Digital Vigilante Unmasks DC's Stock Photo Fiasco, Bursts Aqua-Man Movie Poster For Getty Image “Scandal”

Could DC be trying to cut it cheap?

Jesse

• Published in Interesting
• November 12, 2023

When it comes to internet critics, some users find joy in pointing out the most trivial details. Recently, a Reddit user stirred waves of controversy when they shared a screenshot of an Aqua-Man movie poster.

An honorary crusader did some digging and exposed the use of a Getty Images shark photo, which was cleverly cropped into the aquatic masterpiece. This detective of digital aesthetics called DC out on this “not-so-clever” stunt and even labeled the entire universe a joke for taking the easy way out.

The revelation led to a cascade of comical responses, turning the thread into a virtual comedy club. One user expressed mock surprise, speculating that soon they would uncover the shocking revelation that the photo wasn't taken underwater. 

The humor escalated as Redditors playfully imagined scenarios of dragging Jason Momoa underwater and compelling him to hold his breath while surrounded by real sharks for an authentic shot—that was the only proper way to get it done!

It became a delightful laugh fest as others joined in with their sarcastic and amusing comments.

However, in the midst of the humor, a more severe voice cut through the laughter. They expressed disappointment and pointed out that a powerhouse like DC should have invested more effort. 

Getty Images are readily accessible to anyone through a simple Google search. Worst of all, the image used in this photo is in the top 10 Google search results for “Shark.”

A defender hastily swooped in. They highlighted that the images were indeed stock photos, which served the exact purpose they were created for.

Enough of the stories. We’ll let you digest this exciting debate yourself.

Let’s dig into the details

There’s a reason why they are called “stock photos.” But could DC have done better?

Here’s how the Reddit community reacted to the post:

”What did they think stock photos were for?”

“Nothing wrong with using a stock photo. But its not what I’d expect from a big movie studio:”

Studios don’t have time to waste. Stock photos all day, everyday

Nothing wrong with using stock photos, but using a shark photo from the top 10 Google search results for “Shark” is pretty disappointing

DC used the stock photos for the exact purpose they are meant for

Imagine a world without stock images? Actors would have had to do the impossible

“They're trying to keep costs down on a promotional poster.”

“Maybe this is a stupid question, but using stock photos for a film poster does seem a little cheap.”

“I think it's more like he expected a poster graphist to make everything from scratch.“

A beautiful design like that is definitely not a “copy and paste” job

Star Trek fans got extremely upset with the use of stock photos as well

Probably it was taken in the sky

Getty images actually got a honorable mention from the studio

You pay for it. Than you get to download a high resolution version of the picture

In the end, this Reddit escapade showcased the internet's knack for both humor and critique, leaving DC caught in a whirlpool of laughter and diverse expectations from its fanbase. 

The Aquaman poster controversy, though amusing, highlighted the evolving dynamics between creators and their discerning online audience.

Do you think the creator pushed the limits of laziness with the Getty stock photos, or was it a creative prerogative?

Jesse