Well, I was offered the chance to shoot exclusively for our Little League organization--two in town--I shoot only one. It's a non-paying gig, but I will be allowed to sell to parents, and I also have the option to shoot T&I for the fall league. Spring league is contracted to NSP, and that's OK, because I'm not ready for that.
My question is, since it's a volunteer position, but with the possiblity of sales to parents, should I still get a written contract with the organization. I know the folks who run it and we are like a family, but the selling to parents thing makes me wonder if something in writing is necessary. I'm always there shooting anyway, but they want to make it more official so I can get access to all fields.
In my opinion, once you decide to sell, you are now a professional and everything that you do must be done professionally. So, yes, a written contract is stongly advised.
The contract doesn't have to be formal, but should be written. No need to add legal jargon to it, just summarize the expectations of yourself and of the league from this relationship. Some points to include:
-- You have access for action photos for all teams in the LL
-- You have exclusive rights to sell your photos to the parents. (and post them online?) While you're best leaving the parents to take their own photos of their kids, or their teams, you certainly would like some protection against the GWC taking photos and handing out business cards.
-- You want the option to shoot T&I for the fall league. (always looks better in writing, just in case someone else skips the low-profit action photos, and makes a move for the T&I pictures.)
-- You didn't mention what the LL is looking for in return for your action photos. Is it some nice samples for future marketing at no charge? A percentage of sales? A certain amount of game coverage? Wouldn't you like to know, so you can meet the LL's expectations?
I am with Andrew, what are they looking for from you? Usually every league is looking for a % of sales.
Ryan
Our discussion was brief, and they didn't get into specifics about what ALL they wanted. They did mention they wanted to produce a calendar for fundraising purposes. We are having a meeting the beginning of April to discuss more about what I can do and what they would want from me. I will keep in mind what you guys have brought up in the thread.
Thank-you for your feedback. Actually, I'm looking forward to doing this. It's a great atmosphere to be in during baseball season. My son plays in that league and we usually hang around and watch other games, especially the older kids--my son is 7.
In my opinion, once you decide to sell, you are now a professional and everything that you do must be done professionally. So, yes, a written contract is stongly advised.
Paul is correct here. My contract is being reviewed by Little League International right now. Do yourself a favor and get something to your local Little League so they can then forward it on to LLI for review/approval.
