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| Source: AC works. Screen capture of illustAC. |
AC works, which already has over 2.3 million users in Japan, is now expanding internationally. The company has launched the Korean version of its flagship stock image websites photoAC, illustAC and silhouetteAC.
Traditionally, the stock image industry imposed a number of restrictions on the use of a stock image, charging each time the image is used for different purposes. Stock images and the vector files that govern their shapes often cost money, for example. Once an image is purchased, it can typically be used in limited circumstances, for example once in an advertising campaign for a specific website. Royalties may need to be paid each time the image appears. Recognisable people featured in an image must sign a model release to allow the image to be used freely, under any circumstances. Images may also come with other stipulations, such as who they may be credited to, whether they can be edited, or if they can be used in commercial settings.
AC works has cut through the complexity with the three sites, which offer free high-quality images and vectors which can be downloaded and used for commercial purposes, with no credit title required. PhotoAC has acquired all rights from photographers and models so that there are no image rights to worry about. IllustAC and silhouetteAC also offer editable AI/EPS format vector files for free. AC works further dispenses with account registration or requiring an app to use the services. Images can be downloaded with a single click, the company said.
The company plans to expand its content portfolio, and aims to reach more than 20 million users worldwide by 2020.
