Essential contract terms for photographers, videographers, wedding planners, content creators, designers, consultants, and freelancers providing creative services. California-focused with nationwide applicability.
For Creative Service Providers
Whether you're a photographer booking wedding shoots, a videographer producing brand content, a graphic designer creating logos, or a consultant advising startups, your service agreement is the foundation of every client relationship. A well-drafted contract protects your work, ensures payment, and sets clear expectations.
Why Your Contract Matters
Creative services disputes typically arise from three sources: unclear scope (what exactly are you delivering?), payment problems (when and how much?), and ownership confusion (who owns the final work?). A comprehensive service agreement addresses all three before problems arise.
In California, verbal agreements are technically enforceable, but proving terms becomes a swearing match. Written contracts with clear terms win disputes.
Scope of Services and Deliverables
1
Define Specific Deliverables
Don't say "photography services." Say "8 hours of coverage, 500 edited digital images, online gallery for 12 months, USB drive of high-resolution files." Specificity prevents disputes.
2
Specify What's NOT Included
Exclusions are as important as inclusions. "Does not include: raw files, prints, albums, travel beyond 50 miles, additional editing requests." Clients can't claim you failed to deliver what was never promised.
3
Include Time Estimates (If Relevant)
For consultants and designers: "Estimated 40 hours to complete. Additional hours billed at $X/hour with client approval." This protects against scope creep.
4
Define Revision Rounds
"Includes 2 rounds of revisions. Additional revisions billed at $X per round or $Y per hour." Be specific about what constitutes a "revision" vs. "change order."
Payment Terms
Deposit and Payment Structure
Industry standards for creative services:
Service Type
Typical Deposit
Payment Structure
Wedding Photography/Video
25-50%
Deposit to reserve, balance due 2-4 weeks before event
Graphic/Web Design
50%
50% upfront, 50% on completion; or 33/33/34 milestones
Consulting/Strategy
50% or monthly retainer
Upfront deposit + monthly invoicing; or retainer model
Content Creation
25-50%
Per-project deposits or monthly retainer
Event Planning
25-35%
Deposit, midpoint payment, final balance before event
California Consumer Protection Considerations
If your clients are individuals (not businesses), California consumer protection laws may apply. For contracts over $25,000, specific disclosures may be required. For wedding services, be aware of venue-specific regulations and the Wedding Industry Refund Rights under certain circumstances.
Best practice: Make deposit and cancellation terms clear and conspicuous in your contract.
Cancellation and Rescheduling
60+
60+ Days Before Event/Deadline
Full refund minus reasonable administrative fee (typically $100-500), or deposit applied to future booking within 12 months.
30-59
30-59 Days Before
50% of deposit refunded, or full deposit applied to rescheduled date within 12 months (subject to availability).
<30
Less Than 30 Days
No refund. Full contract amount may be due depending on terms and whether date can be rebooked.
Rescheduling vs. Cancellation
Consider offering more favorable terms for rescheduling than cancellation. Example: "Rescheduling to a mutually agreeable date within 12 months incurs no additional fee if requested 30+ days before original date. Deposit transfers in full."
This encourages clients to reschedule rather than cancel, preserving the booking relationship.
Timeline and Deadlines
Setting Realistic Expectations
Specify delivery timelines clearly:
Photo/Video Editing: "Edited gallery delivered within 6-8 weeks of event date. Rush delivery available for additional fee."
Design Projects: "First draft delivered within 10 business days of project kickoff. Final deliverables within 5 business days of final approval."
Consulting: "Deliverables completed within agreed milestones. Delays caused by client's failure to provide required information extend timeline accordingly."
Critical: Include language that client delays extend your deadline. "Timeline begins upon receipt of all required materials. Each day of client delay extends delivery deadline by one day."
Intellectual Property and Licensing
Copyright Ownership Is Critical
Under U.S. copyright law, you own the copyright to your creative work unless you explicitly assign it in writing. Most creative professionals grant clients a license to use the work rather than transferring ownership.
Common licensing models:
Personal use license: Client can use for personal, non-commercial purposes (typical for wedding photography)
Commercial use license: Client can use for business purposes, marketing, advertising
Exclusive license: Only client can use the work (typically commands premium pricing)
Work for hire / Full assignment: Client owns copyright entirely (should be priced significantly higher)
Retain Portfolio Rights
Always include language reserving your right to use work in your portfolio, website, social media, and marketing materials. Example: "Provider retains the right to use images/work for portfolio, promotional, and educational purposes unless Client pays additional confidentiality fee of $X."
