Sample Wedding and Engagement Contracts
THIS IS A SAMPLE CONTRACT PROVIDED AS A COURTESY TO OUR MEMBERS TO USE
AT THEIR SOLE DISCRETION. FEEL FREE TO COPY AND PASTE ELEMENTS OF THIS
CONTRACT AS DESIRED. IDPN DOES NOT INTEND TO OFFER LEGAL ADVICE.
MEMBERS ARE ENCOURAGED TO SEEK LEGAL ADVICE REGARDING ANY CONTRACTS
THAT THEY USE.
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Wedding Photography Service Contract
Wedding Contract
Event Date/s:
Bride/First Partner’s Name:
Address:
City:
State:
Zip Code:
Telephone:
Telephone 2:
Email:
*Please include a number for the cell phone that will be turned on the day of the event.
Groom/Second Partner’s Name:
Address:
City:
State:
Zip Code:
Telephone:
Telephone 2:
Email:
*Please include a number for the cell phone that will be turned on the day of the event.
Third Person Contact Name:
*A person who may be assisting with wedding details and available to contact the day of or after the ceremony; a planner, a parent, or
a relative for example.
Address:
City:
State:
Zip Code:
Telephone:
Telephone 2:
Email:
*Please include a number for the cell phone that will be turned on the day of the event.
Please notify photographer of any changes to the contact information that may occur after the wedding.
Page 1-6
Event Venue Name:
Street Address:
City:
State:
Zip Code:
Telephone:
Telephone 2:
Contact Name:
Cell #:
Alternate Contact Name:
Cell #:
*Please include a number for the cell phone that will be turned on the day of the event.
Reception Venue Name:
Street Address:
City:
State:
Zip Code:
Telephone:
Contact Name:
Alternate Contact Name:
Telephone 2:
Cell #:
Cell #:
*Please include a number for the cell phone that will be turned on the day of the event.
Page 2-6
THE WEDDING PACKAGE
<Photographer Name> will charge to the wedding couple <PRICE> for the following:
•
•
•
Not less than <TIME> hour of pre-wedding consultation;
Not less than <TIME> hours of photographic services the day of the wedding (exclusive of travel time)
Not less than <X NUMBER> image files in the following format: (indicate which one with a checkmark)
RAW File Format (Best suited for those with more advanced skills in imaging) _______
High Resolution JPG (Best for general imaging. High resolution is defined as images sizes suitable for
enlargements up to 16”x20”) _______
•
To provide, within <ENTER DAYS>, the minimum number of images as set forth above.
State here how <Photographer Name> intends to get these digital images to the newlyweds: (File Transfer via the
web, DVDs, memory device, etc.
Method of Delivery:
**TIME OVERAGES If more than the <TIME> minimum time allotment is requested by the client in advance, or on the
day of the wedding, <Photographer Name> will charge the following rate per hour $_______________. This amount will
be added to the <PRICE> aforementioned service price. This hourly amount will be broken down by ! hour increments
and rounded up.
Retainer/Deposit Amount: $
Date Retainer/Deposit Received:
Int.__________
(Please note that your date cannot be held without the retainer fee.)
Final Balance Amount:$
Date Final Balance Will Be Due:
Method of Payment:
The wedding couple agrees to allow a second shooter or assistant be present. Compensation for any assistants will be the
responsibility of the photographer.
No. of assistants to be present: _____
Page 3-6
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
This is a legally binding contract for photography services to be provided by <Photographer Name> and/or
individuals subcontracted to do work for <Photographer Name>. You agree to the following terms and conditions:
<OPTIONAL CLAUSE> IMAGE EDITING AND PHOTOGRAPHER’S POST SHOOT INVOLVEMENT
THE WEDDING COUPLE AGREES TO AND ACKNOWLEDGES THAT <PHOTOGRAPHER NAME> HAS
AGREED TO RELEASE THE IMAGE COPYRIGHTS AS STATED BELOW AND TO OFFER THEIR WEDDING
PHOTOGRAPHY SERVICES AT DISCOUNTED PRICING, WITH THE UNDERSTANDING THAT THE COUPLE
WILL HANDLE ALL THE IMAGING TASKS SUCH AS, ALBUM DESIGN, SHARING, IMAGE
ENHANCEMENT, EXPOSURE COMPENSATION, SHARPENING, ETC., INDEPENDENT OF ANY
INVOLVEMENT BY <PHOTOGRAPHER NAME> .
