If you’re passionate about taking stunning photographs and telling stories with images, then you’ve probably thought about becoming a professional photographer and starting your own photography business. Having a career in photography sounds like a dream come true, as your work will revolve around what you love doing the most. However, there’s more to the photography industry than taking awe-inspiring photos and using the latest equipment. You also have to consider the important documents you need to ensure that you’re running a legal business in the UK.

Even though there isn’t a specific photography licence that will authorise you to operate your business in the UK, you must still register your business with the appropriate local authorities. This process involves choosing a business structure to ensure that you’re complying with the regulations that govern your specific type of photography service. Depending on how you run your photographer-for-hire business or photography studio London citizens can rent, you can register your business under one of two types of structures: sole trader or limited company.

When you register your business as a sole trader, it means that you’re self-employed and you operate your business as an individual. Under this structure, you get to keep all of your business’s profits, but only after you’ve paid tax on them. Your responsibilities will include keeping all of your business records and records of expenses, sending a Self Assessment tax return every year, and paying income tax on your profits; you also need Class 2 and Class 4 National Insurance. Additionally, you have to follow certain rules when naming your business. As a sole trader, your business name must not be offensive and should not include certain titles such as “limited,” “LLP,” “PLC,” and the like. Visit the official UK government website to learn more.

If you’re registering your business as a limited company, on the other hand, it means that you’re setting it up with a partner or team. Doing so gives you a clear separation of your business’s finances from your own personal expenses. You can choose from two types of limited companies: limited by shares and limited by guarantee. The former is usually for businesses that make a profit. These businesses have shares and shareholders, and they’re allowed to keep any of their profits after paying taxes. The latter, on the other hand, is usually for businesses that are “not for profit.” This means that these types of businesses have a “guaranteed amount” and guarantors instead of shares and shareholders. They also invest any profit they make back into their respective companies.

Once you’ve decided on the type of limited company your business falls under, you can start the registration process. During this step, you’re required to choose a name, choose the directors and company secretary, and decide who the shareholders or guarantors are. Click here for a more in-depth view of the process.

Photography Permit

Certain locations in the UK may have restrictions or guidelines for commercial photography. Thus, before setting up a shoot at any location that you don’t own, it's prudent to check with the relevant authorities or landowners if you need to secure specific permits so that you can use the area for your photoshoots. Obtaining these permits showcases your commitment to operating ethically and within the legal framework. It also helps in avoiding any potential legal consequences and contributes to the overall positive image of your photography business.

Examples of locations where you might need a permit include historical sites, national parks, and urban areas. Special events, like festivals or parades, may also necessitate permits for commercial photography.

Model Release Form

A model release form serves as the legal agreement in which the individuals being photographed are giving you, the photographer, their permission to use their images for various purposes. This form typically includes details such as the names of the individuals, the specific ways in which the images will be used (commercial, promotional, etc.), and the duration for which the consent is granted. By having the individuals sign this document, you’re protecting yourself from any potential legal complications that may arise from the use of the models’ images. It also establishes transparency and trust between you and your models, showing a commitment to ethical photography practices.

Photography Contracts

Photography contracts play a pivotal role in establishing expectations. They ensure that everyone involved in the process is on the same page, protecting the interests of both the photographer and the client. The terms and conditions of the contracts may depend on the type of photography service you offer. Let’s have a look at three examples to give you an idea of what you should include in yours.

• Wedding Contract. This type of contract should cover details such as the date, location, hours of coverage, and any specific shots requested by the client. Terms regarding payment schedules, cancellation policies, and the delivery timeline for the final images should also be clearly outlined.
• Album Contract. If you offer album services, a separate contract specifying the type of album, design process, and delivery timelines is essential. It should also contain details about additional costs for revisions or extra pages to ensure transparency.
• Portrait Photography Contract. Portrait sessions may vary, and a tailored contract is crucial for setting expectations. Include details about the location, duration, and any specific requests from the client. Clarify the number of edited images they can expect and the delivery timeframe.

Contract Amendments

When unexpected circumstances or mutually agreed-upon changes occur, a contract amendment allows you to modify specific terms without the need for an entirely new agreement. This can include changes in the photoshoot schedule, additional services requested by the client, or adjustments to the pricing structure. Simply put, a contract amendment provides you with the flexibility needed to accommodate changes while maintaining a clear legal framework.

When making contract amendments, clearly outline the changes being made, reference the original contract, and have both parties sign the document. This ensures that everyone involved is aware of and consents to the modifications, preventing misunderstandings or disputes down the line.

There are a lot of documents you have to acquire or file before you can open your photography business, and being aware of some of them can make the process easier for you. When you already know what to expect, you can confidently fill out necessary forms, as well as write legal agreements that benefit all parties involved. As a result, you can rest assured that your business is operating smoothly and legally.