I have noticed some libraries submitting images to Microsoft. When they submit these images to Microsoft, you do not get credit, but the agencies do. They may claim this to be a marketing strategy, however I dont see how this will bring YOU sales when you are not being credited and your images are being given away for free, no questions asked. I just downloaded some images from Microsoft without even being asked a single question and without mention of the aritst's username.

When images are submitted to Microsoft, Microsoft gains their own rights of distribution.

Users have instant access to download those watermark free images and to use them. I was unable to locate any terms of use, which leaves the door open to downloaders. This makes the images appear to be in the public domain, or owned by Microsoft or the image libraries themselves.

Here are the guidelines for Microsoft's area:
http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/images/guidelines-for-community-submitted-images-HA010359397.aspx

Under the section "How to Submit an Image" it clearly states:
First, verify that your image is suitable for sharing:

  1. It must not be watermarked.
  2. It must be a JPG or PNG file.
  3. If it contains images of people, buildings or works of art, you will likely need a release form from the person/owner.
  4. If it was taken by someone else or created by someone else, you will likely need the owner's written permission.

By submitting a image you are giving Microsoft "the RIGHTS" to ....

   * Make
   * use
   * copy
   * modify
   * and make derivative works of your submission
   * Publicly perform and display
   * import
   * broadcast
   * transmit
   * distribute
   * license
   * rent
   * lease
   * lend
   * offer to sell and
   * sell your submission (and derivative works thereof) with or without attaching your name to your submission!

This is allowing Microsoft to distribute, and possibly license, your images to millions, without providing credit to you.

I urge all of you to go to the sites that you contribute to and read their License Agreements. You may not know what they are up to. If you do not agree with something, you may want to contact them directly and clarify the details.

Here is a list of Microsoft Image Partners:
http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/images/images-partners-FX010265962.aspx

A while ago, iStock sent images to MS and contributers got an EL.
Weirdly, I just looked up one on MS clip art that I knew had come from iStock. It was a photo of a sunflower against a blue sky. There were two links in the description. One was a general link to iStock, the other seemed to be a link to get to that exact photo, but it wasn't - it was a photo of a sunflower stuck in the flap over the petrol 'hole' in a car!
And, in fact, both iStockphoto links, in the same paragraph, lead to that same photo, with an offer for buying credits.
Weird.
http://office.microsoft.com/en-gb/images/results.aspx?qu=sunflower&CTT=200#ai:MP900433154|

Hopefully by opting out of all partner programs and promotional uses, I don't have to worry about this nonsense.