Platform Protection Policy
Keeping Pickxel safe for everyone
Did someone ask to make a payment outside Pickxel?
Getting paid outside Pickxel violates our Terms of Service and can result in permanent loss of your account. You can keep your account safe by reporting this behavior.
What is Circumvention?
Circumvention is when users attempt to move their business relationship off Pickxel to avoid platform fees. This includes sharing contact information before a booking is paid, requesting off-platform payments, or encouraging clients to book directly for future sessions.
- • Sharing phone, email or social handles before the booking is paid
- • Requesting payment via Venmo, Zelle, cash
- • Asking clients to book directly next time
- • Sharing social media to bypass Pickxel
- • Offering discounts for off-platform payment
- • Sharing contact info in Pickxel messages once the booking is paid
- • Coordinating shoot logistics in Pickxel messaging
- • Sharing portfolio links (no contact info)
- • Discussing project details on Pickxel messaging
- • All payments processed through Pickxel
Why This Policy Exists
This policy protects both photographers and clients. When transactions happen on Pickxel, everyone benefits from:
Payment Protection
Pickxel holds the payment until the client approves the photos or the review window ends.
Professional Contracts
Clear terms protect both parties
Dispute Resolution
Pickxel mediates if issues arise
Verified Reviews
Build credible reputation over time
What Happens If You Break This Policy?
First Violation: Warning
Your account is flagged and you receive a formal warning.
Second Violation: Suspension
Your profile is removed from search, and until it is restored you are outside the protections that come with platform bookings: payment held by Pickxel, contracts, dispute mediation, and reviews.
Third Violation: Permanent Removal
Your account is permanently closed. All badges, reviews, and credentials are lost forever.
Both photographers AND clients who participate in circumvention are subject to these consequences.
How to Respond to Circumvention Requests
If someone asks you to move payments or communication off Pickxel, here are professional ways to respond:
If asked for off-platform payment:
"I appreciate the offer, but I keep all my bookings on Pickxel because it protects both of us. You get payment protection and a contract, and I know the payment is made before the shoot. Plus, moving off-platform could result in both our accounts being suspended. Let's keep everything here where we're both protected!"
If asked for contact info before the booking is paid:
"I'd be happy to share my contact details here in Pickxel messages once the booking is paid. Pickxel's policy is that messages stay contact-free until then, and everything we need to plan the shoot is handled right here in the app. This actually helps both of us, because Pickxel can assist if any issues come up. Let's get your booking paid and then we can sort out all the details!"
If asked to book directly next time:
"I really enjoyed working with you too! For future sessions, I do keep all my bookings on Pickxel - it helps me manage my schedule, handle contracts, and the reviews help grow my business. Plus you get the same protections every time. Just search for me when you're ready to book again!"
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, in Pickxel messages. Once a booking is confirmed, which happens when the client pays in full through Pickxel, you may share your phone number or email in messages if you both choose. Pickxel itself never gives either party the other's contact details, and booking communication stays in Pickxel messaging so it is documented for both of you. Before payment, messages cannot include contact details.
If a client discovered you through your own marketing, website, or referral (not through Pickxel), you're welcome to work with them however you prefer. This policy only applies to relationships that originated on the Pickxel platform.
Yes. Even asking or suggesting off-platform payment is a violation, regardless of whether it actually happens. If someone asks you to pay outside Pickxel, please report it immediately.
Politely decline and explain that Pickxel bookings protect both of you. If they continue to insist, report the conversation to Pickxel. You will not be penalized for reporting - we want to protect photographers from being pressured.
Remember: Legitimate clients appreciate the protection that comes with Pickxel bookings.
You can lower your package price, or waive an add-on in your quote, as long as the booking stays on Pickxel. What's not allowed is offering discounts specifically for paying outside Pickxel (e.g., "I'll give you 20% off if you pay me directly").
During a suspension, clients can't see your profile. If your account is permanently removed, all badges, reviews, and credentials are permanently lost and cannot be recovered.
See Something? Report It.
Help keep Pickxel safe for everyone. Reports go to the founder's inbox; you'll hear back if more is needed, and reporting is never penalised.