System and method for selling or licensing image files

According to one embodiment, a method for selling or licensing digital video clips includes receiving a first catalog image file representing first digital video in a raw image format and receiving a second catalog image file representing second digital video in a raw image format. The method further includes receiving a selection of the first catalog image file, a selection of one or more first parameters, and payment information for a purchase or a license of a first image file that is a version of the first catalog image file. At least one of the first parameters specifies a second format, and the first image file has the second format. The method further includes generating the first image file, where generating the first image file includes processing the first catalog image file based on the first parameters. The method further includes transmitting the first image file.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This disclosure relates generally to the field of image creation and more specifically a system and method for selling or licensing image files.

BACKGROUND

Digital cameras typically provide the ability to generate digital images that may be transmitted over the Internet to various computer systems. Unfortunately, many digital images have file standards that are incompatible with various technological platforms, operating systems, and machinery. Furthermore, even when a digital image may be trans-coded to other file standards for use with these other systems, the storage requirements associated with providing a selection of each the various file standards is impractical.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

According to one embodiment, a method for selling or licensing digital video clips includes receiving a first catalog image file representing first digital video in a raw image format and receiving a second catalog image file representing second digital video in a raw image format. The method further includes receiving a selection of the first catalog image file, a selection of one or more first parameters, and payment information for a purchase or a license of a first image file that is a version of the first catalog image file. At least one of the first parameters specifies a second format, and the first image file has the second format. The method further includes generating the first image file, where generating the first image file includes processing the first catalog image file based on the first parameters. The method further includes transmitting the first image file.

Certain embodiments of the disclosure may provide one or more technical advantages. For example, generating an image file may allow a computer system to provide any particular image file to a user without requiring a large storage capacity. In such an example, the particular image file may be generated “on the fly,” as opposed to storing every image file at the computer system, thereby reducing the storage needs.

As a further example, generating, by a first computer system, an image file may allow the image file to be generated without any special software being installed on a user's computer system. As another example, generating image files using a selection of parameters may allow a user to request any particular image file, thereby allowing the user to create their own version of a catalog image file.

Certain embodiments of the disclosure may include none, some, or all of the above technical advantages. One or more other technical advantages may be readily apparent to one skilled in the art from the figures, descriptions, and claims included herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

Embodiments of the present disclosure are best understood by referring toFIGS. 1 through 4of the drawings, like numerals being used for like and corresponding parts of the various drawings.

It should be understood at the outset that although example implementations of embodiments of the disclosure are illustrated below, the present disclosure may be implemented using any number of techniques, whether currently known or not. The disclosure should in no way be limited to the example implementations, drawings, and techniques illustrated below. Additionally, the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale.

FIG. 1Aillustrates an example screenshot of a user interface10that allows a user to purchase or license various digital image clips having a desired format according to a particular embodiment. In particular embodiments, purchasing or licensing digital image clips having a desired format may refer to purchasing or licensing the right to use digital image clips having a desired format. According to the illustrated embodiment, user interface10includes digital video clips14(14a,14b,14c,14d, and14e) and search window18.

Digital video clips14represent digital video clips that may be purchased or licensed by a user. For example, a user may select a particular digital video clip14, and may indicate a particular format that the user desires digital video clip14to have. As such, a copy of the digital video clip14having the particular format may be transmitted (or accessible) to a user. In particular embodiments, each digital video clip14may be displayed to a user as a preview. In particular embodiments, a preview may be all or a part of the content of the digital video clip14. For example, if the digital video clip14is a five-minute digital video file, the preview may be only a portion of this, such as a processed three-second preview of digital video clip14. As such, the preview may provide an example of the content of digital video clip14. The preview of digital video clip14may include preview134discussed inFIG. 2.

Each of the digital video clips14displayed to a user may have different content. For example, digital video clip14amay be a video of a person playing tennis, digital video clip14bmay be a video of a person playing basketball, digital video clip14cmay be a video of the ocean, digital video14dmay be a video clip of a waterfall, and digital video clip14emay be a video of a sleeping dog. The content of digital video clips14illustrated inFIG. 1Ais merely an example. Digital video clips14may have any other content. Furthermore, althoughFIG. 1Aillustrates five different digital video clips14, in particular embodiments, any other number of digital video clips14may be displayed to a user. For example, less than five digital video clips14may be displayed to a user, or more than five digital video clips14may be displayed to a user, such as 50 digital video clips14,100digital video clips14, or any other number.

