To those that are being rewarded by copy and pasting stock photos in “photography” and all other related tags,
It is rather obvious that some of you here are literally searching pictures on google and posting them with simple captions, making profit off the works of others by claiming it as your own. I have been a “Steemian” for only a week now, and during that time I have seen dozens upon dozens of photos that were easily searchable and being the property of others, yet posted here as “original” content.
Not only is this illegal, but also is contrary to the entire purpose of Steemit.
I debated a bit about posting the images I have found “stolen” in this letter and tying it to the respective user name, but I thought it may be best to try this tactic first and not make a bunch of enemies here my first week.
These actions are manipulative and damaging to those that are true photographers here on Steemit. Many are contributing their hard work and their skills to generate revenue and contribute original, quality content here on steemit.
Seeing stock photos generating hundreds of SBD, yet original, quality photography is earning close to nothing is not only frustrating, but discouraging and unfair.
As a community, I feel like quality content must be maintained and those whom put in the effort should be rewarded. I ask all that read this please resteem and spread awareness to this issue. I am sure I am not the only person who has seen this!
In closing, I request these practices be stopped immediately. If not I'm entertaining the idea of starting a project in which combats these abusive practices, keeping our community values alive with original, quality content.
I ask that those who read this to please resteem to spread awareness, let's protect this amazing ecosystem in which has been built.
Regards,
Jacob Billett M.B.A.,
CEO Billett Enterprises, Inc.