Policies

Portrait & Creative Session Policies

At Sharie Photography, my goal is to provide a relaxed, creative, and enjoyable photography experience while creating authentic images that reflect who you are. These policies are in place to ensure every session runs smoothly and to establish clear expectations before booking.

By paying the required booking deposit, the Client acknowledges that they have read, understood, and agreed to the following policies.

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# Booking & Deposit

A **non-refundable booking deposit** is required to reserve your session date and time.

Your session is not considered booked until the deposit has been received.

The deposit reserves your date and time and compensates for planning, scheduling, communication, and the inability to book another client during your reserved time.

Deposits are **non-refundable under all circumstances**, including cancellation by the Client.

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# Payment

The remaining balance is due on or before the day of your session unless otherwise agreed.

Payments may be made by:

- Cash App

- Venmo

- Cash

- Electronic Invoice

Failure to pay the remaining balance may result in cancellation of the session.

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# No-Call / No-Show Policy

If a Client does not arrive for their scheduled session and provides no communication before or during the scheduled appointment, the session will be considered a **No-Call / No-Show.**

The booking deposit will be forfeited.

Clients who no-call/no-show will not be eligible to book future sessions with Sharie Photography.

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# Late Arrival Policy

Please arrive on time and ready to begin shooting.

If you are running late, communication is expected as soon as possible.

Clients arriving **15 minutes or more late without prior communication** may have their session canceled at the Photographer's discretion.

If the session is canceled due to an uncommunicated late arrival, the booking deposit remains non-refundable.

If the Photographer chooses to continue the session, the session will still end at the originally scheduled ending time.

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# Guests

Unless discussed before your session, **no additional guests** may attend your session.

Extra people can become distractions and interfere with the creative process.

If additional guests arrive without prior approval, Sharie Photography reserves the right to refuse their participation or cancel the session if necessary.

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# Client Responsibility

Clients are responsible for arriving fully prepared for their session.

This includes, but is not limited to:

- Hair

- Makeup

- Nails

- Clothing

- Shoes

- Accessories

- Props

- Personal grooming

- Transportation

- Any costs associated with preparing for the session

Sharie Photography is not responsible for any expenses the Client chooses to incur in preparation for the session.

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# Participation During the Session

The Client is expected to actively participate during the session.

Sharie Photography is not responsible for missed moments, missed expressions, or images affected by lack of attention, distractions, refusal to follow direction, or lack of participation.

Your engagement and willingness to trust the creative process have a significant impact on your final gallery.

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# Photography Style

Sharie Photography specializes in **candid, authentic, and natural storytelling.**

Natural movement, genuine emotion, and real interactions are the foundation of every session.

Posing guidance will absolutely be provided when needed, but heavily posed or overly staged images are not the primary focus of my work.

Clients book Sharie Photography because of this artistic approach and acknowledge they have reviewed previous work before booking.

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# Time Management

The Photographer will guide the session to maximize the time available.

However, Sharie Photography is not responsible if significant session time is lost due to:

- Late arrival

- Outfit changes taking longer than expected

- Excessive phone use

- Frequent breaks

- Unpreparedness

- Lack of cooperation

- Client-requested delays

Time lost cannot be recovered once the scheduled session has ended.

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# Editing Policy

Every delivered image is professionally edited in the artistic style of Sharie Photography.

Editing includes:

- Color correction

- Exposure adjustments

- White balance

- Cropping

- Background cleanup when appropriate

- Minor distractions removed when possible

- Skin texture smoothing

- Removal of mild temporary acne or blemishes

Sharie Photography **does not** provide:

- Body reshaping

- Weight reduction

- Face reshaping

- Nose adjustments

- Waist slimming

- Muscle enhancement

- Height adjustments

- Cosmetic surgery-style edits

- Permanent feature alterations

- Extensive digital manipulation

I value natural beauty exactly as it is.

My editing style is intended to enhance the image—not change who you are.

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# Appearance & Personal Insecurities

Photography captures people as they naturally appear.

Sharie Photography cannot alter permanent physical characteristics or guarantee that every Client will personally like every photograph of themselves.

