Stock Photos and Illustrations

• What is Photokore?
  Photokore is the first creative community website focused on the needs of users in the Asia-Pacific region. Photokore allows members to upload their images for sale, and provides a way to easily buy and download safe, inspiring, hand-selected images at affordable prices. Photokore is for Asia by Asia.
  
• How does Photokore work?
  Photokore is a creative community website built on the Microstock model, in which members can upload their images and sell them at affordable prices starting at $1. Members can also access and buy stunning images uploaded by other members.
• What makes Photokore different from other Microstock websites?
  There are several things that make Photokore distinctive:

  1. Photokore is the home of Asian photography and illustration content: Photokore encompasses all Asian ethnicities, and reflects Asian lifestyles.
  2. Photokore is reliable: Photokore inspects all images uploaded by its members, and only accepts those of a high-standard. Every handpicked image is guaranteed to inspire the creative mind.
  3. Photokore is hassle-free: Just type-in a few keywords describing the image that you are looking for. Photokore will automatically streamline and convert your search into relevant and up-to-date keywords making image-finding a breeze.
  4. Photokore is easy: At Photokore, you can view prices and make payments in several Asian currencies. This is just one of our efforts to meet the needs of customers in Asia. (Our apologies to customers whose local currency is not yet supported at this time. There are many financial regulations Photokore needs to follow in order to support each currency. We are dealing with these one at a time, and hope to support your local currency soon).
• How can I reach you?
  For any questions that you have as an artist, you can reach us by sending an e-mail to artist@photokore.com. For general matters, you can send an e-mail to help@photokore.com

General

• What is stock photography?
  Stock photography refers to existing (pre-shot) photographs that were not shot for a particular client or for a specific use. Stock photos can be licensed for commercial use and/or personal use. Many advertising agencies, designers, and other professionals use stock photography for their design needs as it saves time and expense when compared to hiring their own photographer and planning their own shoots.
• What is Microstock photography?
  Digital cameras have become affordable to everyone, and the number of people taking high-quality images has increased. This trend has led to the formation of a new licensing model - Microstock. Now it's possible for any photographer , not just professionals, to take and upload great images, and for millions of community members to license and download those images at very moderate prices. That's the core of Microstock.
• What is Royalty Free?
  A Royalty Free license allows you to use images in various design projects such as printed ad projects, web design and presentation slides. At Photokore, all images that contain recognizable people or parts of them need a Model Release to be licensed as Royalty Free. This is an important tip for artists who want to increase sales of their photos or illustrations.
• What can I do with Photokore images?
  You can use Photokore image in commercial projects such as advertising, marketing and promotional projects, entertainment applications, on-line or electronic publications or any other uses approved by Photokore. For details, please refer to our Content License Agreement.
• What is an Extended License?
  In case Photokore's Content License Agreement doesn't cover your intended use (i.e, you want to use an image on an item you plan to sell, you will use the image more times than allowed in the Content License Agreement), you should acquire an Extended License. For details, please refer to Photokore's Extended License provisions. (For your Information, the Extended License is an 'extension of use' from Photokore's Content License Agreement).

• How can I become an Artist for Photokore?
  All you need to do to become a Photokore artist is register with us and begin submitting images for acceptance. Submitted images must meet our Submission Guidelines.
• Do I have to pass a test to become accepted as a Photokore Artist?
  No. You do not have to pass a test to register as a Photokore Artist. However, keep in mind that if the images you upload do not meet our Submission Guidelines, they will not be accepted for exposure on www.photokore.com.
• I am an illustrator; do you accept illustrations?
  Yes, we love illustrations and are eager to accept great illustrations that will inspire designers' creativity. If you want to check the requirements for submitting illustrations, please click on this link.
• What formats are accepted for illustrations?
  There are two different ways to upload your illustrations at Photokore.

  1. Uploading Vector files (EPS and AI files):
     Artists must submit one ZIP file that contains two files - one EPS file (Encapsulated Post Script), and/or one AI file (.ai/Adobe Illustrator), and one JPEG file (72ppi or larger). All vector files (EPS and AI) should be created in AI 8.0 or higher versions. The file names should be the same for all files. For details, please refer to the table below.
  2. Uploading JPEG Illustrations: If your illustration comes without the relevant vector file, you can just upload it as a JPEG file. In this case, the JPEG file should be at least 6 megapixels (W x H pixels = 6MP) at least 72ppi, and preferably 300 ppi.

