Why Are Headshots So Expensive?
Do I hear this often? Somewhat. Mostly because of perception. What really goes into creating a great headshot? Is it a good camera - partly - but if I have a $5000 oven, does that make me a better baker? Definitely not.
The primary reason professional photography is expensive is because it’s a business. And businesses have expenses; equipment, studio, insurance, business licenses, computers, vehicle expenses, accounting and the list goes on. And ultimately we need to make a living to pay for our expenses - family and business expenses.
So if you’re in the market for headshots, I’m sure you know all this already. Especially if you’re a fellow business owner.
What else are you paying for?
Experienced Professional Photographer - You are paying for my experience, my education, my knowledge. I understand how to create images that serve your brand. If someone tries to sell you something other than what your brand requires, perhaps because of their own limitations, stay clear.
Consistent Quality of Work - Can the photographer provide consistent looking work. Can you be assured that they can make you look great too?
Ability to Direct Subjects - Can the photographer communicate concisely with you on how to make you look great. This is not just “stand over there and smile” type of direction. If they cannot build a rapport with you, then you can be sure that your images will look stiff and boring. A great way to find this out is to get on the phone and talk to them. Also read thru reviews and testimonials.
Communication and Service - how well do they communicate with you throughout the process? This starts at the preparation stage then leading up to the session and of course throughout your photoshoot and the image selection process.
You’re not paying for time - you don’t pay for the photographer’s time. You’re paying for my experience and my ability to deliver. It could take 30 minutes or 2 hours. The difference is a lot more option when we take more time. So don’t choose your photographer based on their session time. It’s all based on quality - better quality comes from knowledge and experience.
So with all that being said you probably understand why you should be wary of photographers charging less than $250. That just comes from photographers not having the experience to know that they need to charge more to run a photography business and make a living in 2022.
What are some red flags to look for?
No headshot portfolio. If you’re looking at a photographer that has baby photos, family photos or wedding photos, those are not the same skills you need for headshots. It’s understandable that photographers do a few different genres to make a living, however, there has to be a dedicated page showing a headshot portfolio.
No insurance - professional photographers have to have insurance. It shows that they are running a professional business and they care about your safety and their safety and everyone who’s on set in the studio. And especially if they are working on your location.
Not technically flexible - are they stubborn about their style and not willing to work with your vision? This goes back to whether they can execute your brand requirements. Or do they only know how to work in one style that they know.
Not charging enough - are they cheap? Most likely they are inexperienced.
So what do you do if you have a limited budget? I understand it, we’ve all been there. But know that price and quality go hand in hand. If you as a professional and price your own work according to your value, why would you expect anything less from someone that you hire, whether it’s an accountant or a photographer.
Your headshot is going to be your primary marketing for your business. Why wouldn’t you hire a professional to make you look professional?