The Photographer is not responsible for dissatisfaction related to permanent physical features, body shape, facial structure, expressions, posture, or personal insecurities that are outside the Photographer's control.

Clients are encouraged to book only if they are comfortable with the natural, authentic editing style shown throughout the Sharie Photography portfolio.

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# Artistic Style

By booking a session, the Client acknowledges they have viewed Sharie Photography's portfolio and understand the Photographer's shooting style, editing approach, composition, color grading, and creative direction.

Final galleries will reflect this artistic style.

Requests to imitate another photographer's editing or shooting style may be declined.

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# Weather

Outdoor sessions may be rescheduled if weather conditions create unsafe shooting conditions.

The decision to postpone due to weather will be made by Sharie Photography.

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# Image Selection

Sharie Photography determines which images best represent the session.

Not every image captured will be edited or delivered.

RAW (unedited) images are never delivered.

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# Gallery Delivery

Editing timelines vary depending on the season and workload.

Clients will receive their completed gallery as soon as possible.

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# Copyright

All images remain the copyrighted property of Sharie Photography.

Clients receive a personal-use license allowing them to download, print, and share their images.

Images may not be sold, heavily edited, altered with filters, or used commercially without written permission.

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# Social Media & Portfolio Use

Unless requested otherwise in writing before the session, Sharie Photography reserves the right to use images from your session for:

- Portfolio

- Website

- Social media

- Advertising

- Marketing

- Educational purposes

- Printed promotional materials

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# Safe Environment

Sharie Photography reserves the right to end any session immediately if there is harassment, discrimination, threatening behavior, illegal activity, intoxication, unsafe conditions, or abusive conduct.

No refunds will be issued in these situations.

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# Limitation of Liability

While every reasonable effort is made to create beautiful images and protect your files, Sharie Photography is not liable for circumstances beyond reasonable control, including but not limited to equipment malfunction, memory card failure, severe weather, accidents, illness, theft, or other unforeseen events.

In any event, liability shall not exceed the amount paid by the Client for the session.

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# Agreement to Policies

By paying the required booking deposit, the Client confirms that they have read, understood, and agreed to these policies in full.

These policies apply to every portrait and creative photography session booked through Sharie Photography.

Wedding & Content Creation Policies

At Sharie Photography, my goal is to create an enjoyable, organized, and stress-free experience while capturing your wedding day authentically. These policies are designed to clearly communicate expectations, protect both the Client and Sharie Photography, and help ensure the best possible experience for everyone involved.

By booking any wedding photography, wedding content creation, or videography service with Sharie Photography, the Client acknowledges that they have read, understood, and agreed to the following policies.

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# Booking & Retainer

A signed contract and non-refundable retainer are required to reserve your event date.

Dates are reserved exclusively for the Client once the retainer has been received. Until both the signed agreement and retainer are received, Sharie Photography cannot guarantee availability.

Retainers compensate for reserving the date, planning, consultations, administrative work, and the inability to accept other bookings for the same date.

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# Payment Policy

The remaining balance is due on the date specified in the contract.

Payments may be made using:

- Electronic Invoice

Accepted payment methods may change over time and will be communicated before payment is due.

Failure to make payment by the agreed due date may delay editing, delivery, or future services.

Returned payments or payment disputes are the responsibility of the Client.

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# Consultation & Planning

Successful wedding coverage depends heavily on preparation.

Clients are expected to communicate all important details before the planning deadline listed in their contract.

This includes but is not limited to:

- Timeline

- Ceremony details

- Reception schedule

- Family dynamics

- Special traditions

- Must-have moments

- Desired social media content

- Important people

- Venue information

- Vendor information

- Any restrictions imposed by the venue

Requests submitted after the planning deadline may not be accommodated.

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# Shot Lists

A customized shot list will be created based on discussions with the Client.

The agreed-upon shot list becomes the priority throughout the wedding day.

Additional requests made during the event may be accommodated when possible but are never guaranteed.

The Photographer reserves the right to prioritize the agreed shot list over spontaneous requests made by guests, family members, or vendors.

Coverage time cannot be extended to make up for additional requests.

