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This Picture Made Me $1000.00
The Story
I took this picture at our local 4th of July parade the summer of 2014. Had my camera and 400mm lens on a tripod just out to get some practice. So here comes our local Milwaukee sheriff riding a horse. He looks right at me and I started snapping pictures. I thought it turned out so nice that I would post it on his Facebook fan page thinking he might like to see it. About a month later I see this picture pop up on television. His opponent in the primary election was using it against him stating Milwaukee doesn't need a cowboy for sheriff. So after a few emails and phone calls it was actually an independent group that used the picture.
So after searching the internet for some contact information I finally got in contact with someone. They stated it was deemed fair use by their lawyers as it was on a public website, but then asked me what my rate was for use. So then I found some photography forums and started asking questions. I got some rather interesting comments about suing them and how much I should ask for. Turned out to be quite the debate about how images are used on Facebook. So I originally asked for $5000.00 and they came back with $1000.00 and I agreed. It took about a month and a couple of phone calls but I finally got my check in the mail. YEAH!