Video search window18provides a user with the ability to search for particular digital video clips14. For example, a user may request a digital video clip14of a person playing tennis. In such an embodiment, the user may input “tennis” in the video search window18, and one or more digital video clips14that correspond to the keyword “tennis” may be displayed. According to the illustrated embodiment, video search window18further allows a user to refine a search for digital video clips14. For example, a user may select one or more concepts for the digital video clips14(such as objects, activities, art, night shot, etc.), original screen format, original frame rate, original resolution, the type of device the digital video clip14was shot on, framing (such as extreme wide, wide shot, close-up, etc.), orientation (such as landscape, portrait, etc.), or any other search factors. In particular embodiments, by selecting one or more of these search factors in video search window18, a user may be able to refine their search for digital video clips14that they may desire to purchase or license.

FIG. 1Billustrates an example screenshot of a user interface10that allows a user to purchase or license various digital image clips having a desired format according to a particular embodiment. According to the illustrated embodiment, user interface10includes digital video clip14a, video information22, and purchase/license option selection window26. As is illustrated, digital video clip14aofFIG. 1Bmay be substantially similar to digital video clip14aofFIG. 1A.

Video information22may include any information about digital video clip14a. For example, video information22may present metadata extracted from digital video clip14ain text format. As such, a user may be able to view information about a digital video clip14aprior to deciding to purchase or license digital video clip14a. In particular embodiments, video information22may include data138discussed inFIG. 2.

Purchase/license option selection window26allows a user to select various purchase and license options for digital video clip14a. For example, purchase/license option selection window26may allow a user to select a particular type of license or a particular type of purchase agreement for digital video clip14a.

FIG. 1Cillustrates an example screenshot of a user interface10that allows a user to purchase or license various digital image clips having a desired format. According to the illustrated embodiment, user interface10includes digital video clip14a, purchase/license option selection window26, parameter selection window30, and purchase/license selection window34. As is illustrated, digital video clip14aofFIG. 1Cmay be substantially similar to digital video clip14aofFIGS. 1A and 1B, and purchase/license option selection window26ofFIG. 1Cmay be substantially similar to purchase/license option selection window ofFIG. 1B.

Parameter selection window30allows a user to select various parameters for digital video clip14a. The parameters listed in parameter selection window30may include any parameters that may be used in order to generate digital video clip14aas desired by a user. For example, parameter selection window30may allow a user to select a particular format, option(s), frame rate, resolution, any other parameter, or any combination of the preceding for digital video clip14a. Based on these selections, digital video clip14amay be generated to have such parameters, as is discussed inFIG. 2. Accordingly, a user may be able to purchase or license a digital video clip14athat includes any of the parameters selected by the user. In particular embodiments, the parameters listed in parameter selection window30may include parameters142discussed in detail inFIG. 2.

Purchase/license selection window34may allow a user to purchase/license digital video clip14a. For example, once a user has selected digital video clip14a, and further selected the parameters for digital video clip14a, the user may click on a button in order to purchase or license the digital video clip14a. In particular embodiments, by selecting to purchase/license digital video clip14a, various purchasing information may be provided in order to conduct the purchase/license.

As is discussed above,FIGS. 1A-1Cillustrate example screenshots of a user interface that allows a user to purchase or license various digital image clips having a desired format according to a particular embodiment. In particular embodiments, this user interface may present a user with various digital video clip options, allow the user to select various parameters for the digital video clip (such as the format of the digital video clip). As a result of these selections, the particular digital video clip desired by the user may be generated “on the fly” for purchase/license by the user, as is discussed inFIG. 2.

FIG. 2illustrates an example system100for selling or licensing image files according to a particular embodiment. According to the illustrated embodiment, system100includes generation system126, catalog image file130, and image file146. In particular embodiments, generation system126is capable of using a stored catalog image file130in order to generate image file146“on the fly.” Since generation system126is capable of generating image146“on the fly,” in particular embodiments, generation system126does not need to store a large quantity of image files146of different formats in order to provide them to a user. Instead, image file146may be generated specifically for the user, and then image file146may be deleted from storage. In particular embodiments, this may allow generation system126to provide a user with a file having a desired format without having to store each of these image files146at generation system126. This embodiment may be particularly useful for video files. There are hundreds of formats for digital video files in common use today. For a website marketing stock footage, the cost of storage of files in many different formats is prohibitive.

The embodiment disclosed herein allows efficient provision of digital video images to those purchasing or otherwise wishing to receive a copy of such digital video images. Users can obtain a copy of the digital video images in their desired format without the service provider of the digital video images storing dozens of copies of the digital video images in a myriad of formats. Instead, video images may be created on the fly in many different formats.

