How Much Should I Pay For Headshots In 2024?

Headshot Photography Prices in 2024

If you are in need of professional headshots, whether for your professional profiles such as Linkedin or you are a performer in need of actors headshots, you may be wondering how much to spend. In 2024, the cost of headshots varies depending on the type of headshot you are looking for, the skill level of the photographer and the location of the photographers studio. In this guide, we’ll help you decide on how much you should spend. 

Firstly, for clarification, most headshot photographers will specialise in professional headshots for business and actors headshots. There are very little technical differences between actors headshots and professional headshots- the difference mainly comes down to the framing, what you wear and direction during the shoot. In this guide, when we refer to headshots, we’re covering both corporate and actors headshots. The rates will generally be the same whichever you are looking for.

One thing to consider in this respect though, is that if you are an actor looking for a range of headshots for your Spotlight profile for example, you may require more retouched/edited images than if you just need the one for LinkedIn. Most headshot photography packages in the UK will include a certain amount of retouched images. Speak to your photographer about what’s included before booking, as all of them will charge for additional retouched images.

What is Headshot Photography?

You guessed it- a photo of your head! A headshot generally captures your face and a little of your shoulders. Actors headshots tend to be cropped in a 5:4 ratio and corporate headshots are a little more flexible. Many people confuse headshot photography and portrait photography (read our explanation of the difference here) but headshots are usually shot closer than portraits and your eyes will always be looking into the lens. 

Headshots are used for a wide range of purposes- LinkedIn profiles, website bios, actors portfolios, email signatures and in 2024 it is a lot more common for people to use professional headshots as so much of our lives is online. 

For professionals and entrepreneurs, it is most likely that the headshot photographer will come to you (especially if they are shooting a team) and for actors it’s most likely that you will visit the photographers’ studio. 

How much does headshot photography cost in 2024?

For an individual, the cost of professional headshots in the UK ranges between £75 and £175. This would be for a session lasting between 30 minutes to one hour and would generally include at least one retouched image. If you require more time with the photographer, want a variery of looks or need more retouched images, the cost will go up. 

What impacts the price of headshot photography?

The cost of headshot photography in the UK varies depends on a number of factors:

• Experience of the photographer
• Location of the photographer
• If they have a studio
• Number of retouched images included
• Number of people (for team headshots)
• Amount of time required/number of looks

The first point here is probably one of the most important considerations when choosing what to spend on headshot photography. A new photographer, with little experience, is going to charge potentially half of what a more experienced photographer will. If your budget is tight, and the price is the main determining factor for you when choosing your headshot photographer, you will most likely be hiring one that doesn’t have much experience. 

Another important factor will be the location of your headshot photographer. A photographer based in Central London, who will most likely be paying a large amount for their studio, will have to charge more than a photographer based away from the city.

Of course, the amount of deliverables is also a factor- a shoot with a headshot photographer generally includes one or two retouched images, but if you need more, you will have to pay. Most headshot photographers will charge around £15 to £25 for additional retouches.

Examples

To help you decide how much you should be spending on your headshots, we have put together a few examples of what you can expect to pay for a variety of different types of headshot sessions:

1: An actor looking for six images showcasing a range of different expressions 
Expect to pay around £100 (inexperienced) to £250 (experienced)

2: A business person looking for a new LinkedIn profile picture
Expect to pay around £75 (inexperienced) to £175 (experienced)

3: A small business (5 team members) looking for images for their Meet The Team page
Expect to pay around £300 (inexperienced) to £550 (experienced)

Choosing the right headshot photographer

Here are a few points to consider (along with price) when choosing your headshot photographer:

• Experience with the type of headshots you need: A photographer who specialises in headshots will understand the specific requirements for this type of portraiture. They’ll have a portfolio showcasing a variety of professional headshots or actors headshots, demonstrating their ability to capture a range of looks and personalities for actors and how they encapsulate branding for businesses.
• Directing Poses and Expressions: Even the most confident person can feel awkward in front of a camera. A skilled photographer will guide you into flattering poses and expressions, helping you feel relaxed and project professionalism.
• Retouching Expertise: Professional headshots often benefit from subtle retouching to enhance your natural features and ensure a polished look. Look for a photographer that includes some amount of retouching in their service and has a portfolio that showcases their retouching skills.