Cart
Get 20% off ordering today: 
How to write your Photography Services Contract
We include this 4 page template with Photography/Media Contract Pack and the Proposal Kit Professional. You will get more content and software automation for data merging, managing client documents, and creating proposals with line item quoting with a Contract Pack or the Professional.
DOWNLOADABLE, ONE-TIME COST, NO SUBSCRIPTION FEES
If you need this template on DVD media order from our Amazon shop.
What Our Clients SaySaves me the time, I typically modify to my own needs, add logo and print for EULA and eager to try others."
1. Get Photography/Media Contract Pack or the single template that includes this business contract document.
We include this contract in editable Word format that can be customized using your office software.
2. Download and install after ordering.
Once you have ordered and downloaded your template or pack, you will have all the content you need to get started.
3. Customize the contract template with your information.
You can customize the contract document as much as you need. If you get a Contract Pack or Professional Bundle, you can also use the included Wizard software to automate name/address data merging.
Use cases for this template
Rain rolls in on Ava and Marco's waterfront ceremony
The Challenge
Ava Chen and Marco Ruiz, referred by Maple & Pine Events, hired Luna Hart Photography as an independent contractor for a waterfront ceremony where everyone expected golden-hour pictures, but changing weather and tight venue access put the planned photoshoot at risk, with photographs needed for personal keepsakes and limited promotion, plus obtaining terrace permissions and coordination with a videographer under consequences if rain forced a schedule change.
The Solution
The studio used the photography agreement to decide Times, Locations, usage rights, payment terms, and model releases, and then used Proposal Kit software to create supporting documents: a contingency plan, an equipment and light checklist, and a quote with automated line-item quoting for tents and extra lighting; the AI Writer drafted a timeline memo and shot list to guide the team without altering the legal contract.
The Implementation
Before signing, the couple's planner issued a written notice of a backup ballroom and an updated exchange of deliverables. The team confirmed access, staged cameras, and when rain hit, they shifted indoors, completed family portraits, and flagged any extra edit requests as additional services to be approved.
The Outcome
The work proceeded smoothly under the circumstances, the couple paid the remaining balance on time, the photographer delivered Proofs quickly, secured permission for limited internet promotion, and everyone left with pictures that matched their intent while fulfilling the agreement's terms.
A logistics company's family day hides a CEO's surprise 50th
The Challenge
Northwind Logistics booked BrightPixel Studio for a campus celebration that mixed a family picnic with a secret birthday presentation for the CEO, referred internally as Project Lantern, and the team had to decide how to keep the photoshoot discreet while securing photographs of VIPs, under circumstances that demanded security clearances, written notices, and a strict timeline; their calendar covers wedding birthday family work, but this hybrid corporate event posed different risks.
The Solution
Using the contract template, they set payment schedule, usage rights, and the independent contractor status, then used Proposal Kit to produce supporting materials: a schedule, a security access report, and a family-portrait workflow; the AI Writer generated briefing notes and a stakeholder communications plan, and automated line-item quoting priced add-ons like a photo booth and extra assistants without touching the contract's language.
The Implementation
After review by Northwind's lawyer and signing by both sides, BrightPixel coordinated obtaining badges for staff, staged light and equipment, and prepared backup shot lists so they could switch locations immediately if the CEO appeared early, with any overtime and edit requests tracked as additional services per the agreement.
The Outcome
The surprise landed flawlessly, employees got pictures within two days, the company approved select images for the internet while limiting commercial purposes, the studio invoiced the remaining balance per the schedule, and the paperwork covered consequences like overtime and access delays, reinforcing trust for future projects; their calendar now confidently spans weddings, birthdays, and family clients.
TerraPulse's product launch demands rapid commercial assets
The Challenge
TerraPulse Foods engaged Silver Lantern Imaging to produce photographs and short clips for a trade launch under a tight deadline, and both the photographer and the client needed to decide on usage rights, model releases for subjects, and what to expect if a supply-chain delay shifted the set build, all while maintaining an independent contractor relationship.
The Solution
The contract established deliverables, a payment schedule, and promotional rights; to support it, the team used Proposal Kit to assemble a creative brief, a licensing summary, and a post-event report, while the AI Writer drafted a brand-asset guide and a social rollout plan, and line-item quoting clarified the exchange of fees for styled sets, props, and light rentals.
