HQ Portraits

Master Terms of Service

Last updated: March 26, 2026 • Version: v2.1

1. Agreement to Terms

This Master Terms of Service constitutes a legally binding agreement between HQ Portraits and the client. By using the website, booking a session, or purchasing a gift card, you agree to these terms.

2. Eligibility and Use of Service

  • 2.1. Age Requirement: You must be at least 18 years old to form a binding contract.
  • 2.2. Lawful Use: You agree to use our studio and website only for lawful purposes.

3. Booking, Pricing, and Card-on-File Authorization

  • 3.1. Session Pricing: Current rates and package details are available at hqportraits.com/booking.
  • 3.2. Reservation Retainer: Payments hold your specific date and time.
  • 3.3. Non-Refundable Booking Fee: A $10 non-refundable fee is required to initiate certain bookings and remains non-refundable under all circumstances.

4. Gift Cards

  • 4.1. Validity: Valid for one year from purchase.
  • 4.2. Non-Refundable: Gift cards cannot be exchanged for cash.
  • 4.3. Single Use: Any remaining balance after the first booking is forfeited.

5. Cancellation and Rescheduling

  • 5.1. Cancellation Policy (>24h Notice): If you cancel at least 24 hours before the session, you will receive a refund minus the $10 non-refundable booking fee.
  • 5.2. Late Cancellation and No-Shows (<24h Notice): Cancellations with less than 24-hour notice, or failure to arrive, result in forfeiture of all funds paid.
  • 5.3. Rescheduling: One complimentary reschedule is allowed with at least 24 hours notice. Later changes may trigger a $35 rescheduling fee charged to the card on file.

6. Studio Rules and North Carolina Fire Safety

  • 6.1. Fire Code Compliance: Smoking, vaping, open flames, candles, incense, and sparklers are strictly prohibited.
  • 6.2. Violation Penalty: Violations may result in immediate session termination without refund and a $500 safety violation fee.
  • 6.3. Alcohol and Liquids: Alcohol is prohibited. Champagne may be used only as a closed prop. Opening a bottle may trigger a $500 replacement fee.

7. Equipment and Backdrop Liability

  • 7.1. Perfect Focus Rule: Do not touch, move, or unplug cameras, lights, or the Magic Mirror.
  • 7.2. Property Damage: The client is responsible for repair or replacement costs for equipment damaged by their party.
  • 7.3. Backdrop Maintenance: Floor refresh, full reset, or cleaning fees may apply when backdrops are stained, torn, or otherwise damaged beyond normal wear.

8. Media Release and Privacy

  • 8.1. Fort Knox Privacy: By default, HQ Portraits will never publicly display your images.
  • 8.2. Model Release: If you opt in, you grant HQ Portraits the right to use images for advertising and marketing.

9. Intellectual Property and Website Use

  • 9.1. Ownership: Website content and HQ Portraits assets are protected by applicable copyright and intellectual property law.

10. Legal Disclaimers and Jurisdiction

  • 10.1. Disclaimer: Services are provided "as is."
  • 10.2. Liability: HQ Portraits is not liable for incidental damages or personal injury except in cases of gross negligence.
  • 10.3. Governing Law: This agreement is governed by North Carolina law. Exclusive jurisdiction lies in Mecklenburg County, North Carolina.

Contact

Questions about these terms can be sent to Hi@hqportraits.com. Studio address: 415 Minuet Lane, Suite "E", Charlotte, NC, 28217.