Many readers know that Jupitermedia competes with Getty Images in the distribution and sales of stock photos. In an industry that has historically seen cooperation amongst competitors, Getty Images has decided to close its distribution network to JupiterImages brands.

For example it no longer distributes our Comstock Images brand and in a few days it will not distribute our Thinkstock Images brand. Starting in December it will not distribute several more of our brands including Brand X Pictures and several rights managed brands.

This is fine with me. I like competition and am more than ready to compete with Getty Images.

However my company will compete with integrity, honesty and a willingness to work with any competitor. Getty on the other hand must resort to threats and dishonesty in its dealing with the image world.

Note the item pasted below from the Getty Images Web site. It indicates that Getty will no longer be distributing Thinkstock imagery because the images do not meet the Getty standards of excellence or because we asked that they be removed. All of this is dishonest. The only reason Getty will no longer distribute Thinkstock is because Thinkstock is owned by JupiterImages.

We all know the Bible. One of my favorite stories is that of David and Goliath. Need I say more?

And here's their explanation: "Imagery that has been withdrawn is no longer available for purchase. Withdrawing imagery is an infrequent occurrence on our site. Generally images are withdrawn due to reasons like poor image quality or at the request of an image provider. Regarding imagery to be withdrawn, it will only be available for purchase until the date found under the image. We apologize for any inconvenience it causes you."