How Much Should a Photographer Charge for Headshots? What to Expect in 2025

If you’re searching for updated portraits and wondering, how much should a photographer charge for headshots, you’re not alone. Whether you’re a realtor, entrepreneur, executive, or creative professional, a strong headshot is more than just a nice-to-have—it’s a visual first impression that speaks volumes about your brand.

But when prices range from $150 to over $2,000, how do you know what’s reasonable, what’s missing, and what’s truly worth the investment?

Let’s break it down.

---

How Much Should a Photographer Charge for Headshots and What Affects Headshot Pricing?

Not all headshots are created equal. Just like you wouldn’t expect the same experience or results from a chain hair salon and a private stylist, the same holds true for photography.

Here’s what typically affects how much a photographer charges for headshots:

1. Experience & Expertise

Photographers with years of posing, lighting, and expression-coaching experience often charge more—and for good reason. Their skill level directly impacts how confident, polished, and powerful you look in your images.

2. Session Length & Customization

Is it a 15-minute mini session or a fully guided portrait experience with wardrobe consultation and multiple looks? The level of attention you receive plays a big role in pricing.

3. Location

Urban centers like Austin, NYC, or LA tend to have higher rates than small towns due to higher demand and overhead.

4. What’s Included

Does the session include retouched images? A professional makeup artist? Outfit changes? High-res digital files? Usage rights? Printed products? Every studio builds their packages differently.

---

General Price Ranges for Headshots in 2025 | How Much Should a Photographer Charge for Headshots?

While rates vary depending on geography and quality, here’s a rough breakdown of what to expect:

Type	Price Range	What You Might Get
Low-End	$100–$300	Quick sessions, 1 outfit, limited retouching, minimal guidance
Mid-Range	$400–$800	1–2 looks, basic retouching, digital files, moderate session time
High-End	$1,000–$2,500+	Full portrait experience, expression coaching, professional styling, premium retouching, artwork or licensing options

📍 See how we elevate industry standards in Professional Headshots for Realtors on Zillow.

---

What You’re Really Paying For

When you invest in headshots, you’re not just paying for “a few pictures.” You’re investing in:

• Your personal brand
• Your career trajectory
• How people perceive you before you ever say a word

A quality headshot communicates confidence, trust, and professionalism. It helps you stand out in crowded markets, connect with your audience, and elevate how you show up in your field.

At Zesty Orange Photography, we include:

• Pre-session consultation to align with your goals
• Wardrobe guidance tailored to your brand colors
• On-site hair and makeup (if needed)
• Full posing and expression direction
• Multiple outfit changes
• Retouched digital images
• Custom artwork options for office display

---

Why Cheaper Isn’t Always Better

If a photographer is charging far below average, it usually means they’re cutting corners—whether that’s rushed sessions, generic lighting, no expression guidance, or inconsistent results.

With something as important as your professional image, saving a few hundred dollars often leads to reshoots, frustration, or worse—an image that does more harm than good.

Think of it this way: your headshot will appear on LinkedIn, your website, email signature, press kits, and marketing materials. It’s working for you every day, 24/7. Shouldn’t it reflect your value?

---

What You Can Expect With a Premium Headshot Experience

At our Austin studio, we believe in providing a headshot experience—not just a quick photo. Clients leave feeling empowered, elevated, and excited to show up confidently in their business or profession.

With our premium sessions, you can expect:

• A relaxing environment designed to bring out the best in you
• Expert posing that flatters your features and fits your brand tone
• A photographer who understands how to capture emotion and intention in every frame
• High-quality retouching that enhances, not over-edits
• Images you’ll be proud to use everywhere

📍Not sure what to wear? Visit our What to Wear for Headshots guide.

---

If you’d like more context around professional photography pricing and value, this article from the Professional Photographers of America offers helpful insights.

---

How Much Should a Photographer Charge for Headshots?

So, how much should a photographer charge for headshots? It depends on what you’re looking for.

If you want a quick update, a lower-tier option may get the job done. But if you’re looking to elevate your brand, attract higher-end clients, and feel like the expert you are—then investing in a personalized, premium experience is more than worth it.

At Zesty Orange Photography, we believe your headshot should reflect your excellence. We’re here to make sure it does.