What should be in a photography contract?

A photography contract exists to prevent the same handful of disputes that come up over and over: what was actually promised, who owns the photos afterward, and what happens if either side has to cancel.

At minimum it should spell out the date, location, and scope of the session, the total price and deposit terms, when and how the final images will be delivered, and who can use the photos and how, since usage rights confuse a lot of clients who assume they own everything the moment they pay.

A cancellation and reschedule policy closes the loop, stating what happens to the deposit and the date if either side needs to change plans.

Turbo Link lets photographers send contracts for e-signature as part of the booking flow, so the terms are agreed to before the session rather than assumed.