How Much Does a Headshot Cost in 2025? A State-by-State Guide

A professional headshot is more than just a photo - it's a branding tool that enhances your online presence and creates a strong first impression. Our independent research, reviewing dozens of pricing guides, regional photography websites, and expert articles reveals the latest trends in headshot costs across the United States. Below is an overview of updated median prices, the typical number of retouched images, factors affecting costs, and emerging alternatives from AI-driven services.

Average Costs in 2025

Recent market research indicates that the median cost for a professional headshot session now averages approximately $265. While pricing may vary with location and session details, most photographers charge between $250 and $300.

Typical Package Deliverables

• About 32% of sessions return one retouched headshot
• 20% return two images
• 15% return three images
• Nearly 66% of packages yield three or fewer retouched headshots

State-by-State Pricing

Independent pricing guides and local website research yield the following updated median costs per session:

These figures are derived from multiple independent sources and regional pricing guides.

Key Factors Driving Cost

Several factors explain the variation in headshot pricing:

• Session Duration – Short 15-minute sessions (often yielding a single image) are less expensive than extended sessions that allow multiple looks.
• Number of Retouched Images – Packages with more final images or additional retouching incur higher fees.
• Photographer Expertise – Established photographers with extensive portfolios and specialized techniques command premium rates.
• Location – Urban centers and high-demand regions typically have higher pricing than smaller towns.
• Additional Services – Add-ons such as makeup, hair styling, multiple outfit changes, and advanced editing increase overall costs.
• Time Investment – The total time spent for the shoot—including setup and post-production editing—is reflected in the pricing structure.

AI-Generated Headshots: An Emerging Alternative

For professionals with budget constraints or a need for rapid turnaround, AI headshots offer a compelling alternative. Recent solutions now provide high-quality, customizable headshots at a fraction of traditional costs. For example:

• Basic Package: 40 headshots in 4 different styles, delivered within 3 hours – approximately $31
• Premium Package: 100 headshots in 10 styles, delivered within 2 hours – approximately $41
• Enterprise Package: 200 headshots in 20 styles, delivered within 1 hour – approximately $63

These packages deliver a high volume of images and rapid turnaround. While AI headshots may not capture the nuanced expertise of a seasoned photographer, they are well suited for digital profiles and quick updates.

Conclusion

Investing in a professional headshot remains a key element of personal branding and professional advancement. Updated data from independent sources shows that, as of March 2025, median session costs hover around $265—with significant regional variation. When choosing a photographer, consider the session length, number of images, and additional services needed to match your goals. For those seeking speed and cost savings, AI-driven headshot services provide an increasingly viable alternative.

This guide should help you benchmark local prices and assess the best option for your needs—whether you opt for a traditional session or a modern, AI-generated solution. If you're looking for a free tool, try Magic Hour's free headshot generator and see if you like the results.