<OTIONAL CLAUSE> ORIGINAL IMAGE QUALITY
The wedding couple acknowledges that because they will be responsible for any post shoot image editing that the original
images they receive may not necessarily be re-touched by <Photographer Name> . This means that the appearance of the
original image file upon first inspection may not appear, in some cases, to be of professional quality. In some cases these
images will need to be edited by the couple, which they agree to do, to bring them to reasonable standards. The wedding
couple agrees to waive any potential claims of negligence if they deem, for whatever reason, the images to be sub-standard.
CHANGE OF DATE OR VENUE
<Photographer Name> must be notified immediately of any changes in schedule or location, at least one week prior to the
scheduled date of event. Notification of any changes can be made by phone along with written notice sent via email for
documentation. If an email is sent, a confirmation of receipt must be in writing. It is the client’s responsibility to
confirm all arrangements at least 7-10 days prior to the event. In the event of change of address or contact information
(time, etc.) as listed, you must notify <Photographer Name>
RETAINER
A retainer fee is required to hold the date of your event. No date is reserved until a retainer is received. The balance of the
complete package price must be paid at the date specified herein. If final payment is not received as set forth herein,
<Photographer Name> reserves the right to withhold delivery of the images and or not attend the wedding until payment is
received.
CANCELLATION
There shall be NO refund of retainer after 48 hours from the signing of agreement due to the reservation of the photography
date. If the event is cancelled within three months of the date, the client shall pay the balance of the contract due to the high
probability that <Photographer Name> will not be able to further book that date. Once a balance is paid, it is NONREFUNDABLE. Any other arrangements shall be discussed between the client and <Photographer Name> All
arrangements will be put in writing. Cancellation must be in writing even if a phone call was made to inform
<Photographer Name> of the cancellation.
FAILURE TO PERFORM
Due to the limited and subjective nature of the event <Photographer Name> cannot be held responsible for requested
photographs not taken or missed, lack of coverage resulting from weather conditions, or schedule complications caused by
but not limited to, anyone in or at the event, or by the church or location restrictions. The photographer is not
responsible for lost photo opportunities due to any kind of equipment malfunction, the lateness of the event couple, or other
principles. The Photographer is not responsible for the lack of coverage due to weather conditions, scheduling
complications due to lateness of individuals, rules and restrictions of venue, or the rendering of decorations of the
location. It is acknowledged that any lists submitted to <Photographer Name> will be used for organizational purposes
only and in no way represents photography that will actually be produced. <Photographer Name> will do its best to fulfill
all requests but can make no guarantees all images will be delivered. Clients are responsible for all location
fees and permits.
Page 4-6
UNFORESEEN CIRCUMSTANCES CLAUSE
If <<Photographer Name> or its assigns, cannot perform this agreement due to a fire, casualty, strike or other civil
disturbances, Acts of God, including but not limited to, road closures, severe traffic, fire, terrorism or other causes beyond
the control of the parties, or due to the photographers illness, then <Photographer Name> shall return any moneys
paid by the client, less expenses, but shall have no further liability with respect to the agreement. This limitation of liability
shall also apply in the event that photographic materials are damaged in processing, lost through camera malfunction,
compact flash card malfunction, lost in the mail, or otherwise lost or damaged without the fault on the
part of <Photographer Name>.
INCLEMENT WEATHER CHARGE
In the event of severe weather, including but not limiting, a blizzard, severe rain storm or other unforeseeable events
<Photographer Name> may make the decision that it’s unsafe to drive home, and hotel stay will be billed to the client.
COPYRIGHT
<Photographer Name> agrees to grant image rights to the wedding couple with a non-exclusive, limited, perpetual license.
This license allows the wedding couple to do the following with the images:
i) display the images;
ii) print the images;
iii) make “derivate works” of the images or otherwise modify;
iv) edit or manipulate the electronic files;
v) copy the electronic files or the printed images;
vi) upload, email, or electronically transfer the images or files; and,
vii) publish the images on personal websites or social media websites.
THIS LICENSE WILL PROHIBIT COUPLES FROM THE FOLLOWING:
REFERENCING OR CREDITING WITHOUT PERMISSION WRITTEN OR ORALLY, THAT <Photographer
Name> PRODUCED THE IMAGE/S.