     Source File	Submitted As	EPS	AI	JPG
     1. Vector (AI or EPS)	Zip	Necessary (one EPS and/or one AI)		Necessary (2,816 x 2,112 pixels; preferably 300 ppi)
     2. JPG Illustrations	JPEG	Unnecessary	Unnecessary	Necessary (2,816 x 2,112 pixels; preferably 300 ppi)

• Do you accept CMYK?
  We only accept RGB color mode for all submitted JPG files (whether photos or illustrations). Only vector illustration files submitted in EPS and AI format can have either RGB or CMYK color mode.
• Do you have any material about how to become a Photokore artist?
  Yes, our tutorials are listed here. Please, take a look at them and join Photokore.
• Do I have to pay any extra or hidden fees to become a Photokore artist?
  No, registering with us is free. All you need to do is sign up and begin submitting your images to Photokore.
• After my photos or illustrations are submitted to Photokore, how long does it take for them to appear on Photokore site?
  First, Photokore will inspect your images carefully, and either accept them, or reject them. Once an image is accepted, we will also check your keywords (and add some when necessary)-after all, it's important for people to be able to find your images easily! In short, we cannot upload your images immediately after they are accepted. However, you do not have to worry about this. Even though we meticulously check your images, our processes are highly digitalized and other parts of our website are automated. It won't take long for your images to appear on photokore.com.
• I'd rather not sell my images in certain territories (countries), is that possible?
  Yes, when you upload your images you can select which territories you want to sell your images in, and also select which territories you do NOT want to sell your images in.
• Do I retain the copyright and ownership to my images?
  Yes. Remember, Photokore doesn't actually 'sell' your image. We sell a license that allows buyers 
to use your image. You retain all copyright and ownership of your images.

Image Requirement, Keywording & Pricing

• Which format and file size do you accept?
  All images submitted to Photokore must be 6 megapixels or larger. Also, JPEG is necessary if you are submitting photos. Please check Photokore's Submission Standards and Guidelines.
• Do I have to provide keywords for my images?
  Yes, one of the core philosophies of Photokore is to check/change/and add necessary keywords for all submitted images. This is time-consuming and costly, and a service not offered by most sites. But we believe this process is extremely important in guaranteeing that people can find your images easily. However, to help us be as accurate as possible, you should fill in at least 3 keywords for each image you submit. This will help our keyword staff understand your images and create more relevant, accurate keywords.
• How am I supposed to do the keywording?
  Click here to refer to our Keyword Guidelines.
• My Images have metadata embedded as IPTC data. Can I upload them without keywording them manually?
  Yes. If your images have the Title, Description, and Keywords (at least three keywords) embedded in the image's IPTC data, you do not need to fill-in the metadata fields manually when you upload your images. Our system will read and record your metadata.
• I uploaded an image with metadata embedded as IPTC data, but the metadata fields for Title, Description, Keywords on the upload page are blank. How can I tell if my metadata was captured, and how can I revise it?
  When you upload images with metadata embedded as IPTC data, your images will appear with green ‘finished' icons beneath them on the upload page – although the actual metadata fields on the right will be ‘blank'. If you want to see what your metadata looks like (in order to confirm or make changes), just click on the ‘edit' button beneath your image and the metadata will appear in the fields.
• Can I set the price for my images?
  No, all images on Photokore have the same price scheme according to its size or resolution. Photokore's current price list and image sizes are as follows.
  
  Photokore Price List (Photos, JPG Illustrations, & Vectors)

  	USD	JPY	KWR	CNY
  Small	$ 2.00	200 円	2,000원	20 元
  Medium	$ 5.00	500 円	5,000 원	50 元
  Large	$ 20.00	2,000 円	20,000 원	100 元
  X-Large	$ 40.00	4,000 円	40,000 원	200 元
  Vector Files	$ 40.00	4,000 円	40,000 원	200 元

  *Depending on file specification, the price might be different.
  
