What Is a Videography Contract?
A videography contract is a legally binding document between the videographer and their client outlining the services to be provided. It protects your legal rights by outlining exactly what is expected of both parties.
When these details are written down, they are more enforceable than oral agreements. To avoid disputes and improve customer service, you should always put videography services in writing.
When to Use
There are many common situations where you should use a videography contract. These include, but are not limited to:
- When you are hired to do wedding videos.
- When you are hired for real estate videography.
- When you help film commercials or product advertisements.
- When you are hired to film personal events or corporate parties.
Why Use a Videography Contract?
You should use a videography contract to protect your legal rights. These written agreements contain key information that outlines the scope of the work, the payment, and much more.
When these details are written down, they are more enforceable than oral agreements. To avoid disputes and improve customer service, you should always put videography services in writing.
What to Include
A videography contract should include the following key elements:
Parties Involved
Your videography agreement should specify the parties’ names and contact information. This includes the client and their address, as well as the videographer and their address.
Scope of Work
Your contract should provide a detailed description of the videography services you provide. This could include:
- Description: A detailed description of the services, including the type of video (e.g., wedding, promotional, event), length, style, format, etc.
- Deliverables: Number of edited videos, raw footage, revisions, file formats.
- Timeline: Shooting dates, editing deadlines, delivery date.
- Location(s): Where the shooting will take place.
Payment and Price Details
Your videography contract should state:
- Total cost: Breakdown of fees (e.g., shooting, editing, travel).
- Payment schedule: Deposit amount, due dates for remaining payments, accepted payment methods.
- Late payment fees: If applicable.
- Cancellation policy: Terms for either party canceling the contract.
Usage Rights
The agreement should clarify who owns the copyright of the final video and raw footage and specify how the client can use the video (e.g., for personal use or commercial use). Any unauthorized use of the videographer’s work beyond the agreed-upon scope may result in legal action.
To ensure all parties are informed and protected, we encourage you to review our guide on obtaining consent for photo and video usage. Additionally, both the client and videographer should sign a Photo/Video Release Form and a Release of Liability (Waiver) Form.
Additional Legal Clauses
- Confidentiality: If sensitive information is involved.
- Force Majeure: Events beyond either party’s control (e.g., natural disasters).
- Dispute resolution: How to resolve disagreements (e.g., mediation, arbitration).
- Termination: Conditions for termination of the contract.
Signature Lines
Your contract should have a section for the parties to print and sign their names. The written contract may not be legally binding without a signature, so this section is incredibly important.
Videography Contract Sample
