Ditto on the last post. My bookings are reserved with a "booking fee". In the case of a contracted event or work (eg. Wedding or Commercial Shoot) the fee is applied, in full to the balance when the work is paid for. In the case of studio portraiture clients the booking fee is the first hour's cost and, again, applied to the print order in full.
Whenever I recive any money, regardless of the amount, I always provide the client an invoice where the "fee" is clearly listed. The invoice is signed and the terms and conditions are accepted. The terms give me 100% of the descision to return the fee, should I feel it's appropriate. I do return fees. Typically if the cancellation in at least 2 weeks in advance for most sessions and 30 days in advance for larger bookings.
Bottom line...... it's a fee...... and always provide an invoice or signed contract when you recieve any money from any client. I mean any client.
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