Freelance Photographer Contract Template (UK 2025)

When You Need This Contract

Freelance photographer contracts must carefully address image ownership and usage rights, which are the most commonly disputed aspects of photography engagements. Under UK copyright law, the photographer owns copyright in their images unless assigned. The contract must specify whether you are purchasing full copyright or a usage licence, the scope of permitted use, model release arrangements, and the photographer's right to use images in their portfolio.

Key Clauses

• Copyright assignment or usage licence with defined scope
• Permitted usage channels and media specified in detail
• Model and property release responsibilities
• Raw file and editing rights provisions
• Portfolio and promotional use rights for the photographer

What to Watch Out For

• Not specifying whether the client is purchasing copyright or a licence, leading to disputes about usage scope
• Failing to address who is responsible for obtaining model releases and property permissions for the shoot

Sample Clauses

• Sample copyright clause: 'The Photographer assigns all copyright in the Photographs to the Client upon receipt of full payment. The assignment covers all media and territories in perpetuity.'
• Sample licence alternative: 'The Photographer grants the Client a non-exclusive licence to use the Photographs for [specified purposes] for a period of [X] years. Usage beyond this scope requires a separate licence agreement and additional fee.'