How Much Do Photographers Charge for Company Headshots in 2025

Every company needs professional headshots for its website, social media, and employee profiles.

Most businesses can expect to pay between $125 and $275 per person for company headshots, but prices can go higher depending on the photographer’s experience and the session details.

Some photographers charge by the hour, while others have per-person rates or group packages.

The cost can change based on the number of people, the location, editing services, and how many final images you want.

Large group shoots and extra services, such as retouching or different backgrounds, may increase the total price.

Knowing what’s included in the package helps companies make smart decisions about their budget and what quality to expect from their investment.

Key Takeaways

• Company headshot prices depend on photographer experience and service details.
• Typical rates range from $125 to $275 per person.
• Extra services like editing or group photos can increase total costs.

What Determines the Cost of Company Headshots

The cost of company headshots depends on several specific factors, including photographer experience, location, session type, and what each package offers.

Understanding these details can help companies plan their budget and select the right services for their needs.

Factors Affecting Pricing

The experience and reputation of the photographer have a big impact on headshot pricing.

Experienced professionals often charge more because of their skill, style, and reputation for delivering high-quality business portraits.

Location also affects the price.

In large cities or business districts, photographers may charge more due to higher operating costs.

On-location shoots, where the photographer visits the office, can increase the rate as it involves travel and setup.

Session length and the number of people being photographed play important roles.

Some photographers offer lower rates per person for large groups, while small teams may pay more per head.

Editing and retouching services are sometimes included but can be an extra charge with some providers.

Types of Headshot Sessions

There are a few main options for corporate headshot sessions:

• Studio session: The company sends employees to a professional studio.
• On-location shoot: The photographer brings equipment and sets up at the company’s office or chosen site.
• Outdoor headshots: The shoot takes place outdoors, often at parks or urban locations.

Studio sessions offer better control of lighting and backgrounds but may be less convenient if many employees need photos.

On-location shoots are popular for corporate headshots because they save time and allow for consistent backgrounds.

Outdoor sessions create a relaxed, natural look, but may depend on the weather and natural light.

Each type of session can affect costs differently.

On-location shoots and large group sessions may cost more due to logistics and setup time, which is why professional headshots cost can vary so widely.

Headshot Package Inclusions

What is included in a headshot package changes from one photographer to another.

Most standard packages cover the session time, a set number of edited images per person, and digital delivery.

Some may offer options like additional retouching, more image choices, or makeup and hair services.

Packages for company headshots can include group photos, copyright licenses for business use, or same-day proof selection.

Others may offer fast turnarounds or bring assistants for larger events.

The price range for corporate headshots often reflects the scope of service: simple packages cost less, but more extras raise the headshots cost.

Companies should ask what is included and what comes with an extra fee to avoid any surprises with professional headshots pricing.

Average Price Ranges for Company Headshots

Business headshot pricing can vary based on the number of people, type of package, and where the session takes place.

Understanding these differences makes it easier for companies to make informed choices about their budget and expectations.

Individual vs. Group Rates

Photographers often set different rates for single business headshots compared to group sessions.

An individual headshot session with a mid-level photographer typically ranges from $100 to $225 per person, while a beginner may charge as low as $25 to $65.

Professional headshots from an experienced photographer may climb as high as $250 to $750 per person, depending on session length and editing needs.

When companies book group sessions, many photographers offer lower per-person rates.

For example, a team rate might become $50 to $100 per person when 10 or more employees are photographed in the same session.

This can help corporate clients save money if several staff members need updated headshots at once.

It’s common for group sessions to include a set number of retouched images per person.

Extra images, outfit changes, or additional editing can raise the total headshots cost.

Some photographers may also offer quick, mini sessions for large groups to save time.

Corporate Packages

Many photographers create special corporate packages tailored to business clients.

These often include multiple business headshots, group photos, and consistent background settings for branding.

Corporate packages can range from $500 to $1,500 per hour, particularly for large teams or companies needing high-quality, uniform images.

Packages typically cover setup, photo shoot time, basic retouching, and file delivery.

Some may include extra options like digital galleries, on-site makeup, or quick turnaround.

Corporate clients should review what each package covers and check for extra fees, such as for travel or rush delivery.

