How Much Does a Professional Headshot Cost? (2025 Pricing Guide & Key Factors)
Table of Contents
The images included in this post is AI-generated
Whether you’re applying for a new job, updating your LinkedIn profile, launching your personal brand, or building your online presence, a professional headshot is essential. It represents you before potential employers, clients, and professional contacts. But when planning to take a professional headshot, one question frequently arises: “How much does a professional headshot cost?“
Prices can vary significantly, ranging from $50 up to over $1,200. The differences depend on the photographer’s skill, your location, and many other factors. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll help you understand exactly what you’re paying for and why costs vary so dramatically.
Let’s dive deeper!
Several important factors significantly impact the cost of professional houston headshots. Understanding these can help you determine exactly what you should budget for your session.
1. Photographer’s Experience and Skill Level
- Beginner Photographers ($50 – $150): These photographers are just starting out and usually offer shorter sessions (15-30 minutes) with minimal editing. This is great if you need a simple and affordable option for social media or basic use.
- Intermediate Photographers ($150 – $450): They have more experience, better equipment, and advanced editing skills. Sessions usually last between 30 minutes to 1.5 hours, and you’ll typically get multiple photos with professional retouching.
- High-End or Celebrity Photographers ($500 – $1,200+): Top-tier photographers with strong reputations charge premium rates. They deliver exceptional quality, creative lighting, professional styling, and extensive retouching. Sessions are longer (often 2-3 hours), with multiple outfit and location options. Ideal if you’re a senior executive, influencer, or public figure.
2. Geographic Location
Your location also has a big impact on prices:
- Major cities (like New York, Los Angeles, or San Francisco): Prices are usually 30-50% higher because of higher living costs and increased demand.
- Smaller cities or rural areas: Photographers often offer more affordable rates, making sessions easier on your budget.
3. Studio Sessions vs. Outdoor (On-location) Sessions
- Studio Sessions ($100 – $350): These are typically less expensive because the photographer doesn’t have travel costs. They offer controlled lighting and consistent backgrounds, ideal for professional websites or LinkedIn profiles.
- Outdoor/On-location Sessions (20-30% higher than studio rates): These shoots are more expensive due to travel, extra equipment, or location permits. But the benefit is natural backgrounds and unique settings, perfect for creative industries or personal branding.
4. Length of the Session and Outfit Changes
- Short Sessions (15-30 mins): Cheapest option—perfect for quick updates, students, or a single photo.
- Standard Sessions (45-90 mins): Most popular option—offers good value, multiple outfit changes, and high-quality images.
- Extended Sessions (2-3 hours): More expensive, suitable for professionals who need a variety of looks, outfits, and backgrounds for extensive personal branding.
5. Photo Retouching and Editing
Most photographers include basic editing (brightness adjustments, minor skin improvements) in their price. If you want advanced retouching—such as removing blemishes, smoothing skin extensively, or changing backgrounds—expect to pay an additional $20-$100 per photo.
6. Number of Photos Delivered
Typically, photographers include 1-3 final edited images in their packages. If you want more photos, each extra image usually costs between $20 and $100.
Average Cost of Professional Headshots
Before you book your session, it’s helpful to know what different headshot styles typically cost. Here’s a quick breakdown to give you a clearer picture, so you can budget smart and pick the option that fits your needs best.
Service Level | Average Cost | Description |
Budget Level | $50 – $150 | Quick, minimal retouching, limited options |
Mid-Level | $150 – $450 | Professional editing, multiple looks |
Premium/Executive | $500 – $1,200+ | Extended sessions, extensive retouching, multiple looks |
Headshot Pricing by Category: Find the Right Fit for Your Needs
Whether you’re preparing for a corporate role, updating your legal profile, or getting headshots at a live event, knowing the pricing for each type helps you plan better and book with confidence.
1. Event Headshots Pricing
Event headshots are often done on-site at conferences, expos, or company events. These are usually fast-paced sessions with mobile setups, meant to provide attendees or staff with a quick, polished photo.
Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to invest for event headshots:
- 1–15 People: $125 per person
- 16–50 People: $95 per person
- 51+ People: Custom quote based on setup, team size, and event duration
Half-Day & Full-Day Packages:
- Half-Day Coverage: Starting at $1,250+
- Full-Day Coverage: Starting at $2,250+
Includes professional lighting, backdrop, real-time image review, and lightly retouched images per person.
