike, it's just a different point of view, then.
To me, DPC looks like a cancer that threatens the entire microstock body. It may not be possible to destroy it, but ignoring it and moving on to something else is not a good option, in my opinion.
I guess you see it as a minor problem that won't cause too much trouble if it is left to get on with whatever it will do.
I still don't understand why you started off joining in the campaign against it and then switched to announcing it was a lost cause and people should switch their attention to trying to activate a moribund site run by people who took our images, sold the previous site for $10m or whatever, and then set up another site and asked everyone to supply once more the images the site owners had already cashed in on once.

I neversaid that DPC was a lost cause, I said getting enough images opted out to force a change wasn't going to work. I've always said that I would support other efforts to force DPC to change, although I don't know what would work. Throwing some huge effort behind supporting good companies is one way to try something different, but I've always been open to other ideas on how to push back at DPC.

I never said it was a minor problem. In fact, I've said the exact opposite here, that I consider it the biggest threat to our ability to earn in microstock.

I joined the campaign to get as many images opted out of DPC as possible because it was certainly worth a shot. I saw where it went and I have a pretty good idea of where it's going. So I think something different needs to be done.

I like Stockfresh, but I also have said that I'm open to other options if the majority of people wanted to rally behind a single company. A lot of people like GL. I'm good with that. I also don't share your concern about the Stockfresh guys having sold their previous company. They didn't sell with the intention of it getting shut down. It was supposed to simply change hands. But that's a discussion for a different thread.

I'm fine with differences of opinion, but you seem intent on twisting everything I say (or don't say) to suggest that I'm in favor of DPC and I'm against any effort to change it. That's not a different viewpoint, that's just simply slander.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: BaldricksTrousers on June 09, 2014, 16:57
Well, OK, so you want to change it. But how? To my mind trying to activate stockfresh is way more of a waste of time than trying to undermine the site that is the problem. If Stockfresh ever did become even a modest success, the owner's past record suggests they would just sell it off and pocket the cash.  Maybe Scanstockphoto is a better bet, I think they pay 50% (not sure) and I get a payout or two a year from them (but sending pictures to them wouldn't do anything to solve the DPC problem, either).
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Shelma1 on June 09, 2014, 17:12
A list of successful boycotts (the first one is particularly applicable to our situation):

http://www.ethicalconsumer.org/boycotts/successfulboycotts.aspx (http://www.ethicalconsumer.org/boycotts/successfulboycotts.aspx)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: pkphotos on June 09, 2014, 17:13
Perhaps Fotolia is so desperate they have created the odd profile or two to try and fill this topic with doubt about whether it is succeeding?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on June 09, 2014, 17:16
Well, OK, so you want to change it. But how?...

I've suggested propping up good companies, but that idea is very light on community support. Beyond that, I'm honestly not sure what to do. All I know is that opting out images isn't going anywhere, and I wish we could figure out something else to put all of that effort and energy into. I'm certainly open to suggestions.

...If Stockfresh ever did become even a modest success, the owner's past record suggests they would just sell it off and pocket the cash...

Would you say that about any company run by someone who previously sold a stock company? Stocksy? Or any company run by someone who previously sold any other company? Seems like a harsh rule.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on June 09, 2014, 18:41
A list of successful boycotts (the first one is particularly applicable to our situation):

[url]http://www.ethicalconsumer.org/boycotts/successfulboycotts.aspx[/url] ([url]http://www.ethicalconsumer.org/boycotts/successfulboycotts.aspx[/url])


Got any successful stock agency boycotts to share?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: CatTheCat on June 09, 2014, 20:10
I made a search on DPC with some specific words "beard hipster drawing" and made the same search on Shutterstock. There is a huge difference between them in terms of quality and quantity.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: marthamarks on June 09, 2014, 22:09
Got any successful stock agency boycotts to share?

Has one ever been attempted before? Serious question. I honestly don't know.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: BaldricksTrousers on June 10, 2014, 02:37

...If Stockfresh ever did become even a modest success, the owner's past record suggests they would just sell it off and pocket the cash...

Would you say that about any company run by someone who previously sold a stock company? Stocksy? Or any company run by someone who previously sold any other company? Seems like a harsh rule.

Good point, but also rather missing my point. If I were looking at trying to support a site for political reasons, yes I would. If I were simply trying to make some more money and thought the site had a chance of doing that then I wouldn't bother thinking about it.
The lack of investment in Stockfresh to attract buyers suggests to me that the owners aren't really interested in running a stock site any longer.
As for Stocksy, is anybody convinced that it won't be sold on at some point? That doesn't mean that it won't produce a worthwhile return on effort in the meantime, or, indeed, continue to do so if it is sold.
It's also a dangerous business building up "fair" sites. If I remember aright, back in 2005 Fotolia was the fairest of the fair. The first site that was going to be totally fair to photographers and stop the rip-off commission. It was the site you had to join to start the fair-pay revolution. And what happened as soon as Fotolia gained unstoppable momentum? It became nastier and more exploitative than any of those it was going to save us all from.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: BaldricksTrousers on June 10, 2014, 03:10
Got any successful stock agency boycotts to share?

Has one ever been attempted before? Serious question. I honestly don't know.

Yes, there have been campaigns before. Some of them got concessions and some of them didn't. I think one of the first was against StockXpert and they did make some changes as a result, but I can't remember what it was about.  If I remember correctly another was about Fotolia's plan to introduce subcriptions without counting them as a sale towards the higher levels, they eventually counted them as a quarter of a sale, didn't they? There was the Media Bakery problem.  One I do remember clearly was when Veer quietly tried to start re-routing our files through Alamy - we won that outright.  There have been loads of things that have been taken up.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Justanotherphotographer on June 10, 2014, 03:41
I'll just point out that several concessions have already been given by FL since the campaign started, the rise in sub commissions, introduction of ELs, even the opt out itself wasn't on the table until people started pulling portfolios.

So the idea that it isn't having an effect is just plain wrong.

This is the most positive contributor action this industry has ever seen, I have really taken heart seeing so many of us come together over something and make a difference for once.

To anyone that hasn't opted out already, please consider doing so and doing your bit to force some more concessions, even if you are unsure, you personally and we collectively will be in a much stronger negotiating position without your images in.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: marthamarks on June 10, 2014, 06:22
Got any successful stock agency boycotts to share?

Has one ever been attempted before? Serious question. I honestly don't know.

Yes, there have been campaigns before. Some of them got concessions and some of them didn't. I think one of the first was against StockXpert and they did make some changes as a result, but I can't remember what it was about.  If I remember correctly another was about Fotolia's plan to introduce subcriptions without counting them as a sale towards the higher levels, they eventually counted them as a quarter of a sale, didn't they? There was the Media Bakery problem.  One I do remember clearly was when Veer quietly tried to start re-routing our files through Alamy - we won that outright.  There have been loads of things that have been taken up.

Thanks for that information. I have very little history here, so it helps to learn from those who do.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on June 10, 2014, 08:11
I'll just point out that several concessions have already been given by FL since the campaign started, the rise in sub commissions, introduction of ELs, even the opt out itself wasn't on the table until people started pulling portfolios...

The EL offering wasn't a concession. That was in the works for DPC before this even became a hot topic here.

You're right, some concessions have been made. What kind of additional concessions would you like to see? Are there any that would make you consider opting back in?

And I'm asking about realistic concessions, not things like raising the minimum buy-in. FT has already indicated that raising the $10 minimum won't happen.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on June 10, 2014, 08:29
Good point, but also rather missing my point. If I were looking at trying to support a site for political reasons, yes I would. If I were simply trying to make some more money and thought the site had a chance of doing that then I wouldn't bother thinking about it.
The lack of investment in Stockfresh to attract buyers suggests to me that the owners aren't really interested in running a stock site any longer.
As for Stocksy, is anybody convinced that it won't be sold on at some point? That doesn't mean that it won't produce a worthwhile return on effort in the meantime, or, indeed, continue to do so if it is sold.
It's also a dangerous business building up "fair" sites. If I remember aright, back in 2005 Fotolia was the fairest of the fair. The first site that was going to be totally fair to photographers and stop the rip-off commission. It was the site you had to join to start the fair-pay revolution. And what happened as soon as Fotolia gained unstoppable momentum? It became nastier and more exploitative than any of those it was going to save us all from.

I've never understood this belief that any site that gets big can only do so by screwing over contributors. Or that every agency owner is motivated by greed and nothing else and will sell at the drop of a hat. Or that any would-be agency owner is of the same mindset.

Why is it so hard to believe that a company can exist as a top tier company under a fair trade system? Or that a company can be sold and not exploited? To be fair, StockXpert didn't go downhill until the 2nd sale, the one in which Jupiter was sold to Getty. Jupiter didn't cut royalties or change prices. Everything stayed the same.

I really can't believe that anyone would rather not bother with new companies just because they might change things on us later. If that's the general attitude around here, then we truly don't deserve anything better than what we've got today. We deserve to keep the current mess of companies if we can't even be bothered to make the slightest effort to support better deals with other companies.

