What About Privacy? // Ever Wonder Why

When you find a photographer that you want to hire, you probably wanted to see their work. Maybe you've followed them on Instagram and have fallen in love with their style. Or maybe you were scrolling through their portfolio. Either way, you needed to see their work to help you make a decision.

Photographers HAVE to share their work. Yes, there is more to a good photographer than just pretty pictures, but that is what we deliver to our clients and it's a huge factor that people consider when choosing who to book. This means that we need to showcase our most recent work and be constantly updating our portfolio.

So your photographer is sharing your image on their website, social media, and possibly on promotional materials. What about your rights and privacy? In my contract, this is what I say:

• Use of Photographs - Unless specifically agreed upon, the Client(s) acknowledges that the photos will be used in promotion of the Photographer's business. This includes, but is not limited to, social media, website, brochures, and other advertising materials. The Photographer will take measures to ensure the privacy of the Client(s).

I completely understand that your privacy is important. I value my privacy too. I never use last names, only last initials, and for seniors and newborns, I only use the first name. I have had client's with some special requests for special situations and I always respect those needs. However, before you ask your photographer to not share your images, think about the fact that you were able to see examples of their work because others didn't mind their images being shared. You will be that to future clients.

If you are purchasing earrings or shoes, you want and rightly expect to see photos of the product you will be buying. Well, photos are our "product" and so we have to show images of our clients or we have nothing to show. You won't know what to expect without seeing a portfolio of past images.

There are definitely situations where images can't be shared (foster care families are one example) and other circumstances where special care must be taken. Talk to your photographer about your situation, needs, and concerns. We are happy to help you understand how your privacy will be protected and work to find a solution that everyone can live with.




*Disclaimer: I am not a lawyer and this is not legal advice. The opinions here are for informational purposes only.