  Image Size

  	Approx. Height x Width	Resolution (pixel per inch)	Image Size (megapixels)	Color Mode
  Small
  	600 x 800 pixels	72 ppi	0.48 mp	RGB
  	2 x 3 inches
  	5.08 x 7.62 cm
  Medium	1200 x 1800 pixels	300 ppi	2.16 mp	RGB
  	4 x 6 inches
  	10.16  x 15.24 cm
  Large
  	2400 x 3600 pixels	300 ppi	8.64 mp	RGB
  	8 x 12 inches
  	20.32 x 30.48 cm
  X-Large
  	3600 x 5400 pixels	300 ppi	19.4 mp	RGB
  	12 x 18 inches
  	30.48 x 45.72 cm
  Vector Files	Scalable to any size			CMYK / RGB

• My file was refused, what should I do?
  Rejection is never easy, however it is usually a permanent decision. Many factors are considered when inspecting potential files for the Photokore library: style, composition, lighting, technical quality and post processing. We hate to see efforts wasted, if you feel there's still hope for a file, turn to the helpful folks in the Photokore community for constructive tips and feedback.
• Can I delete my images when I want?
  If you want to delete one, or more, of your images, please send a request to help@photokore.com.

Sales Territories

• What does ‘Sales Territories' mean?
  Photokore offers member Artists the ability to decide in which countries and territories their images will be offered for sale. Furthermore, anyone visiting photokore.com from an IP in a country that an Artist has ‘deselected' for sales, will not be able to see that image on the site. This function is unique to Photokore.
• How do I select Sales Territories?
  In ‘Step 2' of your Upload Process, you will notice a tab that says ‘Sales Territories'. Just go into that section and deselect any country in which you do not desire your image to be sold (‘All territories' is the default selection). You can select Sales Territories for each of your images.
• If I deselect a country, does that mean my image will never be used in that country?
  No. If you deselect a country, it just means your image will not be sold in that country. For example, if you deselect Korea for one of your images, no one in Korea (visiting photokore.com from a Korean IP address) will be able to view that image on photokore.com. Thus they will not be able to license that image. However, someone in Japan could license that image and use it in a pan-Asian marketing campaign (that includes Korea). In that case, your image may eventually be used, and seen, in Korea.
• If I change my mind, and want to change the countries and/or territories where an image can be sold, can I change the settings?
  Unfortunately, the answer is ‘no'. When you upload your image, in Step 2 of the upload process you have the option to select the countries/territories where you will allow, and not allow, your image to be purchased. This can not be changed at a later date. So, think carefully before you make your decision.

Uploading & Selling

• How do I upload images & illustrations?
  The first step in getting your work on Photokore is verifying your identity. This important process is just one measure we take to ensure authenticity, accountability and legality for our buyers' peace of mind. Because we want to give you the benefit of the doubt, this process may be handled in conjunction with your first 10 uploads.
• Should I choose something special for my first 10 uploads?
  Yes, your first 10 uploads should reflect your highest quality of work, the consistency of your execution and your passion. We can tell when you're not trying.
• What happens to my first uploads?
  Once we've verified your identity, our inspectors immediately begin inspecting your submissions. We understand that submitting your images for inspection can be nerve wracking, but don't worry, our inspectors are highly trained professionals eager to lend a helpful eye. Whether your first files sink or swim, you will always be treated with the utmost respect. We understand that as a new artist you may have a learning curve. Although we can't bend the rules, we can help you get where you want to be.
• Who can upload? Do I have to be a professional photographer/illustrator/artist?
  No. Whether you just purchased your first camera or are a seasoned veteran, an eye for photography is in the heart. If you think you have that eye, you can submit your images to Photokore!
• What can and can't be uploaded?
  Royalty-Free Stock is different than art - it has strict technical and legal standards to abide by. Once those are understood, what you upload is up to you. What is downloaded is up to the buyers. Always keep in mind the practicality of the subject and composition and you should have smooth sailing. Refer to our tutorials to learn more.
• Can I use FTP to upload my images?
  Our web application can handle quick upload of several images at one time. However, if you plan to upload images in bulk, we also provide an FTP service. When you registered, we sent you an email with your FTP login details, including a Password. If you need any assistance regarding FTP, please send an e-mail to help@photokore.com
• Do I have to follow a different process if I upload images via FTP?
  The only difference between web upload via our site, and FTP upload, is how your images are uploaded to our server (Upload Step 1). After images are uploaded, all the other processes (Upload Step 2 and 3) are same regardless of your upload method.
  