According to the illustrated embodiment, system100further includes one or more cameras114(114a,114b), one or more transmission systems118(118a,118b), network122, network150, and one or more user systems154(154a,154b). Camera114includes any device capable of generating a file in a useable image format (e.g., a raw image format). For example, camera114may include a Canon EOS-1D, a Fujifilm FinePix S5100/5500, a Nikon Coolpix 5400, a RED ONE (REDCODE), or any other device capable of generating a file in a useable image format (e.g., a raw image format). A file in a raw image format may refer to a digital image file that has not yet been processed or has only been minimally processed. In particular embodiments, such a file may not be directly usable as an image, but may have all the information needed to create an image. In particular embodiments, such a file may have more information than is needed to create an image, such as infra-red information, ultra-violet information, other image related information, or more color information than is visible by the human eye or displayable on electronic displays. In particular embodiments, such a file may be a digital negative. In particular embodiments, the file in a raw image format may be compressed or not compressed. According to the illustrated embodiment, the file in a raw image format or other image format created by camera114may be referred to as catalog image file130, which is transmitted to and stored at generation system126. Of course, catalog image files130may be uploaded from any source to generation system126(or otherwise provided to generation system126) without coming directly from a camera114.

In particular embodiments, camera114may generate any digital image file as catalog image file130. For example, camera114may generate a digital video file, a digital picture file, a digital motion picture (cinematography) file, a digital multimedia file, any other digital image file, or any combination of the preceding.

In particular embodiments, camera114may be further capable of communicating catalog image file130. For example, camera114may communicate catalog image file130to transmission system118for subsequent transmission to generation system126. Camera114may communicate catalog image file130to transmission system118in any manner. For example, camera114may have a removable memory unit that may be removed from camera114and inserted into transmission system118. As another example, camera114may be coupled to transmission system118in order to communicate catalog image file130to transmission system118. In particular embodiments, camera114may be coupled to transmission system118through a wired connection, allowing catalog image file130to be communicated from camera114to transmission system118. In further embodiments, camera114may be coupled to transmission system118through a network (such as networks122and150discussed below) in order to communicate catalog image file130to transmission system118.

Although system100illustrates camera114coupled to transmission system118, in particular embodiments, camera114may be directly coupled to generation system126. In such embodiments, camera114may directly communicate catalog image file130to generation system126for storage. Furthermore, catalog image file130may be communicated (directly or indirectly) to transmission system118and/or generation system126in any other manner. For example, catalog image file130may be communicated by any device, such as a Smart Phone, a portable storage unit (such as a memory card), additional computer systems, or any other device.

Transmission system118may include any device capable of receiving catalog image file130from camera114or from computers or other digital devices (e.g., Smart Phones) and transmitting catalog image file130to generation system126. In particular embodiments, transmission system118may be a computer system. Example computer systems may include a desktop computer system, a laptop or notebook computer system, a collection of network devices, an interactive kiosk (e.g. such as a standalone kiosk located in a store or shopping center), a mainframe, a mesh of computer systems, a mobile telephone, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a server, any other computer system, or any combination of the preceding. According to the illustrated embodiment, transmission system118may receive catalog image file130from camera114or other devices, and may subsequently transmit catalog image file130to generation system126over network122. In some embodiments, generation system126and transmission system118will be on the same computer or group of computers and may not use network122. For example, both generation system126and transmission system118may be the same standalone kiosk. As such, a user may provide catalog image file130to the kiosk so as to purchase and/or license an image file146having any desired format from the kiosk. Additional details regarding the computer system of particular embodiments of transmission system118are discussed below with regard toFIG. 4.

Network122may include any network capable of connecting transmission system122to generation system126. Network122may refer to any interconnecting system capable of transmitting audio, video, signals, data, messages, or any combination of the preceding. Network118may include all or a portion of a server backplane, a high-speed switch fabric, a public switched telephone network (PSTN), a public or private data network, a local area network (LAN), a metropolitan area network (MAN), a wide area network (WAN), a local, regional, or global communication or computer network such as the Internet, wireline or wireless network, and enterprise intranet, other communication link, or any combination of two or more of these. AlthoughFIG. 2illustrates network122and transmission system118as being separate, in particular embodiments, network122and transmission system118may be integrated.

Generation system126may include any device capable of generating image file146using catalog image file130. For example, generation system126may include a computer system. Example computer systems may include a desktop computer system, a laptop or notebook computer system, an interactive kiosk (e.g. such as a standalone kiosk located in a store or shopping center), a mainframe, a network of multiple computers including or excluding servers, a mesh of computer systems, a mobile telephone, a PDA, a server, any other computer system, or any combination of the preceding. In particular embodiments, once image file146is generated by generation system126, generation system126may be further capable of transmitting image file146to user system154over network150. Additional details regarding the computer system of particular embodiments of generation system126are discussed below with regard toFIG. 4.

Network150may include any network capable of connecting generation system126to user system154. Network150may refer to any interconnecting system capable of transmitting audio, video, signals, data, messages, or any combination of the preceding. Network150may include all or a portion of a server backplane, a high-speed switch fabric, a PSTN, a public or private data network, a LAN, a MAN, a WAN, a local, regional, or global communication or computer network such as the Internet, wireline or wireless network, and enterprise intranet, other communication link, or any combination of two or more of these. Furthermore, althoughFIG. 2illustrates network150and network122as different networks, in particular embodiments, network150and network122may be the same network.