For special needs, photographers may charge a daily rate.

It can run $750 or higher for events where many headshots are taken over several hours.

Some packages allow companies to buy extra edited images at a set cost per image.

Location-Based Pricing

Location is another key factor in headshots cost.

Photographers in major cities usually charge more because of greater demand and higher expenses, while prices may be lower in small towns or rural areas.

The median cost of a professional headshot in the US is around $250.

Travel fees are common when photographers must go outside their usual area.

These can range from $50 for short distances to several hundred dollars for full-day events or long travel.

Photographers might also charge for setup/teardown, especially if portable studios are involved.

Some locations, such as outdoor shoots or rented studios, may add extra costs.

Companies should ask about all location charges before booking so there are no surprises.

In general, in-office sessions for large groups tend to be more cost-effective than having each staff member visit a separate studio.

Key Elements Included in a Typical Headshot Package

A standard company headshot package goes beyond simply taking a picture.

It often includes professional touches and options that help make sure employees look their best in each professional portrait.

Retouched Images and Edits

Retouching is one of the most valuable parts of a headshot package.

After the photo session, photographers usually review the images and make small changes to improve each photo.

They use editing tools to fix lighting, soften skin, remove blemishes, and adjust backgrounds.

These edits are meant to create a polished, professional image while keeping a natural look.

Most photographers include some level of retouching in the main package price.

Complex edits may cost more, but minor changes for each selected headshot are standard.

Some packages also offer test photos or samples before the main editing process so clients can pick their favorites.

Seeing examples from the photographer's portfolio can also help set expectations for the finished result.

Number of Final Photos

The number of final, fully retouched images each person receives is a key detail in every package.

Company headshot sessions might include one finished picture per employee or offer a selection of final photos to choose from.

Often, businesses can request more images for an extra cost.

A simple package may include one to two images, while mid-range to premium services might offer three or more finished portraits.

Clear details on how many edited, professional portraits are included help companies plan their budget and decide if extra selections or proofs are needed.

Some photographers also supply unedited samples or contact sheets so clients can review and pick which professional images they want retouched.

For more on pricing and typical offerings, visit this guide to company headshot costs.

Additional Services and Their Impact on Pricing

Photographers often offer add-on services that can raise the total cost of company headshots.

Each extra service can improve the quality or convenience, but will likely affect the final price.

Professional Hair and Makeup

Hiring a professional makeup artist helps subjects look their best in company headshots.

Hair styling and makeup can minimize shine, even skin tone, and provide a polished look for the camera.

This is important for anyone who wants to appear confident and well-groomed.

Typical prices for hair and makeup artists range from $50 to $200 per person.

Some photographers work with makeup artists and can book the session, while others ask clients to arrange it themselves.

Men may also benefit from basic grooming or light makeup for a professional appearance.

A makeup artist might offer light touch-ups or more detailed “camera-ready” services.

This can be especially helpful for teams who want a consistent look across all company photos.

Wardrobe and Outfit Suggestions

Choosing the right outfit is important for strong headshots.

Many photographers include wardrobe advice as part of their package or for an extra fee.

They may recommend solid colors, avoid strong patterns, and guide clients to select clothing that matches the company's brand.

Some photographers provide written guidelines or even a short video or style consultation.

Others may have a small selection of blazers, dress shirts, or ties available in-studio.

These small touches can help subjects feel prepared and reduce stress before the shoot.

Advice sometimes covers jewelry, glasses, and avoiding clothing that wrinkles easily.

By following expert suggestions, clients can show up feeling ready and confident.

Backdrop and Background Choices

Backdrop options can change the tone and focus of a company headshot.

Many studios offer plain backgrounds in colors like white, gray, or black for a clean, professional look.

Others might have textured, colored, or branded backdrops that match company aesthetics.

Some photographers allow clients to select digital backgrounds, replacing the real backdrop during editing.

Custom backgrounds, such as large company logos or office scenes, may add to the pricing.

Special requests often require setup time, special materials, or body sculpting techniques in post-production.

Headshot packages may include one or more backdrop choices, but extra options can come with a price tag.

It’s important to ask what is included and what can be added for an extra fee.

