Just a couple of important blurbs and links today. They deal with being active in your industry and all that that entails.
First off is the new Metadata Manifesto by the Stock Artists Alliance. As digital has changed the creative industries so has it opened up opportunities to improve trackability, etc., of images. This plan makes some wise suggestions.
The SAA’s site overall has lots of useful information. If you create stock work, you really should be a member.
The second is another reminder to get on your elected representatives about the Orphan Works bill. It is still out there and still a significant threat to creatives’ control and recompense. The Illustrators’ Partnership has really been the leader on this issue and their site has loads of outstanding information.
And lastly, if you think getting involved isn’t worth the effort, think again. Maria Piscopo has a good column in CA and on its site about how being active in a creative community has benefits you might not have thought about. So, by being active you not only build good karma, you can build your business. Most of you know that has worked for me. I participate on several forums and have ben active in creative pro groups in my own location (and beyond) for years. The payoff has been more business and a larger circle of friends and knowledge.
Can’t beat that with a stick!