I wouldn't be surprised if this kind of apathy has already hurt us. Maybe an opportunity has already been missed due to lack of contributor support. Maybe it was Stockfresh. You said that they're not interested in running a stock site any more. Maybe they were more interested a few years ago but the lack of support from the microstock community killed their enthusiasm. Maybe Stockfresh could have been a game-changer. But we'll likely never know. In the face of one of the worst things to ever happen to microstock (DPC), people still don't want to bother supporting companies offering a better deal.

It's amazing, really. They come in here offering 50%, fair prices, limited subscriptions, and they get spit on. Maybe we really are exactly where we deserve to be.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: pkphotos on June 10, 2014, 08:57
I'll just point out that several concessions have already been given by FL since the campaign started, the rise in sub commissions, introduction of ELs, even the opt out itself wasn't on the table until people started pulling portfolios...

The EL offering wasn't a concession. That was in the works for DPC before this even became a hot topic here.

You're right, some concessions have been made. What kind of additional concessions would you like to see? Are there any that would make you consider opting back in?

And I'm asking about realistic concessions, not things like raising the minimum buy-in. FT has already indicated that raising the $10 minimum won't happen.

Seems like you are representing DPC. Therefore additional concessions to opt back in would be don't bother, just shut the door on such a poorly thought out diabolical idea for a business model. DFC is somewhat hamstrung by its own catchphrase of '$1 an image always', so if they raise prices or introduce new payment structures there goes their fancy name and selling point.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on June 10, 2014, 09:05
Seems like you are representing DPC...

Yep, that's me. A secret DPC agent. I'm just trying to fool everyone by opting out of DPC, deleting half of my Fotolia portfolio, blogging about the harm DPC can cause, tweeting about it, posting on facebook about it, and convincing a few people to opt out over 10,000 images.

But you figured me out.

::)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: pkphotos on June 10, 2014, 09:17
Seems like you are representing DPC...

Yep, that's me. A secret DPC agent. I'm just trying to fool everyone by opting out of DPC, deleting half of my Fotolia portfolio, blogging about the harm DPC can cause, tweeting about it, posting on facebook about it, and convincing a few people to opt out over 10,000 images.

But you figured me out.

::)

It's seems contradictory that on one hand you claim to have opted out of DPC and deleted half your Fotolia portfolio, while every single post on this thread seems to be to dismiss the efforts of the collective photographers efforts against DPC. It doesn't make any sense at all.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Justanotherphotographer on June 10, 2014, 09:22
I'll just point out that several concessions have already been given by FL since the campaign started, the rise in sub commissions, introduction of ELs, even the opt out itself wasn't on the table until people started pulling portfolios...

The EL offering wasn't a concession. That was in the works for DPC before this even became a hot topic here.

You're right, some concessions have been made. What kind of additional concessions would you like to see? Are there any that would make you consider opting back in?

And I'm asking about realistic concessions, not things like raising the minimum buy-in. FT has already indicated that raising the $10 minimum won't happen.

I'm not at all convinced that the EL was in the works, although FL may claim it was. It would have been rolled out with the initial site launch if it was in the works. I believe the original idea was to offer an EL equivalent license for the $1 with unlimited print runs. Part of the whole "simple pricing" selling point. They just back peddled.

Raising the initial buy-in is still a possibility, if enough people withdraw their work they will have to do it.

In any case, I am not sure why we are arguing about this, we don't have to decide if it is preferable to support the better sites or boycott the bad ones. We can do both. What's the point of spending all this time disparaging the anti DPC efforts. I am not saying that as an attack, just literally what are you achieving? You are wasting more of your time than you would be if you were still part of the action, which is what you want to avoid doing right? Why not come up with an action plan for supporting the better sites that we could also get behind.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on June 10, 2014, 09:23
It's seems contradictory that on one hand you claim to have opted out of DPC and deleted half your Fotolia portfolio, while every single post on this thread seems to be to dismiss the efforts of the collective photographers efforts against DPC. It doesn't make any sense at all.

Why? I can be opted out as a personal protest even if I don't agree that the opt-out effort will do anything.

What makes no sense is that if I'm not in the crowd with a pitchfork in my hand then I'm clearly with DPC. It makes no sense that when I suggest that we need to think of some other ways to push back DPC, that turns into the implication that I support DPC. How exactly does that make any sense?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Justanotherphotographer on June 10, 2014, 09:24
Seems like you are representing DPC...

Yep, that's me. A secret DPC agent. I'm just trying to fool everyone by opting out of DPC, deleting half of my Fotolia portfolio, blogging about the harm DPC can cause, tweeting about it, posting on facebook about it, and convincing a few people to opt out over 10,000 images.

But you figured me out.

::)

It's seems contradictory that on one hand you claim to have opted out of DPC and deleted half your Fotolia portfolio, while every single post on this thread seems to be to dismiss the efforts of the collective photographers efforts against DPC. It doesn't make any sense at all.

It's true he has, he's a well known member of the community and did loads to aid the boycott initially. If we all did as much DPC would be dead now. As much as I disagree with his stance now there's no need to come up with conspiracy theories.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: pixsol on June 10, 2014, 09:39
It's true he (EmberMike) has, he's a well known member of the community and did loads to aid the boycott initially. If we all did as much DPC would be dead now.
+1
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on June 10, 2014, 09:45
I'm not at all convinced that the EL was in the works, although FL may claim it was. It would have been rolled out with the initial site launch if it was in the works...


If something isn't in an initial launch that that doesn't mean it's not planned. Sites launch every day with planned future features, enhancements, etc.

Raising the initial buy-in is still a possibility, if enough people withdraw their work they will have to do it.


It's not. FT has said so. That $10 price point is critical to their plans of getting rapid adoption of DPC among buyers. A higher price point would cost them a lot of early adopters, and they're not going to take that chance.

In any case, I am not sure why we are arguing about this, we don't have to decide if it is preferable to support the better sites or boycott the bad ones. We can do both. What's the point of spending all this time disparaging the anti DPC efforts. I am not saying that as an attack, just literally what are you achieving? You are wasting more of your time than you would be if you were still part of the action, which is what you want to avoid doing right? Why not come up with an action plan for supporting the better sites that we could also get behind.


I've tried suggesting a plan of action, and it didn't go well. (http://www.microstockgroup.com/stockfresh/a-call-to-arms-support-stockfresh/)

I'm trying to refocus some of the effort here. The point I made earlier in this discussion is that if people took the energy they put into protesting Fotolia and DPC and put that into something more positive, I think we could jump-start an effort of encouraging fair-trade companies who offer good royalties and prices. We're pretty good getting people fired up when things go bad. As much as I feel the DPC opt-out effort isn't working, I have to recognize that there is a lot of enthusiasm for it.

I wish it wasn't an "either/or" thing. It shouldn't be. But it's really hard to get people on board with the "support a good company" effort. And if the average person here is going to do one thing in support of change in this business, it's more likely to be pushing for opt-outs and image deletions than for uploads and support.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on June 10, 2014, 09:50
I took part of such a plan once, after IS D-Day we all submitted to Graphic Leftovers, it brought me nothing. I ended up deleting my account. I am not sure who's idea it was that GL was a good agency, I mean they are, but nice people and fair royalties dont buy me a studio lighting set if there are no buyers.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Shelma1 on June 10, 2014, 10:24
It's seems contradictory that on one hand you claim to have opted out of DPC and deleted half your Fotolia portfolio, while every single post on this thread seems to be to dismiss the efforts of the collective photographers efforts against DPC. It doesn't make any sense at all.

Why? I can be opted out as a personal protest even if I don't agree that the opt-out effort will do anything.

What makes no sense is that if I'm not in the crowd with a pitchfork in my hand then I'm clearly with DPC. It makes no sense that when I suggest that we need to think of some other ways to push back DPC, that turns into the implication that I support DPC. How exactly does that make any sense?

But you do have a pitchfork in your hand. You keep aiming it at us for some reason.

How about this approach: "I spoke with x at y company who gives 50% royalties and they've pledged to spend $1 on marketing for every new image we upload. So let's all get together with the goal to collectively upload 1 million new images there over the next month, and let's all send out one tweet to make this awesome site a trending topic."

That's something I could get behind.

Choose your site and give them a call.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Milinz on June 10, 2014, 10:33
It's true he (EmberMike) has, he's a well known member of the community and did loads to aid the boycott initially. If we all did as much DPC would be dead now.
+1

EmberMike is right. Support a good company does more then complaining over the bad on forums. Drop the bad and tell them why when you go. Add the good an grow with them.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on June 10, 2014, 11:08
I took part of such a plan once, after IS D-Day we all submitted to Graphic Leftovers, it brought me nothing. I ended up deleting my account. I am not sure who's idea it was that GL was a good agency, I mean they are, but nice people and fair royalties dont buy me a studio lighting set if there are no buyers.

Why'd you leave GL? Just because sales were low?

GL was a decent earner a few years back but some more recent Google shenanigans hurt them in image search. If they can bounce back, they might be a decent earner again.

Honestly Ron this is kind of my point. People don't support these efforts to help agencies because they want something immediate in return. We're never going to see a company like GL (or similar) become a success if everyone wants to see the money first. It doesn't work like that.

