Our members are trusted by producers of documentaries, television dramas, feature films, book, magazine publishers, advertising agencies, museum curators, web designers, and other professionals who require expert research skills to find the perfect visual assets for their projects. Beyond sourcing content, they also handle copyright clearance, licensing negotiations, and ensure compliance with intellectual property laws. As an added benefit, VRSC has secured exclusive preferred rates with many footage and image providers, helping members reduce licensing costs for their clients while ensuring legal protections are in place.
Find a Visual Researcher
Our Mission
The VRSC is committed to advancing visual research across all forms of media, while fostering recognition of this field as a vital professional discipline. We provide ongoing learning opportunities and a platform for members to collaborate and exchange ideas. Our mission is to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, ensuring that clients receive not only top-quality research but also thorough clearance, all while balancing creativity with practical business expertise.
Frequently Asked Questions
1 What do visual researchers and archive producers do? What’s the difference?
Our members find footage and stills from diverse sources, manage assets, track costs and copyrights, negotiate rates, and handle licensing. A visual researcher focuses on research, while an archive producer also manages archives and teams on archive-heavy projects.
2 How much do researchers cost?
Rates vary by experience. Discuss directly with the researcher.
3 Do I need to provide office space?
No. Most researchers work independently. Some may work from a client’s office—arrange this directly with them.
4 Do VRSC members only work on Canadian projects?
No, they work worldwide.
5 How do I find the right researcher for my project?
Use the “Find a Visual Researcher” page on our website to browse available professionals. You can also post a free ad on our members-only Job Board by filling out the form on our Contact Us page. Researchers will reach out to you directly. Please note, VRSC is not a hiring agency.
6 Can I hire a researcher for short-term work over a long project?
Yes, most freelancers can integrate your needs over time alongside other clients.
7 Will hiring a professional researcher save money on license fees?
Usually, yes. VRSC members get preferred rates from multiple sources and are skilled negotiators who maximize archive budgets.
8 Do visual researchers handle music clearances or editorial research?
Some do. Discuss specifics with them.
9 Do I still need a lawyer for copyright issues?
Yes. Researchers stay updated on copyright law but are not lawyers and cannot provide legal assessments.
10 Can anyone join VRSC?
Only professional researchers. Applicants must submit a CV to confirm qualifications.
11 How long is membership, and what are the benefits?
Membership runs from Jan 1 to Dec 31. It includes access to VRSC’s preferred archive rates, educational programs, industry news, a research forum, and a medical/dental/life/travel insurance policy.
12 Can VRSC provide workshop speakers or panelists?
Yes. Contact us via the Contact Us Page for details.