  In other words, you should fill in all metadata and other necessary information (in Step 2 and 3).

Artist Royalties & Payment

• What royalties will I earn from sales of my images?
  Your royalties are based on the way the customer purchased and the badge that you have attained. Please see our Royalty Schedule for details.
• When do I receive payment?
  When the total sum of your royalties reaches over the minimum amount of US$100, you can make a request to payout and Photokore will remit the royalties, after deducting required taxes or duties such as withholding tax. Payouts are processed on 15th and the last day of every month, and all payout requests will be closed 5 business days before every payout.
• How can I receive payment?
  Photokore handles all payments via Paypal transfer and/or Moneybookers. It is very easy for you to receive your payment if you use Paypal or Moneybookers. All you need is your e-mail address. If you haven't signed up with Paypal or Moneybookers, please visit and sign up with one of them to be able to receive your royalties.
• How much am I paid when my photo is licensed?
  Whenever one of your images is licensed and downloaded, Photokore will pay you a portion of the fees collected from the end-user. The portion of the fee payable to you will depend on whether your image is exclusive or not exclusive to the photokore.com site, and on the file size and license purchased. For details of our Royalty Schedule, please click here.
• How can I make money by selling images so inexpensively?
  It's true that Microstock prices are low. However, this is balanced out by the fact that successful Microstock images sell in extremely high volumes. The trick to success is to offer high-quality images that are easy for the customer to use. There are innumerable success stories of people who are very successful selling Microstock images and make their main living from it. And, of course, there are even more stories of hobbyists who make enough money from Microstock sales to purchase new photography equipment every year. The Photokore advantage is that uploading your images to photokore.com will expose your images to a huge market of potential buyers - at least 2 billion people in Asia whose specific imagery needs have not been addressed until the launch of Photokore.
• You cover a lot of different currencies. What happens to my payment?
  Yes, there are many currencies handled by Photokore. All customer payments will be converted into USD, according to the exchange rate at the time. Based on that amount, your royalties will be calculated as outlined in the Royalty Schedule.

Artist Ranking & Badges / Exclusivity

• What are Artist Rankings & Badges?
  All Photokore Artists are automatically enrolled in our Badges Program. In this program, Photokore Artists earn different rankings based on their performance. Each rank is denoted by a unique badge, which will appear on the Artist's Profile Page. Rankings are listed in the Badge Program Schedule in three tiers: Wolf, Tiger, and Dragon. When an Artist attains a Tiger ranking, their royalties increase. At the top tier of the rankings, ‘Dragon' Artists have the option to choose to become an Exclusive Artist, and thus gain a further increase in royalties.
  
  *Increased royalty rate is not retro-active. Increased royalty rate is applied to sales of your images from the first day of the following month after Photokore confirms your ranking and awards you the relevant badge.
• What is Exclusivity, and what is an Exclusive Artist?
  Any Photokore Artist who has attained a Dragon ranking may opt to sign a Exclusive Artist Agreement with Photokore. When an Artist enters into an Exclusive Artist Agreement with Photokore, the Artist will earn substantially higher royalties (refer to Badge Program Schedule above) in return for guaranteeing that the images he/she uploads to Photokore are neither sold (nor given away for free), nor available for download in any form, from their own or any other site.
  
  *Increased royalty rate is not retro-active. Increased royalty rate is applied to sales of your images from the first day of the following month after your Exclusive Artist Agreement is accepted.

Model / Property Release

• What are Model / Property Releases?
  A Model Release is a legal document that shows that the subject ("Model") in a photo gives the photographer ("Artist") who takes the photo, permission to license the photo which contains the model's image.
  A Property Release is a legal document that shows that the owner of the subject ("Property") contained in the photo, gives the photographer ("Artist") who takes the photo, permission to license the photo. To be specific, Artists need to obtain a Property Release if he/she takes pictures of a private home, a business location, a copyrighted work of art, or in some cases, an animal. However, Property Releases are not necessary for public property.
• When do I need a Model / Property Release?
  If a person can recognize themselves in a photo, you must attach a fully filled-out and signed Model Release to the photo (this includes photos of yourself, photos of the back of a person's head, etc). Without it, the photo will not be sold as Royalty Free. In case of illustrations, the artist should acquire a Model Release if the illustration depicts recognizable, real people.
  
