Legality Issues Related to Photo Retouching/Restoration

[SamClarkPhotography]

Hi guys, I'm fairly new to the business aspect of photography and have run into a little snag that needs answered quickly. I figure'd this would be the best place:

THE SCENARIO: I had a possible customer / friend-of-the-family e-mail me requesting me to touch-up some photos of her daughter's recent wedding that I did not photograph. She has digital files and just needs two fixed. They are not extensive touch-ups, just removing a few choice flower petals.


THE QUESTION: Can I 'restore'/'retouch' the photos and charge her for it legally? I did not photograph the wedding and am not in contact with the original photographer. Are there any other issues I should be aware of?

Thanks in Advance!

Sam Clark

[gjl711]

Well, I’m no lawyer, but I would venture a guess that it depended entirely on the original contract and who has ownership the images. Without seeing the original contract, I would say that it’s impossible to tell.

[SamClarkPhotography]

That makes sense. I am waiting on a reply from the customer regarding how she acquired the digital files.

[noxcuses1]

Wouldn't the contract state that the digital images are not to be altered by anyone?
That could be part of the agreement, so I would be sure that the contract doesn't have that clause.

Also, why wouldn't she just pay the photographer who took the pics to edit those out?

[SamClarkPhotography]

Sorry so late getting back to this thread. Here's what I found out:

The original photographer was the sister of the mother-of-the-bride. She was/is not a professional photographer. I spoke with her and she gave permission to me to edit them.

Thanks to everyone for your help!