INT.____
APPLYING FOR COPYRIGHT REGISTRATION OR SELLING OF ANY IMAGE OR ELECTRONIC
FILES SUPPLIED BY <Photographer Name>
INT.____
EXCLUSIVE PHOTOGRAPHER
<Photographer Name> shall be the exclusive photographer(s) retained by the client for the purpose of photographing the
wedding. Family and friends of the clients and other wedding vendors shall not interfere with the photographer’s duties.
Guests will be asked to refrain from taking flash photographs at certain intervals of wedding services to
ensure proper exposure of images.
EXPENSE REIMBURSEMENTS
The wedding couple agrees to reimburse <Photographer Name> for all reasonable expenses relating directly to the wedding
event itself. For example, parking fees, destination travel fees, accommodations, etc. <Photographer Name> will bill the
wedding couple after the event. Both parties agree to discuss this thoroughly to avoid any surprises as to what will
constitute an expense and <Photographer Name> agrees to supply expense receipts if so requested.
Add expense breakdown here if applicable. Wedding couple agrees to reimburse <Photographer Name> for the following
expenses:
Couple Int. ______
< Photographer Name > Int. _____
Page 5-6
EVENT FOOD SERVICE
Wedding couple does or does not agree to provide a meal for <Photographer Name> and those employed by photographer.
Yes: ___
No: ____
No. of Meals:
RETURNED CHECKS
Returned checks are subject to a $50.00 returned check fee. Client assumes responsibility for any and all collection costs
and legal fees incurred by <<Photographer Name> in the event that enforcement of this contract becomes necessary. All
legal action shall take place in < your state and county here>
GARMENTS
<Photographer Name> can not be held responsible for damage to garments during environmental events. Client is
responsible to arrange personal assistance for wedding garments.
CREATIVE LICENSE
Images may be edited at the photographer’s discretion, and delivered images may not include all images shot. The
photographer reserves the creative right to edit and release only those deemed professional in quality and within the
photographer’s artistic standards.
SUBSTITUTION
In the event of illness or sudden event out of the control of both parties, <Photographer Name> will attempt to substitute a
photographer at no cost to client. This contract will be transferable to said photographer.
CD/DVD STORAGE
Due to the lack of information about how long CDs/DVDs can hold information, <Photographer Name> recommends you
back up your images on another media format other than CD/DVD. <Photographer Name> also recommends making
multiple copies of CDs/DVDs every year to insure the images for years to come. <Photographer Name> can not be
held responsible for the failure of CDs/DVDs due to mishandling. It is the client’s responsibility to keep several copies of
any CDs/DVDs in more than one location, and back the images up on another format such as a hard drive.
THE UNDERSIGNED HEREBY ACKNOWLEDGE THAT THEY HAVE RECEIVED, READ, AND
UNDERSTAND THIS AGREEMENT’S CONTENTS.
Permission is herby granted to <Photographer Name> to use any images created under this contract for professional
samples, displays, internet website pages, advertising, exhibitions, contests, and any other purpose. The laws of
<Applicable State> shall govern this agreement.
I understand and agree to all of the above:
Contracting Party:
Date:
Contracting Party:
Date:
<Photographer Name>:
Date:
Page 6-6
Engagement Photography Service Contract
Engagement Contract
Event Date/s:
Couple’s Name:
Address:
City:
State:
Zip Code:
Telephone:
Telephone 2:
Email:
*Please include a number for the cell phone that will be turned on the day we will be taking photographs.
Location Name:
Street Address:
City:
State:
Zip Code:
Page 1-5
THE ENGAGEMENT PACKAGE
<Photographer Name> will charge to the wedding couple <PRICE> for the following:
•
•
•
Not less than <TIME, HOURS> of engagement session consultation;
Not less than <TIME, HOURS> of photographic services (exclusive of travel time)
Not less than <NUMBER OF IMAGES> image files in the following format: (indicate which one with A checkmark)
RAW File Format (Best suited for those with more advanced skills in imaging) _______
High Resolution JPG (Best for general imaging. High resolution is defined as images sizes suitable for
enlargements up to 16x20) _______
•
To provide, within <ENTER DAYS>, the minimum number of images as set forth above.
State here how <Photographer Name> intends to get these digital images to the newlyweds: (File transfer via the
web, DVDs, memory device, etc.)
Method of Delivery:
**TIME OVERAGES If more than the <TIME> minimum time allotment is requested by the client in advance, or on the
day of the session, <Photographer Name> will charge the following rate per hour $_______________. This amount will be
added to the aforementioned service price. This hourly amount will be broken down by ! hour increments and rounded up.
