Howard,

You pretty much hit the nail on the head.

I always ask for a photo credit & maybe a free publication if they are printing anything with my photos in it.

For museum's & historical societies, I usually just let them use the photos free. It all depends - how long are they going to keep the display in public? - are there future plans to use the photos in print? Do they want to keep a copy on file?

It's really up to you.

I just figure if the museum or historical society lets me access their collections without too much hassle or cost, then I will let them use my stuff. I've worked with some groups that are quite unpleasant to deal with - so...I don't deal with them. I figure - what goes around, comes around. I don't mind if they use my photos for a non-profit exhibit or publication.

Some groups seem to think that the have exclusive rights to history and don't share well. If you run into that attitude - maybe you better ask for some $$$ just to keep everyone honest.

I'm sure other folks will have other input.

Talk to ya later,
Dale Jones
www.railroads-of-montana.com