Licensing allows clients to pay only for the media, duration, and territories they actually need. In Ireland, a photographer's base fee typically includes initial usage, but the details—like how long, where, and in what media—are negotiated.
Licensing ensures flexibility and fair pricing for both client and photographer.
Initial Licence Inclusions
Unless otherwise agreed, an initial licence might typically cover:
- 1 Year in Ireland or any single country for two media types
- 2 Years in Ireland or any single country for one media type
Licences start from the first use, expected within 6 months of delivery.
Exclusivity
Clients usually expect exclusivity for the agreed time and territory. After the licence ends, photographers are advised not to re-license work for up to 4 years without permission.
The BUR: Base Usage Rate
The BUR is your starting point for calculating additional usage. It is:
- Separate from the shoot fee
- Often equal to or higher than your day rate
- Based on your skill level and job complexity
Example: If the client wants more media/territories than the initial licence covers, these costs are calculated as a percentage of the BUR using the calculator.
💡 When working for reduced fees, the BUR should still reflect your standard rate.