After reading that email, I would not want the risk of working with such a FOB/G. While he may just be trying to put the fear of litigation in you, it\'s just not worth the risk if he\'s that anal IMO.
This following response is off to a good start. However, I would replace much of it with letting him know I was not declining based on fear, but rather concern of what could arise if one images is not exactly perfect in HIS eyes. Also, keep it short. A phone call (after gathering your thoughts) may be the best course of action.
jneilosu wrote:
Client,
I can certainly appreciate that you have a deep understanding of contract law and that you want to ensure you are protected in a way that comforts you regarding your wedding images. However, it looks as though it may be in our best interest to part ways. As you know, my images put food on my table. While I have no immediate intentions of selling images from your wedding, it is definitely possible in the future. Suppose your wedding images turn out fantastic, and a national publication seeks me out and offers me a four-digit commission to feature some of them. Or what if a few of them represent my brand so well I want to run an ad using them? Wedding photography is a unique art in that the final product involves the client. However, it is the industry standard that the images are the property of the photographer, for reasons such a those listed above.
Nevertheless, I\'m confident you will find someone willing to forfeit their full copyright to you, adjust their payment terms, etc. I would suggest searching Craigslist. I the meantime, I\'m off to book a client on your date that will continue to benefit my business long after final payment..