Retainer amount paid in full, due at signing will be <PRICE>
Received: _____
Method of payment:
The wedding couple agrees to allow a second shooter or assistant be present. Compensation for any assistants will be the
responsibility of the photographer.
No. of assistants to be present: _____
Page 2-5
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
This is a contract for photography services to be provided by <Photographer Name> and/or individuals
subcontracted to do work for <Photographer Name>. You agree to the following terms and conditions:
IMAGE EDITING AND PHOTOGRAPHER’S POST SHOOT INVOLVEMENT
THE WEDDING COUPLE AGREES TO AND ACKNOWLEDGES THAT <PHOTOGRAPHER NAME> HAS
AGREED TO RELEASE THE IMAGE COPYRIGHTS AS STATE BELOW AND TO OFFER THEIR WEDDING
PHOTOGRAPHY SERVICES AT DISCOUNTED PRICING, WITH THE UNDERSTANDING THAT THE COUPLE
WILL HANDLE ALL THE IMAGING TASKS SUCH AS, ALBUM DESIGN, SHARING, IMAGE
ENHANCEMENT, EXPOSURE COMPENSATION, SHARPENING, ETC., INDEPENDENT OF ANY
INVOLVEMENT BY <PHOTOGRAPHER NAME> .
ORIGINAL IMAGE QUALITY
The wedding couple acknowledges that because they will be responsible for any post shoot image editing that the original
images they receive may not necessarily be re-touched by <Photographer Name>. This means that the appearance of the
original images file upon first inspection may not appear, in some cases to be of professional quality. In some cases these
images will need to be edited by the couple, which they agree to do, to bring them to reasonable standards. The wedding
couple agrees to waive any potential claims of negligence if they deem for whatever reason the images to be sub-standard.
CHANGE OF DATE OR VENUE
<Photographer Name> must be notified immediately of any changes in schedule or location, at least one week prior to the
scheduled date of event. Notification of any changes can be made by phone along with written notice sent via email for
documentation. If an email is sent, a confirmation of receipt must be in writing. It is the client’s responsibility to
confirm all arrangements at least 7-10 days prior to the event. In the event of change of address or contact information
(time, etc.) as listed, you must notify <Photographer Name>
<OPTIONAL FOR ENGAGEMENT> RETAINER
A retainer fee is required to hold the date of your session. No date is reserved until a retainer is received. The balance of
the complete package price must be paid at the date specified herein. If final payment is not received as set forth herein,
<Photographer Name> reserves the right to withhold delivery of the images and or not attend the wedding until payment is
received.
<OPTIONAL FOR ENGAGEMENT> CANCELLATION
There shall be NO refund of retainer after 48 hours from the signing of agreement due to the reservation of the photography
date. If the event is cancelled within three months of the date, the client shall pay the balance of the contract due to the high
probability that <Photographer Name> will not be able to further book that date. Once a balance
is paid, it is NON-REFUNDABLE. Any other arrangements shall be discussed between the client and <Photographer
Name> All arrangements will be put in writing. Cancellation must be in writing even if a phone call was made to inform
<Photographer Name> of the cancellation.
<OPTIONAL FOR ENGAGEMENT> FAILURE TO PERFORM
Due to the limited and subjective nature of the event <Photographer Name> can not be held responsible for requested
photographs not taken or missed, lack of coverage resulting from weather conditions, or schedule complications caused by
but not limited to, anyone in or at the event, or by the church or location restrictions. The photographer is not
responsible for lost photo opportunities due to other cameras or flashes, the lateness of the bride, groom, or other principles.
The Photographer is not responsible for the lack of coverage due to weather conditions, scheduling complications due to
lateness of individuals, rules and restrictions of venue, or the rendering of decorations of the
location. It is acknowledged that any lists submitted to <Photographer Name> will be used for organizational purposes
only and in no way represents photography that will actually be produced. <Photographer Name> will do its best to fulfill
all requests but can make no guarantees all images will be delivered. Clients are responsible for all location
fees and permits.
