A question from a photographer.

June 2, 2019 1:14am CST
I'm currently writing up a new contract for my business but want to understand what the general public/non-photographer thinks of certain phrases. I want my contract to read smoothly and be understood properly as to avoid any confusion for the client. I hope that by posting here, I can get multiple opinions and what the general public believes these phrases to be, so I can avoid certain phrases if need be, elaborate on them, or choose different phrases all together. I don't want to be a pest, but if you could avoid googling these terms before answering, it would be appreciated. I simply want to know what comes to your mind initially. When you think of "rights to photos", what do you think that entails? What do you think a "copyright release" entails? Lastly, what does a "print release" entail? When you get professional photos taken, do you want "rights" to your photos? If so, do you just want the "rights" to print or to own the photos? What is your ideal situation when it comes to receiving photos from your photographer? What do you expect to happen? What do you want to be able to do with your photos? Thank you in advance to anyone that answers!
2 people like this
3 responses
@owlwings (43910)
• Cambridge, England
2 Jun 19
The exact meaning of the phrases you mention will depend a lot on the context of the business and its relationship with the customer. If I hire a photographer to take portrait photos or to cover a function, for example, I would expect him to hold the copyright on the originals of those photos (whether negatives or digital images) and to be able to charge a reasonable amount for any reproductions he supplies (in print or digital form). I'd also expect him to issue a limited licence to reproduce those images for private purposes but not for commercial use. I think that you need to look at the Terms and Conditions which other photographers or people in similar business have already published and also consult with a lawyer who specialises in such things before you publish your terms and conditions.
@owlwings (43910)
• Cambridge, England
3 Jun 19
@alaskah I think that it's usual for the photographer to retain the copyright and to allow rights of reproduction to the customer (usually with the proviso that the photographer's name is mentioned).
2 Jun 19
My question was mainly to see what the general public understood between print release and copyright release. A lot of people actually ask for "rights to their photos" when all they are really interested in is print release. I just wanted to know if that was the general consensus.
1 person likes this
@Nakitakona (56486)
• Philippines
2 Jun 19
I may suggest you try to visit sites similar with business style and read their Terms of Service (ToS). You may get an idea what is applicable to your business.
2 Jun 19
That's a good idea! I didn't even think of trying that out. Thanks! :)
1 person likes this
@Nakitakona (56486)
• Philippines
2 Jun 19
@alaskah You're welcome. Good luck to your photography business venture.
@psanasangma (7288)
• India
3 Jun 19
Nice to hear from you. copyrights of any work is main concern as it is the source of identification and individual property.