Do you guys require a deposit for shoots (non-bridal)? Recently I've been leaning heavily toward making them mandatory due to some flaking.

However I'm also a bit fearful in the fact that once I'm 'locked in' the photographer, model, etc etc will make last minute location/time changes...which can be a total pain.

Any insight, pros, and cons will be helpful .

*PS I'm aware of the 'deposit' typo for the title. My bad : /.

As a photographer, I require a deposit for paid shoots.
Deposit is non - refundable due to the work done before a shoot.
Also state the location/time in the little contract that goes with the deposit...saves getting stuffed around when locations/times are changed.
Change the location and/or time for a contracted shoot and client can expect a new contract and possible change in amount of deposit...if they aren't happy with the revised contract because they changed either time/location...they can choose another artist and lose their deposit.

No deposit for non-bridal. I have a clear contract, which a lawyer did for me, that includes sizable fees for late payment.

Requiring a deposit for non-private clients just ain't gonna work, it's hassle companies don't need to deal with, especially given the number of makeup artists out there, most of whom don't require deposits. I think it would just lose you bookings.