Page 3-5
UNFORESEEN CIRCUMSTANCES CLAUSE
If <<Photographer Name> or its assigns, cannot perform this agreement due to a fire, casualty, strike or other civil
disturbances, Acts of God, including but not limited to, road closures, severe traffic, fire, terrorism or other causes beyond
the control of the parties, or due to the photographers illness, then <Photographer Name> shall return any moneys
paid by the client, less expenses, but shall have no further liability with respect to the agreement. This limitation of liability
shall also apply in the event that photographic materials are damaged in processing, lost through camera malfunction,
compact flash card malfunction, lost in the mail, or otherwise lost or damaged without the fault on the
part of <Photographer Name>.
INCLEMENT WEATHER CHARGE
In the event of severe weather, including but not limiting a blizzard, sever rain storm or other unforeseeable events
<Photographer Name> may make the decision that It’s unsafe to drive home, and hotel stay will be billed to the client.
COPYRIGHT
<Photographer Name> agrees to grant image rights to the wedding couple with a non-exclusive, limited, perpetual license.
This license allows the wedding couple to do the following with the images:
i) display the images;
ii) print the images;
iii) make “derivate works” of the images or otherwise modify;
iv) edit or manipulate the electronic files;
v) copy the electronic files or the printed images;
vi) upload, email, or electronically transfer the images or files; and,
vii) publish the images on personal websites or social media websites.
THIS LICENSE WILL PROHIBIT COUPLES FROM THE FOLLOWING:
REFERENCING OR CREDITING WITHOUT PERMISSION WRITTEN OR ORALLY, THAT <Photographer
Name> PRODUCED THE IMAGE/S.
INT.____
APPLYING FOR COPYRIGHT REGISTRATION OR SELLING OF ANY IMAGE OR ELECTRONIC
FILES SUPPLIED BY <Photographer Name>
INT.____
EXCLUSIVE PHOTOGRAPHER
<Photographer Name> shall be the exclusive photographer(s) retained by the client for the purpose of photographing the
engagement. Family and friends of the clients and other vendors shall not interfere with the photographer’s duties. Guests
will be asked to refrain from taking flash photographs at certain intervals of session services to
ensure proper exposure of images.
EXPENSE REIMBURSEMENTS
The wedding couple agrees to reimburse <Photographer Name> for all reasonable expenses relating directly to the
engagement session event itself. For example, parking fees, destination travel fees, accommodations, etc. <Photographer
Name> will bill the couple after the event. Both parties agree to discuss this thoroughly to avoid any surprises as to what
will constitute an expense and <Photographer Name> agrees to supply expense receipts if so requested.
Add expense breakdown here if applicable. Couple agrees to reimburse <Photographer Name> for the following expenses:
Couple Int. ______
< Photographer Name > Int. _____
Page 4-5
RETURNED CHECKS
Returned checks are subject to a $50.00 returned check fee. Client assumes responsibility for any and all collection costs
and legal fees incurred by <<Photographer Name> in the event that enforcement of this contract becomes necessary. All
legal action shall take place in < your state and county here>
GARMENTS
<Photographer Name> can not be held responsible for damage to garments during environmental events. Client is
responsible to arrange personal assistance for wedding garments.
CREATIVE LICENSE
Images may be edited at the photographer’s discretion, and delivered images may not include all images shot. The
photographer reserves the creative right to edit and release only those deemed professional in quality and within the
photographer’s artistic standards.
<OPTIONAL FOR ENGAGEMENT> SUBSTITUTION
In the event of illness or sudden event out of the control of both parties, <Photographer Name> will attempt to substitute a
photographer at no cost to client. This contract will be transferable to said photographer.
CD/DVD STORAGE
Due to the lack of information about how long CDs/DVDs can hold information, <Photographer Name> recommends you
back up your images on another media format other than CD/DVD. <Photographer Name> also recommends making
multiple copies of CDs/DVDs every year to insure the images for years to come. <Photographer Name> can not be
held responsible for the failure of CDs/DVDs due to mishandling. It is the client’s responsibility to keep several copies of
any CDs/DVDs in more than one location, and back the images up on another format such as a hard drive.
THE UNDERSIGNED HEREBY ACKNOWLEDGE THAT THEY HAVE RECEIVED, READ, AND
UNDERSTAND THIS AGREEMENT’S CONTENTS.
Permission is herby granted to <Photographer Name> to use any images created under this contract for professional
samples, displays, internet website pages, advertising, exhibitions, contests, and any other purpose. The laws of
<Applicable State> shall govern this agreement.
I understand and agree to all of the above:
Contracting Party:
Date:
Contracting Party:
Date:
<Photographer Name>:
Date:
Page 5-5
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