A Brief Guide to Professional Photo Restrictions

A Brief Guide to Professional Photo Restrictions

The photos that a photographer hands over to you are part of their life’s work. It has their name or branding so there are a few important restrictions to note when it comes to the professional digital images that you receive. If you have ever wondered why photographers ask that their work isn't altered outside of the delivery, here are some reasons!

1) Copyright. The digital images that your photographer provides you with have a copyright, which means the photographer has the option to use those photos to market their work and services anytime in the future. We are however also respectful of our clients so if there are any images that you would prefer to keep private, it’s best to let us know about it ahead of time so that we can honor your wishes.?

2) Image type. Photographers aren’t able to provide you with the original files or raw images. A raw file requires specific software to view and is in a native format - raw - stripping it of all you may think you would normally see, including some colors. All images given to the client have been updated, cropped and have been edited. If you do require further touch ups we would need to provide you with a quote.?

3) Image altering. While photographers appreciate your business and welcome the sharing of our photos on social media platforms, we ask that the images not be altered in any way as this is against our copyright policies. If you need updates made, just reach out to your photographer!

What constitutes image altering?

·????????Adding filters or editing photos in Photoshop

·????????Removing our logo or studio name

·????????Color correcting or including transitions from color to black and white

·????????Clipping people or objects out of the original shot

So why do we have this as a restriction? Our photos are a representation of a photographer's work so when a customer alters an image it directly impacts our name and brand in the industry. When we present you with final images, they have already been through our editing process and don’t require further alterations.?When images are altered, the results are not always reflective of our original work and can then be mistaken for ours. We greatly appreciate your loyalty and cooperation in this matter.

We are happy to give a quote if you want images to be edited in a specific way or if you want further alterations made.

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Samantha S. Marshall is an award-winning photographer, specializing in portraiture, architectural history, nature, wedding and corporate photography with a style consisting of colorful and energetic imagery. Running a client-friendly, service-oriented business she believes that great creativity often is the result of a collaborative effort and values working closely with her clients. Based in Northern Virginia, she is a huge supporter of many special interest groups including mental illness awareness, the rescue community and helping others to find their own artistic passions. Samantha has been featured regionally and internationally in print and online publications including Professional Photographers of America (PPA) Magazine, Elan Magazine, O, The Oprah Magazine, Around Reston, Modern Reston, and the Connection Newspaper.?Visit Samantha's website?to learn more about her or book a private session.