Japanese Beautiful Model

How much should I give the 'accidental' model if I win the contest?

I was at a beach party and saw this young father with his baby sleeping on his chest. Beautiful moment. I took some photos and am entering one of them in a contest. If I win any money, how much should I give this young man? Percentage? Appreciate advise from those on both sides of the camera. Thanks

Public Comments

1. Does dad know you took the photos? If they are published and he is unaware it could potentially be a problem. Where i work we had some photos taken and had to have the participants sign over the copyright of such photos. Not sure what the right answer is. Did you provide him with copies of these? Maybe that is gift enough.
2. Images taken in public are ... PUBLIC for the taking. That is not to say that your image will lack copyright. Your subjects are NOT required to be compensated. A person in public do not have any right to expect privacy. That is how all the celebrity rags get way with printing images of stars with no permission (and no compensation). If you feel you want to compensate them, it would be enough to offer an enlargement. Good luck, === Don't forget to vote for the BEST ANSWER - please - whoever it may be. FACT: You also get +3 points when you vote for BEST ANSWER
3. If you know these people you may want to have them sign a release form giving you permission to enter the photo. (Just to be on the safe side. As to whether you want to give them any compensation from winnings is up to you.
4. You might want to check with contest rules about securing model releases of people who are recognizable in any photo you submit, especially of children. Better safe than sorry. Some people are really touchy about having their kid's pictures put out there for the world to see. Most people, if you approach them, are flattered and will go along but you really need to play it safe.
5. Well, did he do anything to help you win the contest? Lets say he staged the picture, came up with the idea, I would say maybe half, his creativity and your skills, right. If this just happened to be a great once in a lifetime moment you captured on film because you were there, saw an opportunity for a great pic, and used your skills, what really did he do? If he is known to you and you win like 10,000 bucks for a great "candid" shot or something, maybe give him $1,000
6. There is no right answer to your question. I hope that you obtained permission before using the photo(s) though. I would probably give them a nice framed photo; particularly if the moment is magical!