Photography Contracts
Signing a contract between a Photographer and their client is one of the most important things a Photographer can do. It will help both the photographer and the client from misunderstandings and messy situations in the future. They can help save the photographer time and money. They are a great way to build a good relationship between the client and the photographer, and is a great way for the client to know exactly what to expect. It also makes the photographer look much more professional.
Some of the basic requirements to have in a contract are contact and names of the photographer and the client, the dates of the contract beginning or dates of the shooting, and a small explanation of what each side will be exchanging. It is also important to have a cancelation policy and a payment schedule, so that everyone is paid on time. Copyright ownership, transfer of use, other contracts such as a model release form or a property release forms, and liability limitations are also important to have in the contract. Finally there will be a section on post-productions and how long it will take until the client will receive their photos as well if they will need to pay any extra fees. Both the photographer and the client will have to sign and date the contract.
Model releases are used as an OK for the photographer to use images of someone in a commercial setting. If the person in the photo is able to be recognized, it is important to get this release form signed. If you do not, there could be repercussions in the future. A print release is important for the client because this lets them use the photos how they choose, in any personal manner, such as if they want to print many or use them on social media. It is important for the photographer because it does not violate copyright, prevents commercial use without the photographers permission, an the photographer still owns the image.