According to the illustrated embodiment, generation system126includes one or more catalog image files130, one or more previews134, data138, one or more parameters142, and one or more image files146. As is discussed above, catalog image file130includes a file in one image format, such as, for example, a raw image format. In particular embodiments, catalog image file130may have a raw image format such as 3FR (Hasselblad), DCR, K25, KDC (Kodak), CR2 (Canon), ERF (Epson), R3D (RED DIGITAL CINEMATOGRAPHY), NEF (Nikon), ARRIRAW (Arri), any other useable image format, or any combination of the preceding. As is also discussed above, catalog image file130may include any type of digital image file in a same type of image format. For example, catalog image file130may include a video file, a digital picture file, a digital motion picture (cinematography) file, a digital multimedia file, any other digital image file, or any combination of the preceding.

In particular embodiments, catalog image file130may be received by generation system126and stored by generation system126. As such, in particular embodiments, generation system126may be capable of generating image files146using catalog image file130, as is discussed below.

Preview134may include any type of preview of catalog image file130. For example, preview134may be a processed version of catalog image file130. It can be stored or generated on the fly. It can be all or a part of the content. For example, if catalog image file130is a five minute digital video file, preview134may be only a portion of catalog image file130, such as a processed three-second preview of catalog image file130. As such, preview134may provide an example of the content of catalog image file130, but may be processed in such a way so as to not require a large quantity of storage space.

In particular embodiments, generation system126may generate preview134by processing catalog image file130. For example, generation system126may compress, optimize, provide any color profile, conduct any other processing, or conduct any combination of the preceding to catalog image file130in order to generate preview134. In particular embodiments, by processing catalog image file130in order to generate preview134, preview134may be viewable by a user, such as a user utilizing user system154. For example, a user may utilize a web browser on user system154in order to view preview134stored by generation system126. In particular embodiments, preview134may be viewed without installing any special software. In particular embodiments, after generation system126generates preview134, generation system126may be capable of storing preview134.

Data138may include any data generated by generation system126from catalog image file130. For example, data138may include information extracted from catalog image file130, and generated in a format viewable by a user, such as in text form. In particular embodiments, the information extracted from catalog image file130may include metadata from catalog image file130, such as the image file identifier, duration, description, producer, contributor, cinematographers, resolution, frame rate, format, framing, shot location, date, time stamp, frame width, frame height, saturation, contrast, brightness, shutter speed, any other metadata from catalog image file130, or any combination of the preceding. In particular embodiments, by extracting and generating such metadata in text form, a user may be able to more easily view and understand each item of metadata. For example, data138may include a title of an item of metadata (such as “image file identifier:”) and further include the item of metadata (such as the image file identifier) next to the title, thus presenting this item of metadata in a more understandable format. In particular embodiments, data138may be generated by extracting all (or a portion) of the metadata from catalog image file130. In particular embodiments, data138may be generated on the fly for a user or stored in the system and linked to a catalog image file130.

In particular embodiments, after data138is generated, data138may be viewable by a user utilizing user system154. For example, a user may be able to view data138on a web browser using user system154. As such, the user may be able to view any (or all) information from catalog image file130. In particular embodiments, this may allow a user to request generation of image file146for purchase or license.

Parameters142may include any parameters that may be used by generation system126in order to generate image file146from catalog image file130. In particular embodiments, parameters142may include any information that may allow catalog image file130to be processed into image file146. For example, parameters142may include compression, color, contrast, brightness, resolution (such as standard definition, hi-definition720, hi-definition1080, or any other resolution), gamma, frame rate, technical specifications, artistic expressions (such as particular colors), file options, shadow, dynamic range enhancement, saturation, exposure, file format, any other information that may be used to process catalog image file130, or any combination of the preceding. In particular embodiments, parameters142may be referred to as grading, and format parameters. In particular embodiments, file format may refer to a format, a file type, a file standard, a file extension, a codec, any manner of encoding a file for storage, or any combination of the preceding. Examples of a file format may include FCPi Pro Res 4444, Pro Res 422, JPEG, PICVideo, OpenAVS, QuickTime H.264, RealVideo, DPX, any other file format, or any combination of the preceding.

In particular embodiments, parameters142may allow generation system126to create a particular image file146. For example, a user of user system154may select a file format, a resolution, a contrast, a compression, and a color type as parameters142, and generation system126may use these parameters142in order to generate image file146. Accordingly, image file146may have the file format, resolution, contrast, brightness, and compression selected by the user.

In particular embodiments, parameters142may be selected in any manner. For example, a user may input parameters142and transmit parameters142to generation system126. As another example, parameters142may be displayed to a user of user system154and the user may select (such as highlighting a particular parameter, clicking a box next to the parameter, or any other selection format) which parameters142should be used to generate image file146.