The Implementation
With signing complete after a quick lawyer check, the crew began obtaining location permits, setting up cameras and equipment, running the photoshoot, and cataloging pictures; when last-minute changes hit, they issued written notice, delivered Proofs, and queued extra edit passes as additional services to be approved.
The Outcome
The company launched on time with consistent images across the internet and trade materials, the studio was paid per the payment terms, the photographer retained originals while granting the client the output formats needed for commercial use, and both parties considered the clear remedies and consequences in the agreement a model for fulfilling future work together.
Abstract
This photography contract defines clear working terms between the involved parties: the client and the skilled photographer hired to capture an event or session. It fits common situations such as weddings, a birthday celebration, family portraits at a studio, or a corporate venue. The document uses Exhibits to hold the description, details, and Specifications, so both the photographer and the other party can align expectations before the photo shoot.
Photographer's duties include a pre-event consultation to identify Times, Shots, and Locations; shooting at the agreed venue; delivering Proofs; and a post-event consultation to review photos. Additional services can be arranged, such as extra Shots, ordering, and reproduction; follow-up editing services can be specified as needed. Exhibit B can also list equipment, such as cameras, lighting, and other resources. If a videographer or staff member must coordinate, the parties agree on how the photographer will assist.
Delivery terms require reasonable diligence, with delivery dates deemed estimates rather than deadlines. Ownership and usage rights are explicit: the photographer retains all film, digital files, proofs, and negatives, while the client retains ownership of any logos or materials it supplied. The client grants permission for the photographer to publish work for promotional purposes, including on the internet.
If images will be used for commercial purposes, a model release for subjects and a separate usage rights clause are often attached. For personal use, the client receives output formats; any additional services or licenses should be decided in writing.
Payment terms appear in Exhibit A. A payment schedule can specify deposits, remaining balance, and compensation. If the client does not pay the sum due, the photographer may immediately suspend work, withhold photos, and charge late fees (1.
5% per month). The agreement allows termination with thirty days' written notice. It includes limitation of damages (capped at amounts paid), indemnification for access issues and third-party problems, governing law, attorney's fees, waiver, and good-faith provisions. Changes require written notice and signature.
Example use cases: weddings and family sessions at a park under changing light; a birthday party where the photographer is unable to access a room; product photos for a trade launch. In each case, clear intent and acceptance protect interests and help ensure quality results.
Proposal Kit's photography contract templates and AI Writer can help assemble documents, build supporting materials, automate line-item quoting, and streamline creation of consistent, easy-to-use packages for future engagements.
Beyond the basics, this agreement helps teams align on business risk and roles. The parties are referred to as Photographer and Customer, and the relationship typically functions like an independent contractor engagement, with a clear exchange of Services for payment. Before signing, parties can decide how the photoshoot will proceed, including who is responsible for obtaining location permissions or model releases when photographs or pictures could be used beyond personal purposes.
The contract anticipates real-world circumstances-weather, venue access, or staff availability- and sets expectations for fulfilling the Specifications despite disruptions. It also clarifies consequences for non-payment or scope changes, linking delivery to the agreed-upon sums and timelines.
For wedding, birthday, and family events, clarity about what to expect matters: shot lists, coverage windows, travel between Locations, and how many edited Proofs the Customer will receive. If the Customer wants the photographer to edit more images than originally scoped, that is handled as additional services. Commercial campaigns may add releases, captions, or usage rules; personal sessions may focus on keepsake photos and albums. Many companies route the contract through a lawyer for review prior to signing to ensure the arrangement fits their risk tolerance and brand requirements.
Proposal Kit can streamline the creation of these agreements by providing photography contract templates with structured sections for Specifications, payment schedule, and usage rights. Its document assembly and automated line-item quoting help teams generate consistent proposals, while the AI Writer can write related materials such as model releases, shot lists, or post-event deliverable descriptions. This reduces friction when you need to update terms for new clients, venues, or project scopes and keeps your process organized from estimate to delivery.
Additional considerations in this photography contract help protect both the photographer and the client. The Customer must arrange the pre-event consultation; this ensures the team can identify Locations, Times, and any special subjects before the photoshoot. The Photographer will present proof of expenses for approval, and Exhibit B can list specific equipment and light needs so the parties agree on resources in advance.
