Legal Considerations
Rights: Unlike stock photos, it’s standard practice to shoot product photos as work-for-hire. That is, the employer is purchasing not only your photos but also full copyrights to them and their use. You will not be able to use them for any purpose of your own, with the possible exception of providing a sample of your work. It’s a good idea to get the employer’s release for that use, which can be accomplished in your initial work contract as part of your compensation.
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Releases:Â If your product photos include a model, you will need a model release. Since product photos are usually used for commercial purposes, experienced models may expect payment rather than copies of the photos or a credit with the photo. Models starting out need a portfolio. You might find models who will pose with a product in exchange for a printed or digital copy that can be used in a portfolio. Be sure to have a signed release before shooting any photos.Â
Contract: It is your responsibility to present a contract to the employer on job bid sites. Take the time to write a contract that covers all of your interests and enough of your employer’s to convince them of your integrity. It may ease your mind to have a lawyer review your contract. Â
Tax planning:Â Note that, unlike the income from stock photography, the income from product photos is earned income because you actually do specific work in exchange for income. This income is taxed at a self-employment rate, so be sure to consult with a tax accountant.
You’ll want to meet all tax reporting requirements in a timely manner. There may be some adjustments to your social security or disability income if you earn more than an amount specified by the IRS. And if you earn enough to owe additional taxes you may have to file quarterly taxes. Talk to a tax accountant or tax preparer to be certain how to manage your new business.
Rights: Unlike stock photos, it’s standard practice to shoot product photos as work-for-hire. That is, the employer is purchasing not only your photos but also full copyrights to them and their use. You will not be able to use them for any purpose of your own, with the possible exception of providing a sample of your work. It’s a good idea to get the employer’s release for that use, which can be accomplished in your initial work contract as part of your compensation.
Â
Releases:Â If your product photos include a model, you will need a model release. Since product photos are usually used for commercial purposes, experienced models may expect payment rather than copies of the photos or a credit with the photo. Models starting out need a portfolio. You might find models who will pose with a product in exchange for a printed or digital copy that can be used in a portfolio. Be sure to have a signed release before shooting any photos.Â
Contract: It is your responsibility to present a contract to the employer on job bid sites. Take the time to write a contract that covers all of your interests and enough of your employer’s to convince them of your integrity. It may ease your mind to have a lawyer review your contract. Â
Tax planning:Â Note that, unlike the income from stock photography, the income from product photos is earned income because you actually do specific work in exchange for income. This income is taxed at a self-employment rate, so be sure to consult with a tax accountant.
You’ll want to meet all tax reporting requirements in a timely manner. There may be some adjustments to your social security or disability income if you earn more than an amount specified by the IRS. And if you earn enough to owe additional taxes you may have to file quarterly taxes. Talk to a tax accountant or tax preparer to be certain how to manage your new business.
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