[Leica] Can't We Contribute to to Public Service?

[imagist3 at mac.com (George Lottermoser)]

On Oct 31, 2011, at 5:43 PM, Jim Nichols <jhnichols at lighttube.net> wrote:

>  I don't think that the few images that I contribute will destroy the 
> market for the work of those like you who have a real product for sale.

I agree Jim. One individual with a kind and generous spirit will not 
"destroy the market."

Yet 51 million users (on Flickr alone) displaying 6 billion (and growing) 
images will have an effect. Getty buying any and all competition in the 
stock area will have an effect on "stock."
Increasing numbers of skilled hobbyists, with good equipment, doing favors 
for brides will have an effect. I could go on.

Not complaining; just observing the effects and causes in our new realities.

I've adjusted my business model (and retooled) at least a half dozen times 
over my 45 year career. It has become quite tiresome; and in the current 
economy (at my age) almost impossible. I do feel a bit of envy for your 
father-in-law's era - when one set of tools, a touch of skill, and a good 
business model could keep a family going for most of a lifetime.

I do have a nice Ansco portrait camera with stand if you'd like a nostalgia 
piece for the living room. ;-)