CD cover photo: How much should I charge?

[Moses on the Street]

Hey Guys,

A band has approached me regarding the use of one of my photos. They want to put it on a CD cover (you remember compact discs, right?) that is going to have nationwide distribution. Specifically, what they've asked me for is a "mechanical license" that would allow them to use the image as many times as they want. They would also mention my business somewhere inside the CD.

I've got no idea what I should charge.

What do you think is fair?

[CaptainTom]

How much to charge for Cd Album cover deisgn + photoshoot - Photo.net Business Forum

[WarrenG]

If your being approached by the band directly, my thoughts are it is a much different situation that if you are being approached by an agency. I have not heard or dealt with a "mechanical license" but I suggest you get a very clear understanding of what it is they expect. You can price the image use with a couple of tiered options. "Exclusive Rights" is X, "First Rights" is X, and so on.

If the expectation is that they will use the image exclusively, then the cost should be significantly higher than if they are getting the first published rights to the image for a certain period of time, at which point you could, at your discretion resell the image to someone else.

I have never had a problem with asking a client what budget they are working with or what their expectation is for the image. An agency will not have sticker shock, but a local band very well may have if you hit them with an estimate for several thousand dollars or more.

If you already have the image in your portfolio and you want the print credit / mention than I would say pick an amount your happy with, and run with it. "How much should I charge" is often times very subjective, and at the end of the day, you should make / charge what works for you and keeps you happy.

W

[Moses on the Street]

I'm thinking of asking 500 bucks.

[JStrattonPhotography]

Also, is it possible this picture will be used for other advertising or merchandise?

[CaptainTom]

Originally Posted by Moses on the Street

I'm thinking of asking 500 bucks.

If you think $500 is a fair price then that's what you ask for.
There's no point in comparing your deal with anybody else's deal.

Somebody will always say you should have gotten more, even if you get a brazillion dollars.

[Moses on the Street]

Originally Posted by JStrattonPhotography

Also, is it possible this picture will be used for other advertising or merchandise?

Yes. I would be giving them unlimited use of it.

[texkam]

brazillion

Isn't this how many Victoria's Secret models you have to look at before you get bored?

[JStrattonPhotography]

Originally Posted by Moses on the Street

Yes. I would be giving them unlimited use of it.

If this is the case, $500 seems WAY too low.