FAQ's
Last Updated: June 2, 2008
We welcome your feedback. If you have any comments or concerns regarding our policies and the FAQs, please click here.
Common Questions
What is Cutcaster?
We are a digital content marketplace where members can buy, sell and request royalty free images, stock photos, stock footage and stock photography for advertising, publishing or web design. We are the first dynamic digital content marketplace and not just another static storefront.
How does Cutcaster work?
It's easy and free. We help digital photo and video buyers find what they are looking for and allow them to easily license content on demand from our community of high quality photographers and videographers. In addition, buyers can bid on content which a seller can accept, reject or re-submit a new offer back. Lastly, a buyer can submit a request to the entire Cutcaster community for specific content, which they can't find or is not in the marketplace.
Sellers can easily upload content, store it, choose from a menu of pricing and licensing options, while always remaining in control and the owner of the content they create. We only collect a moderate percentage of the selling price for promoting, hosting, technology costs and order fulfillment.
Is Cutcaster Free?
Yes. It is FREE to use, search, upload and store as much digital video and photos as you want as long as it doesn't violate our copyright policy and contributor agreement. Signing up is easy and we don't share your information.
What is the Cutcaster Algorithm?
Cutcaster's proprietary pricing algorithm takes the work out of determining and maximizing your content's revenue by changing its price to match the demand in the marketplace. All you have to do is set an initial price or allow us and then let the algorithm do the rest - the price of your video or image will then fluctuate based on a set of market variables.
I'm interested in selling my content. What do I do?
Please read the agreements for your protection on the site and check out the Desired Content section. After that, start uploading your content. We are paying the content creators higher royalty payouts on the specific content that is in the marketplace during the beta period. If you have any questions on what you can sell or what we are looking for view the Desired Content section or contact us at content@cutcaster.com.
What are the specs required for video clips to be uploaded?
All footage and images MUST be broadcast quality and fully cleared. Broadcast quality source formats include - 35mm, 16mm, super 16mm, betaSP, DigiBeta, HDCAM, DVCPRO, DVCPRO HD, HDV, DV or in digital format at a minimum of QuickTime Photo-JPEG High Quality. It is ok to submit the same footage in both NTSC and PAL. Footage and clips have to be full frame with no black bars on any of the edges. Widescreen is the domain of HD; standard definition video must be 4:3.
How do I upload my content via the FTP?
You can email john at john@cutcaster.com for bulk upload instructions or download a free FTP client such as
1. Filezilla (Free for Windows- Notes- Use "FTP over TLS (explicit encryption)"- If you are working behind a firewall, you want to use the "Passive Mode" in the advanced settings. Use the latest version if possible as older ones don't work as well).
2. Cyberduck (Free for Mac OSX- Notes- select FTP-SSL (FTP over TLS/SSL)" from the top dropdown. No need to specify path.
3. Transmit (Free for Mac OSX- Notes- select "FTP with TLS/SSL" in Protocol menu.
Note- In most cases it is needed to use "passive connection" in the FTP client settings. Within the FTP, there is one "control" connection and one "transfer" connection per file. When working from behind a firewall the normal way of doing the transfer connection is generally not possible and the "passive connection" setting fixes that.
What are the rules I have to follow when uploading content?
Help make everyone’s lives a little easier and remove all trademarks before uploading. That goes for everything from logos, brands and entities with copyright or trademarked elements to trademarked products such as toys, cast sculptures, other elements of design and architecture. We will check each file for copyright.
For images, the bigger the file sizes the better. For example, 300 dpi 5" x 7" is ideal. A lot of the graphic designers that we have spoken to cannot use 640 x 480 images. The minimum file size should be 1200 x 1600 pixels if possible.
If you are generating any animation by software, please make sure that the backgrounds generated by software are acceptable before you upload. If the backgrounds appear to be produced by a recognizable particle generator or effects generator then save them for your personal collection and do not upload them.
Enter descriptions, metadata and keywords: Be expressive but straightforward and try not to abuse as it could turn off interested parties. If you can put down 10 keywords at a minimum you will be off to a great start and remember to try to be as descriptive as possible in the title. Supplying more keywords means your image will match more searches.
If you need help with your keywording, we can help you tweak your words based on our buyer's keyword searching history and what they are interested in licensing. Images or clips with specific and niche keywords get downloaded the most and are in more search results.
Do I need a model release?
In most cases, yes. If the images you upload have clearly visible people, you will be required by the site to have a model release form for legal reasons if you are trying to license it under commercial uses. Model releases are simple to understand. Cutcaster provides model releases here.
You will need a parent’s signature or legal guardian if there is a child under the age of 18 years of age in any piece of your content. Model Releases can be uploaded through the site where you can edit your contents data and you will be sent an email to the address on file if one is needed.
Will Cutcaster make all the different frame sizes for me?
Yes, please email content@cutcaster with the ID number found on the contents page and what frame size you need. As many of you know we cannot generate larger files and we will not convert it from 16:9 HD into 4:3 SD.
