Should You Ask for a 50% Advance? How Photographers Can Secure Payment Before the Shoot

Q:

Do you suggest always requesting a 50% advance? If so, what’s the best way to ask for it?

A:

Yes. Always include a request for an advance in your estimate, so it’s in writing once the estimate is approved. I use simple language like, “50% of total due prior to beginning of shoot.” If they ask for a different amount and it’s reasonable, that’s fine with me. I just need a legal guarantee that my photographers will be paid. I’d be scared to work without that reassurance.