Licensing Options
Royalty-Free
A Royalty Free license generally allows the user to make use of the image in an unlimited number of media for an unlimited period of time. Pricing is based on file size. The use is non-exclusive which means that any other client may also use the image at the same time. In many cases, a collection of images will be made available on either a CD or available as download on a VCD (Virtual CD). There are obvious restrictions against illegal, slanderous or pornographic uses, but this is true of any stock license. In general, a client may not use an image in such a way as to damage the reputation of a model unless specific sensitive subject permission has been provided for in the model release.
Rights-Managed
A Rights-Managed license may only be used according to the terms granted in the negotiation and pricing of the license fee. License fees are calculated base on the type of media where the image will appear, the size of the image within the media, the duration of use, and the number of times the media will be published. Exclusive or restricted use is also available with a Rights-Protected license (see below). While this seems complex, most online stock agencies have developed a pricing calculator on their web site for simple online transaction.
Rights-Ready
A Rights-Ready license is a simplified version of a Rights-Managed license. The usage categories are simplified, however the images may only be used according to the terms granted in the negotiation and pricing of the license fee. License fees, while simplified, are calculated base on the type of media where the image will appear, the size of the image within the media, the duration of use, and the number of times the media will be published.
Rights-Protected
A Rights-Protected license adds exclusivity and industry restrictions to the license. Clients may choose to negotiate this option (when available) to prevent a competitor, or anyone else, from using the same image at the same time. An extra fee or higher licensing cost will be incurred based on the amount of protection required. For example, a country-wide restriction would be more expensive than a city-specific restriction.
Subscription
Subscription is not so much a license but a pricing option. With subscription, the client pays a weekly, monthly or annual fee and may download a certain number of images a day. These images are licensed as Royalty-Free. Terms may vary. Some Subscription services only allow use of the image while the subscription is active, while others offer unlimited use beyond the term of the subscription.
Micro-Payment (Micro-Stock)
Micro-payment (also referred to as micro-stock) is another pricing option where the images are available with a Royalty-Free license but at prices that may start as low as $1 USD, or are purchased through a system of credits. Clients must take care to make sure that proper model and property releases are available when using these images.