📍 Custom packages available for multi-day events, large team activations, or branded installations.
2. Legal Headshots Pricing
Legal headshots professionals—attorneys, paralegals, and partners—typically need formal, studio-lit headshots that reflect trust, professionalism, and authority.
- Solo Legal Headshot Sessions: Starting at $250
- Law Firm Team Sessions: Custom pricing based on group size and session format (on-site or in-studio)
Pricing Includes:
- One-on-one guided session
- Professional studio lighting and background setup
- Retouched, high-resolution headshot
- Licensing for web and print use
📍 For teams of 5 or more, we offer on-location firm sessions with consistent lighting and framing across all team members.
3. Bankers Headshot Pricing
Bankers headshots and finance professionals often require clean, corporate headshots suited for LinkedIn, press releases, or internal presentations.
- Individual Sessions: Starting at $275
- Team or Firm Sessions: Custom pricing based on group size, number of setups, and in-office vs. studio sessions
All Sessions Include:
- Guided posing and coaching
- Professional lighting setup
- Retouched, high-resolution image(s)
- Consistent framing for entire teams
📍 We work with banks, investment firms, and advisory groups to ensure brand-consistent headshots across leadership teams.
4. Team & Staff Headshots Pricing
Group or company team sessions are priced differently—usually either per-person or per-hour depending on the setup and number of people.
Team Headshot Pricing (Per Person):
- 1–10 Team Members: $100 per person
- 11–20 Team Members: $85–$90 per person
- 20+ Team Members or Full-Day Sessions: Custom packages available — starting at $1,200+
What’s Included:
- On-site studio setup (lighting, backdrop, etc.)
- Uniform framing and lighting across all team members
- Light retouching and image delivery
- Quick, organized workflow that minimizes disruption to the workday
📍 Perfect for startups, law firms, medical teams, and growing companies in Houston looking for consistent, polished employee images.
5. Founder & CEO Headshots Pricing
These sessions are often more premium, as CEOs and founders are often in the public eye and need headshots that can be used across media, PR, websites, and investor decks.
Pricing Overview:
- Premium Founder Session: Starting at $400
- Custom Executive Branding Sessions: Pricing varies based on creative scope, location, wardrobe changes, and final deliverables
What’s Included:
- Creative direction and consultation
- Multiple wardrobe and background changes
- High-end retouching
- Full usage rights for web, media, and print
📍 Perfect for founders prepping for media launches, funding rounds, or building personal brand authority across platforms.
Detailed Cost Breakdown & Comparisons
Below, we’ll break down the costs associated with each popular style, making it easier for you to choose the right one based on your budget and the image you want to portray
Cost by Region (USA Examples):
City/Region | Average Price Range |
New York City, NY | $283 – $1,200 |
Los Angeles, CA | $275 – $1,000 |
Chicago, IL | $250 – $750 |
San Francisco, CA | $300 – $1,000 |
Washington, D.C. | $250 – $800 |
Boston, MA | $250 – $700 |
Seattle, WA | $200 – $600 |
Denver, CO | $299 – $545 |
Atlanta, GA | $150 – $500 |
Dallas, TX | $150 – $450 |
Houston, TX | $150 – $450 |
Miami, FL | $200 – $600 |
Phoenix, AZ | $150 – $400 |
Philadelphia, PA | $200 – $650 |
Portland, OR | $200 – $500 |
Austin, TX | $150 – $500 |
Raleigh, NC | $145 – $300 |
Pittsburgh, PA | $85 – $275 |
Nashville, TN | $150 – $400 |
Indianapolis, IN | $100 – $300 |
Columbus, OH | $100 – $300 |
Kansas City, MO | $150 – $350 |
New Orleans, LA | $150 – $400 |
Albuquerque, NM | $150 – $350 |
Omaha, NE | $100 – $300 |
Salt Lake City, UT | $150 – $400 |
Birmingham, AL | $100 – $300 |
Richmond, VA | $150 – $350 |
Hartford, CT | $200 – $500 |
Buffalo, NY | $100 – $300 |
Des Moines, IA | $100 – $300 |
Boise, ID | $100 – $300 |
Little Rock, AR | $100 – $300 |
Charleston, SC | $150 – $400 |
Jacksonville, FL | $150 – $400 |
Louisville, KY | $100 – $300 |
Milwaukee, WI | $150 – $400 |
Oklahoma City, OK | $100 – $300 |
Tulsa, OK | $100 – $300 |
Memphis, TN | $100 – $300 |
Providence, RI | $150 – $400 |
Cleveland, OH | $100 – $300 |
Detroit, MI | $100 – $300 |
Minneapolis, MN | $200 – $500 |
Anchorage, AK | $150 – $400 |
Honolulu, HI | $200 – $500 |
Las Vegas, NV | $200 – $500 |
Orlando, FL | $150 – $400 |
San Diego, CA | $250 – $700 |
San Antonio, TX | $150 – $400 |
Sacramento, CA | $200 – $500 |
Cost by Photography Style and Setting
Choosing the style and setting of your headshot session can significantly affect pricing. Different photography styles offer unique benefits, influencing how professional, approachable, or creative your headshots appear. Below, we’ll break down the costs associated with each popular style, making it easier for you to choose the right one based on your budget and the image you want to portray.
