Wedding Photography Contract – What Should You Look For?

Most brides struggle with what to look for in a wedding photography contract. Contracts are stressful, but they are also necessary. Especially when you are hiring someone to capture your special day, you need to take care of the legal aspect and cover your bases. As much as we hate reading the terms and conditions, it is crucial to know what we are signing for. Here are a few quick tips for you to know what you should look for when you are signing your wedding photographer’s contract:

1. The Delivery ETA and Delivery Method

The first thing you should be looking for is the photographer’s delivery ETA and method. The standard delivery time in the industry is 6-8 weeks, but it can vary from photographer to photographer. Also, pay attention to how they will be delivering the photos to you. Is it via USB, is it via online gallery, or are you getting any prints? These are the few details that you can look for to stay organized and avoid surprises. Here’s another blog post for you on this topic.

2. The Clause About Having Other Photographers

This is another thing to look for in a the contract with your wedding photographer. Some photographers, including me, have a specific clause about having other photographers at the wedding. Communication can avoid surprises and mistakes. If you plan on having another photographer at your wedding, talk to your photographer, or see if they have anything regarding that in their contract.

3. How They Will Use the Image

Almost all the photographers will have a clause in their contract about how they will use the photos. If you feel like you might not be comfortable with any of the use, make sure you read their contract regarding that aspect, and talk to the photographer if you feel uncomfortable.

4. Cancellation Policy of Your Photography Contract

This is one of the most important clauses, if not the most important. It is vital to know the photographer’s cancellation policy. What happens if you want to cancel? What happens if they can’t make it? Do you lose money? I can not stress this enough but you can avoid a lot of headaches just by knowing their cancellation policy.

5. What Happens if You Do Not Like the Images?

As much as we do not want to think about it, what happens if by any chance you do not like your wedding photos? Things happen, and it’s better to be prepared than to be sorry. See if the photographer has anything in their photography contract about the satisfaction of clients. Chances are they probably will. But if they don’t you can always ask them!

6. Do You Get Unedited Images?

Almost all photographers will not provide raw unedited images. But some photographers do, with an additional cost. If you feel like you might be interested in the unedited images, see if they have anything in their contract regarding this.

Contracts are necessary and they highlight important aspects of your partnership with your wedding photographer. These are a few must-check things. But you should always read the whole contract before signing. Different photographers will have different clauses. But make sure you are reading the contract.

Now that you’re all set for your wedding photography contract, read about some of the mistakes you should avoid on your wedding day!