How to Save Money on Professional Headshots

Did you know that professional headshots can increase your chances of landing your dream job by 40%? That’s right, according to a recent study by LinkedIn, having a high-quality photo on your profile can make a huge difference in how recruiters and employers perceive you.

But how do you get a professional headshot without breaking the bank? In this post, I’ll show you how to find the best headshot photographer for your budget and style, and how to prepare for your photo session like a pro.

Why are professional headshots so expensive?

At the heart of the matter, the somewhat hefty price tag of professional headshots reflects their profound impact on your personal brand and career trajectory.

Consider your headshot as your digital handshake - the first point of contact between you and your online audience or potential professional connections. The power it holds to shape people’s first impressions of you, and by extension, your credibility, is immeasurable.

An expertly crafted headshot can successfully differentiate you from a crowd, projecting your personality, style, and professionalism. It can serve as a window into your values, goals, and prowess in your field. Through a headshot, you can command attention, pave the way for new opportunities, and increase your income.

Whether you’re hunting for a job, chasing a promotion, courting clients, or seeking partners, a professional headshot provides you with a competitive edge, thus amplifying your chances of success.

A second noteworthy factor contributing to the cost of professional headshots is the extensive skill set, experience, and equipment a photographer brings to the table.

An accomplished headshot photographer possesses the keen ability to capture your best attributes and expressions, projecting them authentically. Mastery in using lighting, angles, backgrounds, and poses to manifest an image that mirrors your brand and personality is a vital part of their expertise. Coupled with the necessary high-tech equipment and software to produce top-tier, clear, and consistent photos, they offer an unparalleled service.

Moreover, their ability to professionally edit and retouch your photos, enhancing your natural beauty while concealing blemishes is key. A professional headshot photographer’s work product is not only aesthetically pleasing but also remarkably effective in communicating your message and value to your audience.

The most adept headshot photographers offer more than just technical skills; they’re coaches, guiding you towards authentic expressions that boost engagement and revenue. Their aptitude to put you at ease in front of the camera, assisting you in naturally conveying emotions and personality, is invaluable. Moreover, they can offer advice on selecting outfits, colors, and accessories that resonate with your brand and style. Their role is to aid in creating compelling photos that engage and persuade, fostering a connection with your audience that inspires action.

How to find the best headshot photographer for your budget and style

Now that you understand why professional headshots are so expensive, you might be wondering how you can find the best headshot photographer for your budget and style. Here are some tips on how to do that:

Do your research and compare options. Don’t just settle for the first photographer you find online or through word-of-mouth. Shop around and look for different options that suit your needs and budget. Compare their portfolios, reviews, packages, and policies. Ask for referrals from friends or colleagues who have had positive experiences with their headshot photographers.
Choose the right option for your needs. Depending on what you need the headshot for, you might not require multiple photos or extensive editing. Some photographers offer different options that vary in price based on the number of photos, the duration of the session, the location of the shoot, the level of retouching, and other factors. For example, some photographers offer a la carte headshot photography, where you can choose only the services you need and pay accordingly. You might also find a photographer who offers just a quick shoot for a single LinkedIn photo or image for your company website rather than a lengthy session. Choose the option that meets your requirements without paying for unnecessary extras.
Plan ahead and book in advance. If possible, try to schedule your photo session well ahead of time. This way, you can avoid rush fees or last-minute cancellations. You can also take advantage of seasonal discounts or special offers that some photographers may have. Booking in advance also gives you more time to prepare well for your session (see next tip).
Prepare well and follow instructions. One of the best ways to find the best headshot photographer for your budget and style is to make sure you nail it on the first try. This means preparing well before your session by following your photographer’s instructions on what to wear, how to do your hair and makeup (if applicable), what props or accessories (if any) to bring along, and how to relax and have fun during the shoot. The more prepared you are, the less likely you will need to reshoot or request additional edits, which could incur extra costs.
Review images during the session. Another way to find the best headshot photographer for your budget and style is to find a photographer who allows you to review the images during the session. This is called tethering, and it means that the photographer connects their camera to a computer or a monitor, so you can see the photos as they are taken. This allows you to check your expressions, poses, lighting, and angles, and make adjustments as needed. It also helps you and your photographer communicate better and achieve the results you want. Tethering can save you time and money by avoiding unnecessary reshoots or edits. It also saves you the stress of having to go through a proofing gallery.

Conclusion

As you can see, professional headshots are worth every penny when it comes to boosting your personal brand and career advancement. They can help you stand out from the crowd, showcase your personality and professionalism, and attract more opportunities and income.

If you’re ready to take your headshot game to the next level, don’t hesitate to contact me today. I’m Jeremy Bustin, the #1 reviewed professional headshot photographer in Atlanta. I offer two amazing packages that suit any budget and style: the Express Headshot Experience and the Unlimited Headshot Experience. Whether you want a quick and easy session or a full-on creative exploration, I’ve got you covered.

Book now and get 25% off your first session with me. Trust me, you won’t regret it.