What's abuzz in the photography world this month?
1. TechCrunch
Getty Images has dropped its primary copyright infringement claims against Stability AI in the UK, narrowing a legal dispute over AI training practices. Getty had accused Stability of using millions of copyrighted images — some allegedly bearing Getty watermarks — to train its AI model, Stable Diffusion, without permission. The claims were dropped due to weak evidence and jurisdictional issues, but the case continues with trademark and secondary infringement claims.
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2. PetaPixel
British rock band Oasis is facing backlash from major photo agencies over restrictive image licensing terms for their UK reunion tour. The band initially allowed agencies — including Getty, Reuters, AP, Shutterstock, and AFP — to retain photo rights for just one month after a concert, later extending the period to one year. However, the News Media Coalition argues this still limits the editorial and historical value of the images and is advocating for more permanent usage rights.
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3. Photography News
Leica has announced 12 finalists for the 45th Leica Oskar Barnack Photography Award, recognizing powerful photo series that address global issues such as war, migration, climate change, and identity. Winners will be revealed on 9 October 2025 during Leica’s centenary celebrations in Wetzlar, Germany. Prizes include €40,000 and Leica gear for the main award, and €10,000 plus a Leica Q3 for the Newcomer. The finalists' work will be exhibited globally.
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4. Bored Panda
Annie Leibovitz’s latest Vogue cover featuring Anne Hathaway has sparked online backlash. Critics argue that the images are too dark and somber, with poor editing that leaves Hathaway looking gloomy and the lighting excessively blue. Many have questioned Leibovitz’s continued dominance in celebrity photography, suggesting Vogue should feature new talent. The debate reflects evolving expectations in fashion imagery and a growing push for fresh creative perspectives.
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5. Creative Bloq
Polaroid's new campaign for its Flip camera pushes back against digital overload and AI, encouraging people to reconnect with the real world. Featuring nostalgic Polaroid imagery and bold slogans like “AI can't generate sand between your toes,” it celebrates human connection and sensory experience. Launched in high-tech hubs like New York and London, the campaign contrasts digital saturation with analog simplicity and has been praised for its message and emotional impact.
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Would you also like to learn more about Photography Copyright? We invite you to check out the Fair Licensing Copyright Guide.
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That's all for now. See you next time!