Want to use my photo? That all depends...

I often use a camera in my work, but much of the photography I do is for personal enjoyment. And that enjoyment includes sharing my photos -- for viewing -- on my Flickr site.

On occasion, I receive inquiries about using my images -- on websites, in publications and even on displays. In some cases, I allow my photos to be used free of charge (but always with a photo credit) ... mostly by friends or for non-profit causes that I support. The key considerations: Is someone using my photos to make a profit? Are my photos being used in a way that is in line with my personal views and beliefs?

Sometimes, requests come from for-profit sources, such as a magazine, newspaper or (in one case) a publisher of telephone directories. In those instances, I allow use of my photos for fee (usually a standard fee), photo credit and copy of the published work.

For me, this is not about the money itself, but the publication's acknowledgement of the quality of my work by paying for it, as well as the principle that for-profit publications should pay writers and photographers for using their work.

A couple of weeks ago, I received a request by an author who wanted to use one of my photos (with full credit, of course) in an updated edition of his book. I found that that first edition could be purchased on Amazon. In reply, I simply asked about his proposed terms of use -- thinking that I should receive at least a token payment and a copy of his book. Apparently, he thought the lure of a photo credit should be sufficient, so he never replied.

Just this week, I received a request from a newspaper asking to use one of my photos in an upcoming special section. I've received payments for photos used in publications smaller than this one, so I thought it only fair to inquire about a fee. Response: Sorry, we don't pay fees for use of outside photos, but we'll give you a photo credit. My response: Sorry, but I can't allow you to use my photo.

Honestly, simply seeing my name printed in a publication doesn't qualify as "compensation". Over the course of my life, I've seen my byline or photo credit in print and online publications thousands of times. I don't have an ego in need of that kind of stroking.

I also have concerns that allowing free use of my photos by such publications might take opportunities away from people who make their living in photography. I know -- and respect -- quite a few talented professional photographers. And this comes at a time when some publications are cutting back, or even eliminating, staff photographers -- a disturbing trend, in my view.

Bottom line: I am delighted to have anyone view my photo collections at no charge, but, if you want to use one of my images, I have some considerations and conditions.