Company headshots matter more than most folks realize. They’re a big part of your professional image and can shape that crucial first impression.
You’ll spot these portraits everywhere—websites, LinkedIn, email signatures, the works. Choosing the right look for your team’s headshots is a real investment, and honestly, it’s one that can sway how clients and partners see your business.
Most businesses can expect to pay between $125 and $300 per person for a standard company headshot session, but prices can range higher in certain locations or for premium services. In a city like New York, don’t be surprised if the average cost jumps to $300–$700, though you might still find stripped-down options at lower rates.
The final price usually depends on how many people need photos, the photographer’s experience, and any bells and whistles—think retouching or super-fast delivery.
Company headshots are almost a must for modern businesses. These photos help employees make a strong impression online and are the go-to for websites, ID badges, and LinkedIn profiles.
A company headshot is a professional photograph that shows a person from the shoulders up. Most are shot in a studio or office with controlled lighting.
The idea is to create a clean, approachable, and polished image. Headshots for companies usually stick to simple backgrounds and neutral colors, with everyone in similar poses to keep things consistent.
Sometimes, you’ll see a branded backdrop or company logo in the background. While selfies might cut it on personal social media, a professional headshot is expected in business circles.
It helps people recognize employees and signals that someone’s a real member of the team.
Professional headshots set the tone when someone checks out an employee or lands on your company’s site. A high-quality headshot just makes people seem more credible and, well, put-together.
It quietly shows the company cares about details and professionalism. These photos are a key part of building a personal brand, especially on LinkedIn.
A strong LinkedIn profile almost always features a clear, friendly headshot. People with professional headshots tend to get noticed more and stick in people’s memory.
For teams, having matching headshots gives off a sense of unity. It can help clients or partners feel like they know who they’re dealing with, even before a handshake.
You’ll see these photos reused in email signatures, business cards, and company press releases.
Corporate headshots and business headshots? They’re close, but not quite the same. Corporate headshots are typically more formal—think business attire and a plain backdrop.
These are the ones you see on company websites, LinkedIn, or tucked into annual reports. Business headshots can be a bit more relaxed.
They might have natural poses or different backgrounds. Someone in a creative field might want a shot with a splash of personality or color.
Here’s a quick side-by-side:
Feature Corporate Headshot Business Headshot Background Plain, neutral Plain or environmental Attire Formal (suit, blazer) Formal or smart-casual Usage Websites, reports, LinkedIn LinkedIn, portfolios, more Pose Standardized Standard or creative
What’s right for your team? That depends on your industry and culture. Some companies even let employees choose between the two.
Company headshots come with a price range that’s all over the map. The cost depends on the location, session length, and how many digital images you want.
In the U.S., the average price for a professional company headshot is $200 to $300 per person. Newer photographers might go as low as $25 to $65, but top photographers in big cities can hit $700 for a single photo.`
Usually, that price covers basic editing and a set number of digital images. Special requests—like extra outfit changes or more photos—can bump the price up.
In places like New York, you’ll often see rates from $300 to $700. Nationally, most companies end up spending around $250 for a single session, at least according to HeadshotPro.
A lot of photographers offer package pricing for groups or events. That means a fixed price for a certain number of people, or maybe a bundle that includes digital images and a group photo.
Packages for bigger groups can drop the price to $50 to $100 per person—especially if you’re booking a company headshot event.
Some packages come with perks like same-day delivery, retouching, or extra photos. For example, a 50-person event might run $3950 total or about $79 per person, often including group shots and an assistant.
Packages like these are a smart way for businesses to save when they need headshots for the whole crew, as shown in this corporate headshot pricing example.
Headshot costs are shaped by a bunch of details—who’s taking the photos, where the shoot happens, how many people are involved. Travel and other extras can sneak into the bill too.
Photographer skill is probably the biggest factor in cost. Newbies might charge less, but their photos might not have the same polish or consistency.
Someone with years of experience, a killer portfolio, or a specialty in company headshots is going to ask for more. Rates for a skilled photographer can be double or triple those of a beginner.
You’ll often get faster delivery, better lighting, and more advanced retouching from an experienced pro. Credentials and a big-name client list can drive up fees as well.
The shoot location makes a real difference in price. Studio sessions let the photographer control lighting and background, which usually means more consistent images.
Studio rentals can add to the bill, but the setup is efficient—great for snapping lots of photos fast. On-location headshots, like shoots at your office or outside, usually cost more.
That’s because of the extra time for travel and hauling equipment. Some companies like on-location sessions for a less formal vibe or to fit their brand.
But these might include extra fees for moving heavy gear or dealing with tricky lighting.
Type Price Range Pros Cons Studio Session $-$$ Consistent results May cost studio fee On-Location $$-$$ Custom background Travel/setup time
How many people need headshots? That’s a big factor. Photographers usually give group discounts, so a single headshot might be $200, but a team of 20 could pay $1,200 total—just $60 each.
