Using client photos for other projects

[Mary Reilly]

Laura,

Here is my two cents for what it may or may not be worth.

I prefer asking about using some of the photos after the portrait has been completed. I feel the two should be kept totally separate so as to not confuse the issues since they are two different business matters. Especially since this was done as a donation, it wouldn

[Laura B. Shelley]

I hadn't even thought about the possible implication of an ulterior motive! Good point.

After pondering all this excellent advice, I do prefer the idea of separating the transactions. Complicating the process by mixing in a completely different element at this point wouldn't be a good idea, IMO; many of my clients are confused by how portrait commissions work in the first place and need a lot of reassurance! Once they're more comfortable with that and with me would certainly be a better time to bring up possibly dicey issues like my proposal.

Since I've got shoots on Monday and Tuesday, I'm going to spend some time this weekend perfecting my model release form and adding in the element of possibly using the photos for other paintings. If I'd had the presence of mind to have the client sign something at the shoot in the first place, I wouldn't have opened quite so large a can of worms for myself. So I'll deal with them one by one!

Laura

[Laura B. Shelley]

Update on this question:

At the meeting for the contract signing, I presented the client with the model release and explained its purpose. The subject of other uses came up spontaneously, and I mentioned that some of the shots of her daughter with her kite might make good figuratives if it was all right with her that I should use them that way. The client seemed pleased by the idea and asked to see the paintings when they were done, so it seems that particular hurdle is gotten over.

I'm very glad I asked about it here, since refining my approach and knowing the possible pitfalls was extremely useful. It's already come up again a couple of times, and I was able to come right back with a confident answer and reassurances.

[Leslie Ficcaglia]

Good to have an update on this issue, Laura, and it's nice that it worked out. It will be interesting to see the painting(s) if you end up doing them!