Does your photography contract cover you? Do you even have a contract?

Well the solution is really simple. If it is in writing and both the photographer and client sign the contract there is no confusion.

It is time all photographers stuck to the rule of No contract, no shoot.

I did a quick 5min search on FB and randomly copied the posts found when i searched for “Contract”. There are literally thousands of these, most of which could be avoided by having a contract set up by a lawyer.

This is the reason why we contracted Tanya Vosloo from Sandenbergh Vosloo Attorneys to set up a photography template to protect you and your business with our  Photographer Contract Template and our Model release for adults and minors.

Here are just a few of the posts i found on Facebook. Sound familiar?

Should a deposit be included in your contract.

Good day photographers. I was advised to request a deposit and signed contract before doing bigger jobs e.g weddings, events etc. My question is, what should be included in this sort of contract and are there any templates I can check out? Besides HelloSign are there any other websites and resources you like to use for the admin side of photography such as contracts, quotes/billing.

What about usage, model releases, how the images can be used.

I am looking to add to my portfolio and would like to do a model call. What are good ways to go about this? Would you recommend I get a contract in place? Any recommendations or do’s and don’ts will be appreciated!

How many images are included, cost of additional images.

Please help me… What is the most important rule to you when you want to do photos for advertising?
Like do you set up a contract? Do you put on your logos or do you just give all photos??
Some people think photography is a joke or not hard work at all and wants all the photos for free. I’m so fed up.

Can you hold back any money when a client asks for a refund? When can the client get a refund?

Question regarding refunding a couple (wedding photography) ….
The couple paid R2000 deposit (contract in place). Wedding was scheduled for October.
I have done a lot of admin on them regarding e-mail conversations and working out a time schedule for the wedding day – no pre wedding shoot was done. Received an e-mail this morning saying they are cancelling the wedding because they cannot afford to get married anymore.
Am I legally allowed to keep R500 as admin fee in this COVID time?

Do you specify all the issues that might come up?

So after a great lesson learned, how would you guys suggest I word the clause in my contract that no RAW images will be provided?

When something happens and you don’t have a contract, it is too late. Don’t get caught out.

We all know the importance of a contract. But sometimes a shoot slips in without a signed contract, and when a client turns back on their word, things get very ugly. Take care fellow photographers, no matter who or what, sign before click!

Why do you need a photographer contract?

We want to trust all our clients. But sometimes misunderstandings happen, and things can get messy. There are several reasons to have a legal contract in place for your clients and the first is to set the terms of any photography job in writing.

Usually, the misunderstandings are honest mistakes, but they can still cause headaches and profit loss.
Contracts also set the stage for a legitimate and professional business transaction, your clients will take the process more seriously and they’ll know that there are clear terms and consequences.

It also solidifies your image as a business owner if you have a set process for them to go through.

Finally, having a photography contract strengthens the trust between you and the client. There are no surprises, and the client knows exactly what to expect!

Need something more specific?

If you would like additional coverage or a customised contract please contact Tanya Vosloo from Sandenbergh Vosloo Attorneys to see how she can protect you and your business.

Please click here to purchase the contract on the Hunter of Light shop.