8.14.2007

Exhibit 1.18

Stock Photography Review

From msn.com

The headline that accompanies this piece says "ARE YOU A GOOD CO-WORKER?" As I found this while at work, it's unclear if I'm even a good worker so I didn't have the heart to actually take the quiz or whatever that would let me know.

But what's fascinating about this piece--and stock photography in general--is the chameleon-like nature of these images. Whatever photographer snapped this shot had no idea what the headline was going to be, but s/he knew that A) Most stock photography uses women, B) Most stock photography is used by companies targeting middle-class salaried workers, and C) Due to the depth of the composition, this photo would likely be used online or in mail (not on, say, a billboard). That's it. However this photo gets used from then on is entirely up to the photographer's arrangement with the image provider and the company that purchases it.
Some other possible headlines that could go with this photo:

  • Searching for a better snack? Try a Take Five.
  • Constantly looking for a bathroom? Take Holdaprone.
  • The University of Onlineville is the answer to your career worries.
  • Is everything really better on the other side of the cubicle?
  • Find out if you made the right career move.
  • Our employees are worried about what's best for you.

And on and on.

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