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# Wedding Day Coverage

Coverage begins and ends at the contracted times.

Time lost because of schedule delays, hair and makeup delays, transportation issues, late ceremonies, weather delays, or other circumstances beyond the Photographer's control is considered part of the contracted coverage.

Additional coverage may be available for purchase if scheduling permits.

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# Content Creation Services

Wedding content creation focuses on creating behind-the-scenes and social-media-ready vertical video throughout the wedding day.

Content is captured specifically for platforms such as Instagram Reels, TikTok, Facebook Reels, and similar platforms.

Content creation is separate from traditional wedding videography unless otherwise stated in the contract.

Raw clips may or may not be included depending on the purchased package.

Edited content will be delivered according to the timeline outlined in the Client's contract.

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# Editing Policy

Every wedding is individually edited to match the artistic style of Sharie Photography.

Editing includes creative decisions involving:

- Color

- Exposure

- Cropping

- Audio (when applicable)

- Storytelling

- Clip selection

- Pacing

- Overall artistic presentation

The Photographer maintains full creative discretion over all editing decisions.

Individual content pieces include the number of revisions specified in the Client's contract.

Requests beyond the included revisions may be billed at the current editing rate.

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# Artistic Style

Clients book Sharie Photography because of the Photographer's unique creative style.

The Client acknowledges they have viewed previous work before booking and understand the editing style, composition, lighting approach, and storytelling techniques.

Editing requests that fundamentally alter the Photographer's artistic style may be declined.

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# Delivery Timeline

Delivery timelines vary depending on the package selected.

Unless otherwise stated in writing:

- Edited content is delivered as it is completed.

- Delivery timelines begin after the wedding date.

- Delivery may be affected by holidays, emergencies, severe weather, equipment failure, or other circumstances outside the Photographer's reasonable control.

Clients will be notified if unexpected delays occur.

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# Client Cooperation

The quality of the final product depends heavily on cooperation from the Client and guests.

Clients are responsible for:

- Following the timeline

- Being prepared for scheduled photos

- Gathering family members

- Communicating important changes

- Informing vendors of photography timing

Sharie Photography is not responsible for missed moments caused by unavailable individuals, schedule changes, lack of cooperation, or insufficient time.

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# Guest & Vendor Interference

Guests using phones, tablets, cameras, drones, or other recording devices may interfere with coverage.

Sharie Photography is not responsible for obstructed images or missed moments caused by guests or other vendors.

The Photographer reserves the right to politely request space to perform contracted services.

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# Venue Restrictions

Many venues impose restrictions regarding photography or videography.

The Client is responsible for obtaining any permissions required by the venue.

Sharie Photography is not responsible for images or video that cannot be captured because of venue rules or officiant restrictions.

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# Weather

Outdoor weddings are subject to weather conditions.

Rain, wind, snow, extreme temperatures, smoke, natural disasters, or other environmental conditions may affect coverage.

The Photographer will make reasonable efforts to continue coverage safely.

Safety of everyone involved always takes priority.

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# Equipment

Professional equipment is maintained and cared for to industry standards.

Backup cameras, memory cards, batteries, and other essential equipment are used whenever practical.

Although every reasonable precaution is taken, equipment failure may occasionally occur despite proper maintenance.

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# File Storage

Clients are encouraged to download and back up all delivered files promptly.

Sharie Photography makes reasonable efforts to retain files after delivery but does not guarantee permanent storage.

Archived files may be permanently deleted without notice after a reasonable retention period.

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# Copyright

All photographs, videos, edited content, and other creative works remain the intellectual property and copyrighted work of Sharie Photography unless otherwise agreed in writing.

Clients receive a personal-use license to enjoy and share their delivered images and videos.

Clients may:

- Share on social media

- Print for personal use

- Share with family and friends

Clients may not:

- Sell the work

- Alter or heavily edit the work

- Remove watermarks when applicable

- Enter the work into contests without written permission

- Submit the work for publication without written permission

Commercial use requires written licensing.

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# Social Media

Sharie Photography loves celebrating clients by sharing work online.

