Expert: Tricia Scott-Sahler - 9/7/2008

Question
I took some photographs for a man who is publishing a book. He wants some of my personal photos as well as the ones I shot for him. I have not released any photographs to him. He is asking a lot of me as to my contribution to this book. I want to know what I should charge for the pictures that are going in the book? I've already charged him for taking the pictures. I know that I should get some sort of royalties for my pictures being in the book. How does that work?

Answer
Larel,

Usage fees on books published depend on the type of book, the circulation, languages, and whether the book is soft cover or hard.  You will need to find out these things before you can get an idea of pricing.  

There are two ways to license your images, one is a flat fee per image and the other is the get royalties.  Depending on the book, it is sometimes beneficial to get an upfront fee as some books don't make a huge profit.  Did you give him any usage rights with the taking of the photos?