Request for Proposal (RFP) for Photography Services – 2026 Autumn Tourism
Issued by: Cattaraugus County Department of Economic Development, Planning & Tourism
Date Issued: July 15, 2026
Proposal Due Date: August 5, 2026 at 1pm
1. Introduction
Cattaraugus County Department of Economic Development, Planning & Tourism is seeking proposals from qualified Photographers to create a high-quality photos of autumn tourism experiences in the Enchanted Mountains (Cattaraugus County). The final product will highlight autumn activities, scenic landscapes, and autumn events options to inspire visitors to choose our area as a premier autumn getaway destination.
2. Project Overview
Cattaraugus County, located in Western New York, is known for its stunning natural beauty, particularly during the autumn season. To capture picturesque landscapes and seasonal activities for promotional purposes, we are seeking proposals from qualified photographers.
The purpose of this RFP is to solicit proposals from experienced photographers who can provide high-quality photography services to showcase autumn tourism activities and the autumn beauty of Cattaraugus County. The selected photographer will be responsible for capturing iconic scenery, seasonal activities that highlight the season.
3. Scope of Work
The selected photographer will be responsible for:
- Pre-Production
- Collaborating with Enchanted Mountains to establish a visual style.
- Planning shot lists around autumn recreation, experiences, and scenic landscapes.
- Production
- On-location photos of:
- Autumn Activities: hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking and cycling, boating, paddling, fishing, Amish Trail, camping, and events.
- Scenic & Lifestyle Shots: autumn forests, mountain/hill views, families enjoying autumn activities, couples experiencing autumn activities.
- Drone photos required.
- On-location photos of:
- Post-Production
- A total of 400 edited images – Edited digital images suitable for both print and online use, delivered via a secured online gallery or USB drive. - A brief narrative describing each photo or series (when necessary) to provide context. Each image should be uncompressed, either maximum quality JPEG or High-Resolution TIFF, minimum resolution: 300ppi.
- Model Releases: Model releases must be included for any identifiable models.
4. Proposal Requirements
Proposals should include:
- Company/individual name and contact information.
- Portfolio showcasing outdoor, tourism, or lifestyle photography.
- Proposed creative approach for highlighting autumn tourism.
- Itemized budget, including filming, editing, travel, drone usage, and optional services.
- Project timeline from start to final delivery.
- References from similar work.
5. Evaluation Criteria
Proposals will be evaluated based on the following criteria:
- Technical & Creative Quality 50%
- Portfolio and sample work demonstrate relevant skill and style
- Demonstrates an understanding of the project
- Overall creativity and visual impact
- Professional Experience 20%
- Relevant experience with similar projects or clients
- Client references and testimonials indicate a positive track record
- Team expertise and availability of qualified personnel
- Price and Value 30%
- Competitive and transparent pricing
- Clear breakdown of costs and deliverables (e.g., usage rights, retouching, photo editing)
6. Budget
The budget for this project may not exceed $7,000. Please provide an itemized cost proposal with optional add-ons clearly noted.
7. Timeline
- RFP issued: 2026-07-15
- Proposals due: 2026-08-05 at 1pm
- Vendor selection: 2026-08-07
- Filming window: 2026-09-01 to 2026-10-31
- Final deliverables due: 2027-01-31
8. Submission Instructions
Please submit proposals electronically to https://CattCo.gov/Submit-Proposal-2026-Tourism-Autumn-Photos
Questions
Samantha Hayes
Tourism Specialist
716-938-2307
Contact us at CattCo.gov/Tourism
Visit us at Cattaraugus County Tourism, Second Floor, 207 Rock City St., Little Valley, NY 14755
Subject line: RFP – 2026 Autumn Tourism Photography