Photography Style | Average Price Range | Description & Best Uses |
Studio Headshots | $150 – $500 | Professional look, consistent backgrounds, ideal for LinkedIn, business profiles, and corporate use. Offers controlled lighting and traditional aesthetics. |
On-location/Outdoor | $250 – $800 | Natural lighting and diverse backgrounds; perfect for personal branding, creative professionals, real estate agents, or businesses wanting approachable and unique headshots. |
Creative Lifestyle | $400 – $1,000 | Customized settings, more candid shots capturing personality and authenticity. Best for entrepreneurs, influencers, actors, artists, and professionals seeking to build a distinctive personal brand. |
Additional Costs to Be Aware Of
- Makeup Artist ($75-$200)
- Hair Styling ($50-$150)
- Wardrobe Consultation ($50-$150)
- Extra Images ($20-$100 per image)
- Rush Delivery ($50-$150)
Real-Life Case Study: Dress for Success Houston x DNB Productions
To help you understand the real value behind a professional headshot session, here’s a quick case study from one of our recent projects.
🎯 The Client:
Dress for Success Houston, a nonprofit empowering women with career development support and professional attire.
📸 The Goal:
Capture empowering, high-quality headshots for their ambassadors—women who had completed the program and were now thriving in their careers.
💡 Our Approach:
- Set up a mobile studio with professional lighting and backdrops.
- Provided personalized coaching to help ambassadors feel confident.
- Offering real-time image proofing so each participant left with a headshot they loved.
- Created a relaxed, supportive environment to make the experience enjoyable.
✅ The Results:
- Confident, polished headshots aligned with the Dress for Success brand.
- Participants left feeling uplifted and proud of their professional image.
- The organization praised our friendly approach, professionalism, and final image quality.
Client Testimonial:
“Douglas made everyone feel at ease… the headshots turned out fantastic. We’re excited to work with DNB Productions again!”
✨ Why it Matters:
This project wasn’t just about taking photos — it was about helping real women own their professional story and show up with confidence. That’s the power of a well-done headshot.
Wrapping Lines!
Headshot photography isn’t just about taking a nice picture — it’s an investment in your personal brand and professional growth. Whether you’re a job seeker, entrepreneur, or creative professional, having a high-quality headshot can help you make stronger connections and create a lasting impression.Before booking a session, it’s important to do your research. Understand what’s included in the package — from outfit changes and background options to retouching details and image delivery. Having a clear idea of what you need (and what you’re paying for) ensures you get the most value from your session.
Now that you’re familiar with what affects headshot pricing, you can move forward with confidence and choose a photographer who aligns with your goals, your style, and your budget. If you’re looking for a professional, approachable, and supportive headshot experience, DNB Productions is here to help. We don’t just take photos — we help you feel confident, look polished, and show up as your best self.
📸 Need Headshots That Work as Hard as You Do?
Let’s talk! Contact DNB Productions today to learn more about our headshot packages and how we can help elevate your brand.