  When you submit a photo of certain property - such as a building or a recognizable pet - the photo must be accompanied by fully filled-out Property Release that contains the signature of the owner of the Property. Without it, the photo will not be sold as Royalty Free. In case of illustrations, artist should acquire Property Release if the illustration depicts the recognizable private property of someone.
• Where do I find Model / Property Release forms?
  You can download Model / Property Release here in English, Japanese, Chinese-simplified, and Korean.
• I have several people included within my photo. Do I need to get releases from all of them? How do I upload all the releases?
  Yes, you need to get all the releases from all people in the photograph. When submitting, you can upload multiple releases.
• How do I fill in a Model / Property Release?
  All Photokore releases are standardized, ensuring accuracy of information and legal coverage in every release. All provided fields must be completed in full to be accepted. Each release is then carefully inspected to ensure accuracy and authenticity of information. If a release is incomplete or appears fraudulent Photokore reserves the right to reject a release.
• Can I submit a personal Model and/or Property Release?
  If you are using a personal release you will need to ensure your content includes all the required information to meet Photokore standards; or it will not be accepted. Photokore can only inspect releases in officially represented languages: English, Chinese (Simplified), Japanese and Korean.
• What format should I submit the Model Release / Property Release?
  Model Releases and Property Releases can be submitted in either PDF or JPEG format. If you prefer, you can black-out the identification number on the photo ID.

• How can I buy Images?
  You can buy images via credits and/or subscription packages. For subscription, you can build the best plan by selecting subscription type, download limit and duration. To see our entire offerings, please refer to our Plans & Pricing page.
• Which currencies do you accept?
  You can purchase credit in USD, JPY, KRW and CNY. However, please be aware that your credit is not interchangeable among the different currencies. The currency you select to purchase your credits will be the only currency that you can use for downloading images.
• Why aren't you using a single currency?
  Many people feel uncomfortable when they have to pay in a currency other than their own. One of the goals of Photokore is to provide convenience to our members.  We are offering 4 currencies at this stage, but the list will be expanded in the future.
• Can you explain the image sizes you provide?

  	Approx. Height x Width	Resolution (pixel per inch)	Image Size (megapixels)	Color Mode
  Small
  	600 x 800 pixels	72 ppi	0.48 mp	RGB
  	2 x 3 inches
  	5.08 x 7.62 cm
  Medium	1200 x 1800 pixels	300 ppi	2.16 mp	RGB
  	4 x 6 inches
  	10.16  x 15.24 cm
  Large
  	2400 x 3600 pixels	300 ppi	8.64 mp	RGB
  	8 x 12 inches
  	20.32 x 30.48 cm
  X-Large
  	3600 x 5400 pixels	300 ppi	19.4 mp	RGB
  	12 x 18 inches
  	30.48 x 45.72 cm
  Vector Files	Scalable to any size			CMYK / RGB

• Can I check my download/purchase history?
  You can check your download/purchase history by going to My Account and clicking on the My Downloads or Purchase History menus.
• How can I get a receipt of my purchase?
  Go to Purchase History on My Account, and you can print receipt for the transaction you want.
• Can I re-download files?
  You can re-download files within 24 hours starting from the time you originally downloaded it without an additional charge.
• How can I get a refund?
  You can ask a refund within 7 days of your purchase, not downloading any images.
• How does a subscription plan differ from buying images via credit?
  A Subscription plan allows you to download a specific number of images per day or per month, depending on your plan. It's a better way to download images in bulk at affordable price.
• How many subscription plans are available?
  Our subscription works at one active plan per account basis : After you activate a plan, it is impossible to add additional one.
• Can I change my plan after I subscribe?
  Unfortunately, any subscription plans cannot be upgraded nor downgraded in any cases after first download.
• My subscription has expired. Can I use the images?
  Yes, however, you are required to use the images firstly within six months of the expiration date of your subscription. Once you fulfill this requirement, you may continue to use the images indefinitely, as long as you comply with the terms and conditions of usage. However, it is against our terms of licensees to download images in advance for future use.
• I would like to renew my plan, when and how can I do?
  Between 2 weeks before and 1 week after the expiration date of current plan, you can renew it on My Subscription. In gratitude for using our service continuously, we will offer up to 20% discount (This special offer will be applied to every renewal longer than 6 months).
• I've failed to download images for a certain period. Can I get extension?
  We do not offer any extension in case the customer fails to download images for the problems with his/her Internet Service Provider. Only if Photokore server is not accessible more than 8 hours, we will compensate your lost days.
• I've used up today's quota. When can I start to download next quota?
  The standard time for quota renewal is midnight (00:00) in your selected time zone. For example, you select [GMT +9] Seoul, Tokyo as your time zone, your quota starts at every midnight (00:00) in this time zone.

