Legality Issues Related to Photo Retouching/Restoration

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

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.

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

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?

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!