[📩 Book a Session | 📞 Schedule a Consultation | 🌐 Visit Our Website]
The images included in this post is AI-generated
Whether you’re applying for a new job, updating your LinkedIn profile, launching your personal brand, or building your online presence, a professional headshot is essential. It represents you before potential employers, clients, and professional contacts. But when planning to take a professional headshot, one question frequently arises: “How much does a professional headshot cost?“
Prices can vary significantly, ranging from $50 up to over $1,200. The differences depend on the photographer’s skill, your location, and many other factors. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll help you understand exactly what you’re paying for and why costs vary so dramatically.
Let’s dive deeper!
Several important factors significantly impact the cost of professional houston headshots. Understanding these can help you determine exactly what you should budget for your session.
1. Photographer’s Experience and Skill Level
- Beginner Photographers ($50 – $150): These photographers are just starting out and usually offer shorter sessions (15-30 minutes) with minimal editing. This is great if you need a simple and affordable option for social media or basic use.
- Intermediate Photographers ($150 – $450): They have more experience, better equipment, and advanced editing skills. Sessions usually last between 30 minutes to 1.5 hours, and you’ll typically get multiple photos with professional retouching.
- High-End or Celebrity Photographers ($500 – $1,200+): Top-tier photographers with strong reputations charge premium rates. They deliver exceptional quality, creative lighting, professional styling, and extensive retouching. Sessions are longer (often 2-3 hours), with multiple outfit and location options. Ideal if you’re a senior executive, influencer, or public figure.
2. Geographic Location
Your location also has a big impact on prices:
- Major cities (like New York, Los Angeles, or San Francisco): Prices are usually 30-50% higher because of higher living costs and increased demand.
- Smaller cities or rural areas: Photographers often offer more affordable rates, making sessions easier on your budget.
3. Studio Sessions vs. Outdoor (On-location) Sessions
- Studio Sessions ($100 – $350): These are typically less expensive because the photographer doesn’t have travel costs. They offer controlled lighting and consistent backgrounds, ideal for professional websites or LinkedIn profiles.
- Outdoor/On-location Sessions (20-30% higher than studio rates): These shoots are more expensive due to travel, extra equipment, or location permits. But the benefit is natural backgrounds and unique settings, perfect for creative industries or personal branding.
4. Length of the Session and Outfit Changes
- Short Sessions (15-30 mins): Cheapest option—perfect for quick updates, students, or a single photo.
- Standard Sessions (45-90 mins): Most popular option—offers good value, multiple outfit changes, and high-quality images.
- Extended Sessions (2-3 hours): More expensive, suitable for professionals who need a variety of looks, outfits, and backgrounds for extensive personal branding.
5. Photo Retouching and Editing
Most photographers include basic editing (brightness adjustments, minor skin improvements) in their price. If you want advanced retouching—such as removing blemishes, smoothing skin extensively, or changing backgrounds—expect to pay an additional $20-$100 per photo.
6. Number of Photos Delivered
Typically, photographers include 1-3 final edited images in their packages. If you want more photos, each extra image usually costs between $20 and $100.
Average Cost of Professional Headshots
Before you book your session, it’s helpful to know what different headshot styles typically cost. Here’s a quick breakdown to give you a clearer picture, so you can budget smart and pick the option that fits your needs best.
Service Level | Average Cost | Description |
Budget Level | $50 – $150 | Quick, minimal retouching, limited options |
Mid-Level | $150 – $450 | Professional editing, multiple looks |
Premium/Executive | $500 – $1,200+ | Extended sessions, extensive retouching, multiple looks |
Headshot Pricing by Category: Find the Right Fit for Your Needs
Whether you’re preparing for a corporate role, updating your legal profile, or getting headshots at a live event, knowing the pricing for each type helps you plan better and book with confidence.
1. Event Headshots Pricing
Event headshots are often done on-site at conferences, expos, or company events. These are usually fast-paced sessions with mobile setups, meant to provide attendees or staff with a quick, polished photo.
Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to invest for event headshots:
- 1–15 People: $125 per person
- 16–50 People: $95 per person
- 51+ People: Custom quote based on setup, team size, and event duration
Half-Day & Full-Day Packages:
- Half-Day Coverage: Starting at $1,250+
- Full-Day Coverage: Starting at $2,250+
Includes professional lighting, backdrop, real-time image review, and lightly retouched images per person.
