i've just read the article on micropayment stock photography. bummer.

Can not find a link. Could you please to share?

Based on the age of the original post I'm going to assume he is referring to this one ....

http://www.luminous-landscape.com/essays/micro-payment.shtml

A lot of very good photographers are selling their images at istock
making "good money". Of course, compared to the agency's profit it is probably nothing.

But can photographers successfully sell their images without such an agency?

I am not an advocate for istock (actually I represent FeaturePics.com, where we are offering Artists 70% rates, and let them set their own prices and license types).

I know how difficult it is to find your own way to potential buyers.

"And the losers: are the photographers of course."
How photographers were selling their art 15 years ago?
If they were successful - why not recreate their "business" model on the Internet?

Actually, I was enjoying reading different posts. Amazing site and forum…