And really, how hard is it to upload to GL? Has to be one of the easiest uploads in the business.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on June 10, 2014, 11:42
I think one of the first was against StockXpert and they did make some changes as a result, but I can't remember what it was about.


I'll post the e-mail StockXpert sent out after the Town Hall (phone conference call) "meeting" from August 2008 below - it was about the content from StockXpert being moved to JupiterImages Unlimited and photos.com with no opt outs for those who didn't want to participate. We got opt outs (although not ideal in that it was a one time only choice I think). After StockXpert was acquired by Jupiter they were treating StockXpert content more as if it were wholly owned and theirs to do with as they saw fit and contributors wanted to control where the content went.

I think the first protest was when Dreamstime wanted to hold content for 12 months and a number of us withheld uploads for a while and then the hold was reduced to 6 months. I think this was a response to iStock exclusivity, and so was earlier than the Fotolia subscriptions protest (we got two increases in the amount per download plus subs counting as 1/4 DL for ranking purposes).

Other protests you didn't mention were when iStock introduced the first partner program (subs on photos.com and JIU). First it was opt out versus opt in and the amount per download got increased after not so many people opted in (because it was a crappy deal). See here (http://www.istockphoto.com/forum_messages.php?threadid=87786&page=1) and here (http://www.istockphoto.com/forum_messages.php?threadid=88663&page=1) and PDN's brief note on this  (https://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=201037860444)if you want to read the history. They didn't like the red opt out avatars :)

========================== ancient history boundary line :) =============================

"Thank you for voicing your concerns on the forum and for participating in our first ever Town Hall conference call last Thursday. We want you to know that we heard (and read) your concerns.

As stated on the call, we want to apologize for how this policy change and its communication were handled. We have taken your concerns seriously and decided to step back and review our initial plan. There will be no changes in your ability to control where your content is distributed. All three opt-out options will remain fully functional.

If you are not familiar with these options, as a contributor to Stockxpert you can earn more by:

Choosing to include your content in subscriptions on Stockxpert and other Jupiterimages sites;
Choosing to include your content with unrelated third parties Jupiterimages does business with, and/or;
Choosing to sell extended rights for your content enabling it to be used in products and services which are sold.
Please review your opt-in selections in your account profile to confirm your selected licensing options.

Based on three factors in the market, we believed the time was right to make all content on Stockxpert automatically available via these three opportunities. First, these options used to be opt-in, not opt-out. We discovered earlier in the year that most contributors wanted to be included in these programs but did not realize they had to opt-in. In response, for contributor convenience and customer benefit we made these options opt-out. Very few contributors opt-out which tells us that these revenue opportunities are viewed positively by virtually the entire Stockxpert community.

Second, the amount of revenue earned through extended licenses was negligible. If you earn a lot of money from extended licenses, you are among an elite few. We thought we could differentiate our community by offering customers a more simplified licensing option while increasing the value of using Stockxpert without taking anything away from contributors.

And finally, the customers on Stockxpert who license your content were expressing confusion over content that was available in the Stockxpert subscription versus content that was only available for single image sales. To adopt a highly customer centric approach, we wanted to have content consistency across any product or service which includes Stockxpert content.

These issues and challenges are real, and as a community, we need to figure out how we're going to address them so that we remain competitive and deliver the best experience for the customer. But as contributors you are customers too and we let you down in how we chose to discuss these issues and in how we decided to bring changes to the community.

While we take a step back to re-assess these issues and how we can have a constructive dialog with the community about them, Jupiterimages will be actively experimenting with the unique opportunities we have to expand your exposure throughout our Jupiterimages properties and worldwide distribution channels. Across all of our businesses we license more than $100 million worth of content annually. We want to leverage this traffic for the benefit of Stockxpert contributors and all our customers. Some of these experiments will be successful others won't be. But we're not standing still.

To that end, shortly we will be launching two new opportunities for contributors to earn additional revenue. These opportunities are linked to your subscriptions opt-in selection and they are completely optional and you may easily opt-out (if you're not familiar on how to do this, directions will follow).

The first opportunity is the coming launch of our Photos.com Plus subscription plan. This opportunity is automatically available to you if you are opted-in to subscriptions. The Photos.com Plus plan is based on Photos.com, one of the oldest and most used photo subscriptions on the Internet. The content in Photos.com is what we call wholly-owned. That means we own it and don't pay any royalties on it. We will be adding a new subscription level for Photos.com customers (Photos.com Plus), and in this we are proactively including Stockxpert contributors in a multi-million dollar revenue stream. Why? Our customers want the fresh, stylized images that you're producing and selling on Stockxpert.

Your images will not only be exposed to thousands more customers and downloads on one of the leading stock photo sites in the industry, but you will also have the opportunity to sell your images at higher price points with the pay-per-download option that is available. On the regular Photos.com subscription, the two highest resolutions are not included. As part of this experiment, we've adopted the same approach for Photos.com Plus and we're excited to see if we can sell microstock images at traditional royalty-free prices, yielding more revenue for everyone.

Another subscription plan where you will earn additional revenue is coming in the near future, the Jupiterimages Unlimited Plus subscription, or JIU+. We have heard you in the forums and we want to let you know about these options ahead of time so that you can make your choice. Again, the Photos.com Plus opportunity and this Jupiterimages Unlimited Plus opportunity are automatically available to you only if you are opted-in to subscriptions. Jupiterimages Unlimited is one of the fastest growing subscription businesses at Jupiterimages and we're excited to add the fresh, stylized images of Stockxpert to the collection for all the same reasons we're doing so for Photos.com Plus.

Experimenting with these new offerings is fairly complex as we're trying to balance the needs and expectations of our customers and those of our Stockxpert contributors. The best source of new subscription sales for both new offerings are from our installed base of existing subscribers so we need to try to match what they're used to without giving away too much value. We're doing our best but it's a bit tricky. The End User License Agreements (EULAs) for Photos.com and Jupiterimages Unlimited, for instance, are different from the EULA for the Stockxpert subscription. So we're making compromises in both as we prepare to bring Photos.com Plus and JIU+ to market. To make this clear, we have created a special web page to help clarify these areas for you. Please visit http://www.stockxpert.com/lpages/contributor (http://www.stockxpert.com/lpages/contributor) to read more.

While we think Photos.com Plus and JIU+ are great opportunities for you to earn more revenue from your images, we also understand and respect that you may not want to be part of these new subscription opportunities. If that is the case, please be sure to visit your account profile and deselect the checkbox under "Number 7 Subscription to Stockxpert.com" by August 15 to be removed. If you are already opted-out of subscriptions, then you don't need to do anything. Understandably, we cannot create opt-outs for each new subscription offering, so if you opt-out of subscriptions, your Stockxpert content will not be available in any subscription on Stockxpert, Photos.com Plus, Jupiterimages Unlimited Plus or any future Jupiterimages subscription offering. For those of you who are interested in being a part of this exciting new subscription, please double check to make sure you are opted in.

Thank you for staying involved. We've definitely learned an important and valuable lesson in how we need to engage with you in the future. While we will continue testing and being an innovative leader in this field, we know we need to be sure to include the community in all future initiatives.

Again, for a better understanding of the Photos.com Plus and JIU+ opportunities, please visit http://www.stockxpert.com/lpages/contributor (http://www.stockxpert.com/lpages/contributor) and remember to opt-in (or out) by August 15.

Please feel free to contact us if you still have questions and thank you for your continued support.

Sincerely,
The Stockxpert Team"
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ron on June 10, 2014, 12:53
I took part of such a plan once, after IS D-Day we all submitted to Graphic Leftovers, it brought me nothing. I ended up deleting my account. I am not sure who's idea it was that GL was a good agency, I mean they are, but nice people and fair royalties dont buy me a studio lighting set if there are no buyers.

Why'd you leave GL? Just because sales were low?

GL was a decent earner a few years back but some more recent Google shenanigans hurt them in image search. If they can bounce back, they might be a decent earner again.

Honestly Ron this is kind of my point. People don't support these efforts to help agencies because they want something immediate in return. We're never going to see a company like GL (or similar) become a success if everyone wants to see the money first. It doesn't work like that.

And really, how hard is it to upload to GL? Has to be one of the easiest uploads in the business.

I did support it Mike, for 6 months, I kept uploading and I made 10 dollar. Sean is there as well, still is, I believe he makes about 20 USD a month or so. If he makes that kind of money, my 10 USD / 6 months seems about right.

I havent seen any other people coming here reporting good sales on GL. I gave it 6 months, thats fair. And then they started with LCV rejections which is the stupidest and most frustrating rejection of them all. 1+1=delete account. 

If there is any other suggestion to support an agency, I will look at it with an open mind. So far, I havent seen any suggestions.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: BaldricksTrousers on June 10, 2014, 13:30
The EL offering wasn't a concession. That was in the works for DPC before this even became a hot topic here.

Sorry, Mike, I honestly don't want you to think I'm attacking you, I'm not,  but what evidence do you have to support this alleged "statement of fact"?  How could you possibly know that what you are saying is true?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mantis on June 10, 2014, 14:12
I understand Mike's point and I think Ron made it earlier, too. It's the erosion of momentum.  It would be really telling if we can get DPC down by 10 million images. We MUST keep the momentum going and keep contacting contributors and ask them to contact contributors.  It's what will make the difference I believe. But I am excited that this group is responsible in part (or in whole) for collectively carving ~7m images off of DPC.  10M will be darn near 50%.

