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1. Booking & Deposit
A non-refundable deposit, as specified in the photography tour description, is required at the time of booking and must be submitted along with a completed and signed booking form. Bookings are only considered confirmed upon receipt of the deposit, the booking form, and proof of valid travel and medical insurance that includes cancellation and curtailment coverage.
2. Cancellation by the Client
If a participant decides to cancel their reservation, they may do so at any time by notifying the organizers as soon as possible via email at barakatphotography@outlook.com or mihail.minkov@gmail.com.
However, please note that client cancellations can cause administrative challenges and may jeopardize the minimum number of participants required to run the tour. Therefore, the following cancellation terms apply:
The initial deposit is non-refundable and non-negotiable.
If cancellation is made more than 90 days prior to the tour start date, no additional charges will apply.
If cancellation is made within 90 days of the tour start date, the entire tour fee becomes non-refundable.
An exception is made only if the canceling participant finds a replacement: if another person takes over the canceled booking and pays the full trip cost, a full refund (excluding any payment processing or transfer fees) may be issued to the original participant.
3. Client Responsibility
It remains the client’s responsibility to secure adequate insurance that covers cancellation, curtailment, and all other potential travel risks. Barakat Photography GmbH accepts no responsibility or liability for participants who are not properly insured. Failure to obtain suitable coverage does not exempt the client from the refund conditions above.
4. Mandatory Insurance Requirement
Travel and medical insurance are mandatory for all participants. It is a strict condition of participation that all clients obtain comprehensive insurance that includes, but is not limited to:
Cancellation or curtailment (in whole or in part)
Travel delays or interruptions
Medical expenses and hospitalisation
Emergency repatriation
Personal accident and injury
Baggage loss or theft
Third-party liability
Natural disaster and weather-related incidents
Barakat Photography GmbH accepts no responsibility or liability for participants who fail to obtain adequate insurance. Proof of valid coverage must be provided prior to the tour.
5. Tour Cancellation by Barakat Photography GmbH
We reserve the right to cancel any photography tour. In such a case, a full refund of the tour fee will be issued. Barakat Photography GmbH is not liable for the refund of any client expenses such as flights, accommodations, or other third-party bookings. Tour cancellations will only occur in cases of force majeure or underbooking (see section 6), and clients will be notified at least 90 days prior to the start date when possible.
6. Underbooking & Force Majeure
Underbooking is defined as the failure to meet the minimum number of participants required for the tour to proceed. Force majeure refers to circumstances beyond our control, including but not limited to war, terrorism, civil unrest, strikes, pandemics, government restrictions, industrial action, natural disasters, extreme weather, or other extraordinary events.
7. Changes Due to Illness or Unforeseen Circumstances
If Benjamin Barakat is unable to lead the tour due to illness or other uncontrollable events, a qualified replacement may be assigned. Alternatively, a new date may be proposed or full reimbursement offered.
8. Weather & Itinerary Flexibility
Tour itineraries are subject to change due to weather conditions or logistical considerations. Adverse weather (including cloud cover that affects astrophotography), natural disasters, or other uncontrollable events do not entitle clients to a refund. Flexibility is required due to the unpredictable nature of outdoor photography.
9. Liability & Legal Jurisdiction
Barakat Photography GmbH does not accept liability for death, personal injury, or illness unless resulting from proven negligence by the company or its employees acting in the course of their duties. Any legal claims must be pursued under Swiss law. Jurisdiction for any dispute will be exclusively in the courts of Switzerland. This clause complies with applicable Swiss, EU, and international consumer protection and liability standards.
10. Loss, Delays & Additional Expenses
Barakat Photography GmbH shall not be held liable for delays, cancellations, or interruptions in travel services caused by weather, political unrest, industrial action, natural disasters, or other events beyond our control. Any additional costs incurred are the responsibility of the client, and adequate insurance should be in place.
11. Passport, Visa & Health Requirements
Clients are solely responsible for obtaining and carrying valid passports, visas, travel permits, and health certificates (including vaccinations) required for the entire duration of the journey. Any advice provided by us is given in good faith but does not replace official government or medical recommendations.
