It's never easy writing up your first contract. You don't want to seem uptight but you also don't want your client to just ignore what's in your contract. Because, it's really important. At least it should be.
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Your contract should have lots of things in it. But here's a few
- Personalization: It should have your name and role and the client's name and role. As well as the dates and the location of the sesion
- Clarity: Make sure it explicitly states what session they are paying for and what's included in it. It should also clearly state how much the session is and what the client can expect from the session (Great place to state how long until they get their photos).
- What to expect: Your contract should clearly state what is expected of both parties. If it's a location wedding and the client is paying your travel fees but you don't state that they are also responsible for meals, you could go hungry! Be very direct.
- Damages and Limited Liablity: Please release yourself from liablity to injury and damages that may arise while you are present or while you direct people. Explicitly state that you are only liable to pay the amount paid to you by the client for any damages. However, you should also explicitly state that any damages to your equipment by the client or guests of the client will need to be covered by the client.
- Copyright: This is so important! State VERY clearly that you own all rights to the images and the client does not have any right to reproduce photos excepting personal use.
Speaking of Copyright!
As a photographer, any and all photos you take with your equipment belong solely to you. Now, that doesn't mean that you should go around sneakily taking photos of people because techincally you can. That's just rude. It's always best to ask permission and accept it if the person says no. But this does mean that if you are using a photo of someone's wedding on your site and they try to sue you for unlawfully using their image, kindly remind them that it's in the contract (IT SHOULD ALWAYS BE!). It's important to use images you take on your site and on social media. That is how you get more clients! It's likely how your client found you! So make sure that you know your rights as a professional photographer and always keep it professional!
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