A service contract between a customer and a photographer is essential in making sure both parties rights are respected. The contract will define the mandate and that it is fully understood by both parties, making sure it obligations for both the client and the photographer are indicated. This will dodge multiple possible suprises, and that, to both the photographer and the client.

For example, a photoshoot previously discussed that was supposed to last 1 hour, but the client request 2 additionnal hours because he/she want more photos and/or more locations. The phographer might have something already scheduled after the 1 hour photoshoot that was already discussed and approved. The contract will clearly define what the customer expect from the photographer and its work.

Also, if the photoshoot is planned to take place outside in nature, it’s purpose is to protect the photographer if the sad event of the client or someone with him/her gets injured while travelling on foot or in any other way.

And last but not least, under the right to the image,the right to image, it is legally essential that the client gives his written approbation to the photograph to permit him/her to use pictures taken from the client for publicity, marketing or contest purposes.

It is then essential that this kind of contract is being discussed and filled by both the client and the photographer before any photoshoot.