How to choose your headshot photographer

2 What does the fee include?

There are different ways to charge for photography, either on an hourly/daily rate or fixed fees. Most headshot photographers have set prices for specific packages or based on the number of people who need headshots.

My package prices always include the sitting fee (ie. the shoot) and a specified number of edited images. And I always let clients know how much it will cost for extra images from the shoot.

Make sure you understand what’s included in the fee you’ve been quoted for your headshot shoot, and that there aren’t any hidden extras like travel costs or additional charges for high resolution images.

3 Where will the shoot take place

Headshots can be taken in a studio, at your workplace, or on location. Each option creates a different look, so it’s worth understanding what’s included and what suits your brand best.

Some photographers only work in their studio, but I work on location and have a mobile studio which I take to companies and home offices.

4 Do you help with posing and expression?

Most people aren’t used to being in front of the camera.

A good headshot photographer should guide you through posing, posture, and expression so you feel comfortable and look natural – not stiff or awkward.

5 How long will the shoot take?

There’s nothing worse than trying to feel relaxed in front of the camera if you’re worried about time. If you’re investing in a professional headshot photographer ask then roughly they expect the shoot to take (and add on a little bit more!), so you can make sure you’re not rushed.

When I’m taking several corporate headshots in one day for a large company, I allow time to set up my equipment and around 10-15 minutes per person for standard headshots, and longer for director portraits. I ask my point of contact at the company to give everyone an (approx!) running order so they know roughly when it’s their turn.

If I’m working with a small business or business owner, the length of the shoot can vary. I always take into account the number of different images you need, allowing for outfit change as well as change in setting or style of image.

6 How will the images be supplied?

It’s important to check in what format, dimensions and resolution your headshots will be supplied, especially if you need them for more than just a profile photo.

Most headshots are either portrait format (eg.2×3) or square but if you need specific dimensions for your website make sure your photographer is aware of this before the shoot and can meet these requirements.

If your web guys need very small files for your website, or if you need high resolution images for enlargements or printed materials, check that this can be accommodated within the fee.

These days most people only need a digital version of their headshot and they are usually supplied as Jpegs.

7 When will I get my new headshots

If you need your headshots quickly you should definitely check turnaround times before booking the photographer. They will normally provide you with a selection of proofs to choose from and then edit your favourite photos. Ask them when you can expect to see the proofs (either on the day or within a few days) and how long the editing takes.

8 What editing do you do?

Looking at a photographer’s portfolio should give you an idea of the style and level of retouching they do on their headshots. There may be dark shadows and lines to minimise around the eye area, as well as a few stray hairs or blemishes. Ask what level of editing is included in the price – natural and subtle is usually best for headshots, so you still look like yourself on your best day.

What’s next?

If you or your company needs a headshot refresh, you can find out more about my headshot photography service here.