Should we give up our reference?

[Mike McCarty]

Magdalena,

My recollection is that this topic has been discussed several times but not necessarily in its own thread. My guess is that it is embedded in various other topics and might be difficult to search out.

My feeling is that most don't cotton to the idea of either giving or selling their resource photographs. Personally, I don't know what good could ever come of it. First, it begs comparison to your painting and may be a cause for nit picking any perceived differences. Secondly, most people aren't willing to shell out enough money to mitigate the potential grief. And, as you say, you're not in the business of photography.

I think it's a good idea to nip in the bud any sense of entitlement the client may have to your photos with a well worded phrase or two in your contract. If you do that then you always have the option of breaking your own rule for special circumstances.

[Kimberly Dow]

It seems like it would devalue the artwork if you have the same exact image as a photo - if you're the client, that is.

I do give a CD with the photos on it to my models though. They get a kick out of it and I dont see any harm there. It helps to convince the parents also when I use a younger model.

[Magdalena Castaneda]

Mike, you're right, now that you've mentioned it, these discussions are in varied threads. I do feel that if they've commissioned a painting then why would they want a photo?

Kim, I also feel that it devalues the painting. So, I'll have to come up with a diplomatic (not my strong point), way to tell her no. Will keep you posted. And can finally post a new painting on the forum.

All the Best, Magdalena

[Jimmie Arroyo]

I have it in my contract that the model cannot have copies of the reference photos. I have no idea what they plan to do with them, and it has been said, it devalues the art and there's no reason for them to have it. I will let them have a copy of a photo that I don't use just to be a nice guy.

Several people have personal websites. They could decide to post it on their site where anyone can view it, and people will compare it to the artwork. Artists may use "other people's photos" (they're down wit OPP) which diminishes the value of your art, if not making it valueless. I won't post reference photos for similar reasons, plus I have an agreement with the model that I won't do so. It makes them feel better that they won't eventually have their face imposed on a porn site.

I have a paper shredder which is where the photos go after I'm done with them.

Now a commission I feel is different. I have given clients the reference photos after reminding them that I am not God, and there will always be discrepancies. For my personal stuff, the pics are mine, mine, all mine.