Image Usage

• Where can I use images?
  The extent that you can use images is varied based on the license that you acquire – standard license and extended license. You can understand each license and its usage examples below.

  	Standard License	Extended License
  Description	Photokore’s standard license allows you to use images on any sort of advertising or promotional project for yourself or a client.	Additional Extended License is necessary for 1. Products for resale or distribution 2.multi-user access 3.unlimited copies of print
  Usage Examples	websites, web banners, newsletters, PDF documents, blogs, email, slide shows, standard-resolution tv & video presentations, cell phones wallpapers, magazine articles, books, advertising, brochures, documents, illustrations, booklets, brochures, billboards, business cards, packaging, high-resolution videos, presentations.	postcards, calendars, posters, t-shirts, book covers, mouse pads, print & presentations templates, multi-media productions, film, video, software, game, where the photograph lends primary value to the product and intended for resale or distribution.

• Can I sell the images that I downloaded?
  No, you cannot sell the images in any cases. You are allowed to use them for design elements, but you cannot offer them for resale or distribution.
• I made electronic templates with your images. Can I sell them?
  No, you cannot sell templates under our Standard license but it is allowed under our Extended License.

Search

• How do I search for an image?
  Please enter keywords related to the image that you want into the search bar at the top of the page. On the search results page, you can refine your search by using the ‘Search Within' function.
• What languages can I search in?
  You can search for images in English, Japanese, Korean, Chinese (Simplified), Hindi, Indonesian, and Thai. We have plans to add more languages soon.
• What are the words in the drop-down box below the search bar?
  In order to increase the accuracy of your search, the drop-down box displays our keyword dictionary as you input keywords. The word in blue is the suggested keyword, and related keywords are shown to the right. The heart mark () indicates a Standard keyword.
• I found an image that has the wrong keywords. What should I do?
  If you find an image that has the wrong keywords attached to it, please send an e-mail to help@photokore.com. We will check and revise any mistakes ASAP.

My Account

• I'd like to view a list of all the images that I downloaded.
  Click My account at the top of the page, and then click on My downloads. You'll be able to see a history of all the images that you've downloaded there.
• Can I change my member name?
  You can change your member name on your profile page. However, keep in mind that many people know you by your existing member name. They will have difficulty finding you if you change your member name.
• How can I edit my personal information such as my address and telephone number?
  You can easily edit your personal information on your profile page. Go to your profile page and click the Edit button to update your information.
• I forgot my password. What should I do?
  In case you can't remember your password, click the ‘Forgot your password. Click here!' link. Enter your e-mail address, and we will send you an email with a link to reset your password.
• I want to view the Photokore site in a different language instead of the one chosen by default. Can I change the language?
  By default, Photokore detects your IP and automatically directs you to the relevant local page (English, Japanese, Korean, or Chinese-simplified). You can always select a different language by using the ‘Language' tab at the top right of the page. If you prefer to view our site in a certain language, go to Preferences to change your settings.

Lightboxes

• What is a Lightbox?
  A Lightbox is a special folder that you can use to place your favorite images. It's similar to a ‘wish list' on retail shopping sites. You can store the images that you like in a Lightbox, and then share it with your colleagues and clients. You can have multiple lightboxes defined by specific ideas, themes or projects. Lightboxes are a useful tool to develop your ideas and create designs to inspire the world.