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: WindyTai on June 10, 2014, 21:44
Mike only focus on the negative points, and avoiding to accept any facts that Opting out of DCP really take huge effect...and it's just so OBVIOUS by using little effort in a SHORT time.

However, Mike thinks that supporting some agencies will take effect.

Well, if that strategy is true, GL or Stockfresh will dominate all market share by now.
This is more obvious that this strategy did not work AT ALL.

(and yes, you are using the phrase "not at all" against obvious facts).
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on June 10, 2014, 23:10
However, Mike thinks that supporting some agencies will take effect.

Well, if that strategy is true, GL or Stockfresh will dominate all market share by now.
This is more obvious that this strategy did not work AT ALL.

You've missed my point completely.

I've been saying that we don't adequately support good agencies. Recent comments are evidence of that. Ron bailed on GL after 6 months. People don't want to upload to places where they don't get an immediate return on their time invested. If we did support these agencies better, we might see something change.

But we don't, so I'm not sure why you think my suggestion of rallying behind one or two good companies "did not work AT ALL" when it hasn't even been tried.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Svetlana on June 10, 2014, 23:33
The thing is, it's not enough if we (the contributors) support fair agencies by uploading to them. We need to either get the buyers to support them, too, or withdraw our images from any "not fair" agencies so that the buyers have no choice but to turn to the fair agencies. This is a much, much bigger challenge than opting out of DPC/leaving Fotolia and letting other contributors know what's going on.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Svetlana on June 11, 2014, 00:23
Stats (as of about 15 min ago):
Fotolia: 28,894,090 images
DPC: 21,963,402 images
Difference: 6,930,688 images
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: BaldricksTrousers on June 11, 2014, 00:51
The thing is, it's not enough if we (the contributors) support fair agencies by uploading to them. We need to either get the buyers to support them, too, or withdraw our images from any "not fair" agencies so that the buyers have no choice but to turn to the fair agencies. This is a much, much bigger challenge than opting out of DPC/leaving Fotolia and letting other contributors know what's going on.

That's right. And if "not fair" means "pays less than 50%", which I understand to be the criterion, out of all the agencies I supply I think I would be left with Alamy (and opted out of PP there) and - perhaps - Scanstock photo. That would mean surrendering 90%-95% of my income.  Nobody who is serious about trying to make money from their images can afford to do that.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Justanotherphotographer on June 11, 2014, 01:54
However, Mike thinks that supporting some agencies will take effect.

Well, if that strategy is true, GL or Stockfresh will dominate all market share by now.
This is more obvious that this strategy did not work AT ALL.

You've missed my point completely.

I've been saying that we don't adequately support good agencies. Recent comments are evidence of that. Ron bailed on GL after 6 months. People don't want to upload to places where they don't get an immediate return on their time invested. If we did support these agencies better, we might see something change.

But we don't, so I'm not sure why you think my suggestion of rallying behind one or two good companies "did not work AT ALL" when it hasn't even been tried.

Mike you are right, we do need to support the good agencies. I can't understand why anyone would not upload to GL, it really is the simplest upload process.

But for the support to really work what you need is for the good agencies to have stronger collection than the bad ones so there is a place for boycotting the bad agencies too. I have proposed uploading to the better agencies first. If we all give then a couple of months head start with images their collections would soon be a good few million images bigger than the bad agencies, they'd also get the associated SEO boost.

You can't have it both ways. I have struggled in the past to understand how you can be for supporting good agencies while at the same time being an apologist for graphicstock or vectorstock (far worse and a bigger threat than DPC especially GS). You can't have it both ways. If you support decent agencies while at the same time propping up the bad ones we aren't going to get anywhere.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: BaldricksTrousers on June 11, 2014, 02:54
I can't understand why anyone would not upload to GL, it really is the simplest upload process.

I just had a look over there. They say payouts are by Paypal or Skrill, so that's me frozen out of that market.  It's the same for a lot of the newer/minor sites. Including Stockfresh, as it happens. That's probably why I've never supplied them.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: pkphotos on June 11, 2014, 08:04
Well I've managed to help make DPC's 'sea turtle underwater' search return very poor results in comparison to Fotolia (which is already poor in comparison to the likes of SS).
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on June 11, 2014, 09:16
The thing is, it's not enough if we (the contributors) support fair agencies by uploading to them. We need to either get the buyers to support them, too...

I agree. And it is possible to drive buyers to the agencies we choose. In that thread from 2 years ago in which I suggested we all get behind Stockfresh and try to push them up the ladder, I mentioned my Flickr promotion strategy. I put most of my recent work in a flickr account (watermarked of course) and in the description I link to the corresponding image page at SF. I also include my referral in the URL so I get referral credit. It is pretty common that when I get a sale at SF, I also have a referral bonus with it because the buyer saw my stuff on Flickr, clicked over to SF, signed up, and bought my image. Often buying other images too.

I agree that it's not enough to simply upload our images. It will take some effort from us to really make a difference, but I truly believe that it can be done. We all just need to be a little more willing to not see immediate gratification. If the expectation is always going to be that uploading should equate to short-term return on the time spent, we're not going to get anywhere.

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on June 11, 2014, 09:35
...But for the support to really work what you need is for the good agencies to have stronger collection than the bad ones so there is a place for boycotting the bad agencies too...

That's a good point. I still don't think that boycotts work on their own, but in combination with other efforts they certainly play a role in shifting the balance of power in microstock.

Instead of saying that I don't think boycotts work, I should say boycotts alone don't work. Not to make the kind of significant change we hope to see, anyway.

...I have struggled in the past to understand how you can be for supporting good agencies while at the same time being an apologist for graphicstock or vectorstock (far worse and a bigger threat than DPC especially GS). You can't have it both ways. If you support decent agencies while at the same time propping up the bad ones we aren't going to get anywhere.

I don't support Vectorstock. I still have a small portfolio there, but I don't upload there anymore and even when I did, I uploaded modified (stripped down) versions of my vectors. I also tried to work with them on their pricing problems and for a while they were receptive to increasing prices upon request. They stopped honoring their promise to have all of my work priced higher so I stopped uploading.

Graphicstock isn't that bad. I don't like their unlimited downloads thing, I think that's a potentially harmful precedent to set for what people should expect from subscriptions. But I also don't think that makes them the worst thing in the business. How many people will really care if they get unlimited downloads or not? Few people ever use their download quota up anyway.

But I do think people have made some good deals with them. $15,000 isn't bad for a lot of people. Some people won't make that much with places like DT or FT ever. It's surely a heck of a lot more than most people will ever get from DPC.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ShadySue on June 11, 2014, 09:44
I mentioned my Flickr promotion strategy. I put most of my recent work in a flickr account (watermarked of course) and in the description I link to the corresponding image page at SF. I also include my referral in the URL so I get referral credit. It is pretty common that when I get a sale at SF, I also have a referral bonus with it because the buyer saw my stuff on Flickr, clicked over to SF, signed up, and bought my image. Often buying other images too.

"Don’t use Flickr to sell.
If we find you engaging in commercial activity, we will warn you or delete your account. Some examples include selling products, services, or yourself through your photostream or in a group, using your account solely as a product catalog, or linking to commercial sites in your photostream"

https://www.flickr.com/help/guidelines (https://www.flickr.com/help/guidelines)

That said, I've seen photostreams which are, literally, a product catalogue and nothing else.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on June 11, 2014, 10:02

"Don’t use Flickr to sell.
If we find you engaging in commercial activity, we will warn you or delete your account. Some examples include selling products, services, or yourself through your photostream or in a group, using your account solely as a product catalog, or linking to commercial sites in your photostream"

https://www.flickr.com/help/guidelines (https://www.flickr.com/help/guidelines)

That said, I've seen photostreams which are, literally, a product catalogue and nothing else.

I've been doing it for years without an issue. I also don't abuse the service. My account looks like a portfolio. I do include a link in the description, but that's it. I think as long as you aren't being overly promotional with your account they really don't give you a hard time about it.

If anyone does want to try this, though, I do suggest using a URL shortener like bitly. I prefer to have a non-descript link in the description as opposed to an obvious agency link.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Shelma1 on June 11, 2014, 10:09
In that thread from 2 years ago in which I suggested we all get behind Stockfresh and try to push them up the ladder, I mentioned my Flickr promotion strategy. I put most of my recent work in a flickr account (watermarked of course) and in the description I link to the corresponding image page at SF. I also include my referral in the URL so I get referral credit. It is pretty common that when I get a sale at SF, I also have a referral bonus with it because the buyer saw my stuff on Flickr, clicked over to SF, signed up, and bought my image. Often buying other images too.