Liability Limitations
Protecting Yourself
Essential liability protections for creative service providers:
Liability cap: "Provider's total liability under this Agreement shall not exceed the total amount paid by Client."
No consequential damages: "Provider shall not be liable for indirect, incidental, or consequential damages."
Equipment/data disclaimer: "Provider is not responsible for equipment malfunction, data loss, or circumstances beyond Provider's control."
Client content indemnification: "Client shall indemnify Provider against claims arising from materials, content, or information provided by Client."
California Enforceability
California generally enforces reasonable liability limitations in commercial contracts. However, limitations attempting to disclaim liability for gross negligence, intentional misconduct, or fraud may not be enforceable. Focus on limiting liability for ordinary breach and circumstances beyond your control.
Force Majeure
When the Unforeseeable Happens
Post-pandemic, force majeure clauses are essential. Your clause should address:
Covered events: Natural disasters, pandemics, government orders, venue closures, travel restrictions, illness of key personnel
Effect on contract: Suspension vs. termination, rescheduling rights, deposit handling
Notice requirements: How quickly must you notify the client?
Documentation: What proof is required?
Example: "If performance becomes impossible due to force majeure event, Client may reschedule to mutually agreeable date within 18 months. If no date is available, deposit will be refunded minus documented expenses already incurred."
Dispute Resolution
1
Informal Resolution First
"The parties agree to attempt good-faith negotiation before initiating formal dispute resolution."
2
Mediation
"Disputes not resolved through negotiation shall be submitted to mediation in [County], California before either party may initiate litigation or arbitration."
3
Arbitration (Optional)
Some providers prefer binding arbitration for speed and lower costs. Others prefer court for public precedent and jury trial rights. Choose based on your business model.
4
Attorney's Fees
"Prevailing party in any dispute shall be entitled to recover reasonable attorney's fees and costs." This discourages frivolous claims.
Scope Creep and Revisions
When clients request endless changes beyond your contracted scope.
Hiring a photographer for your wedding, a designer for your brand, or a consultant for your business? Understanding service agreements protects your investment and sets clear expectations. Here's what to look for and negotiate before signing.
Before You Sign: Key Questions
What exactly will I receive? Get a detailed list of deliverables, quantities, formats, and timelines.
What's included in the price? Understand what's bundled vs. what costs extra.
Who owns the final work? Clarify copyright, licensing, and usage rights.
What if I need changes? Understand revision limits and additional costs.
What happens if things go wrong? Know the cancellation, refund, and dispute resolution terms.
Understanding Scope and Deliverables
?
Ask for Specifics
"8 hours of photography coverage" is clearer than "full-day coverage." "500 edited images" is clearer than "all the good shots." Numbers and specifics prevent misunderstandings.
!
Clarify Exclusions
If something is important to you, ask if it's included. Raw files? Prints? Source files? Second shooter? Travel? Don't assume.
+
Get Add-On Pricing Upfront
If you might want extras later (album, additional hours, rush delivery), get pricing now. It's harder to negotiate once work is underway.
Payment Protection
Understand What Deposits Mean
Most creative services require deposits to reserve dates or begin work. These deposits are typically non-refundable if you cancel. Before paying:
Understand the cancellation policy in full
Know the difference between "non-refundable" and "transferable to reschedule"
Pay with a credit card when possible for chargeback protection in case of non-performance
Get written confirmation of payment and contract terms
Reasonable Payment Structures
What's normal varies by industry:
Weddings/Events: 25-50% deposit is standard. Full balance due before the event is normal.
Design/Development: 50% upfront, 50% on completion is common. Milestone payments for larger projects.
Consulting: Retainer or monthly invoicing. Upfront deposits for new clients.
Red flag: 100% payment upfront with no recourse if work isn't delivered.
Understanding Intellectual Property Rights
You May Not Own What You Pay For
This surprises many clients: paying for creative work doesn't automatically transfer copyright to you. By default, the creator owns the copyright and grants you a license to use it.
What you typically get:
Personal use of photos/designs
Commercial use if specified in contract
Rights to display, share, and use for stated purposes
What you typically don't get:
Raw files or source files (unless negotiated)
Right to resell or license to others
Exclusive rights (unless you pay for them)
Right to modify or create derivative works (depends on license)
Negotiating Ownership
If you need full ownership (work for hire), expect to pay significantly more - often 2-3x the standard rate. This is reasonable because the creator is giving up future revenue potential and portfolio use.
