How much do modeling headshots cost?

Author: Jen K.
Millions of people ask Fash for cost estimates every year. We track the estimates they get from local professionals, then we share those prices with you.

If you're looking to get into the modeling industry, having a good set of headshots is critical.

The first question, though, is how much these headshots cost.

While many professional photographers offer headshot services, the prices for them vary widely. Here's a breakdown about what you can expect to pay for modeling headshots, and the factors that ultimately influence price.

The Photo Package

The biggest thing that influences the price of headshots is the number of final photographs you'll wind up with.

You'll obviously pay more for a larger final photo package than you will for just a few shots. You may also pay extra for add-ons like retouching, digital copies, a photo book or a CD.

While each photographer will price his or her services differently, here's a general outline of headshot prices.

Standard Headshot Session - $200

• A photographer like Cary Pennington might offer a package like this, which focuses on a single headshot
• Additional images available for purchase at $20 each, with included retouching
• Up to 30 minutes of shooting time (typically enough time for two or more outfit changes)
• High-res JPEG download
• Photoshop processing and color alteration included

Portfolio Headshot Session - $300

• Digital download of all best images (20-40 images - OhSnap! Photography offers 10-40 images)
• 1-3 outfit changes
• Processing in Photoshop for color, brightness, clarity and white-balance
• Blemish retouching for one image
• Additional images can be retouched for extra $10/each
• Recommended for professionals needing multiple business portraits

Studio & Outdoor Photo Session - $500

• 60 minutes of shooting time in-studio, 30 minutes of outdoor shooting (or vice-versa, depending on preferences)
• Digital download of all best photos
• 3-4 outfit changes or looks
• Light blemish retouching
• Additional images available for retouching at $10/each

Extended Headshot Sessions - $400

• 60 minutes of shooting time
• 3-4 outfit changes and looks
• Digital downloads of all the shoot's best photos
• Light blemish retouching on five images, if needed
• Can opt for additional retouching on additional photos for $10/each

Again, each photographer will set his or her own price schedule. If you're considering having modeling headshots taken, be sure to get a tailored quote from your photographer of choice. This is the best way to get accurate prices and ensure you understand exactly what your photographer will offer in your upcoming headshot package.

The Location of the Photo Shoot

The location of the photo shoot also has a large impact on the final price of the photos. In some cases, a photographer will shoot headshots in his or her studio, which will frequently include the lighting and camera equipment needed to produce beautiful images.

Some photographers, however, might be willing to travel to separate locations or outdoor settings to complete your headshots. In these cases, things like long travel distances and tough lighting can increase the final cost. You'll also wind up paying more if the photographer is responsible for providing your hair, makeup and wardrobe, or partnering with people who do.

Final Photo Format

While digital images are by far the most popular format for modern headshots, some agencies still want you to present them with archival prints for their records. Be sure to talk to your photographer about this possibility. While virtually every headshot photographer working today will provide you with high-quality digital downloads, not everyone prints their photos, so you may wind up paying extra for this.