Thank you for the great replies to this.

Maybe I should've expanded my question in the first place: I've been filming a young band on and off for a year. I've taken about 30 hours of film, and I'll be honest had some good nights! This was always, for me, a means to get a grip of camerawork, film editing, etc. At the end of each gig, I've supplied a vcd to the band gratis, with mutual understanding that a DVD would be forthcoming in the future.

Nothing is on paper. No obligation either way. Nor have I any signed permission on paper to use the material, at this stage. (They did play a side stage at the Leeds festival last year and I believe they're going somewhere. But more of that later..)

Okay, the rub: I explained that editing a full documentary onto a DVD format, with menus, to a standard I'm happy to put my name to, that they could sell, would take some considerable time. I met the "Oh, but it's just a hobby for you!" From the bloke who expected me to pay the going rate for the work he did for me. (Band members Dad.) Hence my ire..!

Okay, that's my vent out the way. To practicalities....

Now: I know I should've hammered out all the rules before I began. So tell me what they should be, for next time. Agree "a package" before anything begins? But then what about payment?

I'm happy to do the work this time and get payment on the back end - when the DVDs sell, so what do I need to do to make that work? Where can I get permission forms for them to sign, so there's no arguments?

Any other advice how I can move this forward whilst preserving what could be a mutually profitable and enjoyable relationship?

Rick