Alternatively, negotiate specific rights you need: "We need the right to modify and use commercially worldwide in perpetuity" is often achievable without full ownership transfer.
Revision Expectations
Revisions Are Not Unlimited
Most creative contracts include a limited number of revision rounds. This is standard and reasonable. Tips for managing revisions:
Consolidate feedback: Gather all stakeholders' input before submitting revision requests. Multiple conflicting revision rounds waste your included rounds.
Be specific: "Make it pop more" is hard to execute. "Increase contrast, use darker blue" is actionable.
Distinguish defects from changes: If work doesn't meet specifications, that's a defect to fix. If you changed your mind about colors, that's a revision.
Track rounds: Know how many revisions you've used and how many remain.
If Things Go Wrong
1
Document Everything
Keep all emails, contracts, invoices, and communications. Screenshots of online galleries before they expire.
2
Communicate Promptly
If deliverables don't meet expectations, raise concerns immediately in writing. Delayed complaints are harder to enforce.
3
Follow the Contract's Dispute Process
Many contracts require mediation before litigation. Skipping steps can hurt your case.
4
Consider Proportionate Response
Before spending $5,000 on a lawyer over a $2,000 dispute, consider whether negotiated resolution or small claims court makes more sense.
Late Payment Terms
Interest rate, late fees, suspension of services
3. Revisions and Change Orders
[ ]
Number of Included Revision Rounds
How many rounds are included in base price
[ ]
Definition of "Revision"
What counts as revision vs. new scope
[ ]
Additional Revision Pricing
Cost for revisions beyond included rounds
[ ]
Change Order Process
How scope changes are requested, approved, and priced
[ ]
Revision Request Deadline
Timeframe for requesting changes after delivery
4. Timeline and Deadlines
[ ]
Project/Event Date
When services will be performed
[ ]
Delivery Timeline
When final deliverables will be provided
[ ]
Client Response Deadlines
How quickly client must respond to requests
[ ]
Timeline Extension for Delays
How client delays affect delivery timeline
[ ]
Rush Delivery Options
Availability and pricing for expedited delivery
5. Cancellation and Rescheduling
[ ]
Cancellation by Client
Refund/retention terms at various notice periods
[ ]
Cancellation by Provider
Refund obligations if provider cancels
[ ]
Rescheduling Terms
How deposits transfer to new dates
[ ]
Rescheduling Limitations
How many times, how far in advance, availability conditions
[ ]
Deposit Transferability
Whether deposit can transfer to different person/project
6. Intellectual Property
[ ]
Copyright Ownership
Who owns the copyright to created works
[ ]
License Grant to Client
Scope of client's usage rights (personal, commercial, exclusive)
[ ]
Provider Portfolio Rights
Provider's right to use work for promotion
[ ]
Raw/Source File Policy
Whether unedited files are provided
[ ]
Third-Party Rights
Releases for recognizable people, locations, etc.
7. Liability and Insurance
[ ]
Liability Cap
Maximum provider liability (typically contract value)
[ ]
Consequential Damages Waiver
Exclusion of indirect and consequential damages
[ ]
Equipment/Data Disclaimer
Limitation for equipment failure, data loss
[ ]
Insurance Requirements
Required coverage (especially for events)
[ ]
Client Indemnification
Client responsibility for provided content
8. Confidentiality
[ ]
Confidential Information Definition
What's protected as confidential
[ ]
Confidentiality Duration
How long obligations last
[ ]
Permitted Disclosures
Exceptions (legal requirement, professional advisors)
[ ]
Portfolio Exception
Whether confidentiality blocks portfolio use
9. Force Majeure
[ ]
Covered Events
Natural disasters, pandemics, government orders, etc.
[ ]
Notice Requirements
How to invoke force majeure
[ ]
Effect on Contract
Suspension vs. termination
[ ]
Deposit Handling
Refund, credit, or retention for force majeure
10. Dispute Resolution
[ ]
Governing Law
Which state's law applies
[ ]
Venue
Where disputes will be resolved
[ ]
Mediation Requirement
Whether mediation is required before litigation
[ ]
Arbitration Clause (If Any)
Binding arbitration terms if applicable
[ ]
Attorney's Fees
Whether prevailing party recovers fees
Sample Contract Clauses
These sample clauses can be customized for your creative services agreement. Consult with an attorney before using in binding contracts.
