Messages

1

Getty Images Letter Forum / Re: Masterfile - in need of urgent advice

« on: August 19, 2011, 01:09:21 AM »

Thank you, mcfilms. This is encouraging to hear. I greatly appreciate your valuable input.

2

Getty Images Letter Forum / Re: Masterfile - in need of urgent advice

« on: August 18, 2011, 05:13:16 PM »

I am in a similar situation except the extortion amount is MUCH higher. My understanding is Statutory Damages are only applicable if the infringement took place AFTER the image had been registered with the U.S. Copyright office. Is this a true statement? Does no statutory damages also mean they cannot make me liable for their attorney fees if legal actions are taken? Assuming both are true, it is highly unlikely they will persue litigation???

In looking at the Copyright database, the artist registered thier compilation (not individual images) only this year; while the demand letter makes the accusation we have had the image on our site for several years.

Any thoughts, anyone???

3

Getty Images Letter Forum / Re: Alaska Stock Images Settlement Demand Letter

« on: August 16, 2011, 10:38:38 PM »

Hello Mr. Chan , Mr. Michelen --

I just discovered this website today and am I glad! We received a demand letter from IMUA (exact same letter as the one posted in this thread) want $15K on a 1" x 1" image buried 4 layers deep into our website. The web page where the image (nothing out of the ordinary nor professional quality) lies is only used as reference material and does not benefit our services in any way. The artist they claim to represent is an individual (not an image stock company) based outside the U.S. The settlement demand is obviously OUTRAGEOUS given the intent (lack thereof), size, and placement of the image on our website. Looks like IMUA has upped the ante and Getty demands now pale by comparison.

Any guidance and insights are greatly appreciated. I am aware of Mr. Michelen's letter program and would be open to enlist if you feel my case is applicable.

Thank you very much.