Stock Industry
The definition of stock photography by wikipedia is “Stock photography consists of existing photographs that can be licensed for specific uses. Publishers, advertising agencies, graphic artists, and others use stock photography to fulfill the needs of their creative assignments.
A customer who uses stock photography instead of hiring a photographer can save time and money, but can also sacrifice creative control. Stock images can be presented in searchable online databases, purchased online, and delivered via download or email.”
There are several stock site around the world, the method is similar for all. In the beginning of this century a new type of Stock emerge, the micro-stock. With the broadband and evolution of the internet, new firms allow amateur and semi professional photographer to sell thru them at lower prices.
Today you can find good quality photos and illustrations for anywhere from $5 to $20.