Congratulations, Anita!

My recent monograph includes 21 illustrations (from libraries, museums, art galleries), so I guess I'm somewhat experienced in this business.

Your publisher may eventually give you sample request forms. Otherwise, you do what I did:

1) First you locate the owner of the photograph you wish to reproduce. This is not always easy. (Perhaps someone out there can give you specifics about the images you mention.) Otherwise you might, for example, begin with The Chapter House, St. Paul's Churchyard, London EC4M 8AD. Or e-mail them at chapter@stpaulscathedral.org.uk

Once you have the address of the owner, you can write requesting a black and white copy-ready photograph (or digital file) WITH permission to reproduce. I always send a Xerox of the image to avoid any confusion.

2)Then you wait. Sometimes for a month or two.

3) If you are lucky, you will receive a form outlining the conditions of use and terms of payment. If you are really lucky, they will allow you to use your credit card. Then your US $ will automatically convert. Sometimes, however, they will want some other form of payment. I sometimes resorted to sending EUROs in a sealed envelope rather than pay exorbitant bank fees.

4) Once you send off your forms and fees, you wait. Sometimes for months.

OR you can buy a digital camera, fly to England, and take your own photos.

At least you belong to an academic institution, which may supply stipends for this kind of thing. As an independent scholar, it is (alas) my privilege to pay.

Good luck. I'm curious to see what other advice is offered.

Roberta Albrecht