Many professional headshot photographers charge between $100 to $500, but the overall price can vary widely, from as low as $20 to as high as even $3000 or more.
Most professionals set their headshot prices depending on factors such as how many retouched or high-res pictures the client wants, how much time it will take, or the number of outfits or looks the client will be putting on during the shoot.
However, well-known or in-demand photographers are usually a little more expensive and often set premium prices for headshots.
This article will highlight what kind of headshots you can expect at different price points.
That said, even though rates vary from photographer to photographer, it does not mean you should use only rates when picking one. Do your due diligence and hire someone with good online reviews. In addition, it should be someone you are comfortable working with.
So, look at some of the market prices you will most likely find for headshot photography below.
$20 - $80 (1-2 Hour Session)
This is an expected price range and is what you will find most photographers charging when you search online platforms like Craigslist. Any photographer who charges this for headshots is probably a novice and will most likely take photographs that look like what your brother, sister or friend would take if they had a professional camera.
Make sure they have an excellent portfolio. Otherwise, avoid working with these photographers if they do not have samples to back them up. In most cases, headshots at this level or price point will provide the same value as a friend’s snapshot. Meaning they will not do much to help further your career.
Many people can usually tell what you paid for a photograph, and if your headshot looks cheap, they will automatically assume you do not take your career or job seriously.
Instead of spending 20$ to $80 for a headshot photograph, you are better off just asking a friend or sibling to take the shots for free.
$80 - $200 (1-2 Hour Session)
Photographers in this price range usually know what they are doing and have the skill and expertise to produce some decent pictures.
On the lower side of this spectrum, there is a high chance the photographer does not do this full-time, meaning they will not know much about posing or making expressions for your headshot. Genuine expressions help create a memorable headshot photo; that is why you need to pick a photographer who fully understands how to direct you to them.
Carefully look through the photographer’s portfolio because most of the ones who charge this will not offer a refund if the results do not please you. In addition, it is vital to remember that they probably lack access to a professional studio and may be taking the photos out of their homes.
A few things you need to keep in mind include;
If you want to hire a makeup artist, does the photographer have one? It is always a good idea to work with makeup artists who are well-versed with the makeup requirements for headshots. Everyday makeup will not cut it when it comes to headshots. If you plan on using a makeup artist, ask the photographer of your choice whether they know a good one.
Will the photographer know how to correct what you don’t like regarding your appearance? Certain angles may not do you justice. And unfortunately, photographers without enough experience will not know how to make angles and lighting adjustments to correct the situation.
Are the photographer’s processes straightforward so you can know exactly what to expect? Some photographers will suddenly ask you to pay extra for certain services. They may also refuse to offer retouched pictures unless you fund the project further. So before you book a session, know what you will get into.
$250 - $800 (1-2 Hour Session)
This price point usually has well-known and established photographers who take photos full-time and are prominent in the industry. They have a vast client base and typically get many clients via word of mouth. They can produce an outstanding headshot because they have the necessary skills and equipment.
Ensure that they specialize in taking professional headshots, not events or wedding photos. Also, ensure they offer a trustworthy guarantee just in case you are unsatisfied with the final product. If you are unsure about the photographer, read their reviews online.
$850 - $1500 (1-2 Hour Session)
These are the big-time professional photographers in the industry. They will give you high-quality photos, and many of them know how to quickly bring out your best side.
They have good professional studios, experienced makeup artists and excellent equipment. Similarly, they have the necessary skills to enhance the outcome.
However, the main reason these photographers charge so much is not that they take better headshots than the photographers in the previous price range but rather because they have been at it longer.
The lengthier experience usually translates to various encounters with challenges, new technology, and multiple concepts. Thus they can handle obstacles easily, deal with a wide range of clients, and deliver different aesthetics, effortlessly.
These photographers also have more clients. More clients mean they need to increase their prices to account for demand.
Takeaway
Professional headshot photos are not the same. Beginner photographers usually charge less than their more experienced counterparts. One of the main reasons for this is that they do not have the experience in lighting and posing techniques required to produce great headshots.
With that said, visit Bartholomew Photography for high-quality headshots at a reasonable price. We are in Las Vegas, Nevada, awaiting your visit for an easy studio session with our skilled photographer.
Our photographer has multiple years of experience and an excellent reputation from many clients. We also have a well-equipped studio and will always ensure you are comfortable throughout the session.