📍 Custom packages available for multi-day events, large team activations, or branded installations.
2. Legal Headshots Pricing
Legal headshots professionals—attorneys, paralegals, and partners—typically need formal, studio-lit headshots that reflect trust, professionalism, and authority.
- Solo Legal Headshot Sessions: Starting at $250
- Law Firm Team Sessions: Custom pricing based on group size and session format (on-site or in-studio)
Pricing Includes:
- One-on-one guided session
- Professional studio lighting and background setup
- Retouched, high-resolution headshot
- Licensing for web and print use
📍 For teams of 5 or more, we offer on-location firm sessions with consistent lighting and framing across all team members.
3. Bankers Headshot Pricing
Bankers headshots and finance professionals often require clean, corporate headshots suited for LinkedIn, press releases, or internal presentations.
- Individual Sessions: Starting at $275
- Team or Firm Sessions: Custom pricing based on group size, number of setups, and in-office vs. studio sessions
All Sessions Include:
- Guided posing and coaching
- Professional lighting setup
- Retouched, high-resolution image(s)
- Consistent framing for entire teams
📍 We work with banks, investment firms, and advisory groups to ensure brand-consistent headshots across leadership teams.
4. Team & Staff Headshots Pricing
Group or company team sessions are priced differently—usually either per-person or per-hour depending on the setup and number of people.
Team Headshot Pricing (Per Person):
- 1–10 Team Members: $100 per person
- 11–20 Team Members: $85–$90 per person
- 20+ Team Members or Full-Day Sessions: Custom packages available — starting at $1,200+
What’s Included:
- On-site studio setup (lighting, backdrop, etc.)
- Uniform framing and lighting across all team members
- Light retouching and image delivery
- Quick, organized workflow that minimizes disruption to the workday
📍 Perfect for startups, law firms, medical teams, and growing companies in Houston looking for consistent, polished employee images.
5. Founder & CEO Headshots Pricing
These sessions are often more premium, as CEOs and founders are often in the public eye and need headshots that can be used across media, PR, websites, and investor decks.
Pricing Overview:
- Premium Founder Session: Starting at $400
- Custom Executive Branding Sessions: Pricing varies based on creative scope, location, wardrobe changes, and final deliverables
What’s Included:
- Creative direction and consultation
- Multiple wardrobe and background changes
- High-end retouching
- Full usage rights for web, media, and print
📍 Perfect for founders prepping for media launches, funding rounds, or building personal brand authority across platforms.
Detailed Cost Breakdown & Comparisons
Below, we’ll break down the costs associated with each popular style, making it easier for you to choose the right one based on your budget and the image you want to portray
Cost by Region (USA Examples):
City/Region | Average Price Range |
New York City, NY | $283 – $1,200 |
Los Angeles, CA | $275 – $1,000 |
Chicago, IL | $250 – $750 |
San Francisco, CA | $300 – $1,000 |
Washington, D.C. | $250 – $800 |
Boston, MA | $250 – $700 |
Seattle, WA | $200 – $600 |
Denver, CO | $299 – $545 |
Atlanta, GA | $150 – $500 |
Dallas, TX | $150 – $450 |
Houston, TX | $150 – $450 |
Miami, FL | $200 – $600 |
Phoenix, AZ | $150 – $400 |
Philadelphia, PA | $200 – $650 |
Portland, OR | $200 – $500 |
Austin, TX | $150 – $500 |
Raleigh, NC | $145 – $300 |
Pittsburgh, PA | $85 – $275 |
Nashville, TN | $150 – $400 |
Indianapolis, IN | $100 – $300 |
Columbus, OH | $100 – $300 |
Kansas City, MO | $150 – $350 |
New Orleans, LA | $150 – $400 |
Albuquerque, NM | $150 – $350 |
Omaha, NE | $100 – $300 |
Salt Lake City, UT | $150 – $400 |
Birmingham, AL | $100 – $300 |
Richmond, VA | $150 – $350 |
Hartford, CT | $200 – $500 |
Buffalo, NY | $100 – $300 |
Des Moines, IA | $100 – $300 |
Boise, ID | $100 – $300 |
Little Rock, AR | $100 – $300 |
Charleston, SC | $150 – $400 |
Jacksonville, FL | $150 – $400 |
Louisville, KY | $100 – $300 |
Milwaukee, WI | $150 – $400 |
Oklahoma City, OK | $100 – $300 |
Tulsa, OK | $100 – $300 |
Memphis, TN | $100 – $300 |
Providence, RI | $150 – $400 |
Cleveland, OH | $100 – $300 |
Detroit, MI | $100 – $300 |
Minneapolis, MN | $200 – $500 |
Anchorage, AK | $150 – $400 |
Honolulu, HI | $200 – $500 |
Las Vegas, NV | $200 – $500 |
Orlando, FL | $150 – $400 |
San Diego, CA | $250 – $700 |
San Antonio, TX | $150 – $400 |
Sacramento, CA | $200 – $500 |
Cost by Photography Style and Setting
Choosing the style and setting of your headshot session can significantly affect pricing. Different photography styles offer unique benefits, influencing how professional, approachable, or creative your headshots appear. Below, we’ll break down the costs associated with each popular style, making it easier for you to choose the right one based on your budget and the image you want to portray.