So you suggest everyone break the Flickr TOS in order to promote an agency. They may not have caught on to you yet, but imagine hundreds of us suddenly linking our "photos" to our commercial portfolios at one site. How long do you think it would take them to catch on?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ShadySue on June 11, 2014, 12:27
What Flickr do allow is links in your profile. I have links to my iS port, Alamy port and FAA port, but it's not very handy if someone is interested in a particular file, as 1. a lot, maybe more than half, of my Flickr files aren't in any stock site, and 2. Even if they were, I can't indicate, and someone interested can't know, which site they're on.
But I didn't start on Flickr intending it to be a promotional programme.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on June 11, 2014, 12:36
So you suggest everyone break the Flickr TOS in order to promote an agency. They may not have caught on to you yet, but imagine hundreds of us suddenly linking our "photos" to our commercial portfolios at one site. How long do you think it would take them to catch on?

If it bothers you to use Flickr in this way, there are other options. Pinterest, Google+, whichever site you prefer for sharing photos.

My point is more about the strategy than which service someone uses.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Svetlana on June 12, 2014, 02:12
Stats, as of a few minutes ago:
Fotolia: 28,928,757 images
DPC: 21,984,779 images
Difference: 6,943,978 images
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: pkphotos on June 12, 2014, 03:22
Judging by the fact that 4 out of 4 photographers I've alerted to DPC weren't aware of the site or the fact their photos were being sold there, I think the only thing keeping it alive is the hundreds/thousands of photographers who still don't know of its existence. They are the ones making up the majority of the 21,000,000 images. Fotolia has gone through the back door and not even let contributors know what they've created. That all the photographers I've contacted have immediately replied back to me with genuine alarm and shock shows just how underhand and unethical the DPC concept is. Of course the agency and the customers will be happy with this arrangement.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: dpimborough on June 14, 2014, 07:55
What I find slightly strange is the number of photographers and image producers who bemoan the "we can't do anything these guys are too big" etc.

I think it is quite amazing that individual contributors have passed the word and on the whole taken a stand.

Contributors should have more confidence in themselves and the wider community.

After all that's close to 7 million files denied to the DPC scheme  8)

That is 24% of the overall FT listing not in DPC.

An amazing success :D
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mantis on June 14, 2014, 07:58
What I find slightly strange is the number of photographers and image producers who bemoan the "we can't do anything these guys are too big" etc.

I think it is quite amazing that individual contributors have passed the word and on the whole taken a stand.

Contributors should have more confidence in themselves and the wider community.

After all that's close to 7 million files denied to the DPC scheme  8)

That is 24% of the overall FT listing not in DPC.

An amazing success :D

Completely agree. We must keep pushing. Once buyers start to not find good images the critical mass will grow. I can't wait for the day FT (and DPC) closes its doors.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: LesPalenik on June 14, 2014, 17:41
7 million images is a big number by any means.
And this doesn't take into consideration images that were removed by some artists from the FT collection altogether.
In reality, the number of images withheld or not uploaded anymore to this outfit will be much higher.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mantis on June 14, 2014, 18:00
7 million images is a big number by any means.
And this doesn't take into consideration images that were removed by some artists from the FT collection altogether.
In reality, the number of images withheld or not uploaded anymore to this outfit will be much higher.

Great point.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: OM on June 14, 2014, 19:50
What I don't get is why image factories like Africa Studios are in DPC with 500K images. They are at all the other stock sites too, including SS and if my small income from SS is anything to go by, 50% of my monthly earnings come from 'on demands' and non-subs. Surely these image factories will lose their non-sub income at SS as customers discover that paying for 'on demands' is crazy when you can get the same for 1$ at DPC. It takes one helluva lot of subs sales to make up the loss of one 'on demand' whether at SS or even FT.

Actually, I don't get why anyone would willingly stay opted in to DPC !
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: dpimborough on June 15, 2014, 07:01
What I don't get is why image factories like Africa Studios are in DPC with 500K images. They are at all the other stock sites too, including SS and if my small income from SS is anything to go by, 50% of my monthly earnings come from 'on demands' and non-subs. Surely these image factories will lose their non-sub income at SS as customers discover that paying for 'on demands' is crazy when you can get the same for 1$ at DPC. It takes one helluva lot of subs sales to make up the loss of one 'on demand' whether at SS or even FT.

Actually, I don't get why anyone would willingly stay opted in to DPC !

Is anyone able to contact this mysterious outfit?

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Beppe Grillo on June 15, 2014, 07:24
Please, don't shot me!  8)

I would be curious to known if somebody not having opted-out for DPC has noticed some increase in sales [?]
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Rinderart on June 15, 2014, 10:03
Not I. site has been dead for over a year anyway.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: robhainer on June 15, 2014, 11:05
Please, don't shot me!  8)

I would be curious to known if somebody not having opted-out for DPC has noticed some increase in sales [?]

Not really. About the same. The problem is there's no way to tell if a sale came from DPC or Fotolia. I know some subs came from Fotolia after the raise, but all the rest could be from either site. You'd think they would make it so you could see what kind of impact it's having if they want you to stay opted in.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: BaldricksTrousers on June 15, 2014, 12:56
Please, don't shot me!  8)

I would be curious to known if somebody not having opted-out for DPC has noticed some increase in sales [?]

Not really. About the same. The problem is there's no way to tell if a sale came from DPC or Fotolia. I know some subs came from Fotolia after the raise, but all the rest could be from either site. You'd think they would make it so you could see what kind of impact it's having if they want you to stay opted in.

My sales seem to be down a bit but my credit sales are up, so my earnings per sale are up about 50% - which ends up being pretty neutral. It's not a large enough sample to be really meaningful, though.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: CatTheCat on June 16, 2014, 08:21
1 hour ago, I was on the tablet, and I saw an advertisement on a link on Facebook for DPC for a free trial for the 10 images.

I am a little bit worried about the massive advertisement DPC is making. I really wish Shutterstock would make something about it.

Oh and I don't know if it's the problem of the last months, (I only joined shutterstock in july 2013 and can't see any pattern), but I am definitely seeing a decrease of ODD comparing with the number of subs.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on June 16, 2014, 08:32
I am a little bit worried about the massive advertisement DPC is making. I really wish Shutterstock would make something about it.

Like what?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: CatTheCat on June 16, 2014, 08:42
like image exclusivity,
and massive advertising on Facebook (DPC has 73 000 likes, Shutterstock has 195 000 - isn't worrying?)

I don't know, I am not paid to think about it... They must know better than me what could be done to refrain them...
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ethan on June 16, 2014, 09:18
like image exclusivity,
and massive advertising on Facebook (DPC has 73 000 likes, Shutterstock has 195 000 - isn't worrying?)

I don't know, I am not paid to think about it... They must know better than me what could be done to refrain them...

Do you think Oringer would pay contributors more for having exclusive images. Say $0.40 bucks a download?

Make it $50.00 and some might be interested :)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Shelma1 on June 16, 2014, 09:52
1 hour ago, I was on the tablet, and I saw an advertisement on a link on Facebook for DPC for a free trial for the 10 images.

I am a little bit worried about the massive advertisement DPC is making. I really wish Shutterstock would make something about it.

Oh and I don't know if it's the problem of the last months, (I only joined shutterstock in july 2013 and can't see any pattern), but I am definitely seeing a decrease of ODD comparing with the number of subs.

Contributors who didn't opt out aren't reporting an increase in sales, and now they're trying to get people in by offering them free files. Sounds a bit desperate to me, actually. Like their usual offer isn't working.

If you see an ad, click on it. They pay for every click. Wouldn't it be nice if they spent most of their advertising budget reaching us. ;)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ethan on June 16, 2014, 10:05
1 hour ago, I was on the tablet, and I saw an advertisement on a link on Facebook for DPC for a free trial for the 10 images.

I am a little bit worried about the massive advertisement DPC is making. I really wish Shutterstock would make something about it.

Oh and I don't know if it's the problem of the last months, (I only joined shutterstock in july 2013 and can't see any pattern), but I am definitely seeing a decrease of ODD comparing with the number of subs.

Contributors who didn't opt out aren't reporting an increase in sales, and now they're trying to get people in by offering them free files. Sounds a bit desperate to me, actually. Like their usual offer isn't working.

If you see an ad, click on it. They pay for every click. Wouldn't it be nice if they spent most of their advertising budget reaching us. ;)

You might have stumbled on something there Shelma :)

If they are on a 'pay per click' advertising program by everyone clicking on the links we can 'help' them spend all their budget pretty quick :)

Depending on the deals they have it could be anything from $1.00 - $5.00 every time an advertising link it clicked !

That's going to hurt :)

Many years back in the UK we had a big political issue with fox hunting, people for it and people against it. There was an organisation lobbying for the anti-fox hunting vote. the farmers wanted to keep hunting as they wanted the numbers of foxes controlled, they often were members of the local hunt and also made money from having a vibrant hunting group, stabling, kennelling hounds, land rights etc etc.

It turned out the anti hunt group had a 'free-post' address for their supporters to send donations to, to help 'fight the fight' and so on.

The farmers and other pro-hunters found out about it and literally posted dozens of boxes full of bricks to the free-post address using the free-post number.

The anti-hunting group went bankrupt. They eventually owed thousands of pounds to the post office :)

Different tactic but the same idea :)

Lets all click the DPC advert links :)

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mantis on June 16, 2014, 10:37
Send me that link please. I have a lot of prospective fingers, I mean, customers who want to learn more.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: marthamarks on June 16, 2014, 11:45
Send me that link please. I have a lot of prospective fingers, I mean, customers who want to learn more.