Unless otherwise agreed in writing, Sharie Photography reserves the right to use photographs, videos, and content created during the event for:

- Portfolio

- Website

- Social media

- Advertising

- Marketing

- Printed promotional materials

- Professional competitions

- Educational purposes

Clients requesting complete privacy should discuss this before booking.

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# Model Release

Unless otherwise agreed in writing, the Client grants permission for Sharie Photography to use photographs and video captured during the event for lawful promotional and portfolio purposes.

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# Cancellation

Retainers are non-refundable.

If the Client cancels, all payments previously made remain non-refundable unless otherwise stated in the contract.

Requests to reschedule are subject to availability and are not guaranteed.

A new contract may be required for rescheduled events.

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# Force Majeure

Sharie Photography shall not be considered in breach of any agreement if performance is prevented or delayed by events beyond reasonable control, including but not limited to:

- Severe weather

- Natural disasters

- Fire

- Government restrictions

- Acts of terrorism

- Epidemics or pandemics

- Civil unrest

- Transportation disruptions

- Illness

- Equipment theft

- Other emergencies

Reasonable efforts will be made to find an appropriate solution whenever possible.

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# Limitation of Liability

While every reasonable effort is made to provide exceptional service, Sharie Photography's liability for any claim arising out of the services provided shall be limited to the total amount paid by the Client under the applicable contract.

Sharie Photography is not liable for indirect, incidental, consequential, emotional, or speculative damages, including missed opportunities, lost profits, or disappointment arising from subjective artistic preferences.

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# Safe Working Environment

Sharie Photography reserves the right to leave any event where illegal activity, dangerous conditions, harassment, discrimination, threats, or abusive behavior create an unsafe working environment.

In such cases, payments already made are non-refundable.

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# Image Requests

The Photographer cannot guarantee the capture of every requested image or moment.

Weddings are live events, and coverage depends on timing, lighting, cooperation, venue conditions, and circumstances outside the Photographer's control.

Every reasonable effort will be made to capture the moments discussed during planning.

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# Agreement to Policies

Booking any service with Sharie Photography confirms that the Client has read, understood, and accepted these policies in their entirety.

These policies are incorporated into every booking and work together with the individual service contract signed by the Client.

Videography & Content Creation Policies

At Sharie Photography, my goal is to create authentic, meaningful visual memories while providing a relaxed and enjoyable experience. These policies outline what clients can expect when booking videography or content creation services and help ensure clear communication before, during, and after your session or event.

By paying the required booking deposit, the Client acknowledges that they have read, understood, and agreed to the following policies.

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# Booking & Deposit

A **non-refundable booking deposit** is required to reserve your date and time.

Your date is not secured until the deposit has been received.

The deposit compensates for reserving your date, planning, scheduling, consultations, and declining other potential bookings.

Deposits are non-refundable under all circumstances if the Client chooses to cancel.

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# Payment

The remaining balance is due on or before the date of service unless otherwise agreed.

Payments may be made through:

- Cash App

- Venmo

- Cash

- Electronic Invoice

Failure to complete payment may delay delivery of edited content.

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# Communication

Clients are responsible for communicating all important details before the scheduled service.

This includes:

- Timeline

- Desired content

- Important people

- Must-have moments

- Social media goals

- Music preferences (when applicable)

- Locations

- Any special requests

Requests made during or after the event **WILL NOT** be accommodated.

Clear communication before the event allows the best possible final product.

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# Coverage

Coverage begins and ends at the times listed in the booking.

Coverage lost due to late starts, schedule changes, transportation delays, venue delays, or client-related interruptions cannot be recovered unless additional time has been purchased and is available.

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# Shot Lists

Clients are encouraged to communicate their priorities before the event.

A shot list will be created whenever appropriate.

The agreed-upon shot list becomes the priority during coverage.

Additional requests made throughout the event may be completed when possible but are never guaranteed.

Sharie Photography reserves the right to prioritize previously discussed moments over spontaneous requests.

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# Photography Comes First

Photography is the primary service and specialty of Sharie Photography.

While videography and content creation services are offered, photography remains my primary professional focus.

