MediaVast

About MediaVast

MediaVast operated as a digital commerce company, founded in 1999, that provided a platform for visual content management, licensing, and distribution. The company served a diverse client base that included print and online media institutions, advertising agencies, broadcast networks, and other publishing enterprises.

The core of MediaVast's business was its platform that facilitated the licensing and distribution of digital content. Through its subsidiaries, which included WireImage for entertainment and sports photography, FilmMagic for fashion and red carpet events, and Contour Photos for portrait photography, MediaVast became a significant competitor in the visual media market. The company's business model was based on providing these visual assets to various media and corporate clients for their publications and campaigns.

MediaVast underwent several funding rounds, including a Series A in September 2001, raising capital from investors such as Alcatel Ventures and Artisan Entertainment. A major milestone for the company was its acquisition by Getty Images in 2007 for approximately $207 million. This acquisition was a strategic move for Getty Images, as it absorbed a major competitor and expanded its control over a significant portion of the entertainment, fashion, and portrait photography markets.