If you meet a photographer who doesn't have you sign a contract for a wedding. Walk away! No contract for a family session. Walk away! Or a mini-session. Walk away! A senior session. Walk Away!
Do you see where I'm going with this? No matter how big, or small your wedding or session there should always be a contract. A contract not only protects the photographer, but it protects YOU as well.
I had a friend who got married several years ago. One day she knocked on my office door and asked if she could talk to me. She shared that it had been several months since her wedding and that she still hadn't received her pictures. I told her how sorry I was, and she said that the photographer was kind of unresponsive. I asked, "What does your contract say?" She responded, "He's a friend of my husband's and so we didn't do one." When she finally did get her pictures more than six months had passed. And those prints she was promised... She didn't get them. No contract. There was nothing she could do.
When you and your photographer know the expectations, it's listed in the contract, it sets the stage for a successful collaboration. Outlining specifics such as the scope of work, deliverables, timelines, payment terms, and legal framework -- both you and your photographer are on the same page right from the start. This helps to prevent any misunderstandings or miscommunications that could arise as you plan for your big day or whichever kind of session you're planning.
Comments