Somebody wants my You Tube clip - advice required

[91Regal]

I have been e-mailed by an organisation in California who apparently would like to buy the copyright to a clip of a particular aircraft that appears on my You Tube channel. They are making a documentary about the loss of a similiar aircraft in Yosemite - date unknown - and the flying sequences may be of use to them. They state that they are willing to pay a fee for the copyright. A quick Internet check shows that this organisation appears to be legit.
I am completely out of my depth in matters like this. Advice is required from the many knowledgable souls who inhabit this particular bit of the ether. If you would prefer to reply via PM rather than open forum, please do so.

[Bmused55]

I would let them make an offer. Put the ball in their court. Chances are it won't be much.
But I would also ask them for the terms they propose (usage, re-use, syndication of documentary to other networks, release on DVD, etc).

[John Green]

91regal

If there is a chance that this could develop into something more than just a one off, I would engage a literary agent. They'll negotiate and possibly get you a better fee for your work. Don't forget they'll want a percent or ten for their slice.

[Moggy C]

I think you mean a 'photographic agent' surely?

Moggy

[trumper]

I have been e-mailed by an organisation in California who apparently would like to buy the copyright to a clip of a particular aircraft that appears on my You Tube channel.

Just a quick question ,is this video something you took or own outright?

[91Regal]

Trumper - I shot the video on my Hi-8 camcorder about 10 years ago at a display in the Midlands, and retain possession of the original tape - so I guess I own the copyright.
It has to be said it's a typical hand-held camcorder effort, with the autofocus struggling to lock on what was a greyish day. So, whilst appreciating the comments from Bmused, John and Moggy, I don't think I'll be needing an agent ! I just want to be aware of any legal pratfalls about possible sale of copyright, but I'm half-inclined to retain control, let them use the bits they want (on the proviso it's for the purpose stated) and request a by-line and a free copy of any DVD.

[Moggy C]

If somebody approached me with the question I would say "Certainly. I have the sum of £250 in mind for non-exclusive use", then sit back and listen

Moggy

[trumper]

What you think is poor filming is someone elses gold good luck i would be interested to hear of the outcome if you wish to tell us

[John Green]

Re 4

You might be right - tho' I've never heared of a photographic agent per se. A literary agent with a wide remit?

I am, just now, trying to find such a one, providing TV script services, as well as all the other things they normally do.

[Moggy C]

http://www.juliancotton.co.uk/

Though for this one-off I'd still deal direct.

Moggy

[Newforest]

"Certainly. I have the sum of £250 in mind for non-exclusive use", then sit back and listen

Moggy

And check the currency denomination/ conversion in the contract.

[skeeler]

91Regal,

Also bear in mind that there are other clips on you tube that they may be approaching others for and that the aircraft you filmed is now back in USA, where the only 2 existing are now based. So you don't want to miss out on the opportunity of earning from your film if you can. I'm guessing that the film they're making is about the crash in Yosemite in 1977 of the same type of aircraft whilst engaged in a drug running operation?

Good luck with the deal.