geagle1313

I have an opportunity to sell some of my images for reproduction. The company is asking me how much I want for a single image to be reproduced once? And how much for an image to be reproduced multiple times? Since I have no experience doing this, could someone give me what they would charge?

G Brown Loc: Sunny Bognor Regis West Sussex UK

Look at stock image sites - there seem to be a few - that should give a fair 'ballpark figure' Remember its a good way to get your name out there so this may be of more value to you in the long term than the odd image now.

from what I have seen - you need lots of images selling lots of times to be able to make a decent income... but what do I know...I haven't gone that route.

Good luck

geagle1313

Thank you, for your quick reply. I'm thinking $50 to $100 an image for a 1 time use would be fair. Also, I don't know how to keep them from using it multiple times except for the honor system.

rpavich Loc: West Virginia

I would charge nothing.

BHC Loc: Strawberry Valley, JF, USA

Why not? I'm not doubting you or trying to start an argument. I have NO experience, and wonder why not a token amount or the minimum published? Thanks.

rpavich Loc: West Virginia

Because I don't want the headache. I don't make my living off of my photography and I have no illusions of grandeur about it.

I like photography and if someone likes something i've done enough to use it for something, then that's great.

No big deal...that's just my take on it.

Gene51 Loc: Yonkers, NY, now in LSD (LowerSlowerDelaware)

I would not sell the image, rather than to give it away and not charge. Are you actually suggesting the OP not charge, or are you merely saying what you would do in a similar situation?

Not charging sends the wrong message to prospective clients when amateurs (non-pros) give their work away. Not charging a fair price only serves to promote the public perception that a photographer's work has no value, and it hurts those of us who do make a living selling their work. So your advice, if I understand it correctly, is about the worst I have ever heard. If you are just saying what you do and why, then my sincerest apologies.

Donna, the pricing for stock photos is based on it's intended use, and how many potential viewers will see the image. Here is an handy calculator that you might find helpful.

http://photographersindex.com/stockprice.htm

Of course if you are privately selling your images and not through a stock agency, you'll need to have all the proper paperwork, releases, etc. and you should file the images with the US Copyright office.

I have fellow pros that make a nice living selling stock photography. And it is the gift that keeps on giving - an image can be used multiple times and each time that image is used, it generates income.

rpavich Loc: West Virginia

The OP asked "what would you do?" and I answered by saying what I'd do.

hughburden Loc: UK

Hopefully most people agree with this, it is the best practice response for enthusiast and professional photographers alike.

Gene51 Loc: Yonkers, NY, now in LSD (LowerSlowerDelaware)

Thanks, Hugh. I try to be helpful and constructive with my responses.

ole sarg Loc: south florida

Of course as soon as you sell it you must get a 1099 from the purchaser. You have to report the income on your taxes. The IRS may see this and say: Why wasn't income reported last year so here come the IRS to audit your account. Lots of implications.

How about saying you have one time usage for free but I want you to copyright the image in my name and give me credit for the image.

You have just received some good advertising and if you decide to make a living with your camera you have a foot in the door.

The Watcher

This book is always helpful.
http://www.amazon.com/2014-Photographers-Market-Burzlaff-Bostic/dp/1440329427

2nefoto

what you charge for your images, in part, depends on the relationship you want with the company. in this light, you may charge a larger fee for a short time relationship. if you think you will have the company as a long time client, you may consider a lower price. additionally, companies often have a photo budget for images they will purchase. my research showed that most smaller companies paid no where near the prices given via price calculator methods. finally, how will your images be used? magazine cover, inside cover, brochure, billboard etc. good luck

lamiaceae Loc: San Luis Obispo County, CA

A take on a TV ad: "Did you know that photographers can be literal"? {substituting the word "photographers" for "genie"}
:wink:

alggomas Loc: Wales, United Kingdom.

Check company websites selling images. They usually have a help centre and FAQ.
Also they charge depending on the use of the purchaser.
For example:
$1 to use at home or for non-commercial use.
$10 for a run of say 100 same image
$100+ for commercial use.
I doubt the HONOUR factor will work.

One website I think is stockphoto.com?
There are others.
As suggested by others you have to have a lot of good photos to make money.
Also look for companies who want specific subjects that YOU are good at shooting.