Photography Services Contract Generator

Photography Contract Tips from a Photographer-Lawyer

As a published photographer and a lawyer who represents other photographers, here are the key issues to address in any photography services contract:

Deliverables
Spell out exactly what clients will receive. How many photos will be edited? How many pages in the album? Will there be an additional charge for premium album covers?

Your Rights to Photos
If you're shooting at gorgeous locations, photographing notable people, or using unique props, you'll want the right to use the photos for your portfolio, social media, books, and advertising materials.

Scope and Extra Work
Outline how many hours you'll be at the shoot and state that extra hours will be billed at a specific hourly rate.

Special Edits
Your contract should specify that basic edits (sharpening, color, contrast) are included, but labor-intensive edits (slimming, wrinkle removal, extensive retouching) are billed separately.

Food
Should be provided or paid for by the client on long shoots. This isn't obvious to every client.

Access
Clients must ensure you're allowed to set up lights and access electrical outlets—some venues limit this.

Termination
State the cancellation notice period and refund policy. Also clarify your own cancellation terms and whether you'll provide a substitute.

Simple English
Clients need to understand the contract without hiring a lawyer. This increases your chances of being hired and avoids misunderstandings.

Editing Restrictions
If you don't want clients applying filters to your work and posting with your name attached, include a clause prohibiting edits or derivative works.