If I am a "volunteer photographer" ..I don't charge people..Am I liable?

Question

I am a stay at home mom that wants to someday become a photographer. I have been taking many pictures of my child but would like to expand beyond just that. I can't have a business right now, so I just want to volunteer my talent. I would take the pictures and the "client" would reimburse me the cost of having the CD made at for an example at Walgreens.

Answer 1

Yes. You can be held liable for your photos. It would really depend on the situation.

Answer 2

Take out a business license-minimal cost. Be a sole proprietor and keep books. I teach music and only sell my service and it works good for me. I have to do extra work on tax returns, but I keep books. You can charge them what it cost you to have the film developed and put on a disk and they are just reimbursing you for that cost which already includes tax. Some cities require you purchase in the city or local area. But you can also declare a cost of doing business on your taxes for your services.