Re: Handing over AE projects....?

Maybe project files should automatically be destroyed upon project completion... you know, "this message will self-destruct in sixty seconds, good luck, Mister client". Then you can't hand over what you no longer have. Makes re-edits a pain though, OTOH, you can bill more time for them...

This question has come up here before regarding FCP project files, you can search out the opinions from that thread for more perspective.

Probably the guess is right that the client has a nefarious scheme in mind to re-do work on their own based on your generated project files. This would be akin to a traditional stills guy handing over his negatives, instead of getting paid for making new prints.

If they mean to rip you off or stop using you, ask yourself what's to lose in fighting, since they've tipped their hand already. If you need them so badly that you're going to cave on this, well, admit it to yourself that they own you, yet they are planning on *not* owning you, soon. Once you give away the project files, you've given away all your leverage and they no longer need you for anything.

I thought about that for a minute or two and either way it works out, it stinks for you. So maybe best to put on the poker face and say "No, that's not in the written contract and we normally keep proprietary work product in house. You want to amend the contract, we'll haggle on a price for the files (that reflects lost work opportunity on my side)".

Your client relationship unfortunately looks like it is already dead; the body just hasn't stopped walking long enough to notice it yet.