Secure Proof Delivery: How We Protect Your Work Before the Sale
Understanding the layers of security that keep your images safe during client review
When you share proofs with clients, you're taking a calculated risk. Your unreleased work is out there, viewable by others, before you've been paid. At Proof & Purchase, we've built multiple layers of protection to minimize that risk.
The Problem with Traditional Proofing
Many photographers still email low-resolution previews or share Dropbox links with watermarked JPEGs. These approaches have serious drawbacks:
- Emails can be forwarded to anyone
- Cloud links can be shared publicly
- Downloaded files live forever on client devices
- Manual watermarking is time-consuming and inconsistent
Our Multi-Layer Approach
1. Automatic Watermarking
Every image you upload gets a tiled watermark applied automatically. Your brand text is rendered across the entire image in repeating rows, making it impossible to crop out while remaining subtle enough for clients to evaluate the photo.
2. Secure, Expiring Links
Share links aren't permanent URLs to your content. Each link contains a cryptographic token that:
- Can expire after a set number of days
- Can be revoked instantly if needed
- Tracks access attempts for your records
3. No Direct Image URLs
Clients never get direct URLs to your image files. All images are served through our application layer, which verifies permissions on every request. Right-clicking "Save Image As" only saves a watermarked preview.
4. Optional Password Protection
For sensitive shoots—boudoir, private events, corporate work—add a password requirement. Clients must enter the password before viewing any images.
What Happens After Purchase
Once payment clears, the security model inverts. Clients receive:
- Time-limited download links (not permanent URLs)
- Full-resolution, unwatermarked originals
- Option to download individually or as a ZIP archive
- Email confirmation with access details
The download links expire after 30 days, encouraging clients to save their files promptly while preventing link sharing months later.
Peace of Mind for Every Shoot
Security isn't just about preventing theft—it's about confidence. When you know your work is protected, you can focus on delivering the best possible client experience without anxiety about unauthorized use.