When photography and videography responsibilities overlap, priority may be given to capturing important photographic moments to ensure the highest quality experience for photography clients.

Clients understand that certain moments may not be captured from every angle or in both photo and video formats simultaneously.

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# Videography Experience & Creative Growth

Videography is a growing area of my business and creative journey.

While I am committed to continually improving my skills, investing in education, and delivering the highest quality work possible, my videography services are developing alongside my photography business.

By booking videography services, Clients acknowledge they have reviewed my existing portfolio and understand the current style, quality, and approach of my video work.

Clients who choose Sharie Photography for videography understand they are supporting an evolving creative service and agree to approach the experience with realistic expectations, flexibility, and trust in my artistic process.

Every project receives my full effort, attention, and care, and I am committed to producing work that reflects continuous growth and creativity.

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# Content Creation

Content creation is intended for behind-the-scenes storytelling and social media.

Services may include:

- Vertical videos

- Behind-the-scenes footage

- Reels

- TikTok-style content

- Lifestyle clips

- Candid moments

- Trend-inspired edits when requested

Content creation is not intended to replace a full traditional cinematic wedding film unless specifically stated.

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# Creative Style

Sharie Photography specializes in authentic storytelling.

My work focuses on:

- Natural movement

- Genuine emotion

- Real interactions

- Candid moments

- Creative composition

While direction may be provided when appropriate, heavily scripted or perfectly staged videos are not my primary style.

Clients book Sharie Photography because they appreciate this artistic approach.

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# Client Participation

The quality of your final video depends greatly on your willingness to participate naturally.

Sharie Photography is not responsible for missed moments caused by:

- Lack of participation

- Failure to follow direction

- Looking away from the camera

- Frequent phone use

- Time management issues

- Schedule delays

- Guests blocking shots

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# Guests & Vendors

Guests and vendors occasionally interfere with filming.

Sharie Photography is not responsible for blocked camera angles, missed footage, or interruptions caused by guests, photographers, coordinators, officiants, DJs, or venue staff.

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# Editing

Editing decisions are made entirely by Sharie Photography.

Editing may include:

- Color correction

- Exposure adjustments

- Audio balancing

- Music selection (when licensed)

- Storytelling

- Pacing

- Transitions

- Cropping

- Vertical formatting

Creative editing choices remain at the Photographer's discretion.

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# Revisions

If revisions are included in your package, they apply only to reasonable editing adjustments.

Requests that substantially change the entire edit, storytelling style, or creative direction may require an additional editing fee.

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# Delivery Timeline

Delivery timelines vary depending on the project.

Content may be delivered in stages as it is completed.

Clients will be notified if unforeseen circumstances create delays.

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# Music

Music selections are made using properly licensed music whenever applicable.

Specific songs cannot always be guaranteed due to licensing restrictions.

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# RAW Footage

RAW, unedited clips remain the property of Sharie Photography and are not included unless specifically purchased or agreed upon in writing.

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# Copyright

All video content remains the copyrighted property of Sharie Photography.

Clients receive a personal-use license for their delivered videos.

Commercial use requires written permission and, when applicable, a commercial license.

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# Social Media & Portfolio Use

Unless requested otherwise in writing before the project begins, Sharie Photography reserves the right to use completed work for:

- Portfolio

- Website

- Social media

- Advertising

- Marketing

- Educational purposes

- Professional competitions

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# Safe Working Environment

Sharie Photography reserves the right to stop filming immediately if unsafe conditions, illegal activity, harassment, discrimination, intoxication, threats, or abusive behavior create an unsafe working environment.

Payments made are non-refundable.

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# Limitation of Liability

While every reasonable effort is made to safely capture and preserve your footage, Sharie Photography is not responsible for circumstances beyond reasonable control, including but not limited to equipment malfunction, memory card failure, corrupted files, weather, venue restrictions, illness, accidents, or other unforeseen events.

Liability for any claim arising from videography or content creation services shall not exceed the total amount paid by the Client for the affected service.

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# Agreement to Policies

By paying the required booking deposit, the Client confirms that they have read, understood, and agreed to these policies.

These policies apply to all videography and content creation services provided by Sharie Photography.