A photography contract protects both photographer and client. The photographer automatically owns copyright in their images under the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988 unless transferred in writing. The contract should be explicit about what usage rights the client receives.

• Copyright automatically vests in the photographer
• Usage rights (licence) must be specified — not assumed from payment
• Model releases are needed for commercial use of identifiable people
• RAW files are not typically included in standard packages
• Cancellation deposits protect the photographer's lost opportunity cost

Legal reference: Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988; Data Protection Act 2018 (images of people)