Who sets the price?
You are in control and can choose. You can set the price and license yourself or allow the Cutcaster algorithm to fluctuate the contents market price based on variables Cutcaster has chosen to help maximize your return. You can let us set the default price for the algorithm which is $20 for images and $75 for videos or you are able to choose the start price and still get the benefits of using the algorithm. If you select the algorithm, then Cutcaster retains the right to alter prices to better position the products in the marketplace. But like we have said, you always retain the copyright and ownership. We just want to help you price your content better and capture as much value as you can.
What happens when someone purchases your content?
Once someone buys your footage, stock images or any other content, you will recieve notification and a reciept for the sales. What the buyers purchases are the RIGHTS to use that piece of content in a certain capacity. For Royalty Free licensed content, there are a number of things you can use the content for. These include using the footage within news broadcasts, films or web videos or for photos they can print the photo, use it as part of a marketing campaign, a brochure, or part of a cluster of images on his or her website, etc. Please refer to the Content License Agreement for a complete breakdown.
In general, what can’t a buyer do with the purchased content?
There are some things the license restricts the buyer from doing. Below is a list of things a buyer CANNOT do with purchased content:
- Reselling the content - i.e. footage, motion graphics, animations, image etc.
- Transfer the rights of the content to another person or company
- Buy the piece of content and then transfer its ownership to a friend
- Create a website template using the image and sell the web templates online (only exception is when the buyer purchases the Extended License to your image)
- Edit the image to convey a negative political / sensitive message.
- Use the image as part of a pornographic production.
If there are any questions refer to the Content License Agreement or contact contractagreements@cutcaster.com.
What do you pay to the seller?
CURRENT CUTCASTER ROYALTY RATES: Amount paid to Cutcaster producers for each piece of content sold.
EXCLUSIVE ROYALTY RATE (50%): For each piece of content you sell, you will receive 50% of the selling price.
NON-EXCLUSIVE ROYALTY-RATE (40%): For each piece of content you sell, you will receive 40% of the selling price
What if my work is commissioned and I don't have the legal right to re-sell it?
There are other parts of the site that are right for you. The ProjectRequest section is perfect if you fall into this category. You can still be an active member of the community and respond to clients' ProjectRequest’s posts.
There are members who have signed up with us who do not own work or the right to legally sell it and they have expressed interest in using the ProjectRequest. This is a great way to meet new clients and make some extra money. If you don’t have the rights to sell the content, it does not mean you can’t participate and make money at Cutcaster.
I’m looking for a video and I can’t find the one I need. What can I do?
This is a perfect time to create a ProjectRequest, which you can do on the Homepage or ask us for help. We know a wide variety of producers who can help you with anything you need to shoot or need created. It shouldn’t take long for you to get responses if the footage or image is not too complicated. It is important that you are as specific as possible in the description of what you need so that the contributors can quickly generate it. Please include as many details as you can such as length, format, frame rate, etc. We have a massive database of potential freelancers who can also shoot your project so if you need help please email us.
How will Cutcaster monitor the content?
Cutcaster uses various mechanisms to make distributing illegal or obscene content more hassle than it is worth. Products in violation of our policy will be removed, and Members who post the products will be blocked. Remember, distributing copyrighted material is an expensive felony. We want to create the most transparent marketplace out there so any ideas you have to make this more transparent please let us know.
How do you deal with sellers who upload illegal or copyrighted content?
Legal Notice: Uploading footage, images, illustrations or artwork that belongs to somebody else, copyright or otherwise, could lead to legal ramifications and result in immediate suspension from the site. No questions asked. In addition, your profile will be placed on our Wall of Shame as a testament for what not to do and you could be reported to third party marketplace sites and our competitors for everyone’s safety.
Can a user cancel a purchase while it is downloading?
No. The credit card transaction must be processed to initialize download. Please select carefully.
How do I purchase and download my selected piece of Content?
To buy footage or an image you need to choose the desired file and have a valid account. This will take you to the My Cart where you can securely purchase the desired piece of content. Once you click on the “Confirm Purchase” link, your credit card associated with your account will be charged and a page will open with the download link which you can click on and immediately download and use the content.
When the content is downloaded, it is not possible to ask for a refund due to the reproducible nature of the downloaded clip or image.
What if you don't have the file size or format I need?
If we don't have the file size or format you need available on the site, we can create it for you in most cases so email us at content@cutcaster.com.
What if a user's connection breaks during downloading of a purchased product?
After re-establishing your connection, you can download your purchased product immediately by clicking the download link you were sent or emailing help@cutcaster.com.
LICENSING:
What is the Cutcaster User Agreement?
Click here for the User Agreement. If you have any questions or cannot find what you are looking for please email contractagreements@cutcaster.com.
What is the Cutcaster Contributor Agreement?