Me too. I'll round up lots of "customers" to click those links!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ethan on June 16, 2014, 12:17
1 hour ago, I was on the tablet, and I saw an advertisement on a link on Facebook for DPC for a free trial for the 10 images.

I am a little bit worried about the massive advertisement DPC is making. I really wish Shutterstock would make something about it.

Oh and I don't know if it's the problem of the last months, (I only joined shutterstock in july 2013 and can't see any pattern), but I am definitely seeing a decrease of ODD comparing with the number of subs.

CatTheCat stated he saw the link on Facebook so maybe we should all head there and start clicking :)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: marthamarks on June 16, 2014, 13:18
CatTheCat stated he saw the link on Facebook so maybe we should all head there and start clicking :)

I was just on FB and didn't find that link. Probably not everybody gets it.

'Twould still help to have a direct link to share with other potential "customers."
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mantis on June 16, 2014, 13:26
CatTheCat stated he saw the link on Facebook so maybe we should all head there and start clicking :)

I was just on FB and didn't find that link. Probably not everybody gets it.

'Twould still help to have a direct link to share with other potential "customers."

Yes, please. I have lots of buyers.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Shelma1 on June 16, 2014, 13:29
Try googling dollar photos. Or stock photos for a dollar or whatever. If DPC appears at the top of the results with a little yellow box that says "ad," they're paying for every click. Results lower than that without the box are organic results, so don't click there unless you want to help their Google ranking.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ethan on June 16, 2014, 13:37
Try googling dollar photos. Or stock photos for a dollar or whatever. If DPC appears at the top of the results with a little yellow box that says "ad," they're paying for every click. Results lower than that without the box are organic results, so don't click there unless you want to help their Google ranking.

Shelma1 is Right :)

I just google'd dollar photos and got this (attachment)

The AD is at the top. That's the Pay Per Click - which means when it's clicked THEY PAY.

Start Clicking People :)

EDIT: Just done twenty click throughs - so that's cost scabby FT between 20-50 Dollars.

I know what my plans are for this evening :)

TIP: Type Dollar Photo Club into google, copy it and then just paste it in each time after you click through, it's faster.

Remember each click through is wiping out their budget :)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Desintegrator on June 16, 2014, 13:58
I never see these yellow boxes with "ad"
probably ads aren't targeted to every country?

oh... i just had to turn off the adblock...
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ethan on June 16, 2014, 14:02
I never see these yellow boxes with "ad"
probably ads aren't targeted to every country?

The yellow box is a new feature (I am in the UK) it used to be the links that were in bold blue (at the very top) of your google search results page were the sponsored links (aka: Pay Per Click) and the links below (non-bold) were the normal search results. What is happening now is they add the yellow box with AD.

If you don't have that where you are do you have a few (top) links in bold font. If you do they are the sponsored links or pay per click links.

Click Them :)

EDIT: I posted my response before I saw your edit :)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Gel-O Shooter on June 16, 2014, 14:23
I'm not familiar with Google ad schemes.  Is it pay-per-click or pay-per-unique visitor?  If it's the former, then I can spend an hour a day "helping" them with their advertising.  ;)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Fairplay on June 16, 2014, 14:31
If you click on ad more than once, there is possibility the clicks to be ignored as fake!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: cuppacoffee on June 16, 2014, 14:32
There is such a thing as click-fraud but it is hard to identify.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Click_fraud (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Click_fraud)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: dpimborough on June 16, 2014, 14:38
Try googling dollar photos. Or stock photos for a dollar or whatever. If DPC appears at the top of the results with a little yellow box that says "ad," they're paying for every click. Results lower than that without the box are organic results, so don't click there unless you want to help their Google ranking.

well I had nothing else to do and there's only football on the TV :D
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ethan on June 16, 2014, 14:38
I'm not familiar with Google ad schemes.  Is it pay-per-click or pay-per-unique visitor?  If it's the former, then I can spend an hour a day "helping" them with their advertising.  ;)

Good point. Answer is I don't know how we find out. It all depends on how it's been set up.

In the past I have known employees who sit at their desks during their lunch breaks who are encouraged to 'while away' ten minutes of their break just clicking repeatedly on one or more of their market competitors Pay Per Click links (if they have them).

It actually does cost the competitor money. Real money.

Normally a company will have a budget (set for each day or each week). That budget depends on how big the market is as how big you are. Also, what the search term is.

DOLLAR PHOTO is probably a very high ticket. It returns 359,000,000, yep that's three hundred and fifty nine MILLION returns.

To be in position one on page one for that return is not going to be cheap. If it's per click or per 'unique visitor' it's not going to be any cheaper.

If it's for unique visitors they may be an added cost as they have to log each IP address and also determine how long the intervals are, one click per day, week or ever? etc

Whatever it is the greater the number of clicks that we can all do the more the cost will be for FT.

:)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on June 16, 2014, 14:43
like image exclusivity,
and massive advertising on Facebook (DPC has 73 000 likes, Shutterstock has 195 000 - isn't worrying?)

I don't know, I am not paid to think about it... They must know better than me what could be done to refrain them...

I'm not sure why anyone would expect a response already. DPC is pretty new still. They showed up when, in January I think? That's not nearly enough time in this business to know if something is a threat, trend, etc.

And Shutterstock, being rather masterful at collecting data about customers and acting on it when appropriate/necessary, almost certainly have some means of knowing whether DPC is (or becomes) a legitimate threat to them and if they need to do anything about it.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ethan on June 16, 2014, 14:44
There is such a thing as click-fraud but it is hard to identify.

[url]http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Click_fraud[/url] ([url]http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Click_fraud[/url])


If I'm going down I'm taking you all with me :)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: leaf on June 16, 2014, 15:55
Even if we aren't a fan of DPC, is it really beneficial to try and force our Agency selling our photos to spend unnecessary cash??  It seems a bit backwards and that we are forgetting that they are indeed our agency.

... ducks for cover...
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mantis on June 16, 2014, 16:03
Even if we aren't a fan of DPC, is it really beneficial to try and force our Agency selling our photos to spend unnecessary cash??  It seems a bit backwards and that we are forgetting that they are indeed our agency.

... ducks for cover...

They are not MY Agency any longer....just saying.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Shelma1 on June 16, 2014, 16:04
They're not my agency.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Monty-m-gue on June 16, 2014, 16:09
Even if we aren't a fan of DPC, is it really beneficial to try and force our Agency selling our photos to spend unnecessary cash??  It seems a bit backwards and that we are forgetting that they are indeed our agency.

... ducks for cover...

With DPC, Fotolia have effectively declared war on my business. They are not 'my agency' - they are my enemy.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Shelma1 on June 16, 2014, 16:19
I'd just like to point out that we're not forcing them to spend anything. They undoubtedly have a set ad budget...we're just redirecting some of it to a different target audience. Us.

Wouldn't it be better for them to spend that budget promoting Fotolia, where you earn more? (Fotolia isn't my agency any more either.) Look at this as a way to encourage them to do that.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: marthamarks on June 16, 2014, 17:52
Fotolia is not my agency either.

And many people I know who are potential customers of DPC are happily clicking the link tonight.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ethan on June 17, 2014, 01:12
Fotolia is not my agency either.

And do their recent actions working against the interest of their contributors give them any right for us to play fair with them?

I don't think so :)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: onepointfour on June 17, 2014, 02:16
This is fun but wait, here's what I found. Perhaps we shouldn't click on it repetitively?

"While both Google AdWords and Microsoft adCenter claim to refund charges for “suspicious” clicks, we have seen instances where consistent clicking by competitors has required manual requests for refunds."

http://www.market-vantage.com/2011/01/how-to-stop-competitors-from-clicking-your-ppc-ads/ (http://www.market-vantage.com/2011/01/how-to-stop-competitors-from-clicking-your-ppc-ads/)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Ariene on June 17, 2014, 02:39
With DPC, Fotolia have effectively declared war on my business. They are not 'my agency' - they are my enemy.

For me they are just history...


And about clicking... do you know that FT will pay just once if you click? It doesn't matter if it's one or 100 clicks/ person (comp)... They pay only one time.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: onepointfour on June 17, 2014, 03:09
Unless you have different work office, VPN, tablet, smartphone, as long as you access from different IP addresses, you can contribute to their advertisement fund multiple times.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Beppe Grillo on June 17, 2014, 03:20
As some of you will remember, some times ago I have written to different Photographers Associations.
Some of them answered me.

Here is the last answer from one of the most important one in France:

« J'accuse bonne réception de votre courriel et le transfère aussitôt à notre service juridique.
L'UPP mène de nombreuses actions contre les microstocks

Cordialement,
[…] »

"I acknowledge receipt of your email and immediately transferred to our legal department.
The UPP leads many actions against the microstocks

Regards,
[…]"

Another little step ;)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mantis on June 17, 2014, 05:55
As some of you will remember, some times ago I have written to different Photographers Associations.
Some of them answered me.

