The client does not, as far as I am aware, have automatic right to the original, even if they say they have - indeed they may believe that they have...
That's been most of the problem, sometimes the shock that is expressed when pointing this out makes me feel like they think I am ripping them off!
... and provide a file where possible, but don't forget to include the cost of this in your fee, unless you are charging so much that the cost of the scan and any Photoshopping is insignificant, in which case you can impress the client with your magnaminity.
This sounds like the best way forward, having control over the final image (post scanning) appeals too.
or it could end in tears. "We never asked you to do it!" "Yes you did, I spoke to Mr Thompson on the phone in January!" "Thompson? Thompson? Julie, have we got a Thompson on the staff?" " Not any more, he left a week ago..."
Good point, particularly with a long commission!
I don't know how many potboilers and bodice-rippers dear, dear Dame Barbara Cartland wrote, but each one had a full-colour front cover, all done by a small group of underpaid artists/illustrators, and I have seen an interior photograph of her house, the deep pink walls almost hidden by the framed originals that she refused to return to their rightful owners, who hoped to raise a little more cash by selling, or just wanted their paintings back.
Shameful.
Great tips Tony, thank you. Up and till now I've been working with long established (our relationship that is) clients which tends to make me a little lax on formalities. Now I find myself in a position of having to replace these clients and find more in general, it's a good time to sort out these details.
Still working through this thread and I'm finding it quite inspiring. Just read the discussions about the smell of the ellipse guides! Always thought baby sick myself!
Robbie