The library is at the heart of Drik. Established in response to the negative stereotyping of majority world peoples by western media, the agency was set up as a platform for media practitioners in the south. The high entry barriers and the heavy investment needed for a photographer to join an agency in the north was way beyond the resources majority world photographers could mobilise. They also needed editorial support, help in printing, and sometimes cash advances, in order to take photographs. Drik's role was not only one of an agent selling images but that of a support structure strengthening their capacity as professionals to secure and consolidate their position in an unequal global media environment.
The agency therefore conducted workshops and provided bursaries and advice on copyright and ethical issues. It has campaigned for photographers rights and negotiated fair terms of contract with clients, playing a trade union role. It has worked with local media setting up virtual picture desks and also with editorial staff in developing an appreciation of photography.

The leading photo agency in South Asia, Drik Picture Library has a unique collection of images from all over the world. Ranging from historical photographs (vintage prints and glass plates dating back to 1918), to large format architectural photographs and high resolution digital images, the library is as much an archive as a source of stock images. Connected to a wide network of national and international agencies and outstanding photographers, the library specialises in development and other issues: human rights, gender, education, micro-credit, migration, health, industry, politics, religion, culture, disasters etc.

Major national and international clients

Bitopi Advertising, John Keels, CARE, CONCERN Worldwide, Encyclopaedia Britannica, Expressions, Far Eastern Economic Review, GEO, Guardian, Le Monde, New Straits Times, New York Times, Newsweek, Save the Children, The British Council, Time Magazine, UNDP, UNICEF, Unitrend, Vinay Cement.

Contact email

library@drik.net

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