When are you collecting payment from clients? Payment schedule?

11 years 2 months ago #268820 by The Original Daisy
Would you share with me when you are collecting payments for photography gigs? Down payments to final payments?

Will you request full upfront payment?


,
11 years 2 months ago #268830 by garyrhook
I spent a lot of time looking into this, and trying to decide what was standard practice, and what I was willing to put up with. I would strongly encourage:

1) Use a contract that lays out Ts & Cs of the photos and/or images, what constitutes breach of contract, what reasons are acceptable for cancellation. For example, I provide smaller images with my watermark on them, and require the customer to only use those for FB, email, etc. Large, high-res images are only for printing.

2) Use a services agreement that specifies when and where the shoot will be, what they are getting from you, who's responsible for the payment (signatory) when the customer can expect to see proofs (if applicable), the down payment amount, and when final payment is due.

3) I charge a session fee that is non-refundable, and payable when the appointment is booked. That puts your customer into a position where they're almost guaranteed to follow through. I charge an additional hourly fee for any overage (partial or full hour).

4) Full payment is due at the time of delivery, whether images or prints. Until you have your money in hand, the customer doesn't get the product. I strongly encourage a polite but firm stance on this point. Make sure its spelled out in the service agreement.

As I'm just starting out I've not had to deal with a particularly large bill, so no payment schedule, but I would be hard pressed to even consider it. Let the customer worry about financing; you're not a bank.

Gary

www.grhookphoto.com
facebook.com/grhookphoto


Photo Comments
Attachments:
,
11 years 2 months ago #269401 by Henry Peach
It depends on the job. For weddings I require $350 down, and the remaining balance 2 weeks before the wedding date. For portraits I collect the entire session fee at the session. I've never had a problem with cancellations so I don't worry about a portrait session deposit. If the client is a small or local business I usually get paid when the job/project is complete. If the client is a larger business I usually get paid on whatever their payment cycle is (weeks to months) after the job has been completed.
,

817.3K

241K

  • Facebook

    817,251 / Likes

  • Twitter

    241,000 / Followers

  • Google+

    1,620,816 / Followers

Latest Reviews

The Leica SL2-S is an attractive, premium mirrorless camera with photo and video specs that are sure to impress. And with the legendary Leica name, you know this camera exudes quality!

Mar 26, 2024

The Sigma fp L is a compact full-frame camera with a 61-megapixel sensor, 4K video capabilities, in-body image stabilization, and weather-sealed construction. What’s not to like?!

Mar 19, 2024

The Canon 1DX Mark III is a big, burly professional camera packed with top-end features. Is it worth the investment in 2024? Find out in this detailed review!

Mar 04, 2024

In the OM-1 vs OM-5 debate, which camera comes out on top? Though they’re different cameras for different purposes, comparing them head to head clarifies which is best for your needs.

Mar 01, 2024
Get 600+ Pro photo lessons for $1

Forum Top Posters

Latest Articles

Time management is a critical skill to master when you’re a photographer. But how do you get the most out of the limited time you have? Check out this guide to learn a few tricks!

Mar 27, 2024

The Leica SL2-S is an attractive, premium mirrorless camera with photo and video specs that are sure to impress. And with the legendary Leica name, you know this camera exudes quality!

Mar 26, 2024

Opening a photography business means undertaking various photography marketing strategies to promote your work. But you don’t want to do the same old thing - try these unique ideas!

Mar 22, 2024

The Canon EOS 80D might be a few years old, but it’s nevertheless a quality camera to invest in as a beginner or enthusiast looking for a mid-range DSLR with tons of lens options.

Mar 22, 2024

Wedding consultations are a critical part of a wedding photography gig. It’s when you learn about the couple and their wants, and present them with how you will meet those desires.

Mar 22, 2024

If you're looking for the best metal print of 2023, you'll find it from Artbeat Studios. After months of testing, Artbeat Studios beat out the competition!

Mar 21, 2024

Getting the best video shots on your camera or smartphone requires you to understand the fundamentals of composition and video editing. It helps to have the appropriate gear, too!

Mar 20, 2024

It’s easy to lose your inspiration behind the lens, especially as a beginner. These creative photography projects can help inspire you to try new techniques and improve your photos.

Mar 20, 2024