Delivery dates are deemed estimates; acceptance of Proofs typically happens in the post-event review, where the client can select any follow-up editing services. Because ownership stays with the Photographer, usage rights for personal or commercial purposes should be clarified up front, especially if the Customer expects to publish pictures on the internet or in trade materials. Note the clause allowing promotional use by the Photographer and a carve-out regarding foreign use; negotiate any changes via written notice and mutual signature.
The agreement's remedies and consequences are clear. If the Customer does not pay the remaining balance, the Photographer may withhold photographs and suspend Services immediately. The limitation of damages caps recovery at the compensation paid.
Indemnification addresses circumstances like missed access, weather, or third-party delays. Governing law, exclusive venue, attorney's fees, waiver, and good-faith intent provisions reduce ambiguity, while the assignment clause and 30-day termination window structure how the relationship ends. In practice, many teams treat this as an independent contractor arrangement; obtaining permissions, model releases, and any extra licenses should be handled before signing to keep the session on schedule and ensure fulfilling deliverables without disputes.
Proposal Kit's photography contract templates can assemble Exhibit A and Exhibit B with a clear payment schedule, resource lists, and usage clauses, while automated line-item quoting and the AI Writer assist in building shot lists, model release language, and deliverable descriptions. This speeds preparation for weddings, birthday events, and family portraits, and helps maintain consistent, professional documents from proposal through delivery.
How to write my Photography Services Contract document - The Narrative
CUSTOM PHOTOGRAPHY AGREEMENT
THIS AGREEMENT is made this Current Day day of Current Month, Current Year by and between Company Name ("Photographer") and Company Name ("Customer"). Photographer is in the business of providing custom photography and printing services for a fee. Customer desires to have Photographer render specific services (the "Services" or "Photographer's Services") as set forth in Exhibit B. Services shall be rendered on a specific date (the "Event") as set forth in Exhibit B.
In consideration of the mutual covenants set forth in this Agreement, Customer and Photographer hereby agree as follows:
Engagement of Services
Photographer agrees to render to Customer as follows:
Provide to Customer a pre-event consultation prior to the Event in order to finalize specific shooting times (the "Times"), determine any custom shots (the "Shots"), or set forth any locations (the "Locations") that Photographer will be required to travel to in order to render the Services to Customer. Customer has the sole responsibility for arranging this pre-event consultation with Photographer, and failure of the occurrence of a pre-event consultation shall not constitute breach of this Agreement. Provide the agreed Services on the dates, Times, and Locations as agreed upon in the Specifications, and provide images taken during the Event (the "Proofs") to Customer as soon as they are available.
Provide proof of agreed-upon expenses associated with the Event and the execution of Photographer's Services and present them to Customer for approval. Provide to Customer a post-event consultation in order to review all images taken during the Event, or otherwise arrange for the insured delivery of any images or other related materials. Provide other such services as Customer may request from time to time, such as additional Shots, assistance to Customer's staff and employees or additional project consulting. Provide to the Customer ordering and photographic reproduction services.
Specifications
Photographer agrees to provide the Services pursuant to the specifications set forth in Exhibit B attached hereto (the "Specifications").
Delivery of Proofs
Photographer will use reasonable diligence in the development of the Proofs and endeavor to deliver to Customer all agreed upon Specifications outlined in Exhibit B no later than Delivery Date. Customer acknowledges, however, that this delivery deadline listed in Exhibit A, is an estimate, and is not a required delivery date. Photographer will retain all rights to any and all photographic materials, custom Shots, proofs, or other intellectual property for the entire project and will provide the Customer with the output formats only. Customer shall retain all of Customer's intellectual property rights in any logos, graphics, text, images, or other components owned and transmitted to Photographer for use in fulfillment or creation of Services.
Ownership Rights
Photographer shall retain, under the fullest extent under the law, any and all film, digital files, proofs, samples, prints, or negatives created or produced for Customer pursuant to this Agreement. Customer agrees to return to Photographer any materials Customer may have of Photographer's such as artwork, mock-ups, comps, text, digital media, film, images, or any other physical or digital embodiment of Photographer's creative work performed under this Agreement. Upon termination or expiration of this Agreement, Customer agrees to be solely responsible for any additional use of materials and advertisements created by Photographer pursuant to this Agreement. Additional expenses may include, but are not limited to: Fees, Licenses, Translations, Royalties, Talent, and other associated fees.
