Photography Costs – How Much Is a Typical Portrait Photo Shoot?

by | 27 May 2013 | 4 comments

In this post I will tell you a little bit more about how much a photo shoot costs, and what is included in the price.

The prices indicated in the relevant section is paid directly to me, the photographer. For outdoor shoots and make-up done by the client himself, then the noted price is the Final Price.

Studio photo shoots will inevitably incur additional costs, mainly in the form of studio rental fees. This is may cost anywhere from £50 to £500 per hour, depending on the size, location and equipment in the studio. I am willing to work in any studio, regardless of its size or quality. Getting makeup done by a makeup professional in the studio on the day will also add to the final cost, as well as taking time. However, the latter can sometimes be avoided or negotiated between the photographer, the model and the studio owner. Just remember that makeup is a costly procedure, so if you can apply it yourself before the shoot to save a significant amount of money and time.

Generally, 2 hours in the studio, without makeup, costs around £200, 4 hours – £300

In my honest opinion, studio photography is perfect for portraits, fashion shots and for special effects using various lights, wind using a powerful fan, powder trails, water spatter etc. However, outdoor photography is also great for all of the above, it just requires more time and preparation. Natural surroundings are ideal for portraits as they make people seem themselves with no touch of artificiality. In the spring and summer especially, with trees blossoming and greenery coming to life, outdoor shots in parks, countryside or even the city can be cool and fun.

Interior photography is another great example of a “natural” or “neutral” environment, and is accessible any time of the year. Offices create stern and sexy business photos, while shots in a restaurant make for subtle and moody photography.

It is possible to include other professionals in the shoot – stylists, professional retouchers (although the photographer is often a retoucher himself), personal advisors and artistic “visionaries”. If you want to get really original and creative, you can even rent exotic or extravagant clothes, bring pets or rent slick sports cars. It is all up to you, and, more importantly, your budget.

But regardless of the budget, it is always possible to take great photos.