Question...

I was contacted by a painter out of New York who saw a picture of mine on Flickr and would like to use it as a reference for a painting. He has offered to give me credit for the inspiration and send me a giclee reproduction of the work when it is done. Thoughts? The picture in question is a pretty simple one and not one that I would have ever thought about selling anyways, so I am tempted to give the ok.

I just would not feel comfortable starting down that road, Koveh. If it was someone I knew, it might be different. I saw an artist's work here in Parker that was an exact replica of a well know photographer's shot in one of his books and no credit given to him. I think painter's should take their own photos or envision their own composition.

I think it depends on why you do photography. Are you trying to make money or pursuing a hobby? If it is a hobby, then this seems like a great opportunity to share your work and have the joy of seeing what the artist makes of it.

My photography is primarily a hobby, and I have donated hundreds of wildflower photographs to projects that needed the photos but lacked the budget. I enjoy seeing the photos being put to use. And, because they were credited, it led to sales of photographs to field guide and calendar publishers. But mostly, I had fun and got to see the photos in print.

If I were you, I'd go for it.

Mixed feelings here Koveh. Giving you the credit and getting a print is a nice thing. If it isn't an image that you would ever do anything with, I wouldn't see a problem with it.

On the other hand if this person is using your print for profit, which it sounds like it could be, you should probably limit him to the number of prints he can sell and you should also retain exclusive copyright to your image. Just my thoughts.

I don't see a problem with it. Just make sure you get everything down on paper with signatures.

I'm shocked he even asked! Given the circumstances, and the status of this particular image in your photographic hierarchy, I would be inclined to give him permission. Like Dean says, get it in writing, including the fact that you own the copyright to the photo.

Or you could just manipulate your photo with that neat little trick John Mumaw did on his cottonwood tree photo recently, send it to the artist and tell him not to bother, you've gone ahead and done the work for him. I'm sure he'd be very appreciative.

I've been contacted by a number of people on Flickr and PBase with the same type of request. My first question back at them is if they plan to sell their work. If they do, I ask for what I feel is a reasonable fee. Now of course they can lie to me, but a simple google search can often reveal if that's the case. If it's obvious that they're doing it for their own enjoyment, then I usually don't have a problem with it.

Thank you all for the information and responses. I really appreciate your insight.

Guy just triggered a thought...sheesh, I can actually think, what a concept!! See if this person has a website, what kind of images are on it and what his prices are...that may guide you a little further.

I'd be inclined to grant him use, even if he is doing it for profit, he is offering you payment of a sort by giving you a nice giclee reproduction of the work. Sounds like that particular photo isn't of particular importance to you so maybe the offer of the print is adequate payment and maybe you'll end up with a nice piece of art!

I would say yes.