Scope of Services (Photography Example)
SCOPE OF SERVICES
Provider agrees to provide the following photography services:
Event: [Client's Wedding / Event Name]
Date: [Event Date]
Location: [Venue Name and Address]
Coverage: [X] hours, from [Start Time] to [End Time]
Deliverables:
- Minimum of [500] professionally edited digital images
- Online gallery for viewing and downloading, accessible for [12] months
- High-resolution files suitable for printing up to [16x20] inches
- USB drive containing all edited images
NOT INCLUDED (available for additional fee):
- Raw/unedited image files
- Prints, albums, or physical products
- Additional hours beyond scheduled coverage
- Travel expenses beyond [50] miles from Provider's studio
- Second photographer or assistant
- Same-day or rush editing
Payment Terms
PAYMENT TERMS
Total Contract Value: $[AMOUNT]
Payment Schedule:
1. Retainer/Deposit: $[AMOUNT] ([X]%) due upon signing to reserve date
2. [If milestone payment: $[AMOUNT] due [30] days before event]
3. Final Balance: $[AMOUNT] due no later than [14] days before event date
The Retainer is non-refundable but may be applied to a rescheduled date subject to Provider's availability (see Cancellation section).
Late Payment: Payments received more than [7] days past due will incur a late fee of [1.5]% per month. Provider may suspend services until account is current.
Payment Methods: Provider accepts payment via credit card, check, or bank transfer. A [3]% processing fee applies to credit card payments.
Revision Rounds and Change Orders
REVISIONS AND CHANGES
Included Revisions: This agreement includes [2] rounds of revisions to deliverables at no additional cost. A "revision round" consists of consolidated feedback submitted within [5] business days of receiving the prior draft.
Additional Revisions: Revisions beyond the included rounds will be billed at $[X] per round or $[Y] per hour, with a minimum of [1] hour per additional request.
What Constitutes a Revision: Revisions include color correction, cropping, minor retouching, and stylistic adjustments to delivered work. The following are NOT revisions and require a Change Order:
- Adding new deliverables not in original scope
- Substantive re-editing or re-shooting
- Changes to project direction after initial approval
- Requests that materially expand the scope of work
Change Orders: Any request outside the original scope requires a written Change Order specifying the additional work and compensation. Work on Change Orders will not begin until signed by both parties.
Cancellation and Rescheduling
CANCELLATION AND RESCHEDULING
Cancellation by Client:
- 60+ days before event: Full refund of payments minus Retainer
- 30-59 days before event: 50% of total contract value retained; balance refunded
- Less than 30 days: Full contract value due; no refund
Rescheduling by Client:
- 30+ days before event: One reschedule permitted to a mutually agreeable date within [12] months at no additional fee, subject to Provider's availability
- Less than 30 days: Reschedule permitted subject to availability; rescheduling fee of $[X] applies
- Second reschedule: Treated as cancellation under above terms
Cancellation by Provider: If Provider must cancel due to illness, emergency, or circumstances beyond Provider's control, Provider will:
1. Make reasonable efforts to secure a qualified replacement acceptable to Client, OR
2. Refund all payments made by Client in full
Provider's liability for cancellation is limited to refund of amounts paid; Provider is not liable for consequential damages such as cost of replacement services.
Intellectual Property and Licensing
INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY AND LICENSING
Copyright Ownership: Provider retains copyright ownership of all images, designs, and creative works produced under this Agreement.
License to Client: Upon receipt of final payment, Provider grants Client a non-exclusive, perpetual, worldwide license to use the delivered works for:
- Personal, non-commercial purposes (social media, personal prints, sharing with family/friends)
- [If commercial client: Commercial purposes including marketing, advertising, and promotional materials]
Restrictions: Client may not:
- Resell, sublicense, or transfer the works to third parties
- Submit works to stock photography/design agencies
- Use works to create derivative works for commercial sale
- Remove or alter Provider's watermarks or credits without permission
Provider's Rights: Provider retains the right to use all works for:
- Portfolio display (website, social media, print materials)
- Promotional and advertising purposes
- Entry in professional competitions
- Publication in industry media
Confidentiality Exception: Client may request confidential treatment for an additional fee of $[X], in which case Provider will not publicly display works without Client's written consent.
