FOTOLIA

Fotolia is a new online image community that's bringing together creative people from across the globe that's especially geared towards those who share their creative views, tips, and opinions through web forums and blogs. Fotolia is sympathetic to the problems that the music and film industries have when it comes to illegally downloaded songs and movies, and they're looking to change the world of stock photography by turning it into something that artists and users can both benefit from. Fotolia believes that people rip off images illegally because of exorbitant prices that many can't afford to pay; by making photos affordable they're hoping to change the way we think about buying commercial art. Their model is disruptive because they're working to protect artists' intellectual property rights while at the same time making their work accessible to the masses. And they aren't stopping there. Fotolio is also striving to turn everyday people into successful artists by not restricting their online database to 'professional' artists with in depth portfolios; so if you're the soccer mom with a killer eye or the kid with a fresh perspective, this is the site for you. Fotolio images start at $1 a piece, and many of them are free. They boast one of the largest worldwide selections of royalty free images and illustrations. And with an ever-changing selection from countless designers and photographers, you're sure to find the right thing for your next project. Kudos to Fotolia for embracing the changes that today's technology has the potential to bring about. By realizing the importance of creating a mutually beneficial, non elitist community they're proving that commercial artists and buyers can coexist peacefully.