How should I respond to this query?

[dmcantrell]

I made some guitar photos for a friend, and he showed them to the guitar builder this week.

The guitar builder's assistant has contacted me, said that they were impressed with the images and asked me for my setup so that they can make photos like this on their own. Usually this is where I would start negotiating a contract, but they are in California and I am in Texas.

I went to the website of the guitar builder and they have been featured in some magazines.

I'm a little unsure how to proceed. I don't forsee myself flying out to California to make guitar photos, but maybe I'm being too pessimistic about it.

On one had I could just give them the setup because I don't think I'll be flying out there for the business. On the other hand, I could send them a Statement of Work estimate with travel expenses included.

[PeteQ]

Or they could ship the guitars to you...

[dmcantrell]

Good point, I hadn't considered that. Thanks!

Since I started this thread, I was thinking to myself : I would never contact the guitar builder and ask him how me makes his mother-of-pearl inlays so that I could do it myself...

[ldelacruz]

Offer to do the pics for them. They are a business and should understand. Any pro they hire will be able to duplicate your example so you want to try and get biz.

[S-Man]

Those are impressive. And you're right. I wouldn't expect them to describe how they make a guitar "so I can do the same myself"...
Sounds like they may not think of you as a 'professional', especially if the guy who showed them the shots said "My friend took these", which would give the idea that the person taking the shots (you) was just messing around.

[toverman]

Very nice shots. I agree with comments so far.

[texkam]

asked me for my setup so that they can make photos like this on their own.

Thank you, I'm glad you like them. Like you, I take great pride in my craft as well. Sure, I'll be happy to let you know the details of my set up. Here's my consultant's fee for that useful, money-making information. Nuf said.

[dmcantrell]

I really appreciate all your input in this thread. If nothing comes of it at least you all have helped me to trust my instincts a little more, and I thank you for that.

[AJ191]

let us know what happens if you dont mind, im pretty interested in how they will respond

[Tom]

I'd want a sweet guitar in exchange for the info.