Photography policies

This page details my policies for contracted shoots, spoken word photography, and other general policies.

General Policies

Advertising and publications

Using my photos for advertising, magazines, books, or any other commercial use requires payment and a licensing agreement. This ensures proper credit and supports the time and effort I put into my craft. Commercial use includes, but is not limited to:

• Advertising: Photos used to promote events, workshops, or related activities require payment.

• Publications: If you’d like to feature my photos in a book or magazine, please contact me to discuss usage rights and fees.

Social Media Sharing

If you’ve purchased or been gifted a photo, please tag me on Instagram @whatdeannasees.

Please note: I kindly ask that you do not screenshot my photos to share on social media. If you'd like to share a photo, please reach out to me first to discuss the best way to share it!

Discretionary Free Work for Nonprofits or Community Services

While my standard policy requires payment for photos used for commercial purposes, I understand the value of supporting community organizations and causes. For nonprofit organizations or community services, I may offer photos for free at my discretion, based on availability. If you are involved in such a service and would like to request photos, please reach out to discuss how we can collaborate.

Contract photography policies

Please review the following policies carefully before booking your session. By booking with me, you agree to these terms. These terms apply only to clients who book sessions with me.

Retainers

• Non-refundable: A non-refundable retainer is required to secure your shoot. The retainer ensures your booking and reserves the date and time specifically for you.

• Amount: The retainer is equal to 50% of the session fee. For example, if you book a 1-hour portrait session ($150), $75 is due upon contract signing to secure your spot.

• Payment: The retainer must be paid upon booking. No session will be reserved without payment of the retainer.

Contracts

• Contract Requirement: A contract must be signed prior to the shoot. If the contract is not signed before the scheduled session, services will not be provided, and the retainer will be forfeited.

Image Delivery

• No RAW Images: RAW images will not be provided under any circumstances. Clients will receive high-quality JPEG images that have been edited and retouched to reflect my creative style and vision.

Payment Options

• I accept payments through Zelle, Apple Pay, and PayPal. All payment must be completed as outlined in the contract before the delivery of final images.

Late Fees

• Late Payments: Invoices must be paid by the due date specified. A $10 late fee will be applied for each month an invoice remains unpaid.

Cancellations and Rescheduling

• If you need to cancel or reschedule, you must do so at least 72 hours prior to your scheduled shoot. Retainers may be applied to a future date if rescheduling occurs within this time frame. Otherwise, the retainer will be forfeited.

Turnaround Time

• Final, edited images will be delivered within 1-2 weeks of the shoot unless otherwise specified. This ensures I can carefully edit and retouch your photos to meet my high standards.

Image Usage and Licensing

• All images are copyrighted by Deanna Thompson Photography. Clients are granted rights to use the images for personal purposes only, such as sharing on social media or printing for personal use. Commercial use is prohibited unless a specific licensing agreement has been made in writing.

Travel Fees

• For sessions located more than 30 miles outside of Cleveland, a travel fee may apply. This fee will be communicated and agreed upon during the booking process.

Additional Editing

• Your session includes basic retouching and minor adjustments.

Model Release

• In some cases, I may request the right to use images from your session for promotional purposes (website, social media, etc.). Clients will be required to sign a Model Release form if I intend to use their images for marketing or advertising.

Rescheduling

• In the event of a Client-requested rescheduling, Photographer reserves the right to charge an additional rescheduling fee of $50 to cover administrative costs and potential lost business.