Assisting a wedding photographer, questions regarding copyright, etc.

[chocchip]

Scenario:
A local pro, whom I've met a couple of times, contacts me and asks me if I would be interested in tagging along/assisting him on a 4 hour wedding for no monetary compensation. He requires me to relinquish my CF card to him after the wedding is done and will return it at a later date. He indicates that maybe I can use some of the images I took (with my own gear) for my portfolio if it's okay with the bride and groom.

Is relinquishing media cards normal for nonpaid gigs?
Does this gentleman own the copyright to pictures I took?
Should I politely decline this opportunity?

Suggestions/advice please.

[swanny338]

The question is what do you get out of it? Is he a well known pro with a great reputation that you can learn a lot from working with?

With no contract at all the copyright is yours. There needs to be some paperwork involved for him to have the copyright.

I wouldn't give him my cards as I don't know about you, but I need my cards for jobs.

If he isn't paying you, you should absolutely be able to use any of the images you shot.


I'd say, if he needs the images right away have him bring a laptop and download them before you leave. I would try to reason with him before declining.

[Redneck]

Tagging along and handing out your cards without any compensation? That sounds fishy to me. I would pass.

[suerenee]

Sounds like he wants a free 2nd shooter....

I've shot with a pro who asks me to shoot on his cards. I bring my laptop and dump the cards at the end of the night.

If you want to shoot for free to gain experience okay, but you need to stand your ground for your images...how else are you going to build your portfolio?

[TxTowman]

If they(your shots) are good enough for him to sell, you are good enough to get paid. JMHO