Hey Everyone!


Running a creative business means balancing both the artistic and business sides of photography. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that having a solid contract in place is non-negotiable—it protects both you and your client, setting clear expectations from the start.

Early in my career, I made the mistake of trusting a well-known brand without a formal agreement. We agreed on a paid project over the phone, but since I didn’t follow up with a written contract or confirmation email, they later claimed it was a trade collaboration. That mistake cost me a few hundred dollars, but more importantly, it taught me a valuable lesson: always have a contract.



Contracts aren’t about distrust—they’re about clarity and professionalism. They outline responsibilities, payment terms, and deliverables, ensuring both sides are aligned. Here are some key contract clauses I always include:

1. Services Clause


This section clearly defines what I’m responsible for during the project. I list out every deliverable, including the number of images, types of edits, and any motion content. For example:

"Andrew Fein Photography will produce, style, photograph, and retouch 15 still images and 1 stop-motion GIF (up to 15 frames). Any additional work requested after signing will be subject to additional fees."

This prevents scope creep—if a client requests more work later, they understand that it comes at an extra cost.

I also use this section to outline:

  • Office hours and response time (I prefer email, and I clarify expected turnaround times for replies)
  • Creative control (I only deliver final images that meet my professional standards)
  • Delivery format and resolution (Clients receive files based on their licensed usage, preventing unauthorized print use)
  • Liability for display issues (If a client uploads images in low resolution or distorts them, I’m not responsible for the quality loss)
  • Storage policy (I clarify that I’m not obligated to retain images indefinitely after delivery)


2. Fees Clause


This is one of the most critical parts of the contract. It outlines:

  • Deposit requirements (I state whether the retainer is non-refundable)
  • Payment schedule (When the final balance and any additional expenses are due)
  • Payment expectations for completed work (Even if a client decides they don’t need a final image, they still owe payment for work completed)
  • Accepted payment methods
  • Client-covered expenses (Such as models, props, studio rental, etc.)
  • Late payment fees (I charge a 5% monthly late fee, which has helped enforce timely payments and compensate for cash flow disruptions)

If a client objects to the late fee, I may extend grace once, but I emphasize that as a small business, timely payments matter. Clients should only agree to a payment schedule they can commit to.

3. Project Timeline Clause

This section helps keep projects on track by listing key deadlines for both myself and the client. A typical schedule might include:

  • Retainer due
  • Client’s final shot list/brief due
  • Delivery of the shoot plan
  • Client feedback deadline
  • Finalized shoot plan
  • Production dates
  • Shoot date
  • Final payment due
  • Image delivery
  • Deadline for requesting re-edits

When clients see a structured timeline, they understand their role in keeping the project moving efficiently.

Final Thoughts


These are just a few of the most important contract clauses I use to protect my business and ensure smooth collaborations. I’ll be sharing even more essential clauses in Part 2, so stay tuned!


If you’re a creative running your own business, I highly recommend reviewing your contracts and making sure they set clear expectations. Have any thoughts or lessons from your own experience? Let’s connect and discuss!


Is it golden hour yet?

Andrew