Learn how to select the right photographer for your portrait, whether you’re an actor or model in need of a headshot, or a corporate executive looking for a business portrait.
How to Choose a Headshot Photographer
Whether you’re a model or actor with an audition coming up, or a real estate agent, lawyer, or financial planner, there are lots of options to consider when hiring a photographer for your headshot. This article will explain how to choose the right photographer based on factors such as cost, style, versatility and overall value.
When to Hire a Professional Photographer
Everyone’s a photographer, right? But experienced professional photographers know how to make someone look their best in pictures, with advice for everything from what to wear to how to pose, and even where to take the picture. Should it be in studio or on location? A professional photographer knows what questions to ask to help you make the right choices for your headshot session.
Consider hiring a professional photographer if:
- You want to look professional or use your headshot for personal branding
- You’ve been unsatisfied in the past by subpar amateur photographs
- You want to be taken seriously by potential customers, clients and colleagues
- You want to upgrade your personal or professional branding
- You simply don’t know what to do for your portrait (a professional can help!)
How Much Does a Professional Headshot Cost?
There’s no industry standard for the cost of a professional headshot, but most experienced professional charge anywhere from $300 to $500 or even $1,000 for an individual portrait session. This pricing typically includes a limited number of selections and minimal (or basic) retouching. Special retouching can add as much as 50% or more to the cost.
Headshot Basics
Location
The sky is the limit in terms of headshot styles. But one fundamental choice is between a headshot made in the studio, or one done on location. In the studio, the photographer has full control over lighting and background, although this approach limits the look of authenticity that comes from a real place.
Color
Should your headshot be in color or black and white? There’s no easy answer, but some folks swear that black and white portraits are more artful and timeless, while color portraits (done well) can add a sense of contemporary style.
Wardrobe
What you wear always matters, but even more so in a headshot portrait. Consider dressing as you normally would, but better. Think about the message you want to convey. It’s always better to “dress for the job you want,” whether you’re an actor or an executive. When in doubt, it’s hard to go wrong with simple clothing in solid colors, medium to dark tones, and nothing too flashy. See our post about “What to Wear for Portraits” for more information on wardrobe.
Expression
While you may think it looks best if you appear tough and powerful, this style of headshot photography has largely fallen out of fashion as it’s seen by many as poseur behavior. Instead, a skilled headshot photographer will help you to relax, so you look relaxed and confident. And while a large grin is not mandatory, a natural, comfortable smile tends to elicit a positive response among those who view your headshot.
Headshot Styles: Matching Location and Wardrobe
| Location | Wardrobe | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Studio: Light/White background | Modern Business (Jacket, No Tie) | Confident, Stylish, Tech |
| Studio: Dark/Gray background | Formal Business (Suit, Tie, Dark Colors) | Traditional, Conservative, Expert |
| Location: Outdoors (Park, etc.) | Casual (no jacket, t-shirt, jeans) | Artist, Relaxed, Approachable |
| Location: Office | Modern or Formal, All Business | Stylish office space reinforces brand |
Do You Need to Hire a Professional Photographer?
If you’re looking to upgrade your personal brand in preparation for an acting or modeling audition, or if you are an entrepreneur who needs to market your unique capabilities, or if you’re a business professional wanting to put your best foot forward in hopes of appearing confident and professional, you will be well served to hire a professional photographer for your next headshot session.
