Truestock.co.nz launches; A New Zealand stock image library co-owned by its members
Truestock today launches a New Zealand stock image library offering exclusive, royalty-free local stock images capturing an authentic, multicultural Aotearoa.
In the final stages of becoming a New Zealand co-operative, Truestock will be the first platform co-operative in New Zealand. Locally owned and operated, all of Truestock’s photographer contributors become majority co-owners.
The concept was borne out of the challenges in obtaining high quality stock images that reflect an authentic representation of a diverse New Zealand. Shot locally by some of New Zealand’s best photographers, the library already features a wide selection of images and is being added to daily. The Curated Collection’s themes include ‘Diversity in the workplace’, ‘Technology & Life Admin’, ‘Active Lifestyle’ and ‘Agribusiness’.
Truestock aims to give business, government and advertising agencies easy access to images that truly represent New Zealand. Royalty free images start from $40 and exclusive licenses are available on request.
Says Tanmay Desai, CEO, Truestock: “Becoming a co-operative puts the power in the hands of our content creators. Not only do Truestock’s photographer contributors get one of the highest commission rates in the world, but they also share the profits and get voting rights on the key business decisions. They are the majority owners of Truestock.”
Says Erica Sinclair, Te Whānau a Apanui, photographer/co-owner: “I am excited to be part of Truestock and hope to offer an authentic insight into our Māori culture, values and narratives.”
Says Graeme Murray, photographer/co-owner: “It’s exciting to be a part of a stock image library that is all about New Zealand. One that reflects the beauty of New Zealand, its amazing people, wildlife and even its cities. Being a co-owner of Truestock provides me with an opportunity to have a say and a greater motivation to create fresh images that reflect New Zealand.”
Says Josh Griggs, photographer/co-owner: “Truestock immediately made sense – I knew there was already a lack of NZ specific stock content so a space for curated, high quality images that are relevant to Kiwis was a no brainer. The co-ownership model really appealed as photographers have agency and an actual say in the future of Truestock.”
