This page outlines how the images created during our shoots can be used, by whom, and under what conditions. It’s not the most exciting read, I’ll admit, but clarity here prevents awkward conversations later. Whether you’re an agent who needs listing photos or a homeowner curious about where your property images might appear, this agreement defines those boundaries.
I’ve drafted this based on years of working with clients who had very different needs. Some wanted exclusive rights for a luxury listing campaign; others were happy to let me use a few shots in my portfolio in exchange for a reduced rate. The framework below covers the standard terms I operate under, with room for customization when a project calls for it.
1. Definitions
A quick glossary so we’re speaking the same language:
- “Photographer” refers to Alex Morgan / Dadam Studios, the creator of the images.
- “Client” refers to the individual or company commissioning the photography services and named in the service agreement or invoice.
- “Images” means all photographs, digital files, edited variations, and previews delivered as part of the project.
- “License” refers to the specific rights granted to the Client for the use of the Images, as detailed below.
2. Copyright Ownership
Full copyright of all Images remains with Alex Morgan / Dadam Studios. This is standard industry practice and isn’t about being possessive — it’s about protecting the work from ending up in contexts I never agreed to. The Client is purchasing a license to use the images, not the copyright itself. Think of it like buying a book: you own that physical copy, but you don’t own the story or the right to print more copies.
3. License Grant
Upon full payment of the agreed fee, the Client receives a non-exclusive, non-transferable license to use the Images for the following purposes, unless a different arrangement has been explicitly stated in writing:
- Real estate marketing for the specific property photographed, including MLS listings, agency websites, printed brochures, and social media promotion directly related to the sale or lease of that property.
- Portfolio use by the individual agent named as the Client, to showcase their listings, provided the images are not resold or given to a third party for their own marketing.
- Internal company use by a brokerage or agency for training materials or company presentations, with attribution appreciated but not required.
Any use beyond these terms — including third-party editorial use, commercial advertising for a different product, or transfer of images to a new agent taking over a listing — requires prior written permission and may involve an additional licensing fee.
4. Prohibited Uses
To protect both the integrity of the work and the privacy of homeowners, the following uses are not permitted without explicit, case-by-case approval:
- Selling, sublicensing, or distributing the Images to third parties not involved in the original property transaction.
- Using the Images in any context that implies endorsement of a product, service, or political message by the property owner or the Photographer.
- Substantially altering the Images — compositing, heavy digital manipulation that misrepresents the property — without discussing it with me first. Minor cropping and color adjustments for print are fine.
5. Photographer’s Portfolio Use
I reserve the right to use Images from any project in my own portfolio, including on this website, in printed promotional materials, and in competition submissions, unless the Client specifically requests otherwise in writing before the shoot. I understand that some properties are sensitive — celebrity homes, high-security listings — and I’m always willing to sign a reasonable non-disclosure agreement or embargo the images until after the sale closes. Just let me know early in the process.
6. Delivery and Archiving
Final edited images are delivered via a secure online gallery with download access. Clients are responsible for downloading and backing up their images within 30 days of delivery. I maintain archives of delivered projects for approximately 12 months, but I can’t guarantee indefinite storage. If you lose your files two years after the shoot, I might still have them — but please don’t count on it.
7. Attribution
Attribution is not required for standard real estate listing use, but it’s genuinely appreciated. If you’re sharing images on Instagram, Facebook, or a blog post about the listing, a simple tag or credit line — “Photos: Dadam Studios” — goes a long way in helping a small independent studio stay visible.
8. Custom Licensing
The terms above reflect the most common scenario I encounter: an agent or homeowner needs photos to market a property, and that’s it. But I’ve also worked on projects that required exclusive rights for a set period, or images licensed for use in national print advertising, or shoots where the homeowner requested that no images appear in my portfolio at all. If your situation doesn’t fit the standard mold, we’ll write a custom agreement that does. The goal is always to find a fair arrangement that respects everyone’s interests.
9. Questions
If something here is unclear, or if you need to negotiate specific terms for an upcoming project, reach out before the shoot date. It’s much easier to adjust the agreement upfront than to untangle a misunderstanding after the images are already in use. You can contact me directly through the site’s contact page, and I’ll usually respond within a business day.
Last updated: November 2024