Sepia Gate: AKA the very heated TikTok kerfuffle over wedding photo edits and RAW photos
Sepia Gate: The rundown of what actually happened
A client was unhappy with the editing of her wedding pictures. The client talked to the photographer, and they went back and forth about how this could be remedied. In the end, the client wanted all of the RAW photos, and the photographer offered them to her for $4K.
The client took to TikTok, where the drama went viral and had everyone chiming in.
Now coined ‘Sepia Gate’, this situation brought up many questions from a legal perspective, customer service perspective, and my recent podcast episode is packed with valuable information to help protect your work and reputation.
(Also suggest checking out The Vendor Table Podcast for their most recent episodes on this topic!)
Include proactive contract clauses
This is a good learning opportunity for photographers, videographers, and similar creatives.
Ensure your photography contracts include specific clauses covering:
- Image Processing, Retouching & Edits Clause: includes language about not delivering RAW photos, what additional editing requests you’re happy to provide complimentary, and your procedures for editing beyond that scope
- Artistic Style Clause: includes language about the client understanding and viewing your artistic style prior to booking and that you will not edit beyond that scope
- Photographer’s Copyright Clause: includes language about a client’s personal license to use the images but you as the photographer retaining copyright ownership
- Harassment Clause: includes information about being able to terminate the agreement if harassed virtually or in- person
These legal protections help manage expectations and shields both the photographer and the client.
Stick to truthful and professional communication
If a client goes public with complaints, respond with a factual, honest statement. I recommend drawing inspiration from PR expert Molly McPherson here: take responsibility and provide clear information about your side while staying composed and professional.
Manage expectations through communication
Over-communicate with your clients to set clear expectations. Showcase a variety of work, highlight your artistic style, and make sure clients understand and agree to the specifics in your contract, including RAW photos. Solidifying this understanding can prevent disputes from escalating.
Want to make sure your wedding photography business is protected?
Browse hundreds of easy to use contract templates, legal clause swipe copy, and more on The Legal Paige shop to make sure your business is safe from future events like Sepia Gate!
Article written by Paige Griffith, J.D.
Owner of The Legal Paige and Leader of the Rising Tide Missoula chapter in Montana.