Raw Files: Raw/unedited files and source files are not included and remain Provider's property. Raw files may be purchased separately for $[X].
Liability Limitations
LIMITATION OF LIABILITY
Liability Cap: Provider's total liability under this Agreement shall not exceed the total amount actually paid by Client under this Agreement.
Exclusion of Consequential Damages: In no event shall Provider be liable for any indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or punitive damages, including but not limited to loss of profits, loss of data, business interruption, or cost of substitute services, even if Provider has been advised of the possibility of such damages.
Equipment and Data: Provider is not responsible for image loss, data corruption, or equipment malfunction beyond Provider's reasonable control. Provider will use professional-grade equipment and maintain appropriate backup procedures.
Client-Provided Materials: Client is responsible for securing necessary permissions for any materials, content, or information provided to Provider. Client shall indemnify and hold Provider harmless from any claims arising from Client-provided materials.
Force Majeure: Neither party shall be liable for failure or delay in performance due to causes beyond reasonable control, including but not limited to natural disasters, pandemics, government orders, labor disputes, or venue/facility closures. (See Force Majeure section for rescheduling and refund terms.)
Confidentiality
CONFIDENTIALITY
Each party agrees to maintain the confidentiality of the other party's Confidential Information and not to disclose it to any third party without prior written consent.
"Confidential Information" includes:
- Business strategies, plans, and proprietary information
- Pricing, contract terms, and financial information
- Unpublished creative works and works in progress
- Personal information shared during the engagement
- Any information marked or identified as confidential
Exceptions: Confidentiality obligations do not apply to information that:
- Is or becomes publicly available through no fault of the receiving party
- Was known to the receiving party before disclosure
- Is disclosed pursuant to legal requirement (with notice to disclosing party)
- Is independently developed by the receiving party
Duration: Confidentiality obligations shall survive termination of this Agreement for a period of [3] years, except for trade secrets which shall be protected indefinitely.
Portfolio Exception: Notwithstanding the above, Provider may display completed works in portfolio and promotional materials unless Client has purchased the Confidentiality Exception option.
Force Majeure
FORCE MAJEURE
Definition: "Force Majeure Event" means any event beyond a party's reasonable control, including but not limited to: natural disasters, pandemics or epidemics, government orders or restrictions, war or terrorism, labor strikes, venue closure or inaccessibility, extreme weather, or serious illness or death of Provider or immediate family member.
Notice: The affected party shall provide written notice to the other party within [48] hours of the Force Majeure Event, describing the event and its anticipated impact on performance.
Effect on Performance:
1. Performance is suspended for the duration of the Force Majeure Event
2. If the event continues for more than [30] days, either party may terminate without penalty
Rescheduling: If a Force Majeure Event prevents performance on the scheduled date:
1. Client may reschedule to a mutually agreeable date within [18] months
2. All payments made transfer to the rescheduled date
3. If no mutually agreeable date is available, Client will receive a refund of all payments minus documented non-recoverable expenses actually incurred by Provider
Documentation: Provider shall provide reasonable documentation of Force Majeure claims and non-recoverable expenses upon request.
Dispute Resolution
DISPUTE RESOLUTION
Governing Law: This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of California, without regard to conflict of law principles.
Informal Resolution: The parties agree to attempt in good faith to resolve any dispute informally through direct communication before initiating formal proceedings.
Mediation: If informal resolution fails, the parties agree to participate in mediation before a mutually agreed mediator in [County], California before initiating litigation or arbitration. Mediation costs shall be shared equally.
[OPTION A - Litigation:]
Jurisdiction and Venue: Any legal action arising from this Agreement shall be brought exclusively in the state or federal courts located in [County], California. Each party consents to personal jurisdiction in such courts.
[OPTION B - Arbitration:]
Binding Arbitration: Any dispute not resolved through mediation shall be resolved by binding arbitration in [County], California in accordance with the Commercial Arbitration Rules of the American Arbitration Association. The arbitrator's decision shall be final and binding.
Attorney's Fees: The prevailing party in any dispute shall be entitled to recover reasonable attorney's fees and costs from the non-prevailing party.
Small Claims: Notwithstanding the above, either party may bring claims within small claims court jurisdiction in the appropriate California small claims court.
Attorney Services for Creative Professionals
I help creative service providers and their clients with contract drafting, review, negotiation, and dispute resolution. California-focused with nationwide practice capabilities.