Click here for the Contributor Agreement. If you have any questions or can't find what you are looking for please email contractagreements@cutcaster.com.
What is the Cutcaster Content License Agreement?
Click here for the Content License Agreement. If you have any questions or can't find what you are looking for please email contractagreements@cutcaster.com.
What is the Cutcaster Privacy Policy?
Click here for the Privacy Policy. If you have any questions or can't find what you are looking for please email contractagreements@cutcaster.com.
What is "Royalty Free" content?
The term "Royalty Free" can be a bit confusing since Royalty Free licensing is not "free." Royalty Free videos and photos (referred to as "Content") must first be purchased before any usage is permitted. With a Royalty Free license, you are not required to specify how or where you plan to use the Content. Once you've paid for your Royalty Free Content, you are able to use the piece of Content for nearly any purpose. You can also use the Content over and over again because a Royalty Free license has no restrictions on time or re-usage.
With a Cutcaster standard Royalty Free license you are restricted from sharing, selling or storing the Content in any way that makes the Content accessible to others. However, Royalty Free Content can be shared among internal groups with additional seat licensing, allowing companies to build a library of Royalty Free Content to suit their specific creative needs.
How quickly can I receive my content?
All files can be downloaded immediately, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. We won’t stop working if you still are.
Can I get an Extended License?
If you are interested in Extended Rights licensing, please contact contractagreements@cutcaster.com or call 215-688-2751. There are a number of ways you can expand the scope of usage for your downloaded content (but it will likely cost a bit extra).
Can I prevent others from using the same footage or image that I license?
Yes. That's one of the benefits of using Extended Rights licenses. Just add that request into the amended agreement.
BIDDING FAQ – It’s pretty easy!
1. How does bidding work if you’re a buyer?
If you’re a buyer, search for content you need and click on the thumbnail to preview the media details. On the media details page, where you preview the content, you are given two pricing options as a buyer. The first is you can add the media file to your cart or buy it now if it fits your needs and check out, seamlessly buying the content ala carte and on demand.
If, however, you think the file’s price is above your budget or should be priced lower, you have the option to click on Suggest a Price (bid for the content) to the right and submit a price directly to the seller, who then receives an email notification of the bid you just made (note the price needs to go out to two decimal places if your price is less than one dollar).
Any bids you’ve placed as a buyer can be found in your My Studio page under Content I want to Buy (which is within My Marketplace on the left-hand side). Anytime a seller accepts, declines or re-submits a new price back to you, you will receive an email to the address you provided during the registration detailing the seller’s response and how to proceed.
Finally, any deals that have been accepted or declined can be found under My Marketplace (Accepted Deals and Declined Deals) for your own reference.
Accepted deals will stay in your Cart for 72 hours and after that become void and must be re-done.
2. How does bidding work if you’re a seller?
When a buyer submits a suggested price to you as the seller, you will receive an email from the Cutcaster Community detailing which piece of content has received a new suggested price and what the price was. You can follow the link within the email and go to your My Studio page where you can click on Bids for My Content to review the buyer’s proposal. Under the thumbnail of the media file, you will have the option to Accept, Reject, or submit a counter-offer to the buyer.
Accepting a price will alert the buyer of a completed deal and move the thumbnail to your Accepted Deals window. The buyer will then have 72 hours to buy the file or the deal will be void and must be re-done. The buyer is under no obligation to buy the file. Rejecting a proposal will also send an email alerting the buyer, who could then submit a new price. If, however, you decide to negotiate with the buyer and offer a different price, an email will be sent to the buyer and the thumbnail with the negotiated price will be sent to My Response under Bids for my Content. The entire process can continue from there.
It’s important to note that the whole bidding and negotiating process takes place under the My Marketplace section, but the emails will always be there as alerts.
3. How long do bids and counter-offers last?
Bids and counteroffers are only valid up to 72 hours from the time they’re submitted.
4. Can I change a suggested price or cancel a suggested price as a buyer or seller?
Yes. Go to you’re My Marketplace and find the thumbnail of the file you want to decline and you can delete the deal from there. The seller or buyer will be notified of a declined deal by email and can find that in their Declined Deals page. From there you can re-submit a price if you choose.
5. As a seller, does the price of my content change for good, when I accept a bid from a buyer?
Currently, your content’s price will not change unless you go in and manually change it but if you agree to a price with a buyer they will be able to go in and purchase it within 72 hours at that price. Your starting price or the algorithm price will stay the same on the media details window and no one will know you brought your price down.
6. Can I communicate directly with the seller (or buyer) during a bid or counteroffer?
In the My Marketplace section, you can see how you responded and how the other party has responded. This can be seen above the thumbnails of the associated piece of content in red writing. Cutcaster is currently in the process of rolling out site messaging platform, which would enable buyers and sellers to negotiate more directly over pricing and licensing terms. It will then be possible to negotiate extended licenses with buyers.
We welcome your feedback. If you have any comments or concerns regarding our policies and the FAQ, please click here.