Terms of Service

1. Agreement to Terms

By accessing our website or engaging our photography and videography services, you agree to be bound by these Terms of Service. If you do not agree to these terms, please do not use our services.

2. Services

Montani Studios provides professional photography and videography services including, but not limited to:

• Wedding and elopement photography/videography
• Commercial and brand photography
• Portrait sessions
• Event coverage
• Content creation and social media packages
• Video editing and post-production

Specific services, deliverables, and pricing are outlined in individual client contracts.

3. Booking & Payment

3.1 Retainer

A non-refundable retainer (typically 30-50% of the total package price) is required to secure your date. This retainer is applied toward your total balance.

3.2 Final Payment

The remaining balance is due 14 days before your session or event date unless otherwise specified in your contract.

3.3 Payment Methods

We accept payment via credit card, bank transfer, and other methods specified in your contract.

4. Cancellation & Rescheduling

4.1 Client Cancellation

• 60+ days notice: Retainer may be applied to a future date within 12 months
• 30-59 days notice: 50% of total contract value is due
• Less than 30 days: 100% of total contract value is due

4.2 Photographer Cancellation

In the unlikely event we must cancel, we will provide a full refund of all payments made and assist in finding a replacement photographer if possible.

4.3 Weather & Force Majeure

Outdoor sessions may be rescheduled due to inclement weather at no additional cost. Events cancelled due to force majeure (natural disasters, pandemics, etc.) will be rescheduled or refunded minus any non-recoverable expenses.

5. Copyright & Image Usage

5.1 Copyright Ownership

All images and videos created by Montani Studios are protected by copyright law. The photographer retains full copyright ownership of all images.

5.2 Client License

Upon final payment, clients receive a personal-use license to:

• Print images for personal display
• Share on personal social media with credit
• Use for personal, non-commercial purposes

5.3 Commercial Usage

Commercial usage rights (advertising, resale, etc.) require a separate licensing agreement and additional fees.

5.4 Portfolio Usage

Unless otherwise agreed in writing, we reserve the right to use images for portfolio, marketing, social media, print competitions, and educational purposes.

6. Image Delivery

• Weddings: 6-10 weeks from event date
• Portrait sessions: 2-3 weeks from session date
• Commercial projects: As specified in contract

Images are delivered via our secure online gallery. Gallery links remain active for one year from delivery date.

7. Editing & Retouching

All delivered images undergo professional color correction and editing. The specific editing style and number of images are outlined in your contract.

We do not provide:

• Unedited RAW files (unless specified in contract)
• Heavy retouching (body/face alterations) unless requested
• Re-editing of delivered images in different styles

8. Liability

While we take every precaution to protect your images, in the rare event of equipment failure, memory card corruption, or other unforeseen circumstances, our liability is limited to a refund of services paid.

We strongly recommend that clients also designate family/friends to take backup photos during important moments.

9. Client Responsibilities

Clients agree to:

• Provide accurate contact information and event details
• Obtain necessary venue/location permissions
• Ensure photographer meal provisions for events over 6 hours
• Communicate any important family dynamics or photo requests in advance
• Arrive on time for scheduled sessions

10. Model Releases

For sessions involving third parties (models, employees, guests), clients are responsible for obtaining necessary model releases. We provide standard release forms upon request.

View our Model Release form

11. Website Usage

Users of our website agree not to:

• Download or copy images without permission
• Attempt to access restricted areas
• Submit false information through forms
• Use the site for any unlawful purpose

12. Dispute Resolution

Any disputes arising from these terms or our services shall first be addressed through good-faith negotiation. If unresolved, disputes will be settled through mediation in the state of West Virginia.

13. Modifications

We reserve the right to modify these terms at any time. Continued use of our services after changes constitutes acceptance of the updated terms.

14. Contact

Questions about these Terms of Service should be directed to: