Issues around offering wedding shoots as samples

[Sean Johnson]

Originally Posted by Travis Cossel

Honestly, and please don't take this personally, if a couple cares so little about their wedding video that they're willing to pay a first-timer only $200 to do it, then it would really piss me off if they were fighting with me over using it as a promo.

For me, I just have a clause in my contract (very last bullet point in fact) that states I can use ANY of the footage for ANY type of marketing purposes. I haven't ever had a couple complain, but maybe I've just been lucky.

you are absolutely right. i had made a contract including the right to use footage for my videography business. he actually wanted to change it until i almost backed out. i don't know anyone getting married this year so i've had to look for other alternatives. i can't really afford to not do a wedding early in the season. i need the experience and i'm happy just shooting 3 wedding this summer. at least next booking season i have something to show.

[Sean Johnson]

Originally Posted by Steven Davis

It's my first. Point is, something really funky is going on with your client if they, well, like Travis said. Some clients can't afford much, if so, then they should not be as choosy. This is a great business, but one thing you learn quickly is that you have to fashion your standards for your business and don't stray from them without compensation.

thanks for your advice.

[Jon Omiatek]

I had a client who had my amend my contract so that the couple retained the rights to the footage. I just charged them a little extra for that feature. I always ask the client, if though, it states clearly in my contract that I retain all rights to the footage.

I think that is better to ask, even if you have permission. I would not want to offend a couple and not get a referral do to a demo issue.

Jon