Is scouting deductible?

Yes, with documented commercial purpose.

Does gallery delivery count?

Yes, it is part of the service deliverable.

For photographers

Mileage receipts for photo shoots

Weddings, sessions, locations and gallery delivery — MEI-friendly log.

Professional photographers — wedding, portrait, commercial — travel to every shoot. Travel to remote locations is significant expense that enters the MEI or Schedule C.

Common pains

Remote locations — Destination weddings generate 200+ km.
Location scouting — Pre-visit is deductible.
Physical gallery delivery — Prints or albums delivered in person.

Best practices

Log scouting separately — Pre-visit has commercial purpose.
Use the client name in purpose — Tie the trip to the paid shoot.
Separate session from event — Distinct commercials.

Frequently asked questions

Is scouting deductible?: Yes, with documented commercial purpose.
Weekend wedding?: Yes, round-trip deductible.
Does gallery delivery count?: Yes, it is part of the service deliverable.

Photographers who document recover up to US$ 4,500/year in professional deductions.