Messages

1

Getty Images Letter Forum / No Getty Ownership?

« on: February 24, 2017, 08:09:33 PM »

I recently received a letter from Getty asking for $XXX for an image on my website. Immediately took it down. For the last few hours, I've found:

• Getty says the image is "Rights-managed" and has a link to the photographer's portfolio within Getty Images. Clicking that link, and looking at the photographer's portfolio within Getty Images -- in its entirety, for five times -- the image isn't listed.
• I also went to the photographer's website. Image isn't shown there, either.

Question 1: Is this apparent lack of ownership of the image relevant?
Question 2: I can't afford to pay the $XXX extortion amount, but I am prepared to send repeated (and polite) emails asking that they reduce the fee, provided they can show proof of rights management, contract and sales history for this specific image. Without full and complete documentation, no monies will be paid. Does that sound fair/productive?
Question 3: Would it be wise to just contact the photographer?

Thanks in advance!

(P.S. I apologize for the anonymity. Only reason for it: I prefer not to be identifiable to Getty Images at this time).