How to Make a Contract for Photography
A solid photography contract outlines expectations for both client and photographer. It provides clear communication between both parties and protects you against the unexpected, such as equipment failure, a sudden illness or a client's need to reschedule.
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Instructions
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Provide an Overview of Services
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Although a contract might initially feel like a hassle, it helps you present a professional image and provides clients with clear communication. List out your name, name of your photography business, mailing address, email, website address, landline and cell phone numbers. Also include your client's name and contact information.
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Continue with basics, such as date, location with address, and time of the event. Include all locations, such as separate venues for a wedding ceremony and reception. Indicate additional details, such as the client's requirements for specific poses or shots, in an addendum or separate planning document.
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Ask your clients for additional information, such as the number of hours of service required, their estimated budget and expectations for final products, including the number of images provided and copyright. Tailor your consultation accordingly by explaining or highlighting key sections of the contract in greater detail to match your client's priorities.
Map Out Specific Event Details
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Type in the exact start and stop time that photography services will be provided. Indicate the cost for that time, including any hourly rate for adding additional service hours.
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Detail what the photography services do or do not include, including copyright. Indicate the minimum image count and format type. If the client is purchasing additional products include these items along with any related fees.
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List the full amount including taxes. State how much the client must pay for a deposit or retainer, and when this amount is due. List the remainder, and when the final payment is due. Include details on cancellations, and when the full amount or deposit becomes non-refundable.
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Provide a time frame for delivering the photos. Offer a competitive deadline, but avoid setting one so tight that it is not practical.
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Leave space for you and your client(s) to sign and date the contract. Provide a printed copy to your client. For electronic copies, scan the final, signed copy and convert it to a portable document format to prevent unauthorized changes.
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Tips & Warnings
List preferences regarding non-professional photographers. For example, some wedding photographers request exclusive rights so they need not dodge around family members vying for a photo.
Explain what happens if a client cancels or reschedules for a date when you are unavailable.
Consider including a contingency plan for issues such as failed equipment, lost images and illness.
Check with your local and state laws regarding deposits and retainers. In some areas, deposits can be refunded; however retainers are kept by the photographer.
Do not assume clients are familiar with how copyrights work and how they can or can't use the images.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Pixland/Getty Images Hemera Technologies/PhotoObjects.net/Getty Images
