How can you write a video production contract that protects your work?

1 Identify the parties and the project

The first section of your contract should identify who you are working with and what you are working on. Include the names, addresses, and contact information of both parties, as well as the title, description, and purpose of the video project. You may also want to specify the roles and responsibilities of each party, such as who is the producer, director, editor, or talent.

2 Outline the deliverables and the timeline

The next section of your contract should outline what you will deliver and when. Specify the format, quality, length, and style of the video, as well as the number of revisions, edits, or changes that are included. Also, set a realistic timeline for each stage of the production process, such as pre-production, production, post-production, and delivery. You may want to include milestones, deadlines, and penalties for delays or cancellations.

3 Define the payment and the expenses

The third section of your contract should define how much you will charge and how you will be paid. Include the total fee, the payment schedule, the payment method, and the invoicing details. You may also want to include a deposit, a retainer, or a kill fee to secure your commitment and protect your cash flow. Additionally, you should list the expenses that you will incur and who will cover them, such as equipment, travel, permits, or licenses.

4 Address the ownership and the usage

The fourth section of your contract should address who owns the video and how it can be used. You may want to retain the copyright, the source files, and the creative control of your work, while granting the client a license to use the video for a specific purpose, duration, and territory. You may also want to include a credit clause, a confidentiality clause, or a non-compete clause to protect your reputation and your interests.

5 Include the warranties and the liabilities

The fifth section of your contract should include the warranties and the liabilities of both parties. You should warrant that your work is original, professional, and compliant with the law, and that you have obtained all the necessary permissions, releases, and clearances. You should also limit your liability for any damages, losses, or claims that may arise from your work, and specify how you will handle any disputes, arbitration, or litigation.

6 Review and sign the contract

The final section of your contract should review and sign the contract. You should read the contract carefully and make sure that it reflects your agreement and expectations. You should also check for any errors, omissions, or ambiguities, and seek legal advice if needed. Finally, you should sign the contract and have the client sign it as well. You may want to use an electronic signature service or a witness to verify the contract.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?