Photographer's obligation in 4.a shall not apply in any respect to foreign use.
Compensation
For all of Photographer's Services under this Agreement, Customer shall compensate Photographer in cash, pursuant to the terms of Exhibit A attached hereto. In the event Customer fails to make any of the payments referenced in Exhibit A by the deadline set forth in Exhibit A, Photographer has the right, but is not obligated, to pursue any or all of the following remedies: (1) terminate the Agreement, (2) withhold all materials, Services, and content, (3) bring legal action.
Limited Warranty and Limitation on Damages
Customer agrees to indemnify and hold Photographer harmless with respect to any claims, loss, lawsuit, liability, or judgment suffered by Customer which results from the use of any material prepared by Photographer or execution of Service by Photographer or at the direction of Photographer, which has been materially changed from the Specifications.
Resources and Equipment
Photographer agrees to make available any items, hardware, or software as Customer and Photographer may agree are reasonably necessary for such purpose. Specific items, hardware or software requirements are listed on Exhibit B attached hereafter.
General Provisions
1 Entire Agreement
This Agreement contains the entire agreement between the parties relating to the subject matter hereof and supersedes any and all prior agreements or understandings, written or oral, between the parties related to the subject matter hereof. No modification of this Agreement shall be valid unless made in writing and signed by both of the parties hereto.
2 Governing Law
This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of State. Exclusive jurisdiction and venue shall be in the County County, State Superior Court.
3 Binding Effect
This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of Customer and Photographer and their respective successors and assigns, provided that Photographer may not assign any of his obligations under this Agreement without Customer's prior written consent.
4 Waiver
The waiver by either party of any breach or failure to enforce any of the terms and conditions of this Agreement at any time shall not in any way affect, limit, or waive such party's right thereafter to enforce and compel strict compliance with every term and condition of this Agreement.
5 Good Faith
Each party represents and warrants to the other that such party has acted in good faith, and agrees to continue to so act, in the negotiation, execution, delivery, performance, and any termination of this Agreement.
6 Right to Withhold Content and Creative Services
In the event Customer fails to make any of the payments set forth on Exhibit A within the time prescribed in Exhibit A, Photographer has the right to withhold any materials, photographic or otherwise, or to suspend any further creative or administrative Services performed on behalf of Customer until payment in full is received, plus accrued late charges of 1 1/2% per month.
7 Indemnification
Customer warrants that everything Customer gives Photographer to use in fulfillment of Services is legally owned by or licensed to Customer. Customer agrees to indemnify and hold Photographer harmless from any and all claims brought by any third party relating to any aspect of the Services, creative or other content, including, but without limitation, any claims resulting from missed Shots, missed Times, inaccessibility to Locations, weather related problems, inaccessibility or lack of cooperation from critical employees, staff, or other personnel required by Photographer in order to meet any of the deliverables or obligations listed in Exhibit B; difficulty in gaining any access to the agreed upon Locations or any demands, liabilities, losses, costs, and claims, including attorney's fees, arising out of injury caused by Customer's products/services, material supplied by Customer, copyright infringement, and defective products sold via the advertising or Services. Further, Customer agrees to indemnify Photographer from responsibility for problems/disruptions caused by third-party services and contractors that Customer may use such as reproduction services, enlargements, digital processors, transportation, shipping or hosting services, film processing, and other services that relate to the execution of the Services outlined in this Agreement by Photographer.
8 Use of Services and Creative Content for Promotional Purposes
Customer grants Photographer the right to use or otherwise reproduce the proofs, images, creative content, description of Services performed, results of Services or testimonials as Photographer sees fit for promotional-only purposes.
9 Limitation of Damages
Customer agrees that the only damages available under this Agreement shall be limited to the total amount of compensation paid to Photographer and that this shall be the sole remedy to Customer for damages under this Agreement.
10 Attorney's Fees
In the event any party to this Agreement employs an attorney to enforce any of the terms of the Agreement, the prevailing party shall be entitled to recover its actual attorney's fees and costs, including expert witness fees.
