A makeup artist contract for photo shoot is a document that a professional will require to secure their services.

Importance of Makeup Artist Contracts

Whether you are hiring a makeup artist or are a makeup artist working with a client, it is important to solidify the relationship with a legal agreement. A contract is meant to keep everyone honest through transparency. For example, if a contract is being drawn up to cover a wedding, there are things that the document must cover.

The contract serves as a record of the different segments the parties are agreeing to. It also outlines each party's responsibilities. With a contract, each party is aware of who is accountable for what and the terms you have agreed to. If you, as the customer, do not have a contract in place, it may be difficult to file legal action if the work is not performed as agreed to. For a makeup artist, a contract can protect you if the customer's payment is late or never delivered. Without a contract, getting satisfaction may be difficult.

These are the types of stipulations that must be detailed in the contract to ensure each party is protected. To make sure these stipulations are followed, the contract must be an actual document or legal agreement. A text message or email does not count.

From the perspective of a makeup artist, if the client or customer does not want to sign a contract, that is not a good sign. Signing a legal document to secure professional services should not be open to negotiation.

Example of a Makeup Artist Contract

For the following example, say that a makeup artist is hired to provide makeup services for an upcoming wedding. These contract components would ensure sufficient coverage for the artist and client:

  • Bookings: This section of the contract states that the date and services will be secured upon signing the document and providing a nonrefundable deposit. If there are additional services, such as a makeup trial, it would be included in this section.
  • Pricing: This includes the total cost of the package and a breakdown of what is included in the cost for this event. It may also include things such as a pre-session appointment, day-of-event makeup application, on-location services, travel expenses for all appointments, supplies, and makeup services for the bride and bridal party.
  • Agreement, signature, and deposit: This is the last section of the contract. It states the names of the client and the makeup artist, the client's agreement to the listed terms of the contract, the nonrefundable fee amount, and when the balance is due.
  • Cancellation policy: Craft a clear and concise cancellation policy that outlines the timeframe for canceling (i.e., two weeks before the event), how you are to be notified (i.e., in writing), and the consequences of canceling (i.e., no refund of the deposit).
  • Payment: Stipulate how payment will be made (cash, check, money order, etc.). This section may also state that a 50 percent nonrefundable deposit is required at the time of the booking and when the final payment of the balance is due.
  • Travel fee: This outlines what area is included in the pricing that you will travel to within a certain radius. It can also state that if travel is required outside of that radius, a fee will apply.
  • Service location and requirements: This lists when you will arrive at the designated location to perform the makeup services. Any equipment, supplies, lighting, and other items necessary for the services to be completed should be included in this section.
  • Delays: Include instructions regarding the day of the services and what is expected, such as timeliness by all parties receiving makeup services, the name of each person who needs makeup, and the services you will be providing.
  • Social media and website: Specify the terms of use for any photos taken involving your work as well as your use of professional photos taken and the agreement they can be used on your social media accounts or a professional website.
  • Liability: Discusses the sanitary conditions of your equipment, services you cannot perform, a request before services for anyone with a skin condition, and the client's agreement to release you from liability for any complications due to allergic reactions.

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