Photography Style | Average Price Range | Description & Best Uses |
Studio Headshots | $150 – $500 | Professional look, consistent backgrounds, ideal for LinkedIn, business profiles, and corporate use. Offers controlled lighting and traditional aesthetics. |
On-location/Outdoor | $250 – $800 | Natural lighting and diverse backgrounds; perfect for personal branding, creative professionals, real estate agents, or businesses wanting approachable and unique headshots. |
Creative Lifestyle | $400 – $1,000 | Customized settings, more candid shots capturing personality and authenticity. Best for entrepreneurs, influencers, actors, artists, and professionals seeking to build a distinctive personal brand. |
Additional Costs to Be Aware Of
- Makeup Artist ($75-$200)
- Hair Styling ($50-$150)
- Wardrobe Consultation ($50-$150)
- Extra Images ($20-$100 per image)
- Rush Delivery ($50-$150)
Real-Life Case Study: Dress for Success Houston x DNB Productions
To help you understand the real value behind a professional headshot session, here’s a quick case study from one of our recent projects.
🎯 The Client:
Dress for Success Houston, a nonprofit empowering women with career development support and professional attire.
📸 The Goal:
Capture empowering, high-quality headshots for their ambassadors—women who had completed the program and were now thriving in their careers.
💡 Our Approach:
- Set up a mobile studio with professional lighting and backdrops.
- Provided personalized coaching to help ambassadors feel confident.
- Offering real-time image proofing so each participant left with a headshot they loved.
- Created a relaxed, supportive environment to make the experience enjoyable.
✅ The Results:
- Confident, polished headshots aligned with the Dress for Success brand.
- Participants left feeling uplifted and proud of their professional image.
- The organization praised our friendly approach, professionalism, and final image quality.
Client Testimonial:
“Douglas made everyone feel at ease… the headshots turned out fantastic. We’re excited to work with DNB Productions again!”
✨ Why it Matters:
This project wasn’t just about taking photos — it was about helping real women own their professional story and show up with confidence. That’s the power of a well-done headshot.
Wrapping Lines!
Headshot photography isn’t just about taking a nice picture — it’s an investment in your personal brand and professional growth. Whether you’re a job seeker, entrepreneur, or creative professional, having a high-quality headshot can help you make stronger connections and create a lasting impression.Before booking a session, it’s important to do your research. Understand what’s included in the package — from outfit changes and background options to retouching details and image delivery. Having a clear idea of what you need (and what you’re paying for) ensures you get the most value from your session.
Now that you’re familiar with what affects headshot pricing, you can move forward with confidence and choose a photographer who aligns with your goals, your style, and your budget. If you’re looking for a professional, approachable, and supportive headshot experience, DNB Productions is here to help. We don’t just take photos — we help you feel confident, look polished, and show up as your best self.
📸 Need Headshots That Work as Hard as You Do?
Let’s talk! Contact DNB Productions today to learn more about our headshot packages and how we can help elevate your brand.
[📩 Book a Session | 📞 Schedule a Consultation | 🌐 Visit Our Website]