It is important to understand the legal and ehtical issues in photography because you are taking photos of families, friends, children and ost of the time, you have no relation to them. Most photographers will develope a contract that outlines what the photographers rights that they have with the photos and likewise for the customer. It is important to understand who's property they are and how the rights to the photos are distriputed so that there is no sueing over misuse of photos.