Here is the last answer from one of the most important one in France:

« J'accuse bonne réception de votre courriel et le transfère aussitôt à notre service juridique.
L'UPP mène de nombreuses actions contre les microstocks

Cordialement,
[…] »

"I acknowledge receipt of your email and immediately transferred to our legal department.
The UPP leads many actions against the microstocks

Regards,
[…]"

Another little step ;)

Way to go, Beppe. Stick it to them.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Noedelhap on June 17, 2014, 13:08
Instead of uselessly clicking their ad links the entire evening, which is a drop in the ocean, why not spend that time creating new images?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mantis on June 17, 2014, 13:50
Instead of uselessly clicking their ad links the entire evening, which is a drop in the ocean, why not spend that time creating new images?

Who says it's not being done during coffee break or while sitting on the can with an ipad? Just sayin. ;D
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Beppe Grillo on June 17, 2014, 14:55
Instead of uselessly clicking their ad links the entire evening, which is a drop in the ocean, why not spend that time creating new images?


You don't need to click your mouse to make it click itself…
http://goo.gl/m0wIAq (http://goo.gl/m0wIAq)

Personally I use this:
http://download.cnet.com/Keyboard-And-Mouse-Recorder/3000-2162_4-33723.html (http://download.cnet.com/Keyboard-And-Mouse-Recorder/3000-2162_4-33723.html)
It is very good if you have to delete a whole portfolio…
I used it to delete mine on yay some months ago. It is not always perfect but it can help a lot ;)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ArtesiaWells on June 17, 2014, 16:55
Clickin'
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Svetlana on June 18, 2014, 02:36
Stats:
Fotolia: 29,074,942 images
DPC: 22,226,912 images
Difference: 6,848,030 images

It would appear, some contributors opted back in, after all...
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ferdinand on June 18, 2014, 04:33
ss should sand a very polite e mail to  contributors opted in and ask them... very very politely - to opt out
Title: Fotolia is realy a strange big bull sh..
Post by: enstoker on June 18, 2014, 07:26
Before I have opted out from DPC and after, no sales difference.
But what is obvious: 95 % subscription sales (not even 30 cents).
 ::)

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ferdinand on June 18, 2014, 07:45
I have a same amount of credit sales - nothing changed... at least not yet... 
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: CatTheCat on June 18, 2014, 08:14
ss should sand a very polite e mail to  contributors opted in and ask them... very very politely - to opt out

Yes, something like that. I think if they would send an email just informing of the issue, at least most of the contributors (those reading the email) would be aware of it. The big problem is that most of the contributors just don't know. Certainly SS do not want to 'declare a war', but they really should do something before it's too late.


IMHO, others that do know and still opt in are just not being intelligent. Sorry but that's my perception.

Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: ethan on June 18, 2014, 08:34
ss should sand a very polite e mail to  contributors opted in and ask them... very very politely - to opt out

Yes, something like that. I think if they would send an email just informing of the issue, at least most of the contributors (those reading the email) would be aware of it. The big problem is that most of the contributors just don't know. Certainly SS do not want to 'declare a war', but they really should do something before it's too late.


IMHO, others that do know and still opt in are just not being intelligent. Sorry but that's my perception.

Could not agree more :)

Although it's more than just a lack of intelligence it's also greed and selfishness too.

As someone else already eloquently phrased it, FYIGM. Sums them up perfectly  ;D
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Batman on June 18, 2014, 10:40
ss should sand a very polite e mail to  contributors opted in and ask them... very very politely - to opt out

Don't opt out, walk out. Vote with your feet and leave FT. I did and I'm happy I did. Protest means nothing to FT it makes no difference to FT. If there's a real strike and people leave, it will matter. But people are week and needy and will take money like prostitutes, complain they are being used and underpaid. Leave is the way to show them. Forum messages and clicks, oh I bet they are scared of us writing more messages here. Kill the snake, if you cut off it's head. No pictures nothing to sell they die.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mantis on June 18, 2014, 10:48
ss should sand a very polite e mail to  contributors opted in and ask them... very very politely - to opt out

Don't opt out, walk out. Vote with your feet and leave FT. I did and I'm happy I did. Protest means nothing to FT it makes no difference to FT. If there's a real strike and people leave, it will matter. But people are week and needy and will take money like prostitutes, complain they are being used and underpaid. Leave is the way to show them. Forum messages and clicks, oh I bet they are scared of us writing more messages here. Kill the snake, if you cut off it's head. No pictures nothing to sell they die.

Ditto. I don't miss them and their lousy, manipulative commissions structure one iota.

And by the way anyone who thinks FT and DPC can co exist has another thing coming.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on June 18, 2014, 13:16

Pretty glowing review of DPC from Amos Struck (http://www.stockphotosecrets.com/agencies/reviews/dollar-photo-club-review.html).

I get that Amos is in the business of working with both contributors and agencies and has to remain fairly neutral. But he could have at least mentioned the controversy and that this is a hot issue with contributors.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mantis on June 18, 2014, 13:26
I tried to leave a comment there but it won't let me post anything. And I didn't even cuss.

http://www.stockphotosecrets.com/agencies/reviews/dollar-photo-club-review.html (http://www.stockphotosecrets.com/agencies/reviews/dollar-photo-club-review.html)

I encourage everyone who can to post their feedback to balance that lousy article.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: PhotoBomb on June 18, 2014, 14:22
I tried to leave a comment there but it won't let me post anything. And I didn't even cuss.

[url]http://www.stockphotosecrets.com/agencies/reviews/dollar-photo-club-review.html[/url] ([url]http://www.stockphotosecrets.com/agencies/reviews/dollar-photo-club-review.html[/url])

I encourage everyone who can to post their feedback to balance that lousy article.


Go to the Contact link at the top of the page and you can actually find Amos' e-mail. Everyone should contact him directly (he probably has a staffer screen the mail but if he gets inundated with enough negative he might just take notice.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: somethingpretentious on June 18, 2014, 15:32

Pretty glowing review of DPC from Amos Struck ([url]http://www.stockphotosecrets.com/agencies/reviews/dollar-photo-club-review.html[/url]).

I get that Amos is in the business of working with both contributors and agencies and has to remain fairly neutral. But he could have at least mentioned the controversy and that this is a hot issue with contributors.


I agree. By promoting a site that is so bad for contributors, Amos shows that he really does not care about the contributors at all. It is disappointing since he is one of the people arranging Microstockexpo. I am now happy that I decided not to buy access.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: LesPalenik on June 18, 2014, 15:39
Quote
Stats:
Fotolia: 29,074,942 images
DPC: 22,226,912 images
Difference: 6,848,030 images

It would appear, some contributors opted back in, after all...

Not necessarily. But surprisingly, there are still some people uploading to FT, and that increases also the DPC count.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Jo Ann Snover on June 18, 2014, 23:35
DPC now has a referral (Ambassador) program. Up to $50

https://twitter.com/DollarPhotoClub/status/479174986633347072

I'm guessing the initial batch of signups has slowed and they're looking to boost it...
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Svetlana on June 18, 2014, 23:45
Quote
Stats:
Fotolia: 29,074,942 images
DPC: 22,226,912 images
Difference: 6,848,030 images

It would appear, some contributors opted back in, after all...

Not necessarily. But surprisingly, there are still some people uploading to FT, and that increases also the DPC count.

I think so.
As compared to June 12:
(Fotolia: 28,928,757 images
DPC: 21,984,779 images):

Growth @ Fotolia: 29,074,942 - 28,928,757 = 146,185 images
Growth @ DPC: 22,226,912 - 21,984,779 = 242,133 images
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: hofhoek on June 19, 2014, 04:51
ss should sand a very polite e mail to  contributors opted in and ask them... very very politely - to opt out

Don't opt out, walk out. Vote with your feet and leave FT. I did and I'm happy I did. Protest means nothing to FT it makes no difference to FT. If there's a real strike and people leave, it will matter. But people are week and needy and will take money like prostitutes, complain they are being used and underpaid. Leave is the way to show them. Forum messages and clicks, oh I bet they are scared of us writing more messages here. Kill the snake, if you cut off it's head. No pictures nothing to sell they die.

This is the only thing to do! If an agency is this devious the only respond that has an impact is leaving. Just opting out of DPC isn't enough. I have been with Fotolia for seven years, have deleted many images a year or two ago and now made the final move and I'm happy about it. Looking forward towards other healthier sites.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: stealthmode on June 19, 2014, 06:14
ss should sand a very polite e mail to  contributors opted in and ask them... very very politely - to opt out

Why should SS do something so unprofessional on many levels?
1. cold calls/emails are never polite;
2. asking to boycott competitors is never professional.
Should they do - but I am sure they won't - this would diminish my opinion of SS, not FT.

All I expect from SS - and luckily they are already doing - is to find new ways to increase earnings on their OWN site.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: MichaelJayFoto on June 19, 2014, 07:37
ss should sand a very polite e mail to  contributors opted in and ask them... very very politely - to opt out

Why should SS do something so unprofessional on many levels?
1. cold calls/emails are never polite;
2. asking to boycott competitors is never professional.
Should they do - but I am sure they won't - this would diminish my opinion of SS, not FT.

All I expect from SS - and luckily they are already doing - is to find new ways to increase earnings on their OWN site.

