Vigilance, and contracts...

This news is doing the rounds in the Wedding Photography world this week.  Ex Wedding Photographer and Entrepreneur Gary Fong was sent information from a wedding photographer about clients threatening a 300k dollar lawsuit for, incredibly.... GOOD work.  We normally read stories about photographers that have lost data, were thoroughly incompetent, or failed to deliver the goods, but this story is a warning  for all photographers who take a nonchalant approach with clients.

Have a look at the video first:

I won't go into the technicalities about why this lawsuit may be quashed in court.  The letter sent by the attorney seems highly unprofessional and I have no knowledge about the law in different US states.  However the point to be made here is that you always treat a client, however nice, flattering or friendly  as they see...as a client. 

Many professional photographers who regularly blog, are afraid to say the truth about the industry.  All their clients are gorgeous, fun to work with and their weddings are a joy to photograph.  It doesn't take much to realise this is not the real world they are talking about. Some clients can be very difficult to work with, and this is not only in the wedding world.  They could be any kind of client really.  

The difficult bit is when clients are extra flattering about one's work.  In the industry we've all been through this... lots of sweet talking that makes you feel weak at the knees and highly esteemed.  Wow, you think..  why don't I have more of these clients?  The aim is, of course, to get more out of you than you normally would, or should offer...  hmm...

Of course there are the real nice people that are genuine and that you will love working with and for, but there are also the nasty ones who make your life hell, either before the shooting or afterwards.

For me this story is just a reminder not to forget the basis of a professional relationship, trust and honesty, and making sure all the paperwork is relevant, agreed to in all detail and that the contract is honoured in its' totality.  If you can afford to, walk away from people who you're not sure of, that saves you hassle and problems that others can have...  Well that's my policy anyway...

Have a great weekend! :)