Survey on charges of pre-wedding photography services
Consumer Council conducted a survey on the services and charges of local pre-wedding photography services, the survey result shows that if consumers choose to cancel their contracts or fail to finish photo sessions due to personal reasons within the agreed period, paid deposit is non-refundable under normal circumstances. Further, as pre-wedding photography is a kind of prepayment consumption, consumers’ rights may be affected by various factors from the moment deposit is paid, therefore, consumers should read thoroughly the restrictions of the photo shooting company and choose the service that suits them best. A feature of this is included in issue no. 280 Consumer Report. Wedding photo companies restriction on non-refundable deposit The surveyed wedding photo companies require consumers to pay part or a specific amount as deposit for arranging pre-wedding photography. The survey result shows that consumers are required to finish their photo shooting sessions within a specific period, which varies from six months to two years after deposit is paid. If consumers choose to cancel the service or fail to finish the photo sessions due to personal reasons, deposit is usually non-refundable in most circumstances. Only certain photo companies allow consumers to transfer their services to others. Although charges are agreed by consumers and photo shooting companies, the survey result shows that consumers will be charged extra fees for items such as extra shooting hours. Moreover, some photo shooting companies do not accept change of appointment date by consumers. Compare before making decision Consumers are suggested to refer to the survey for the various charging methods, regulations, and service arrangement of pre-wedding photo shooting companies; it is also suggested to inquire more from the companies about their services and charging conditions before making any decision. Pay attention to the risks of consumption with prepayment Pre-wedding photo shooting service is a kind of prepayment consumption, the Council suggests consumers to choose companies with goodwill, and to sign contract with the company to confirm transaction details and charging fees. Consumers should also read through contract terms, especially the terms regarding the rights and responsibilities of both parties, before signing the contract. Further, consumers are advised not to pay too much money as deposit to safeguard their own rights during the period before photo shooting sessions are completed. Consumer alert: never buy drugs online Online shopping is trending now but it may be illegal and dangerous to purchase drugs online, a ‘consumer alert’ is featured in this issue to remind consumers not to purchase any drugs from online shops. Consumer Report is now available free of charge at the Council (Av. Horta e Costa, N.º 26, Edf. Clementina Ho), and the service counter of the Council at Macao SAR Government Service Centre (Rua Nova da Areia Preta, Nº52), Public Information Centre at Vicky Plaza, libraries, and bookstores. Consumers may also access the magazine online on the Council’s official website (http://www.consumer.gov.mo) and WeChat official account. For enquiry, please call 8988-9315.