As a photographer, your superpower isn’t just your camera or editing skills (although those are important too!).

It’s something far less glamorous, but equally crucial to your success: your contract.

I don’t mean to scare you!! Just stick with me here and let me explain.

If you’re collecting money for your services as a professional, don’t you want a clear and documented agreement outlining your services, and responsibilities so you prevent a confrontation with an angry client later?

Don’t you think your clients want that too?

Contracts aren’t just about protecting you. They’re about protecting your clients too.

They set clear expectations, prevent misunderstandings, and position you as a professional they can rely on.

Trust me when I say clients appreciate a professional with a contract.

Let me tell you my own experience with contracts as a consumer.

When my mom decided to remodel her home, she needed a reliable contractor and I offered to help her find one.

In my quest to find someone with good craftsmanship and reasonable pricing, after many meetings I found a candidate who seemed promising.

He agreed to start in a few weeks, but when I asked to sign on the dotted line to confirm our agreement, he declined a contract and upfront payment for materials.

This raised huge red flags for me. Without a contract, I worried he might not show up and leave my mom in a bind.

My gut feeling proved correct, and we were back to square one in our search for a contractor.

Contracts aren’t meant to scare your clients.

In fact, your clients appreciate the professionalism and security a contract offers. It demonstrates your commitment to providing exceptional service and protecting their interests.

Here’s what a good photography contract should address:

Package details: What’s included in each package you offer? This ensures no confusion about deliverables and pricing.

Rescheduling and cancellation policies: Be clear about your policies and potential fees associated with these situations.

Additional requests: Outline your process and fees for additional services like re-shoots, wardrobe changes, or makeup adjustments.

Payment terms: This includes things like reservation fees, refundability, and overtime fees.

Delivery formats: Specify how you’ll deliver the final photos (digital files, prints, etc.).

Copyright notices: Clarify ownership and usage rights of the photographs.

Model releases: Obtain permission to use client images for marketing purposes.

My contract is a living document. With over 25 years of experience, I STILL encounter new situations that prompt me to update and strengthen it.

Why? Because unforeseen situations can arise, and a clear contract ensures a better outcome in the event that situation ever comes up again.

Contracts are NOT a scary monster hiding under your desk; they’re your superpower for a successful and stress-free experience for both you and your clients.