What is "Broad Use"?

There are several ways to license an image. "Rights-managed" (RM) works track the history of each image, and pricing is based on a specific project use, geographic region and time period. "Royalty-free" (RF) images allow the buyer to pay a one-time fee for the unlimited use of a photo. Neither of these license models are currently offered by Obsidian Stock.

Instead, we advocate a mixed-use licensing model called "Broad Use" (BU). Not as restrictive and expensive as RM terms, but not as unlimited as RF terms, BU combines the best of both worlds for the client, as well as the photographer. BU is used to classify images that may be used for an unlimited number of purposes from editorial to advertising, but are limited by the size of the file purchased and a term of a maximum of 5 years.

Images come in four size categories: Low, Medium, High, and Ultra-High.

  • Due to its small pixel count (72dpi), "Low" is typically only suitable for web use and won't reproduce well as a printed image without looking heavily pixilated.
  • "Medium" is a larger file size and may be used up to about 5x7 inches in 300dpi printed materials.
  • The "High" size would be suitable for a one-page 8.5 x 11 advertisement.
  • "Ultra-High" covers a double-page spread in a standard-size magazine.

Purchase of a smaller-size image and then attempting to increase file size with digital interpolation usually results in a lower quality file, sacrificing color accuracy and overall quality, and is herefore strictly prohibited.

All BU images are sold on a non-exclusive arrangement, and may never be resold by or used by more than a single client.