How Much Do Professional Headshots Cost in 2024?

Professional headshots can cost a fortune these days. If you're not lucky enough to have an uncle or second cousin twice removed for a photographer, you'll likely need to fork out a fair share of cash.

And that's quite the sticker price for a simple picture of your face, right? Who knew your smile was worth so much?

However, before you hide your credit card and stick with that high school headshot, let's get on the same page. Headshots aren't just fancy selfies—they're polished illustrations of your professional persona.

Whether you're an aspiring teacher, corporate executive, aspiring actor, or freelancer, the right headshot can open doors and connect you with once-in-a-lifetime opportunities.

All that to say—you can justify the cost of a high-quality, professional headshot. Still, you might be able to get more for less when evaluating the return on investment of your headshots.

Below, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about professional headshot costs in 2024, and we'll also show you the most cost-effective way to get your own.

The Basics of Headshot Pricing

Before we get into how much professional headshots cost, think about this narrative:

The story goes that Pablo Picasso was enjoying a meal at a restaurant when a fan approached him and asked if he could make a quick sketch on a napkin. Picasso obliged, swiftly creating a piece of art right there at the table. As he handed the napkin back to the admirer, he demanded a surprisingly large sum of money for it. The fan was shocked and questioned why such a small piece, made in just minutes, would cost so much. Picasso famously responded, "No, it took me 40 years."

The same goes for your photographer. You're not just paying a photographer to hit a button—you're paying for their knowledge, expertise, and editing skills.

So, where are your dollars going? Here are the basics:

• Photographer's Skill: Ever wonder why some photographers charge a premium? It's all about their eye for detail, knack for lighting, and sixth sense for capturing your best angle. A seasoned pro with a strong portfolio and glowing testimonials can command higher fees, but they also guarantee quality and add a certain je ne sais quoi to your headshots.
• Studio Time: That perfect lighting and the uncluttered backdrop? It comes with the territory of a professional studio. Outdoor shoots might save you some cash and offer natural lighting (great for a relaxed, natural look), but they come with their own set of variables like light and weather.
• Location, Location, Location: Just like in real estate, location matters in photography. Headshot costs can vary significantly across different cities and regions. Operating in big cities like New York or LA? Prepare to pay top dollar due to higher demand and studio rental costs. In smaller towns, prices might be more wallet-friendly, but the choice of experienced photographers might be limited.
• Equipment: High-quality cameras, lenses, lighting rigs—the right gear to make you look magazine-cover-ready isn't cheap.

Average Cost of Professional Headshots

So, what's the damage going to be? While prices can vary wildly based on location and demand, here's a rough guide:

• Standard Professional Headshots: Generally, you can expect to shell out anywhere from $100 to $500. This usually gets you a studio session with a professional photographer, a few outfit changes, and basic retouching. Ideal for professionals needing a solid, no-frills headshot.
• Premium Packages: Ready to take things up a notch? Premium sessions can range from $500 to $1,000 or even more. These are typically offered by highly experienced photographers and may include multiple locations, extensive retouching, a variety of poses, and wardrobe changes. Perfect for those in high-visibility professions or anyone looking for extra flair.
• Executive Headshots: Starting at around $1,000 and going up, these are top-of-the-line sessions with elite photographers. They often include full hair and makeup services, multiple locations (both indoor and outdoor), and several hours of shooting. This is the go-to for C-suite executives, industry leaders, or public figures.
• Mini Sessions: Some photographers offer shorter, more affordable sessions for around $50 to $150. These quick sessions are perfect if you just need a basic, professional-looking headshot without all the extras. You won't have a lot of say on the outfits, backgrounds, poses, and style, but it's a headshot.

Types of Headshot Sessions and Their Costs

Not every type of headshot costs the same. Headshots for your LinkedIn or dating profile won't cost nearly as much as an executive photoshoot or model-worthy headshots.

While we can't break down the costs for every type and industry, here are a few examples:

Cost of Corporate Headshots

Think clean, professional, and no-nonsense. Corporate headshots are your bread-and-butter in the business world, essential for LinkedIn profiles, company websites, and professional bios.

Pricing typically ranges from $100 to $300 per session. This often includes a quick session in a studio with one or two outfit changes and standard retouching.

Cost of Acting and Modeling Headshots

Actors and model headshots often require a range of emotions and looks to capture the breadth of their capabilities. These sessions can be more dynamic and stylized—and, thus, more expensive.

Expect prices to range from $200 to $600—that's because they often include multiple looks, backgrounds, and retouching.

Costs of Bulk Order Headshots for Businesses

Booking headshots for your entire team? Many photographers offer discounted rates for bulk sessions. This is a smart move for businesses looking to maintain a consistent professional image across all employee profiles.

Costs vary based on the number of people and the logistics involved, but generally, you can expect to save around 10% to 25% per headshot compared to individual headshot sessions.

Other Costs to Consider for Professional Headshots

That price tag from your photographer isn't your only expense—that's just their price. Often, you'll have plenty of other costs that add to your final out-of-pocket bill.

Here are some of those costs to consider:

1. Time Spent Finding a Photographer: The hunt for the right photographer can be a mini-job on its own. Whether you're scrolling through online portfolios or seeking referrals, the hours add up—and time is money.
2. Makeup and Hair Styling: Want to look your absolute best? Professional makeup and hair styling can improve your headshot but also add to the overall cost. Depending on the artist, you might spend an additional $75 to $250.
3. Wardrobe Options: If the shoot doesn't include wardrobe options, you might need to invest in new outfits or rent specific pieces to get the look just right.
4. Editing and Retouching Fees: Post-shoot, your photos might need a little digital magic to make them ready for the world to see. Basic editing might be included in the session fee, but extensive retouching can cost extra. Depending on the photographer's rates, this could range from $10 to $100 per image.
5. Driving to Location: Don't forget the cost of getting to and from the shoot—especially if it's in a remote or exclusive location. Gas isn't cheap, and parking fees can also pile up.
6. Waiting for Your Pictures: Depending on the photographer's backlog, it might take weeks to get your finished headshots back. Those headshots could have been earning you better jobs, wages, and gigs.
7. Opportunity Costs: Lastly, consider the opportunities you might miss while preparing for, attending, and following up on the headshot session. This includes time away from work or other engagements, like hiring a babysitter.

Get Professional Headshots for a Fraction of the Cost

Feeling a bit lightheaded after tallying up all those potential costs for a professional headshot? Don't panic—we've got you covered. We saved the best news for last.

Aragon.ai helps you get professional-quality headshots for a fraction of the usual price. Our AI headshot generator turns your ordinary selfies into extraordinary headshots, and our solutions fit any budget.

Here's how it works:

• Upload and Go: Start with any decent photo. Yes, even those you took on your phone.
• AI Magic at Work: Our AI transforms your uploaded images into polished, professional headshots, adjusting lighting, smoothing out imperfections, and choosing the best angles.
• Pick Your Favorites: Pick the headshots that best capture your professional identity and charm.

No hunting down a photographer, no booking studio time, no driving to shoots, and no wasted opportunity costs—just quality, affordable headshots.

And if you don't love what you see, there's no drama. We offer a no-questions-asked, 7-day full refund guarantee. So, really, what have you got to lose?

Our headshots start at just $35. That's probably how much you'll pay for parking outside a studio for a traditional headshot photoshoot.

Save money, get better results, and do everything from the comfort and convenience of your house. That's the power of Aragon.ai's AI headshot generator. Try it for yourself.