On-Location vs. Studio Session

Photographers may offer on-location services, traveling to a company’s office or a selected site.

On-location shoots are convenient for teams, especially large groups, because staff do not need to travel.

However, these sessions often cost more due to travel time, setup, and equipment transport.

Studio sessions usually offer more control over lighting, backdrops, and makeup areas.

They may include amenities like changing rooms or access to different background setups.

Pricing between on-location and studio sessions can vary widely.

On-location shoots might also require extra staff or portable equipment fees.

Companies should compare both options to decide what best meets their needs and budget.

For more pricing examples, a session can range from around $65 to $750 on average, depending on these and other factors, as seen in this professional headshot pricing guide.

Assessing Photographer Quality and Professionalism

A good headshot photographer should have a proven track record of delivering quality work and paying attention to detail. Their style also needs to match the company’s brand—some folks just have an eye for it.

Their portfolio, experience, and professionalism say a lot about what you can expect. You can usually spot a pro by how they present their past work.

Evaluating Portfolios and Sample Work

Digging into a photographer’s portfolio is the best way to judge their style and quality. The best samples are sharp, well-lit, and show people looking relaxed—not stiff or awkward.

Is there variety in their images, or does everything start to blur together? A good portfolio should fit different industries, not just one niche.

Clean backgrounds and solid retouching are a must for a LinkedIn profile or company website. It’s worth asking for recent examples, not just the ones they’re most proud of.

Compare their work to other photographers in the same price bracket—usually $150 to $300. Consistency matters too; if the colors or editing style jump around, that’s a red flag.

If images feel dated or overly airbrushed, maybe their approach isn’t right for your brand. Trust your gut when something looks off.

Understanding Photographer Experience

Experience makes a difference, both during the shoot and in the final photos. Time in the business, the types of clients they’ve worked with, and experience with company headshots all come into play.

A seasoned photographer can handle groups, tricky lighting, and all sorts of faces. Some will even share case studies or client lists—always a good sign.

Ask if they’ve worked with headshots for specific needs, like staff directories or networking profiles. Guidance during the shoot helps too; nobody wants to feel lost in front of the camera.

A good photographer will help subjects pose so photos look natural. No one wants to look forced or uncomfortable.

Reliable pros tend to offer quick turnaround, flexible bookings, and backup plans for surprises. That kind of dependability is worth its weight in gold.

Professional Image and Brand Representation

You can spot a photographer’s professionalism in how they communicate and handle details. Quick replies, transparent pricing, and an easy booking process all matter.

Photographers who ask about your brand—like logos, colors, or dress code—are clearly trying to get it right. That’s what you want.

Written contracts and clear usage rights for photos show they’re organized. Even how they present themselves online, from their website to email signature, says a lot about their standards.

Professionalism is especially crucial for company headshots. After all, these images represent both the person and the business.

Budgeting for Company Headshots

Photographers’ rates for company clients can vary a lot. It depends on the number of people, where the shoot happens, and the photographer’s experience.

Knowing these factors helps companies spend wisely on headshots—nobody wants to overpay.

Setting an Appropriate Budget

First, figure out how many employees need headshots and whether you’ll shoot at the office or in a studio. Costs can run anywhere from $75 to $1,500 per person or hour, depending on the photographer and session details.

For bigger teams, photographers might cut the per-person rate if you book everyone at once.

Here’s a simple breakdown:

Description Estimated Cost (Per Person) Basic Headshot Session $75 – $250 Mid-level Session $250 – $700 Premium/Corporate Package $700 – $1,500+

It’s smart to check what’s included in the photography services—retouching, multiple poses, file formats, and licensing can all affect value.

Balancing Price and Value

Price isn’t everything. Quality headshots can make a real impression on clients and partners.

Investing in experienced photographers usually means your team will look confident and polished. That’s worth something, right?

Check what each package covers. Some photographers offer quick sessions with minimal edits, while others throw in custom lighting, multiple backgrounds, or extra retouching.

Comparing what’s included helps avoid surprise fees and makes it easier to pick the right fit for your company.

Looking at real examples and reading client reviews gives you a better sense of value than just staring at a price list. Sometimes, spending a little more pays off in professionalism and overall impact.