As a photographer, my contract states that the Client must pay 50% upfront, 25% 1 month before the shoot, and 25% after completion.
The 50% payment is non-refundable. This payment covers my reservation to secure the booking with the client and any expenses, such as rentals, permits, props, and hires.
What would you call this initial 50% payment? - Retainer, Deposit (non-refundable), or a Reservation Fee
Ot would be considered a Non-refundable Reservation Fee or Non-refundable Deposit. Same same.
A retainer fee is something a person would pay to hold their status as a “client”. It is an indefinite-delivery indefinite-quantity form of contractual agreement. I.e. “I will pay you a recurring fee to remain available for when I need your services”.