12. Special Requirements & Health Disclosure
All special dietary, mobility, or medical needs must be communicated at the time of booking. Some tour locations may have limited access to medical facilities. Clients must carry their own medication and ensure their travel insurance includes emergency medical evacuation and treatment coverage. Failure to do so may result in denied participation without refund.
13. Code of Conduct
Clients are expected to behave respectfully and responsibly at all times. Barakat Photography GmbH reserves the right to remove any participant who is disruptive, aggressive, or otherwise behaves in a manner that puts themselves, others, or the tour at risk. Removal from the tour under such conditions does not warrant a refund.
14. Use of Photographs and Likeness
Participants agree that Barakat Photography GmbH may use photographs or video taken during the tour — in which they may appear — for promotional purposes, unless the client explicitly opts out in writing prior to the tour.
15. Data Protection and Privacy
All client data will be handled in accordance with the Swiss Federal Act on Data Protection (FADP) and the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Personal data will be used strictly for tour administration and not shared with third parties beyond what is necessary to deliver services (e.g., hotels, transport providers).
16. Complaints and Dispute Resolution
Any complaints should be raised during the tour to allow an opportunity for resolution. Unresolved complaints must be submitted in writing within 14 days of the tour’s conclusion. Before initiating legal proceedings, both parties agree to attempt mediation in Switzerland.
17. Limitation of Liability
Barakat Photography GmbH’s total liability in respect of any claim shall not exceed the amount paid by the client for the specific tour. We shall not be liable for any indirect, incidental, or consequential losses.
18. Health and Fitness to Participate
By booking a tour, you confirm that you are in good physical condition and able to undertake the activities described in the itinerary. If you have any doubts about your physical condition, please consult your physician and contact us before booking. We reserve the right to decline participation for individuals whose health may compromise the safety or experience of others.
19. Acceptance of Terms
By signing the booking form, you confirm that you have read and agree to these Terms and Conditions. The person signing the form does so on behalf of all individuals listed, and assumes responsibility for communicating these terms to them.
20. Nature of Services and Liability for Third-Party Providers
Barakat Photography GmbH provides educational photography experiences that may include assistance in coordinating logistics such as accommodation, internal transfers, meals, and local excursions. We are not a licensed travel agent or tour operator, and as such, we do not offer package holidays within the legal definition under Swiss or EU travel law.
All third-party services (e.g. hotels, drivers, guides, transport companies) are booked on your behalf, and any contract for those services exists between you and the provider. Barakat Photography GmbH cannot accept liability for any losses, damages, delays, or failures caused by third-party service providers.
While we strive to choose reliable partners, any disputes or claims related to third-party service delivery must be addressed directly with the provider in question.
We do not guarantee that logistics-related bookings will qualify for reimbursement under travel insurance policies.It is your responsibility to confirm with your insurer whether our services or receipts meet their requirements.
21. Responsibility for Photography Equipment
Clients are solely responsible for their own photography equipment, including cameras, lenses, drones, tripods, and accessories. Barakat Photography GmbH accepts no responsibility for loss, theft, or damage to personal equipment during the tour. Clients should ensure their travel insurance covers photography equipment.
22. Learning Outcomes Disclaimer
While every effort is made to provide guidance and instruction, the artistic results achieved during the tour depend on individual skill and conditions. No guarantees are made regarding the quantity or quality of photographic output.
23. Photographing Locals and Model Releases
Clients are responsible for obtaining permission or model releases when photographing individuals in public or private settings. Barakat Photography GmbH accepts no liability for disputes or claims arising from the unauthorized use of images of third parties.
24. Personal Belongings and Baggage
Participants are responsible for their own luggage and personal belongings at all times. Barakat Photography GmbH will not be held liable for lost, stolen, or damaged items.
25. Authority of the Tour Leader
Barakat Photography GmbH and its representatives reserve the right to make decisions in the best interest of the group. This includes altering the itinerary, removing disruptive individuals, or adjusting the schedule due to safety or logistical concerns.