The simplest way to Create Client Contracts That Defend Your Business
From the viewpoint of most wedding photographers the contract that they sign with the bride and groom is exceedingly important. It outlines the terms on which they are undertaking a job and it sets boundaries as to what is wanted from them from the couple and also what is reasonable and what is not.
Some photographers will undertake work without a signed contract. When they do this they’re gambling and they should understand the level of risk. If the event is a wedding then it is not something that can be repeated if mistakes are made. The possibility is that the cameraman can be brought to court if the client thinks that he has not performed the work in the right way.
Some things that a contract should define:
- How many hours are to be worked
- What’s the date and start time of the event
- What are the products from the photographer
- What is demanded from the client
- What are the payment terms
- Is a substitute photographer allowed
- What will happen if the customer fails to meet the payment terms
- What happens if adverse weather or other unlooked for events forestall some photographs being taken.
- Under what conditions is the customer, or the photographer permitted to cancel a contract and what penalties are involved if this happens.
The contract should be signed and dated by both parties, the original should be kept by the photographer and a copy kept by the couple. By setting everything out obviously in this fashion, many disputes can be avoided. If disputes do arise and action is brought to court, then the contract should supply a clear framework for the court to decide a course of action.
Always consult a pro lawyer when making a contract or duplicate one from an existing professional snapper that you know and respect and have a lawyer review it for any issues before using it in your business.
Clwyd is a wedding photographer woking in London for Pixcellence photography. He runs wedding photography courses for professionals across the UK.
