Portrait photography: what to know

What the job involves, what changes the price, and what to ask a pro.

What portrait photography is

A photographer creates posed or natural portraits of individuals or small groups, guiding expressions, lighting and background, then retouches the selected images. People book a portrait session for a personal record, a gift or a milestone when they want a flattering, carefully lit set of photos.

Signs you need it

  • You want a flattering portrait of yourself or a small group that you can use for years
  • You want a gift portrait for a partner, a parent or a family member
  • You want a portrait that shows your personality rather than a snapshot
  • You want a photographer who can guide your expressions and posing
  • You want retouched images that look polished but still look like you
  • You want a portrait session in a studio or at a location that suits you

What the pro does

  • Asks about the purpose of the portraits, the look you like and any locations you want
  • Plans the lighting, background and wardrobe notes with you
  • Sets up the lighting and checks the background before you arrive
  • Guides your posing, expressions and movement during the session
  • Selects the best images and retouches them to the agreed level
  • Delivers the final images in the formats and sizes you need

What changes the price

Every job is different, so we do not publish prices. These are the things that move the quote up or down.

  • Length of the session and the number of looks or outfits
  • Studio or location shoot, and any travel needed
  • Number of people in the portraits
  • Number of retouched images delivered and the retouching level
  • Whether prints, frames or a digital gallery are included
  • Props, backdrops or extra lighting the photographer uses
  • Whether a hair and makeup or styling consult is included

What a written quote should spell out

  • Session length, location and number of looks
  • Number of people in the portraits and any group sets
  • Number of retouched images and the retouching level
  • Delivery format, prints and frames if included
  • Usage rights for personal and any business use
  • What happens if the session must move because of illness or weather

Questions to ask before you hire

  • How many retouched images will I receive, and what is the retouching level?
  • Can I see a full portrait session from someone with a similar look or goal?
  • How do you help a nervous person relax in front of the camera?
  • Do you offer styling advice on wardrobe, colors and hair?
  • Who owns the images, and can I use them for social media or a business profile?
  • What is your backup plan if you are ill on the day?
  • Do you carry insurance for both studio and on-location portrait sessions?

Red flags

  • They retouch so heavily that the photos no longer look like the person
  • They show only one or two portraits and no full sessions
  • They do not ask what the portraits are for or how they will be used
  • They will not confirm the number of retouched images or the delivery date in writing
  • They pressure you to buy a large package before you see the proofs

What you can do yourself

You can choose clothes in solid colors that suit you, pick a few looks and plan the location. You can also rest well the night before and bring a few photos of the looks you like. Hire a portrait photographer for the lighting, the posing and the retouching, since a flattering portrait depends on light and direction that most people cannot control alone.

Licenses and permits

No state license is usually required for portrait photography, so ask for proof of liability insurance and full sessions instead. Some parks, studios and public sites require a permit for photo shoots, so check local rules with your state or local licensing agency before you book a location.

Portrait photography questions

Does a portrait photographer need a license?

Usually not a state license. Ask for insurance and full portrait sessions, and check whether a public location needs a permit.

How much retouching is normal?

It depends on the photographer and the look you want. Ask for a sample before and after, and agree on the level of retouching in writing.

Can I use the portraits for my business?

It depends on the usage rights in your contract. Ask whether business use is included or needs a separate agreement.

About this guide

This national guide is written and checked by infinibell. Rules and conditions differ by place, so local pros are credited on guides for the cities they serve, not on national ones.

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