How to Handle Photo or Video Clients Who Request Your RAW Files
written by PAUL WEAVER
What do you do when your client asks for the RAW files from a project? Do you give them the files, or do you hold on to them? I want to offer some guidance on how to handle such clients.
The RAW files are unprocessed images that come straight from the camera. They are not suitable for client use, and that's why most photographers or videographers don't typically include them in their package. However, some clients may want them so that they can edit the images themselves.
One of the crucial things you can do as a photographer or videographer is to educate your clients about what the RAW files entail. Most clients do not understand that the RAW files require processing to enhance their quality, and that's why you should educate them on why their request may not be suitable. Let them know that you edit the images to ensure they meet the quality standards you promise and that the unedited files are not part of the package. Do not hesitate to inform them, that offering RAW files may make your work look bad, and therefore, you are hesitant to do so.
CLIENT RESPONSE EXAMPLE:
You can respond to client requests with a message similar to this…
“Thank you for your interest in the photos I took for your project. I understand that you are looking for the raw assets of the photos.
Unfortunately, I do not typically include raw assets in my services as they are unfinished and may not be suitable for print or digital use. I apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.
If you’d like to purchase additional edited images from our project/session, please let me know and I’d be happy to deliver those for you at $X per image.
If you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out.”
COMMUNICATION IS KEY
Before giving out any RAW files, consider that it is not only a potential business risk but also a violation of your terms of contract. To avoid potential legal consequences, make sure you specify your RAW delivery policy while writing your client agreements.
In conclusion, it is important to note that offering RAW files is not necessarily something you should be doing as a photographer or videographer. It’s important to educate clients on why the request is not suitable and why editing your work appropriately matters. Your standard service should include the final edited images or footage that meet certain quality standards.
With that being said, always make sure you have a clear contract agreement in place with your client, which should protect you and ensure that everyone is on the same page during the photoshoot or filming period.