For Creative Service Providers
Contract Drafting: Custom service agreements tailored to your creative business - photography, video, design, consulting, event planning, content creation. California-compliant with protections for common creative industry risks.
Template Review and Customization: Review your existing contract templates for gaps, enforceability issues, and improvement opportunities. Customize templates for different service tiers or client types.
Dispute Resolution: When clients don't pay, dispute scope, or claim breach, I help you enforce your rights through demand letters, negotiation, and if necessary, litigation.
IP Strategy: Structure licensing terms that protect your work while meeting client needs. Navigate copyright ownership, portfolio rights, and exclusive licensing arrangements.
For Clients Hiring Creative Professionals
Contract Review: Before signing a photographer's or designer's contract, have an attorney review the terms. I'll explain what you're agreeing to and flag concerning provisions.
Negotiation Support: Help negotiating better terms - more favorable IP rights, reasonable cancellation policies, or clearer deliverable specifications.
Dispute Assistance: When creative work doesn't meet expectations, I help you understand your rights and pursue appropriate remedies.
Schedule a Consultation
Whether you need a comprehensive service agreement, want to review an existing contract, or have a dispute to resolve, I can help.
Use the Calendly link below to schedule a consultation, or email me directly at owner@terms.law.
Contract Review: $350-500
Review of existing contract with written analysis and recommendations
$$
Custom Contract Drafting: $750-1,500
Full custom service agreement tailored to your business, including revisions
$$$
Contract Package: $1,200-2,500
Master service agreement plus ancillary documents (booking form, model release, change order template)
Hr
Hourly Rate: $240/hour
For negotiations, dispute resolution, and ongoing advisory work
Frequently Asked Questions
A photography or videography services agreement should include: detailed scope of services (hours, locations, deliverables), payment terms with deposit and milestone structure, number of included revision rounds, timeline for delivery, cancellation and rescheduling policies, intellectual property ownership and licensing terms, liability limitations, and force majeure provisions. In California, ensure compliance with consumer protection laws if working with individuals rather than businesses.
Under U.S. copyright law, the creator (photographer, designer, etc.) owns the copyright unless there is a written assignment transferring ownership to the client, or the work qualifies as "work for hire." Most creative services agreements grant clients a license to use the work rather than transferring full ownership. Service providers typically retain rights to use work in portfolios. Always specify IP ownership explicitly in your contract.
Industry standards vary: Wedding photographers typically require 25-50% deposit to reserve the date. Designers and consultants often require 50% upfront, 50% on completion. For larger projects, consider milestone payments (e.g., 33% upfront, 33% at midpoint, 34% on delivery). In California, deposits for services over $25,000 may require compliance with specific consumer protection disclosure requirements.
Generally yes, if your contract specifies that deposits are non-refundable and the terms are reasonable. However, California courts may not enforce deposits that are grossly disproportionate to actual damages suffered. Best practice: Use a tiered cancellation policy (e.g., full refund if 60+ days out, 50% refund if 30-59 days, no refund within 30 days). Document the business justification for your policy.
Most creative professionals include 2-3 revision rounds in the base price. Beyond that, charge hourly or per-round fees. Be specific about what constitutes a "revision round" vs. a "change order" (new scope). For photography/video, clarify whether revisions mean color correction, cropping, and minor edits vs. major retouching or re-editing. Document each round in writing to avoid disputes.
Standard liability limitations include: capping total liability at the contract value (or amount paid), excluding consequential and indirect damages, requiring clients to maintain backups of source materials, disclaiming warranties beyond the agreed scope, and including indemnification for client-provided content that infringes third-party rights. California generally enforces reasonable liability caps in commercial contracts.
Yes, especially for event-based services like wedding photography or live event videography. A force majeure clause excuses performance when events beyond control (natural disasters, pandemics, government orders) prevent completion. Specify whether the contract is suspended or terminated, how deposits are handled, and whether you'll offer rescheduling. Post-COVID, clients and providers both expect these protections.
Include mutual confidentiality provisions protecting: client business information and strategies, unpublished creative work, pricing and contract terms, and any sensitive personal information. Specify duration of confidentiality obligations (typically 2-5 years or indefinitely for trade secrets). For corporate clients, you may need to sign their NDA in addition to your service agreement.
Independent Contractor Agreement
Full contractor agreement template generator with California AB5 compliance.