Because (and I’m sure this doesn’t relate to you) people sometimes cancel with virtually no notice and that leaves me unable to book that day again - so I’m out of pocket.

Deposits are 50% of the quoted fee and non-refundable for that reason. Cancellations made 14 days or more prior to the shoot incur no fee.

I’m pretty good like that; I won’t make you wait months like some people do. You can usually expect the photos back in about a fortnight; sometimes less. If it’s a long shoot with a lot of content (like a wedding) it might be a up to a month.

My fees cover my expenses; not additional people, hire fees, or other related expenses.

Yes.

For personal and event shoots, if you don’t want/require one, then I’m happy to keep it informal. If you feel safer with a contract I can provide one.

For any commercial work, or when the job is larger, involves more people, Intellectual Property Rights, loading fees, release forms etc then I always use a contract.

I also have both personal indemnity insurance and professional liability insurance.