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Was searching around online today for body parts and I happened across the Andy's Auto Sport website to discover that my truck is used in one of their header graphics...
I'd at least e-mail them and tell them to give you credit for the pic or something. But I'm funny that way, I think it's rude... For the most part I don't care what you use that I post as long as you credit me. I've found some of my pics out there seemingly as someone else's pic... Only once did I have to push it - they refused and I squawked to their provider. Pic got removed when they got the nastygram. I'm sure they hate me know but all I wanted was something, somewhere saying the picture was mine. It could have been in fine print at the bottom of the page. (Photo by David, used with permission).
Stock art costs money and photo shoots are even more...
I'd at least e-mail them and tell them to give you credit for the pic or something. But I'm funny that way. For the most part I don't care what you use that I post as long as you credit me. I've found some of my pics out there seemingly as someone else's pic... Only once did I have to push it - they refused and I squawked to their provider. Pic got removed when they got the nastygram. I'm sure they hate me know but all I wanted was something, somewhere saying the picture was mine. It could have been in fine print at the bottom of the page. (Photo by David, used with permission).
I was thinking about asking them to at least give credit... I took that picture back in 2008 I think... God, I wish she still looked that good, haha. But yeah, they just got it right off of Google. I'm not mad or anything, I just think it'd be nice of them to try and contact me and give me credit for the shot. I mean they are using a picture of my property (forgive me girl) to sell parts. It'd be a bigger issue if they used a picture of my truck with the license plate exposed... but I always blur all that out when posting, just in case this sort of thing where to happen.
I agree about contacting them. Its basically stealing IMO.
But that is a wicked nice picture. Your truck has a professional look.
I think I will just write them a friendly email.
Haha, 4x484150, thanks buddy. I had to stare for a second until it sunk in, but yeah that is my truck. Might be picking up a cab for it this weekend, all blasted and primed. She's been parked for three long years, acquiring NOS bits and pieces... and it's time I stopped messing around and got her done.
I agree, a friendly email would be the best way to start. You can always get nasty later if need be, but you can't easily back off to "friendly". And, they do owe you something as it is stealing.
I could use a set of those crystal cut headlamps, tee hee.
On a serious note, how would you guys approach it from the email angle? I'm not too bad at being polite and formal, but I've never dealt with this type of situation before and any input from you guys would be welcome.
Good question. You need to get the message to the right person, like maybe Andy. Tell him that while you are honored that your truck was selected to have a significant position in their advertising, that you are disappointed that they didn't request your permission to do so or even contact you in any way. And, maybe include a picture of your truck that pretty well proves they are using your truck.
Having said that, using that approach doesn't ask for anything. And, it puts them/him on the defensive. But, if you are too nice you might wind up giving them tacit permission.
Good question. You need to get the message to the right person, like maybe Andy. Tell him that while you are honored that your truck was selected to have a significant position in their advertising, that you are disappointed that they didn't request your permission to do so or even contact you in any way. And, maybe include a picture of your truck that pretty well proves they are using your truck.
Having said that, using that approach doesn't ask for anything. And, it puts them/him on the defensive. But, if you are too nice you might wind up giving them tacit permission.
Yeah, I figured sending them the original picture is a good idea.
I was thinking something along the lines of:
...While I do appreciate the compliment that my truck was selected to have a significant position in your advertising, I would also appreciate you giving me credit for the photograph; i.e. photo courtesy of... etc.
Not trying to plagiarize Gary. Haha.
To ask for store credit/parts seems almost presumptuous.
Yeah, I figured sending them the original picture is a good idea.
I was thinking something along the lines of:
...While I do appreciate the compliment that my truck was selected to have a significant position in your advertising, I would also appreciate you giving me credit for the photograph; i.e. photo courtesy of... etc.
Not trying to plagiarize Gary. Haha.
To ask for store credit/parts seems almost presumptuous.
If that's all you want, go for it. But I would leave it open in the first message as they may offer more than that. You never know and you can always ask for photo credit later.
I recently visited your site looking for some parts for my truck and was pleasantly surprised to see a picture I took of my truck prominently displayed on your site. Unfortunately I do not allow my photo's to be used without my permission. I'm sure this wasn't your intention.
No need to immediately take it down, I'm sure we can work something out that's fare and equitable for each of us. Please contact me so we can discuss this.
Sincerely,
Blah blah blah
contact info...
They're using your truck to make money. It's only fair they compensate you. How much compensation? That depends - I would say don't get too greedy They always have the option of removing the picture... Your compensation should be less than the cost and aggravation of changing the site.
My thoughts, if you are looking to place an order, how about a discount? That sounds like a win-win to me.
Once you work out an agreement you send them a permission letter.
"For the agreed compensation of XXX I hereby give you license to use the enclosed artwork for your web and print advertising for as long as you see fit. This license is non-transferable and may not be sold."
Sign it, enclose a copy of all artwork you are giving them rights to and send it...