Help! Somebody wants to use my photo...

I know this gets asked on a regular basis but it is a first time for me... I was emailed today by an agency that does exhibits and they found a insect photo by me that was posted a couple of places. It's not a real common insect, but it seems to be want they want. They are doing an exhibit for a national park and would like to license my photo. So I said, sure, I would be interested in talking to them. I'll probably hear back tomorrow.

NOW WHAT? I have never sold a photo before or even tried too. If they were a nonprofit I would just give them the rights to use the photo but since they are a hired company, it seems like I should charge something? What do I say to sound 'professional'? (Actually, I am one of those dreaded amateurs that is so thrilled to have someone actually want one of my pictures that the money is not really important...)

Any advice?

Many variables to the situation and these are things you need to find out from them before you ever quote a price. How EXACTLY do they plan on using the photo? Are they planning on one-time use or is it a recurring thing? How many different places will it be used, print media, website, etc. You will need to have something drawn up or if this is something they do a lot, perhaps they have a photo agreement already written up. I wouldn't give them any use before all the particulars are laid out. Then and only then would I give them a number. Once you have all that info, go here or a site like it and see what the price is for a starting point.

http://www.stockphotop​ricecalculator.com/ind​ex.asp

elrey2375 wrote in post #14408679
Many variables to the situation and these are things you need to find out from them before you ever quote a price. How EXACTLY do they plan on using the photo? Are they planning on one-time use or is it a recurring thing? How many different places will it be used, print media, website, etc. You will need to have something drawn up or if this is something they do a lot, perhaps they have a photo agreement already written up. I wouldn't give them any use before all the particulars are laid out. Then and only then would I give them a number. Once you have all that info, go here or a site like it and see what the price is for a starting point.

http://www.stockphotop​ricecalculator.com/ind​ex.asp

Thanks! This is exactly the kind of information I need. I wasn't even aware of what questions I should ask. I am glad for email...I would have been caught totally off-guard had it been a phone call. After looking at this company's website, I am VERY sure that they license photos a lot for exhibits for major clients and that they are a very professional and reputable outfit.

The link looks good, too. I'll sign up after I find out the details and see what numbers come up.

Thanks again.