

Google has filed court documents challenging the standing of ASMP and the other associations as plaintiffs in the 2010 class action copyright infringement lawsuit filed over Google’s unauthorized and massive scanning of library books and its related actions. Google argues that because of the requirements of copyright claims, plaintiffs must be actual rightsholders rather than associations acting on their behalf. It has also challenged the standing of the Authors Guild in its related lawsuit filed against Google in 2005. ASMP General Counsel Victor Perlman notes, “The class action copyright infringement suit against Google, Inc. was filed in conjunction with other trade associations and with individual named plaintiffs. Therefore, regardless of the ruling on the standing of trade associations, the status of the individual plaintiffs and their ability to proceed with the lawsuit will not be affected.” ASMP plans to file a legal brief in response and will keep members updated.
ASMP will be an active participant in this year’s NAB Show® to be held April 14 -19 in Las Vegas. ASMP is the only photography trade organization to be part of this event by hosting a booth, providing discounted access for members, and delivering training sessions within the post/production world. NAB Show is the world’s largest event covering the development, management and delivery of content across all mediums. With more than 90,000 attendees from 151 countries and 1,500+ exhibitors, NAB Show is the ultimate marketplace for digital media and entertainment. ASMP members will be able to attend exhibits for FREE ($150 value) and get other benefits to be announced. Look for more information in February’s newsletter, and in the meantime, find out about the show here.
ASMP Election season has begun with 11 candidates declaring their intention to run for 5 available seats on the ASMP National Board of Directors. The Board is comprised of 15 General Members who are elected for three-year terms. Term limits prohibit Board Members from serving more than two terms in a row and this year, there are 3 incumbents running along with 8 others. Each candidate has provided a statement and will answer questions submitted by ASMP voting members. Voting begins next month online so make your voice heard by staying informed about the candidates and issues. And, most importantly, if you are a General Member, plan to vote between February 15 and March 15! Find out more here.
ASMP’s resource sharing site, CameraCake.com, is the place to find resources submitted, approved and reviewed by people you trust. Looking to gain insights into building and marketing your business? Check out CameraCake’s most popular resource: PhotoShelter’s Free Business Guides for Photographers. Visit CameraCake daily to find, like and submit your favorite resources.