FAQs

Q: Why can't I access all the functions on the website?
A: Only registered users who have subscribed to a Cultural Research package have access to all of the content on the site. Anyone can subscribe to get access to the full site functions. SUBSCRIBE HERE

Q: I only want to search the Image Rights section, how do I do this?
A: Anyone can search the Image Rights section, you DO NOT need a login. However registered users have access to functions such as viewing enlarged previews, saving selections, fee requests, ordering, or setting preferences.

Q: How can I see un-watermarked preview images?
A: Only certain user accounts can download un-watermarked preview images. These are: Cultural Research Subscribers and authorised professional users. To request un-watermarked preview access please email info@pymca.com

Q: Can I download hi-res Images?
A: Only certain authorised accounts have access to hi-res downloads. To request hi-res dowload privileges please email info@pymca.com

Q: How do I search the Media Archive?
A: for help with searching please see SEARCH HELP below

Q: I am interested in contributing to the Media Archive how do I do this?
A: If you are a photographer please see the list of SUBMISSION GUIDELINES below. If you are a writer or wish to contribute to other sections of the website please email us at info@pymca.com

Search Help

Simple Search

Enter one or more keywords in the "Search word, image number" field. Or, enter an image number.
When searching with multiple words, you can use these Boolean operators:
AND:
Space between words
Comma
+ (plus sign)
" AND " between words
OR:
# (hash-sign)
" OR " between words
AND NOT
- (minus-sign) directly in front of the word
" AND NOT " between words


Search Results and Features

Search results:
The search results window will display all the images matching your search. Each image has an image number, preview icon (magnifying glass), basket icon and lightbox icon.

There are two different view modes: Thumbnail and Thumbnail with Text. You can switch between modes by clicking the view icons above the search results area or from within your "Settings." In "Settings," you can also change the thumbnail size, number of columns and rows, and the result quantity.

Browse through pages of search results by clicking the "<<" and ">>" links, or by using the "Page" dropdown menu.

View a thumbnail image at a larger size, and with more information, by double-clicking it or by clicking its magnifying glass icon.

 

Advanced Search

The Advanced Search lets you narrow your search criteria. Select the tick boxes on the left side of the screen. You can search by the following options or combination of options.

Photographer Name

Collection

Released Images (Model Released, Property Released, No Release Required)

Decade

Date Added

Other Fields (City, Country, Caption, Keywords)

 

Downloading Hi Res and Un-watermarked preview images.

Certain user accounts can download un-watermarked images. (Cultural Research Subscribers, Authorised Professional Users)

To download, click on the Save icon next to the preview image. Or add images to your Basket and then select Order Now. You can then download individual files or get an email link to a Zip file.

To download Hi Res files follow the same process as above. (Authorised users only)

 

Features:
Here you will find special offers, which are essentially packages of images. In order to see a features images, click its title.

Submission Guidelines

Contributing to PYMCA.

If you are a photographer and you wish to contribute to the PYMCA archive please send 20 Low Resolution jpeg images attached to an email to james@pymca.com

If your work is judged suitable for the archive you will be invited to become a member of PYMCA.

Submission guidelines for photographers:

PYMCA only accepts digital files from scanned images or digital cameras. Images can be submitted on DVD, via filesharing websites or via FTP (PYMCA members only)

Digital files from Scans:

Minimum 50mb 8 BIT TIFF Files (Adobe RGB 1998 colour profile)

Digital files from Cameras:

Minimum 28mb 8 BIT TIFF or JPEG files (saved at quality 10 or higher) (Adobe RGB 1998 colour profile)

Please shoot RAW format where possible and convert to TIFF or JPEG

Metadata:

All files submitted must contain metadata in the following fields:

TITLE, AUTHOR (Your Name), DESCRIPTION (include location and date), KEYWORDS (include basic keywords)

Metadata can be added via the FILE INFO function in Adobe Photoshop or added in batches in keywording software such as Abobe Bridge, iView Media Pro or similar software.