AMA press in SHOOT

Artist Management Association (AMA), a trade organization for the commercial photography and fine art industries, has been formed. The AMA’s mission is to advocate for companies that represent and manage photographers, artists, directors, stylists, illustrators and other creative talent that work in the photography and fine arts fields. The association was established following years of discussion among artist representatives and managers across the U.S. Unlike the commercial production industry, this sector of the visual arts industry was left to create individual terms, conditions and standards resulting in inconsistent business practices. With the emergence of new media platforms, the integration of stills and motion, and lack of standards around payment terms, image usage and copyright, it became clear the new trade organization will play an optimal role in advancing the interests of its members, building a solid foundation and promoting expansion of the industry for years to come. With over 50 founding member industry agencies and partners, the AMA established a board of directors, instituting guidelines and launching a website that will serve as a valuable resource for the organization. Members will have access to assets and resources that include a universal bid form, national guidelines for photo production, health and safety guidelines for photo production, a variety of downloadable forms and agreement templates, and more as the organization grows. The AMA is accepting both general membership and non-member industry partner sponsorships for an annual fee. AMA Partners will benefit from high-exposure branding opportunities while also participating in social networking, awards and educational events and visibility to managers and agencies across the U.S. and Europe. The board of directors are established artist managers in the commercial photography and fine art industries, including president Kelly Montez (Apostrophe Reps), VPs Jen Jenkins (Giant Artists) and Howard Berinstein (ATRBUTE), communications director Vanessa Stevens (VS+Company), treasurer Heather Elder (Heather Elder Represents) and directors-at-large Carol LeFlufy (Eye Forward) and Stacy Fischer (Exposure NY)....