Photo Credit - An Issue of Respect, Pride and Professionalism

Recently I have been asked what form I would like myI create for them whenever I use them on-line, and
photographers credit to take when used on my clientswhen used in printed material I always give appropriate
web pages. As an architectural photographer in thecredit directly adjacent to the images.
San Francisco Bay Area it is important to maintain theWhen an image is used editorially I go out of my way
highest professional profile possible.to ensure appropriate design credit is given to my
There are several reasons for appropriate attributionclients. This is usually not a problem when working with
to being given a photographer when their photographspublishers but I feel it is my responsibility to do all I can
are used:to get my clients the recognition they deserve for their
contribution to the photograph. I simply ask my clients
1. It shows the client has respect for the photographerto do the same for me in a professional manner.
and values their contribution to their advertising andGiving credit where credit is due is a matter of
marketing efforts.professional respect. A little snippet of code linking to
2. It shows the client takes pride in their photographsthe photographers web site will provide the credit due
and is willing to recommend the photographer.without being obtrusive to the design of the clients'
3. It gives the photographer due credit for doing a goodweb sites while providing him or her the professional
job.respect they deserve for doing the best work they
4. It shows viewers that the photographer takes pridecan for the client.
in and stands behind his or her work.Architectural and interior design photographers
5. It allows the photographer to gain greater exposuregenerally don't worry about a copyright notice in the
and notoriety.photographers attribution because to make that
6. And linking the photo credit back to theeffective the notice would have to accompany and be
photographers home page creates the opportunity foradjacent to each image, this would be onerous and a
the photographer to show his stuff to potential clientsunwarranted imposition upon our architecture and
and possibly book a job or two.interior design clients. I have seen some clients give
I always give my clients credit for their work whetherphoto credit for each photograph or for each project
they are an architect, interior designer or contractor.on the title page of the particular projects slide show
You will always find their name and a link back to theiror gallery, whatever form works for the clients web
web site (if available) closely associated to the imagessite design is usually fine.