Image file146includes any file that may be generated by generation system126based on catalog image file130. In particular embodiments, image file146may be a processed version of catalog image file130. For example, as is discussed above, catalog image file130may include an image file that is unusable as an image because it has not been processed (or has been minimally processed). In such an example, image file146may include any processed version of catalog image file130. In particular embodiments, image file146may include a version of catalog image file130that has been processed using parameters142. For example, if the selected parameters142indicate a particular file format and a particular resolution, image file146may be a version of catalog image file130processed to have that particular format and that particular resolution.

In particular embodiments, image file146may be a version of catalog image file130processed according to any parameters142. For example, image file146may have any compression, color, contrast, brightness, file standard, file type, file format, resolution, gamma, technical specifications, artistic expressions, any other information that may be used to process catalog image file130, or any combination of the preceding.

In particular embodiments, image file146may be generated on the fly in any manner. For example, image file146may be generated by utilizing catalog image file130, parameters142, and any processing code for trans-coding catalog image file130in order to generate image file146. For example image file146may be generated using any code provided by a maker of camera114, such as RED, Nikon, Olympus, Fuji, Panasonic, or any other software provider.

In particular embodiments, image file146is generated “on the fly.” In particular embodiments, “on the fly” may refer to generating image file146upon receiving both catalog image file130and parameters142. Thus, once both catalog image file130and parameters142are received (or stored) at generation system126, generation system126may utilize catalog image file130and parameters142in order to generate image file146in response to a request from a specific user. In particular embodiments, this may allow image file146to not have to be stored on a permanent or long-term basis at generation system126. For example, catalog image file130may be processed into hundreds of variations, wherein each variation is an image file146. Therefore, instead of permanently (or long-term) storing each of these image files146, generation system may merely store catalog image file130and parameters142, allowing each of these hundreds of image files146to be generated “on the fly” and provided to the requesting user. This creates the advantage of catering to user's desires without a huge storage expense.

In particular embodiments, once image file146has been generated by generation system126, image file146may be transmitted to user system154through network150or otherwise delivered to the user.

User system154may include any device capable of allowing user to select parameters142, and further capable of receiving image file146. In particular embodiments, user system154may be a computer system. Example computer systems may include a desktop computer system, a laptop or notebook computer system, an interactive kiosk, a mainframe, a mesh of computer systems, a mobile telephone, a PDA, a server, any other computer system, or any combination of the preceding. Additional details regarding the computer system of particular embodiments of user system154are discussed below with regard toFIG. 4.

Although system100illustrates transmission systems118and user systems154as separate systems, in particular embodiments, they may be the same system. For example, in particular embodiments, the system that transmits catalog image file130to generation system126may be the same system that requests image file146. In such an example, a user may create catalog image file130with camera114, and may process catalog image file130into any image file146without having to install any processing software on their own computer. Instead, the user may merely provide catalog image file130and a selection of parameters142to generation system126, resulting in the user receiving image file146back from generation system126.

Although system100illustrates parameters142as being provided by user system154, in particular embodiments, parameters142may be provided entirely by transmission system118or may be provided from both transmission system118and user system154. For example, a user may generate catalog image file130using camera114, and upload catalog image file130to generation system126along with one or more parameters142that may indicate an artistic interpretation of the content of catalog image file130. In such an example, if the creator of catalog image file130wants one or more users of user system154to be able to access an image file146having parameters142designated by the creator of catalog image file130, the creator of catalog image file130may upload such parameters142to generation system126.

In particular embodiments, generating image file146at generation system126may provide one or more technical advantages. For example, by generating image file146“on the fly” at generation system126, generation system126may have reduced storage capacity requirements. In particular, in order to provide a user with the ability to select from various versions of the same video clip (or any other image file146), computer systems typically provide long-term storage for various selectable versions of the video clip. Therefore, in order to provide a user with a selection of 30 file formats, 5 color profiles, and 10 resolutions for a single clip (having a file size of one gigabyte (GB)), a computer system would typically need to have at least 1,500 GBs of storage for the versions of that single clip (1 GB×30×5×10=1,500 GBs). Because the computer system would need 1,500 GBs of storage for only the single clip, to provide a user with the ability to select from 100 different types of clips (each with the same amount of selectable formats, color profiles, and resolutions), the computer system might require at least 150 terabytes (TB) of storage capacity—a large amount of storage for a small number of clips.

In particular embodiments, generation system126may provide the same format selections to a user, but require significantly less storage to provide those choices. In particular, because generation system126may generate image files146“on the fly,” generation system126may provide long-term storage for one catalog image file130(or just a couple such files). Such a file or files may be used in order to generate any desired image file146. Using this catalog image file130and the parameters142selected by a user (which specify the requested file format, color profile, resolution, and any other parameter(s)), generation system126may generate the particular image file146desired by the user, and provide that image file146to the user. Thus, the disclosed system greatly reduces the need for long-term storage of all the different image files146. Instead, generation system126may generate each particular image file146“on the fly” for each particular user. In particular embodiments, this may significantly reduce the amount of storage capacity needed in order to provide user system154with a selection of formats to choose from.

Modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to system100without departing from the scope of the disclosure. The components of system100may be integrated or separated. Moreover, the operations of system100may be performed by more, fewer, or other components. For example, the operations of generation system126may be performed by more than one component. As used in this document, (each) refers to each member of a set or each member of a subset of a set.

FIG. 3illustrates an example method200for selling or licensing image files according to a particular embodiment. In particular embodiments, method200may include selling or licensing image files generated on the fly. In particular embodiments, method200may be performed by generation system126ofFIG. 2.

The method begins at step202. At step204, a catalog image file is received. In particular embodiments, the catalog image file is received by a first computer system. In particular embodiments, a catalog image file may represent any file in a catalog image format, such as a digital video file, a digital picture file, a digital motion picture (cinematography) file, a digital multimedia file, any other digital image file, or any combination of the preceding. In particular embodiments, the catalog image file may be in a raw image file format. In particular embodiments, the catalog image file may be received from any device, such as another computer system, a camera, a Smart Phone, or any other device.

At step206, the catalog image file is stored. In particular embodiments, the catalog image file may be stored by the first computer system. After the catalog image file is stored, the method moves to step208. At step208, a preview of the catalog image file is generated. In particular embodiments, a preview may be a smaller version of the catalog image file. For example, if the catalog image file is a video that is four minutes long, the preview may be only a few seconds. In particular embodiments, the preview may be generated by processing the catalog image file in any manner. For example, the preview may be generated by compressing, optimizing, providing any color profile, conducting any other processing method, or conducting any combination of the preceding to the catalog image file in order to generate the preview. In particular embodiments, the preview is generated for viewing on a web browser.

At step210, the preview is stored. In particular embodiments, the preview may be stored by the first computer system. In particular embodiments, once a preview is stored (and until the image file is generated), the only files that are both stored by the first computer system and are a version of the catalog image file are the catalog image file, itself, and the preview. For example, instead of storing a large quantity of versions of the catalog image file in order to provide a selection of these versions to users, the computer system may only store the catalog image file, itself, and a preview of the catalog image file. This may reduce the amount of storage required by the first computer system. Furthermore, the computer system may still be able to provide a selection of each version of the catalog image file by generating each version (as an image file) on the fly. Although step210includes storing the preview, in particular embodiments, the preview may not be stored in long-term storage. For example, instead of storing the preview, the preview of the catalog image file may be generated on the fly for viewing on the web browser each time a user accesses the web browser. As such, the preview may not need to be stored in long-term storage. Instead, it is generated and provided for viewing on the fly.

At step212, the preview is provided for viewing. In particular embodiments, the preview is capable of being viewed using a web browser. For example, a user may access and view the preview using a web browser on their computer. As such, the user may be able to view the preview, allowing them to see a sample of the catalog image file for which they may submit parameters for.

At step214, information is extracted from the catalog image file. In particular embodiments, the information may include metadata from the catalog image file, such as the image file identifier, duration, description, producer, contributor, cinematographers, resolution, frame rate, format, framing, shot location, date, time stamp, frame width, frame height, saturation, contrast, brightness, shutter speed, any other metadata from the catalog image file, or any combination of the preceding. In particular embodiments, all (or a portion) of the metadata from the catalog image file may be extracted.

At step216, data representing the extracted information may be generated. In particular embodiments, the data may represent the extracted information in text form. In particular embodiments, by generating such metadata in text form, a user may be able to more easily view and understand each item of metadata. For example, the generated data may include a title of the metadata (such as “image file identifier:”) and further include the item of metadata (such as the image file identifier) next to the title, thus presenting this item of metadata in a more understandable format. In particular embodiments, after the data is generated, the data may be stored by the first computer system. Although step216includes storing the generated data, in particular embodiments, the generated data may not be stored in long-term storage. For example, instead of storing the generated data, the generated data may be generated on the fly for viewing on the web browser each time a user accesses the web browser. As such, the generated data may not need to be stored in long-term storage. Instead, information may be extracted from the catalog image file on the fly, data representing the extracted information may be generated on the fly, and the generated data may be provided for viewing on the fly.

At step218, the generated data is provided for viewing. In particular embodiments, the data may be provided for viewing using a web browser. For example, a user may access and view the generated data using a web browser on their computer. As such, the user may be able to view the generated data, allowing them to better understand the information of a raw image file.