Bulk rates depend on group size. More people means longer sessions, but the average cost per person drops.
Some photographers set a cap on how many they’ll shoot before extra fees kick in.
Bulk group sessions:
Travel fees can really add up, especially if the photographer is heading out of town or across a big city. Some charge a flat travel fee if you’re outside their normal area.
Others bill by mileage or time spent traveling. Extra expenses might include makeup artists, backdrops, or renting special gear.
All these extras should be sorted out before you book. On-location headshots are the usual suspects for these charges, so double-check what’s in your quote.
Examples of possible extra charges:
The total price for company headshots isn’t just about the session itself. Things like session length, retouching, and even how well people prep with outfits or grooming can all play a part.
Session length and format can change both the price and how convenient things are. Most company headshot sessions are quick—5 to 15 minutes per person.
Longer sessions, maybe 30 minutes or more, allow for different backgrounds, outfit swaps, and more posing options.
Some photographers bill by the hour, others by the person. For group sessions, you might pay a fee for a block of time and run everyone through back-to-back.
You can book studio headshots in a controlled setup, or have the photographer come to your office.
Some companies want group photos too, which can cut costs per person.
Retouching is a popular add-on. Basic touch ups usually mean fixing small blemishes, smoothing skin, whitening teeth, or taming stray hairs.
Premium retouching might go further—adjusting lighting, slimming faces just a bit, or even swapping backgrounds.
What’s included varies a lot. Some photographers throw in a round of retouching for free, others charge for extra edits or special requests.
It’s smart to ask what’s included and how long edits take.
How you show up for a headshot—clothes, grooming, all of it, really does matter. Most photographers suggest solid colors since patterns can pull attention away from your face.
Pressed, clean clothes always look sharper. Skip logos and wild prints; they can be a bit much on camera.
Simple jewelry and natural makeup? That’s usually the way to go. For men, shaving or trimming facial hair helps if you want a tidy look.
Hair should feel like you, but maybe just a touch neater than usual. Comfort counts, but a little effort goes a long way.
Some photographers hand out a prep guide or a checklist. Occasionally, companies even bring in a stylist or makeup artist—definitely boosts confidence, but it’s usually an extra cost.
Photographers might show sample outfits or do a quick prep meeting. It’s worth asking if you’re not sure what’ll work best.
Picking a photographer for company headshots isn’t a small thing. It’s worth taking some time to look through their work and see what others have to say.
Focus on real examples and honest feedback, not just the highlights.
Dive into each photographer’s online portfolio before making a decision. The best ones show off a mix of corporate headshots—different lighting, poses, backgrounds.
Check for consistency in their shots. See if people look comfortable and if the lighting flatters everyone.
If you can, ask to see an entire gallery from a past shoot. A handful of favorites doesn’t always tell the whole story.
Consider if their style matches what your team needs. Some companies want formal shots, others prefer something more relaxed.
Lining up a few portfolios side by side can make the choice clearer. Sometimes it’s surprising which style feels right for your brand.
What do past clients say? Detailed reviews that mention things like punctuality and communication are gold.
Third-party sites can be more honest than a photographer’s own page. If you know someone who’s booked headshots before, ask them.
Patterns in reviews matter. If lots of people rave about quick delivery, that’s a good sign.
On the flip side, repeated complaints about editing delays or missed deadlines might be a dealbreaker.
Don’t go in blind—have a list of questions ready. Some things to cover:
Also, talk about payment, cancellation, and any extra travel or editing fees. Better to get it all out in the open now.
Corporate headshots aren’t just for LinkedIn—they’re a big part of how your company presents itself. A bit of planning can help you get the most out of the investment.
You’ll see headshots on company websites, LinkedIn, and marketing pieces. A good team photo on the "About Us" page makes the company feel more approachable.
They also show up in press releases, speaking event promos, and presentations. Business cards and internal directories? Yep, headshots help people put names to faces.
Email signatures, newsletters, conference brochures—these are all places a professional image pays off. For best results, stick with consistent backgrounds, lighting, and wardrobe.
New headshots can freshen up your branding or support recruiting. First impressions really do matter, so don’t skimp here.
A little prep goes a long way. Make sure everyone knows the dress code ahead of time.
Neutral colors, solid shirts, and simple patterns usually work best. Focus should stay on the face, not the outfit.
Neat hair and tidy facial hair help. If possible, schedule shoots when there’s good natural light.
Using one photographer for everyone keeps things consistent. A clear schedule avoids chaos and makes the day smoother.
Offering a mirror or touch-up station helps folks feel ready. Reviewing shots with the photographer right away saves time and lets you pick the best ones.
Comparing pricing options and packages before booking is smart. You want quality, but it’s got to fit the budget too.
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