How many of you use a contract for sessions like engagements, bridals, boudoir, or TTD? I'm wondering if that's something I should be doing? While there have been no problems to date, it just seems safe to adopt that as a business practice.

If you do it, are there any specific clauses that you have adopted over the years that are worth mentioning? Does anyone have any examples they could PM me to use as a starting point?

And yes, I know I should consult a lawyer, but at those rates, it's best to know what I'm talking about BEFORE I head in there. I'd much rather have a contract drawn up and have a lawyer look it over for $50 than have them draft it for $300!

Thanks!

As soon as we get them ready, we're going to. The most important clause is the one that enumerates SPECIFICALLY what you will be delivering. I'd also recommend some sort of "Statute of limitations" for them choosing the necessary photos for their products.

Thanks Ryan. I've noticed that in a few posts lately, that's been an issue. Ex: engagement session couple decides they want the disk of images after the session. That's actually what got me thinking about using a contract for a "mini-session" like this. I'm covered on weddings with a good contract, but not for anything else.

I appreciate the tips.

Anyone else have any input?

Well, I guess you should ask why you need a contract? Do you need it to reserve days, and if someone bails on an appointment, does this contract help you keep the deposit if a deposit is required?

I think a contract should be signed for everything that might be put on a website or for advertising (which should be just about everything). A model release is what you really need for each session, but you can make that in you contract as well.

Mine I guess you consider a contract. I basically state on my contract that I will provide for them A, B, C and D, and they owe me X amount for those items. It also states that I am allowed to use the images on my site or elsewhere for advertising purposes, but they can opt out of that if they want. I like to spell it out so there is no confusion.

Hi Guys-
Spencer, I'd want it for a combination model release AND to specify what exactly will be given to the client. So I suppose exactly what Scott Mosher said. Up till now I would just ask if they minded that I put their e-session pics on my site since I had their wedding contract.

But occasionally I'd get a customer for a session that didn't book me for their wedding. It would be nice to have it all in writing, I suppose.

Thanks for the input!