At step220, another catalog image file is received. As such, steps204-218may be repeated for the additional catalog image file. In particular embodiments, steps204-218may be repeated for any number of catalog image files, such as two catalog image files, ten catalog image files, 100 catalog image files, or any other number of catalog image files. Accordingly, in particular embodiments, a viewer may be able use a web browser in order to view each of the previews so as to decide which image file the user desires to purchase or license. In particular embodiments, one or more of the catalog image files may be received from different devices. For example, a first catalog image file may be received from a first provider using a particular computer system (or other device) and a second catalog image file may be received from a second provider using a different computer system (or other device). As such, in particular embodiments, various providers may communicate their catalog image files to the first computer system so that one or more users can purchase or license image files generated on the fly based on the catalog image files.

In particular embodiments, after the generated data for all of the received catalog image files is provided for viewing at step218, steps222-230may be performed for one or more of the stored catalog image files. For example, steps222-230may be performed for each of the catalog image files, or only a portion of the catalog image files, as is discussed below.

At step222, a selection of a catalog image file is received. In particular embodiments, the selection of the catalog image file may be received from a user that desires to purchase or license an image file generated from the catalog image file. In particular embodiments, the selection may be received based on any method of selection. For example, a user may type in the name or identifier of the catalog image file, the user may highlight the catalog image file displayed in a list, the user may click a button that specifies the catalog image file, the user may click on a preview of the catalog image file, or the user may perform any other method of selection.

Once the selection of the catalog image file is received, a selection of parameters is received at step224. In particular embodiments, the selection of parameters may include a selection of any type of parameters that may be used to generate an image file from a catalog image file. For example, the selection of parameters may include a selection of compression, color, contrast, brightness, resolution, gamma, frame rate, technical specifications, artistic expressions, file options, shadows, dynamic range enhancements, saturation, exposure, file formats, any other information that may be used to generate an image file, or any combination of the preceding. In particular embodiments, the parameters may specify a particular file format for the image file. In particular embodiments, the selection may be received based on any method of selection. For example, a user may type in the desired parameter(s), the user may highlight the parameter(s) displayed in a list, the user may click a button that specifies the parameter(s), or the user may perform any other method of selection.

Once the selection of the parameters is received, payment information may be received at step226. In particular embodiments, payment information may refer to any information that can be used to purchase or license an image file. For example, payment information may include credit/debit card information, account information (such as a number of credits to deduct from an account linked with the user), wire transfer information, cash delivery information, an address where a bill for the purchase/license can be sent to, or any other information used to purchase or license an image file. In further embodiments, payment information may include verification that the user desires to purchase or license the image file.

At step228, an image file is generated. In particular embodiments, the image file is generated on the fly. In particular embodiments, the image file is generated using the catalog image file and the selected parameters. In particular embodiments, the generated image file is a version of the catalog image file. For example, the generated image file may be a version of the digital video of the catalog image file. In particular, as is stated above, the catalog image file may represent, for example, a digital video in a raw image format. As such, the generated image file may be a version of this digital video processed according to the selected parameters. As an example, the selected parameters may include a format type. In such an example, the image file may be the same digital video as the catalog image file, but may have the selected format type (instead of having the catalog image format). In particular embodiments where the selected parameters further specify a resolution, compression, and/or a color profile, the generated image file may further have the selected resolution, the selected compression, and/or the selected color profile. As such, the generated image file may be a processed version of a catalog image file. Furthermore the generated image file may be processed according to the parameters selected in step224.

At step230, the generated image file is transmitted. In particular embodiments, the generated image file is transmitted to a second computer system, such as a computer system that is associated with the user that requested the image file for purchase or license. In particular embodiments, after the generated image file is transmitted, the generated image file and any other version of the catalog image file (other than the catalog image file, itself, and, in particular embodiments, the preview) may be deleted from storage by the first computer (or maintained for a short time period for quality control, audit, or other purposes). As such, the generated image file may be stored by the first computer system only until the generated image file is transmitted to the second computer system. In particular embodiments, this may reduce the amount of storage required by the first computer system.

At step232, it is determined whether another selection of a catalog image file is received. If another selection of a catalog image files is received, steps224-230are repeated so as to generate another image file and transmit that image file. In particular embodiments, another selection of a catalog image file is received when a user desires to receive a different version of the catalog image file. For example, by repeating steps224-230for each selection of the catalog image file, a first user may be able to receive a version of the catalog image file having particular specifications (such as a first format type), and a second user (or even the first user) may also be able to receive another version of the catalog image file having different specifications (such as a second format type).

In particular embodiments, another selection of a catalog image file may be received when a user desires to receive a version of a different catalog image file. For example, if a first user receives a version of a particular catalog image file that includes a digital video of a whale swimming in the ocean, a second user (or even the first user) may also be able to receive a version of another catalog image file that includes a digital video of a person skiing.

