If there’s one thing I wish every photographer understood deep in their bones, it’s this:
Your contract isn’t just a formality — it’s your business’s backbone.
I know contracts aren’t exactly giving “Treat Yo’ Self” energy. They’re not glamorous, they’re not creative, and they don’t come with a miniature bottle of champagne like Donna would definitely suggest.
But they are the quiet, steady structure that holds your business together when life gets unpredictable.
And if you’ve been in business long enough, you know:
Unpredictable is basically the norm.
Weather shifts. Family emergencies. Clients running late. Someone’s cousin pulling a full-blown “Uncle Bob” cameo. A well-meaning client insisting they thought RAW files were included (bless their hearts).
Your contract is the thing that steps forward, Leslie Knope-style, binder in hand, and says:
“I’ve got you. I planned for this.”
Let’s Talk Honestly About ChatGPT (From Someone Who Uses It Daily)
You know I love a responsible ChatGPT moment, and I utilize it in supporting my clients. It’s reliable, efficient, and can save you hours of busy work (my very own April Ludgate: quietly handling the chaos)…or maybe creating it accidentally?
But here’s the truth: AI is helpful, not omnipotent. It can draft, suggest, and organize, but it doesn’t understand the legal nuances that protect your business. When it comes to contracts, relying on AI alone is like trusting Andy Dwyer to handle your finances — charming, but not exactly a safety net.
That’s where the line gets drawn, Leslie Knope style.
With dramatic flair and heartfelt sincerity.
Because:
1. ChatGPT doesn’t know your local or state laws.
And contracts live and die by specifics, not “good vibes only.”
2. It doesn’t create legally enforceable language.
It writes nice paragraphs. It does not write “save-your-butt-when-someone-tries-to-refund-after-8-weeks” language.
3. It misses tiny yet crucial details.
And those tiny details are where photographers get blindsided.
(A very un-chic experience.)
This is one of those rare times where responsible Erin and responsible YOU both agree:
“This is a job for a legal professional, not a conversational AI.”
Why I Don’t Just Recommend My Friend The Legal Paige — I Personally Use Her Contracts Everywhere
If I recommend a tool, it’s because it’s something I trust in my own business. Fully. Repeatedly. Like Leslie trusting Ann with literally anything.
For contracts?
I use The Legal Paige for everything.
Every service agreement.
Every clause.
Every spot where legal language matters and I don’t want to accidentally pull “a Andy Dwyer situation.”
I trust her because:
- She’s an actual attorney who understands photographers
- Her templates are thorough without sounding scary
- Clients actually understand what they’re signing
- She updates everything regularly
- Her contracts protect you without making you sound like you’re auditioning for a courtroom drama
This isn’t just a recommendation. It’s the foundation that lets me do my job without spiraling into a “fold in the cheese” moment every time something weird comes up.
The Bottom Line
It helps your client trust you.
It helps you trust yourself.
And it keeps everyone on the same page (or, as Moira would say, “operating from the same cinematic script”).
That’s why I personally use and wholeheartedly recommend The Legal Paige.
