Are you a recent photography graduate or in the process of setting up your own photography studio?

If so, you may be wondering what contracts and policies you need to have in place before you can get shooting or get your business up and running.

In particular, you might find yourself asking if you need photography terms and conditions to work as a photographer. The answer is yes. If you don't have them, then issues with copyright, payments, usage, cancellations and liability may arise.

It doesn’t have to be complicated, but there are some essential things to include when creating a terms and conditions document including:
Full contact details of client and business
The service is clearly defined
Scope of the project
Payment terms
Cancellation policy
Copyright and ownership
Client use and transfer of rights

Before starting as a freelance photographer, you will need a contract between you and your client, which states the expectations and understanding of both parties, details of the work to be provided and how both parties will be bound by these responsibilities.