Yes. I also think Getty should send out emails to all photographers, asking them to remove their images from microstock altogether, so we can finally go back to sustainable license pricing...
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on June 19, 2014, 20:53
Speaking of emails, I got this one today:

(http://www.emberstudio.com/random/gdusa-dpc-email.jpg)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: dpimborough on June 20, 2014, 16:24
I tried to leave a comment there but it won't let me post anything. And I didn't even cuss.

[url]http://www.stockphotosecrets.com/agencies/reviews/dollar-photo-club-review.html[/url] ([url]http://www.stockphotosecrets.com/agencies/reviews/dollar-photo-club-review.html[/url])

I encourage everyone who can to post their feedback to balance that lousy article.


I too tried to leave a comment but the site won't accept it.

Sounds like corporate censorship is in full swing as usual  ::)

The whole flipping stock industry treats contributors like a like a pile of horse apples.  >:(
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: donding on June 20, 2014, 17:32
Doesn't Google ranks also depend on visits to the site also? You might just be raising the rank of them in the google search by just clicking on them.

I dumped Fotolia years ago and I seriously hope that those who have not will do so rather than taking it in the butt again. If your trying to bankrupt a company because they did you wrong, then don't leave your photos on there. It makes no sense.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on June 20, 2014, 22:40

I too tried to leave a comment but the site won't accept it.

There are other ways to reach out. Twitter, for example. @buystockphotos
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Svetlana on June 21, 2014, 06:26
Latest stats:

Fotolia: 29,149,813 images
DPC: 22,288,409 images
Difference: 6,861,404 images
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: dpimborough on June 21, 2014, 08:18

I too tried to leave a comment but the site won't accept it.

There are other ways to reach out. Twitter, for example. @buystockphotos

Thanks for that a tweet duly added :)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Anchan on June 24, 2014, 10:26
Ah, Fotolia!.. I have decided to kill the stub of my account with remaining 20 pictures, frozen for 5 years. Wrote to Fotolia Support 20 days ago. Immediately got a message "please do not leave us, we are lovely". Replied requesting deactivation of my account with transfer of remaining 20 dollars to PayPal, if at all possible.

Silence for 20 days.

Wrote another message yesterday. Found a message in my mailbox about reply waiting for me in Fotolia Inbox. Went there, and lo and behold!.. Password and login invalid!.. I guess it had worked. But I will never know what they had replied to me. Catch 24!..  8)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mantis on June 24, 2014, 12:35
Ah, Fotolia!.. I have decided to kill the stub of my account with remaining 20 pictures, frozen for 5 years. Wrote to Fotolia Support 20 days ago. Immediately got a message "please do not leave us, we are lovely". Replied requesting deactivation of my account with transfer of remaining 20 dollars to PayPal, if at all possible.

Silence for 20 days.

Wrote another message yesterday. Found a message in my mailbox about reply waiting for me in Fotolia Inbox. Went there, and lo and behold!.. Password and login invalid!.. I guess it had worked. But I will never know what they had replied to me. Catch 24!..  8)

They have done that to several people.  If anyone wants to remove their ports I recommend deleting your images manually and verifying that they drop off their partner sites. Once you do that, leave one image in, request payout (if you have one) then request closure of your account.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Stockandroll on June 26, 2014, 02:15
I made the hard decision to delete my portfolio off Fotolia just recently.
It wasn’t so much the DPC that bought me to do this (as we were given the opt out option) but the shafting in the rank I took immediately after I opted out.

Usually sitting anywhere between 200-700 I was pushed to the depths below 1400..
I sat on it for 3 weeks while I continued to submit, hoping for a climb, but to no avail.
Subsequently my earning took a hit and my weekly take was at a level where I could walk away without too many cuts and bruises.
I will be driving my work to bigger and better heights to support the agencies that support me.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Anchan on June 26, 2014, 10:05
Thank you, Mantis! I have done just that. Removed all pictures on May Day, than waited for 5 weeks, double-checked that the partners had removed them all, than requested a closure. As for remaining 20 pictures, I had no power to remove them manually. If I remember correctly, a few years ago images without sales had to be either deactivated or given to free section for 14 months. But than somehow 14 months turned into 5 years, arggh!..
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: dpimborough on July 09, 2014, 05:50
So I take it this is all dead now?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mantis on July 09, 2014, 07:20
So I take it this is all dead now?

Not for me. I continue to speak with other micro contributors when possible even though I am no longer associated with this poor excuse for an agency. But I hear you. This thread has gone quiet. Probably enough said. Fotolia continues to do what they were doing with 6 million fewer images. I just hope that those who pulled their content don't opt them back in. I want DPC and FT to go out of business. They are bad for microstock.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: stock-will-eat-itself on July 09, 2014, 09:30
Neither will go out of business, if contributors can stomach 3% at DP the skies the limit for agencies, most of them will follow suit and double or triple their profits over night.

It will take something dramatic like a fatal mass exodus from an agency to wake anyone up, not that will happen. In the meantime the crowd has just ushered in a new era of micro royalties.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: dpimborough on July 27, 2014, 12:39
I see someone put up a thread on Fotolia's forum asking if anyone experienced a drop in revenue

http://en.fotolia.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=44627 (http://en.fotolia.com/forum/viewtopic.php?id=44627)

Roll out the gushing DPC fan club shortly before FT shut the thread down. ::)




Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Sabine04 on May 01, 2015, 07:12

One year later. Has anything changed in the microstock business?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: fotografer on May 01, 2015, 07:16

One year later. Has anything changed in the microstock business?
Not for the better but then when does anything ever change for the better in the microstock business !!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: PixelBytes on May 01, 2015, 13:07

One year later. Has anything changed in the microstock business?

NOPE.  Big surprise.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: jaycriss on May 02, 2015, 05:48
hello,

is there a way to reorder keywords with the new design of Fotolia or or doesn't matter anymore?

thanks
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Monty-m-gue on May 02, 2015, 07:21
hello,

is there a way to reorder keywords with the new design of Fotolia or or doesn't matter anymore?

thanks

What's this got to do with Deactivation Day..?
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mantis on May 02, 2015, 07:47
in one month it will be exactly one year when everything I had on FT was deactivated. And I don't miss the $60 a month one iota.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Noedelhap on May 04, 2015, 06:52

One year later. Has anything changed in the microstock business?

A lot has changed, but at least DPC has not gained the market share we all feared they would gain.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: EmberMike on May 04, 2015, 14:21

One year later. Has anything changed in the microstock business?

Well, StockUnlimited came along. And although they're barely just getting started, their model is suspiciously similarly priced at $10/month. It's a little too soon to say for sure, but maybe DPC did indeed start the nanostock movement. 
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: dpimborough on May 04, 2015, 14:29
And one year later Adobe bought Fotolia and we all had a raise of 5000% and sales came gushing through the door so many we couldn't keep up with producing images.

Oh...

It was just a dream ;)

But at least I 'm not giving my stuff to DPC for a $1 an image  :D
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Mantis on May 20, 2015, 07:36
And one year later Adobe bought Fotolia and we all had a raise of 5000% and sales came gushing through the door so many we couldn't keep up with producing images.

Oh...

It was just a dream ;)

But at least I 'm not giving my stuff to DPC for a $1 an image  :D

Amen to that!
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Lady Teresa on December 31, 2015, 12:37
Hi guys...careful with fotolia.....i think each passing days they are losing money that is why they are coming up with many discount n ideas. after 2 years..selling well..trying to cash out...they blocked my account without any warning...i sent many mails..their answer was..issues about property..not selling well..that is a lie...they approved photos n waiting for the right moment to block...n took out money...n still never pays me...they even told account blocked permanently..crazy. nothing i done wrong..only some photos of buildings..but they decline some n approved some..so..this is a scam..fotolia is a scam..they will do to u soon..once credit going higher..they will block n cheat our money..carefull.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: Sean Locke Photography on December 31, 2015, 12:42
Posting this on multiple old threads isn't going to accomplish much.  Sorry you had a bad experience.
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: art_of_sun on September 28, 2016, 08:04
Guys do not miss out, it's happened again: http://www.microstockgroup.com/depositphotos/new-dollarphotoclub/ (http://www.microstockgroup.com/depositphotos/new-dollarphotoclub/)
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: dpimborough on September 29, 2016, 03:23
Guys do not miss out, it's happened again: [url]http://www.microstockgroup.com/depositphotos/new-dollarphotoclub/[/url] ([url]http://www.microstockgroup.com/depositphotos/new-dollarphotoclub/[/url])


Why resurrect an old thread the new thread is very visible
Title: Re: Fotolia D-Day (Deactivation Day) - May,1
Post by: YadaYadaYada on October 02, 2016, 11:44
Guys do not miss out, it's happened again: [url]http://www.microstockgroup.com/depositphotos/new-dollarphotoclub/[/url] ([url]http://www.microstockgroup.com/depositphotos/new-dollarphotoclub/[/url])


Why resurrect an old thread the new thread is very visible


Maybe with the new Adobe Stock it could be reactivation day is before May 1st?  :) They killed DPC and I'm making more there now.

And that new thread is about DP not FT anyways!