What's abuzz in the photography world this week?
1. DancehallMag
Photographer Adrian Boot settled a copyright lawsuit with Napster over the unauthorized use of his photo of musician Sugar Minott. Boot claimed Napster used the image without permission, distinct from its licensed use on an album cover by Soul Jazz Records. Specific settlement terms were undisclosed, but Boot had sought statutory damages, which can run up to $150,000, an award of US$15,114 for Napster’s alleged willful infringement, attorney fees, and costs.
2. DesignTAXI
Adobe faced backlash from Ansel Adams' estate for offering AI-generated images mimicking Adams' style without compensation. Following public criticism, Adobe removed the photos, citing policy violations. The estate appreciated the removal but objected to using Adams' name to sell AI-generated products. Adobe now filters out such content in searches for 'Ansel Adams,' though broader searches still include AI-generated content.
3. Stock Photo Secrets
Shutterstock's AI licensing business generated over $100 million last year by licensing its vast content library to train AI models. Major partners include Meta, Apple and OpenAI. Projected revenue is $138 million for 2024 and $250 million by 2027. Shutterstock's extensive media assets make it a key player in AI training, with contributors compensated through a fund. Competitors like Adobe and Getty Images are also exploring AI licensing, highlighting its potential as a future revenue stream.
4. PetaPixel
Miles Astray entered a real photo of a flamingo into the AI category of the 1839 Color Photography Awards, winning third place and the People’s Vote Award. His goal was to highlight the value of genuine creativity amid AI-generated competition. The contest organizers appreciated Astray's message and hoped it would raise awareness and hope among photographers concerned about AI but emphasized the need for distinct criteria in each category to ensure fair competition.
5. Digital Camera World
The 44th Leitz Photographica Auction, held on June 8 in Wetzlar, Germany, featured over 400 lots of vintage cameras, lenses, and camera accessories, attracting collectors and enthusiasts worldwide. A notable item was a Leica MP2 Black Paint from 1958, one of only six made, which fetched the highest price of 1,560,000 euros. Additionally, special charity lot, a Leica Summilux 1.4/35mm lens prototype, sold for 33,600 euros to benefit the charity "Licht ins Dunkel".
Would you also like to learn more about Photography Copyright? We invite you to check out the Fair Licensing Copyright Guide.
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That's all for now. See you next time!