What wording should I use in my invoice, so that the promoter does not own the art?

[newbiescreenprinter]

I did a poster for an out of state promoter. They just wanted to print a few to give to get signed and stuff. Kind of lame.

They already paid me, but they want an invoice from me for their records. Has anyone come up with any text that basically says:


The right to print up to 150 copies of this <band name> poster for use in marketing, promotion and personal business use only. Not for selling as merch. And you are not allowed to print more copies at a later date.

So some kind of licence to print a certain amount, Only not so stupid as my text?

[Zach Hobbs]

I would just put "I am not responsible or liable for any blah blah blah"

no kidding. Promoters gonn do what promoters gonn do...

[andydiesel]

I would just put "I am not responsible or liable for any blah blah blah"

no kidding. Promoters gonn do what promoters gonn do...

are you trying to say that music promoters are not trustworthy? i find that hard to believe.

[crosshair]

The words "music promoter" are synonymous with honor, integrity, honesty, and dealing in good faith.

Why on earth would anyone suggest otherwise?

[Gregory]

Seriously tho, you should buy the GAG (Graphic Artists Guild) Handbook. The pricing doesn't always seem based in reality - but there is a whole section with sample contracts that you can lift right out of the book.

This will probably not be the last time you run into this issue.

[Steve Chanks]

Honestly, the simpler the wording the better.

(name of artist) has provided (name of artwork) for promotion of (date of show, name of band, name of venue).
This artwork is to be limited to a one time run of (number of prints) and may not be reprinted without prior authorization from (name of artist).
This print run is limited to promotion use only and may not be sold as merchandise before or after the event.
(Name of artist) retains any and all right to the artwork and may reuse said artwork after 6 months for (any additional use).

Keep you limitations simply phrased and thoroughly articulated. You should be fine but everyone should own a GAG Handbook.

[Zach Hobbs]

Guys. I prefer the "I ain't liable for shit" byline.

[Mark McCormick]

Graphic Artists Guild - Resources

[kylewbaker]

This is straight from my invoice template, FYR. If you use it, do me a favor and replace my name w/ yours':

"Design documents including but not limited to sketches/comps, designs, illustrations, photography, models, original code, and all other design materials are the exclusive property of Kyle W Baker unless stipulated otherwise prior to project agreement. Exclusive copyright of these materials is reserved by Kyle W Baker; upon full payment of all fees and costs, Client is granted the right to use the designs contained in these materials as per project contract or as specified below. All other rights remain the exclusive property of Kyle W Baker."

Then I have:

"Rights transferred are limited to: ___________"

With plenty of room to articulate exactly what rights you're selling / licensing.

[ferg2001]

use special wording.