In particular embodiments, another selection of a catalog image file may be received when a user desires to receive the same exact version of the same exact file. For example, if a first user receives a version of a particular catalog image file, a second user (or even the first user) may also be able to receive the same version of the same catalog image file. In particular, as discussed above, the computer system may only store the generated image file until the generated image file is transmitted to the requesting computer. As such, if the same image file is requested again (such as by a different user or even the same user) that file can be generated again. In order to do so, in particular embodiments, the user may provide a second selection of the parameters, where the second selection may be substantially identical to the first selection discussed above. In particular embodiments, “substantially identical” to the first selection may refer to a selection that has the same content as the first selection. For example, the selection may indicate the same parameters (such as the same file format and the same compression) as the first selection. In particular embodiments, the only difference (if any) between the two selections of parameters may be negligible information and metadata, such as time stamps for when the selection was entered. Once the second selection is entered (and any other information is received, as is discussed above), the computer system may generate an additional image file. In particular embodiments, the additional image file is substantially identical to the previously generated image file. In particular embodiments, “substantially identical” to the previously generated image file may refer to an image file that is generated using the same catalog image file and substantially identical parameters. As such, the additional image file may look identical to the previously generated image file. In particular embodiments, the only difference (if any) may be negligible information and metadata, such as time stamps for when the additional image file was generated.

As is discussed above, if the same image file is requested again (such as by a different user or even the same user) that file can be generated again. In particular embodiments, if the same image file is requested again, it may not be re-generated. For example, each generated image file may be temporarily stored after it is generated. As such, if the same image file is requested again while the image file is in temporary storage, a copy of the image file already in storage may be provided to the requestor. In further embodiments, if the same image file is requested repeatedly, the image file may be stored in long-term memory. As such, this same image file may not need to be re-generated each time it is requested.

Returning back to step232, if it is determined that another selection of a catalog image file has not been received, the method moves to step234. At step234, the method ends.

Although the present disclosure describes or illustrates particular operations as occurring in a particular order, the present disclosure contemplates any operations occurring in any order. Moreover, the present disclosure contemplates any operations being repeated one or more times in any order. Although the present disclosure describes or illustrates particular operations as occurring in sequence, the present disclosure contemplates any operations occurring at substantially the same time, where appropriate. Any operation or sequence of operations described or illustrated herein may be interrupted, suspended, or otherwise controlled by another process, such as an operating system or kernel, where appropriate. The acts can operate in an operating system environment or as stand-alone routines occupying all or a substantial part of the system processing.

FIG. 4illustrates an example computer system300for generating image files using catalog image files according to a particular embodiment. In particular embodiments, transmission system118, generation system126, and/or user system154ofFIG. 2may include one or more computer systems300for performing one or more of the operations of transmission system118, generation system126, and/or user system154. In particular embodiments, computer system300may be used in connection with one or more pieces of software in order to provide the operations discussed in this disclosure.

Computer system300may generally be adapted to execute any of the well-known OS2, UNIX, Mac-OS, Linux, and Windows Operating Systems or other operating systems. The computer system300in this embodiment comprises a processor302, a random access memory (RAM)304, a read only memory (ROM)306, a mouse308, a keyboard310and input/output devices such as a printer314, disk drives312, a display316and a communications link318. In other embodiments, the computer system300may include more, less, or other component parts. Embodiments of the present disclosure may include programs that may be stored in the RAM304, the ROM306or the disk drives312and may be executed by the processor302. The communications link318may be connected to a computer network or a variety of other communicative platforms including, but not limited to, a public or private data network; a LAN; a MAN; a WAN; a wireline or wireless network; a local, regional, or global communication network; an optical network; a satellite network; an enterprise intranet; other communication links; or any combination of the preceding. Disk drives312may include a variety of types of storage media such as, for example, floppy disk drives, hard disk drives, CD ROM drives, DVD ROM drives, magnetic tape drives or other storage media.

AlthoughFIG. 4provides one embodiment of a computer that may be used with the disclosure, the disclosure may additionally use any other computer systems. Additionally, embodiments of the disclosure may also employ multiple computer systems300or other computers networked together in a computer network. Most commonly, multiple computer systems300or other computers may be networked through the Internet and/or in a client server network. Embodiments of the disclosure may also be used with a combination of separate computer networks each linked together by a private or a public network.

Several embodiments may include logic contained within a medium. In the embodiment ofFIG. 4, the logic comprises computer software executable on the computer system300. The medium may include the RAM304, the ROM306or the disk drives312. In other embodiments, the logic may be contained within hardware configuration or a combination of software and hardware configurations. The logic may also be embedded within any other medium without departing from the scope of the disclosure.

Although the present disclosure has been described with several embodiments, a myriad of changes, variations, alterations, transformations, and modifications may be suggested to one skilled in the art, and it is intended that the present disclosure encompass such changes, variations, alterations, transformation, and modifications as they fall within the scope of the appended claims.