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Trip’s photos cause controversy – Metro US

Trip’s photos cause controversy

Q: Hi Jill. I recently returned from a trip to Asia, which was expensed by my friend I was travelling with. I went to assist her with a new venture she is undertaking. We both took photos with our own cameras, but upon return she demanded I send copies of all the photos because she would like to compile a booklet with trip highlights. I don’t have an issue with her intention, but the photos she’s requesting are similar to ones she took as well. Am I obliged to send her my photos or should I have them copyrighted first? I intend to submit some of these photos for a show and would not like them to be published before then.

A: It’s always a great idea to pursue a new venture with someone you know and trust. We’d think a friend would be the perfect business partner. The catch is when we are dealing with friends we don’t always outline formally —read business contract — our expectations of one another and specific responsibilities these tasks entail. From what you’ve sent me, I don’t think you are obliged to send her anything since you didn’t mention any contractual agreement. I’m curious, though, what was your end of the bargain, business wise? Could this have involved you being the official photographer? In any case, I think it best that you have a chat about this new venture and your role in it. Make sure you trust one another’s intentions and then involve a lawyer specializing in entrepreneurship and copyright, and take it from there.

You will also want to confirm with the show’s rules so you don’t end up disqualifying yourself in the process.

jill’s tip of the week

In The Five Secrets You Must Discover Before You Die (Raincoast Books, 2008), Dr. John Izzo interviews thousands of people to find out their top secrets of success in both life and business. After summing up the themes of 235 writers, business executives, chefs, survivors of social injustice and more, Izzo finds that living in the moment, being true to oneself and giving more than you take all rank very high on the secrets to becoming better individuals and better business people. For more visit www.theizzogroup.com

info@jillandrewmedia.com

Jill Andrew CYW, BA (Hons.), BEd, MA ‘08 is an award-winning journalist and educator with additional expertise in the performing arts, public speaking, PR, media literacy/awareness, fundraising and entrepreneurship. www.jillandrewmedia.com, or www.curvycatwalk.com.