There is a difference between copyright and print rights. As part of my contract:

Any duplication or alteration of original images is strictly prohibited {Copyright Law Title 17, Appendix V. Additional Provisions of the Digital Millennium Copyright Act 2005, Section 102} without the written permission of the Photographer.

All photographic materials, including but not limited to negatives, proofs, and previews, shall be the exclusive property of the Photographer.

In other words, I retain the copyright to all photographs created. I own them, but you get to use them… and I do grant you print rights.

The Client shall only use the prints, including digital files, in accordance with the permissions within this agreement. The Client’s prints are for personal use only and shall not be submitted to contests, reproduced for commercial use or authorized for any reproduction by parties other than the Photographer. If the Photographer provides a digital file print release, the Client must act in accordance with the release.

You are free to make gift-sized prints (8x12 or smaller) for your family and friends as much as you like. Larger items will not print correctly, so I ask that you order them through me (using a professional print lab that will create quality items with proper color/sharpness).

Want to submit it for a contest? Please ask; I’ll probably agree to it, especially if it helps you win something awesome!

Want to use it in your advertising or as a book cover? That’s commercial use and requires my permission… and a limited license fee.

As for altering, I will allow cropping for social media use, but NO, you cannot add a filter or vignette or otherwise “dress up” the images I’ve created. If you have a particular look you’d like, talk to me.

Speaking of social media:

The Client may share blog post links and Facebook albums through use of the share functions and dissemination of direct links.  Client shall not copy, download, screen shot, or capture the photographs in any other fashion.

Share away, but please do it correctly!

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Ready for some great photographs? Let’s get to know each other over coffee (or smoothies… or milkshakes…), and talk about celebrating your life’s true beauty in images you love. You can reach me at [email protected] or (434) 226-0365.

My Promise: Together, we will create amazing photos you’ll want to share. How do you want to be photographed?