Without wishing to tread old ground, I wonder what the consensus is for coming up with a pricing structure for giving clients source files. I read through the archives of the list and got a good idea of how source/project files can and should be supplied.
I dont need $$ amounts just an idea of percentage of the finished project. I have seen ranges from 25% to 300%, quite a variance there. And bare in mind this is for a one-man freelancer situation, I imagine a facility or larger outfit would charge differently for source files.
I had a call from a client who used to use me a lot, but over the last 2 years has pulled all their video work in house. I have not worked with them on anything new in over a year. They want some changes to a 2 year old project, then want source files 'for their archives' after. The project, like all the projects from this client, was low budget do it at a loss affair (yeah right, good riddance eh) so no way was there room in the original fee for source material.
Seeing as they are no longer a 'good' client, and very likely are going to use my source files in house anyway, I have to make sure I get paid fairly for anything I supply them. I didnt have a contract back then, only this year did I finally get my shit together and create a contract/proposal. But they did not ask for the files then, so could this be seen as new work, a new request?
Anyhow, I have often wondered if there is a firm structure to pricing source files as it is always a point of contention. Now I spell it out on my contract, but would like to put some firm figures there too if that is advisable.
Sincere thanks
Adam Mercado
Influxx Media Production
Fullerton, CA
Moving Images. For Business
714°928°9896