11 Term of Agreement
This agreement shall begin on Start Date and shall continue in full force until terminated by either party upon at least thirty (30) days prior written notice. The parties represent and warrant that, on the date first written above, they are authorized to enter into this Agreement in its entirety, and duly bind their respective principals by their signatures below.
20% Off Discount
Add To Cart This Word Template Only
Add To Cart Photography/Media Contract Pack
Add To Cart Proposal Kit Professional Bundle
4.7 stars, based on 848 reviewsAlternate Documents
Related Documents
- Model Release Agreement
- Property Release Agreement
- Agency Photo Shoot Model Release Agreement
- Pocket Photo Release Agreement
- Photo Reprint Rights Agreement
- Photo Credit Waiver
- Exhibit A (Payment Terms)
- Exhibit B (Specifications)
- Exhibit E (Additional Services)
- Exhibit F (Project Change Form)
- Contract Change Form (During Development)
- Project Contract Acceptance Signoff Form
- Project Contract Acceptance Signoff Form (Verbose)
- Project Copyright Transfer Contract
- Breach of Contract Notification Form
- Contract Dissolution Agreement
- Multiple Model Release Agreement
- Adult Model Release Agreement
- Special Event Multiple Model Release
- Multiple Property Release Agreement
- Model Release Agreement with Witness
- Special Event Multiple Model Release with Witness
- Multiple Model Release with Witness
- Property Release Agreement with Witness
- Multiple Property Release with Witness
- Pocket Photo Release with Witness
How to Build a Legal Contract with Proposal Kit
This video illustrates how to create a legal contract using the Proposal Pack Wizard software. It also shows how to create a proposal with an invoice and contract at the same time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I customize this contract to fit my business needs?
Customizing this contract involves editing the document to include your business details, terms, and conditions. The templates are designed to be flexible, allowing you to insert your company's name, address, and other relevant information. You can modify clauses to reflect your unique business practices and legal requirements.
Is this contract compliant with laws and regulations?
The legal contract templates are written by legal professionals and designed to comply with current laws and regulations at the time of their writing. However, laws can vary by jurisdiction and change over time, so it's recommended to have your contract reviewed by a local attorney to ensure it meets all legal requirements specific to your region and industry. Templates are licensed as self-help information and not as legal advice.
Can I use the same contract for different clients or projects?
You can use the same contract for different clients or projects. The templates are versatile and easily adapted for various scenarios. You will need to update specific details such as client names, project descriptions, and any unique terms for each new agreement to ensure that each contract accurately reflects the particulars of the individual client or project.
What should I do if I encounter a clause or term I don't understand?
If you encounter a clause or term in the contract that you need help understanding, you can refer to guidance notes explaining each section's purpose and use. For more complex or unclear terms, it's advisable to consult with a legal professional who can explain the clause and help you determine if any modifications are necessary to suit your specific needs.
How do I ensure that the contract is legally binding and enforceable?
To ensure that the contract is legally binding and enforceable, follow these steps:
- Complete all relevant sections: Make sure all blanks are filled in with accurate information.
- Include all necessary terms and conditions: Ensure that all essential elements, such as payment terms, deliverables, timelines, and responsibilities, are clearly defined.
- Signatures: Both parties must sign the contract, and it is often recommended that the contract be witnessed or notarized, depending on the legal requirements in your jurisdiction.
- Consult a legal professional: Before finalizing the contract, have it reviewed by an attorney to ensure it complies with applicable laws and protects your interests.
Ian Lauder has been helping businesses write their proposals and contracts for two decades. Ian is the owner and founder of Proposal Kit, one of the original sources of business proposal and contract software products started in 1997.By Ian Lauder
Published by Proposal Kit, Inc.Disclaimers
Proposal Kit, Inc. makes no warranty and accepts no responsibility for the suitability of any materials to the licensee's business. Proposal Kit, Inc. assumes no responsibility or liability for errors or inaccuracies. Licensee accepts all responsibility for the results obtained. The information included is not legal advice. Names in use cases have been fictionalized. Your use of the contract template and any purchased packages constitutes acceptance and understanding of these disclaimers and terms and conditions.
Facebook
YouTube
Bluesky
Search Site