Freelance Photographers

Clemson University is soliciting bids from freelance photographers to provide professional photography services on an as-needed basis, primarily covering events and student headshots. The contract is structured for an initial term of up to one year starting February 1, 2024, with possible automatic renewals annually for a maximum contract period through October 4, 2028. New suppliers may be added only twice yearly—in January and June—provided they meet the solicitation requirements outlined in the online bidding system. The contract has an estimated total value not to exceed $500,000 over the five-year period. Photographers are expected to deliver high-quality images using professional-grade camera equipment, adhering to professional standards of conduct and appearance. Deliverables include high-resolution JPG files with embedded metadata, uploaded to Clemson University's cloud storage, with basic post-production editing limited to color and exposure correction. Heavy retouching or Photoshop manipulation is expressly prohibited. Interested bidders must submit proposals electronically via Clemson’s online bidding portal, including a technical proposal, cost proposal demonstrating the hourly rate of $200 or less, and at least five photographic work samples from similar institutional or governmental clients. Offer clarity and responsiveness to the solicitation requirements are critical for award consideration. The awarded photographer, currently The Pirate Photographer Patrick Wright, is contracted for services with a contract term starting February 2024. The contract incorporates Clemson University's standard terms and conditions, requiring compliance with federal and state regulations including equal opportunity provisions, debarment and suspension requirements, prohibition on certain telecommunications equipment, as well as licensing and drug-free workplace certifications. Inspection rights are reserved by Clemson, with acceptance contingent on performance conforming to contract specifications. Invoice payments are handled by Clemson University Procurement and Business Services, requiring proper itemization and reference to the purchase order number. The contract obligates bidders to maintain all required licenses, meet personnel standards including sobriety and qualifications, and prohibits subcontractor substitution except under specific conditions. Overall, this contract establishes a flexible, professional, and regulated framework for freelance photographers to provide quality services aligned with Clemson University’s standards and needs across multiple years.