1. Get Deposit Upfront.  If possible, in full. If not, then a 20%-30% non-refundable deposit should be made to secure photo shoot date. When its small budget shoot, a 50% deposit is totally acceptable. The balance should be paid day of shoot. A 20%-30% deposit for a large budget shoot is practical. Clients with large budgets won’t agree to a 50% deposit and may go somewhere else.
2. Written Agreements.  You should have an agreement outlining what is expected from you and the client, image usage(s), licensing forms, dates of payments, interest and penalties on late payments and so on.
3. Model Releases.  Models need to sign releases that outline your conditions. No exceptions.
4. Talent/Staff Payments. Never agree for staff and models to be paid “through” you. Always remain an independent contractor. Staff and models are contracted, invoiced and should be paid directly by the client. This will prevent you from being the scape goat or be named in a lawsuit in case the client faults on payment and you are stuck holding the bill. If there aren’t any other options and payment for talent/staff relies solely on you, make sure funds are paid in full to you and in ample time before starting the project.
5. Your Word is Everything.  Outline turnaround times to complete job and keep your deadlines. Do not commit to deadlines you can’t keep. It will hurt your reputation in the end and clients won’t return.
6. Always have a Plan of Action.  Don’t “wing it”. Have a business plan and set goals for your business as well as marketing plan to promote and get your images seen in the right places.
7. Don’t sell yourself short.  Photography is an expensive business. If you want to stay in the game, you need to put a price on your time and talent. Make sure you recoup your investment and make enough money to live on and reinvest in your craft. If you’re not making money, it’s a hobby and not a profession.

Maya Guez  www.mayaguezart.com