I think I've just sold my first image...

[RichardC27]

However, I've got a couple of questions, which I think will mainly directed at the pro's who post on here, but any other info will be greatly appreciated.

I've just recieved this message in my Flickr inbox:

Dear Mr Crawford,
We are the art studio for Bardahl in US and Canada. Our client wishes to use your photo of a Porsche on a poster, namely the one found at www.flickr.com/photos/richard_crawford/2860633492/sizes/o/in/set-72157606910328808/.
Please let us know if you authorize us to do so, and what your fee would be in such a case.
Should we find an agreement, we will need a high resolution (300 d.p.i.) at 36 inches wide.
Thanks for replying and best regards.
Catherine Lemieux
Jacques Choquette Communications inc.
418 652-1521
catherine@jacqueschoquette.com

Two questions:
1) Do you think this is genuine?
2) What on earth should I charge for the use of my photo? I've never sold an image before so don't really know how this side of things works.

Any answers much appreciated.

[Simon Harrison]

Trust me, you're a long way from selling your first image yet - all you've had is a speculative enquiry.

No idea if it is genuine or not.

To calculate a charge, you need to know a number of things. Primarily, you need to know more about how they intend to use the image / poster. Where will it be displayed, for how long, who on earth are Barhdal and what do they do etc etc. Pricing it will not be easy. I would be willing to put money on the fact that you are by no means the only one who has received a similar Email. They will be looking for the lowest cost solution (as anyone would). Biggest problem you will face is that there's a good chance that someone will quote a price that either gives the image for free or as near makes no difference to free, just to see their image on a poster.

It's up to you how much time and effort you put into this, and I genuinely hope that you secure a sale. However, and without wanting to rain on your parade, my experience would say that you won't. Others may be able to offer advice that is more positive from their dealings with similar enquiries.

[Michael_Lambert]

I don't see there client Bardahl listed on there clientel list.
http://jacqueschoquette.com/pages/clients.html

[Cadwell]

Let's start off with the basics. Is the image yours to sell? If you were at the circuit as a signed on professional and you weren't shooting for a publication then yes, it is. If you were at the circuit on a public ticket then the chances are it isn't and the copyright of that image is either owned by the circuit or the event organiser.

If it is your image to sell, then follow up what Simon said.

[GSH]

I don't see there client Bardahl listed on there clientel list.
http://jacqueschoquette.com/pages/clients.html

You didn't look hard enough..

Huiles Bardahl Canada et Bardahl US

Richard, i agree with Simon & Glenn's post and would advise you proceed with caution. Selling to a Driver / Team from a Club series is one thing but something like the LMS is another ball game entirely. There have been instances of Photographers on here being approached for images from major National series' by people who turned out to have a vested interest...i.e. other Photographers attempting to catch people selling when they shouldn't.

I suggest you reply, inform them that you were not Accredited Media for the event and see what they say. Put the ball firmly in their court. I have used this approach before and it worked out quite well in the end ;)


Simon is also very correct to say this is a speculative enquiry. Their idea of an "agreement" might well not include the exchange of cash. As for what to charge, well ain't that just the $64,000 question. Any suggested rates such as those from the NUJ are, to be frank, pie in the sky.

[RichardC27]

Thanks gents, I've sent an email back to them having read all this, so I'll see where we go from here. The copyright angle is a good point, and one I hadn't thought of before starting this thread. I've let them know about the possible implications, so that may well be an end to it. Of course I hope not but it's a case of wait and see now.

[MKULTRA]

Alright, It's been a month.. has there been any more emails about this? :D