How much does a headshot session cost?

Sessions are normally $250 for the session fee, plus $200 per selected image. Through October 31, new clients get a promotional launch offer of $100 for the session fee and $150 per selected image. There are no bundled packages — you choose exactly how many images you want.

FAQ — Caldera Photography, Issaquah WA

Preparing for your session

Headshots are framed from approximately collarbone up, so focus on what shows in that frame — a great jacket, collared shirt, or blouse will elevate your headshot far more than worrying about pants or shoes. Solid, neutral tones photograph best: cream, navy, charcoal, black, burgundy, or deep jewel tones. These convey authority while keeping focus on your face. Match your industry — executives tend toward tailored jackets and collared shirts, while creative professionals can embrace smart casual. Avoid bright pastels, neons, busy patterns, and all-white.

Yes — fit matters more than price. A well-fitting $50 shirt photographs better than an ill-fitting $500 blazer. Proper fit keeps the focus on your face and prevents distracting creases or bulges. Your shoulders should sit naturally, buttons should close comfortably, and there shouldn't be any tugging or gaping.

It's worth getting right, especially for men's collared shirts. A collar that sits too loose or stands away from your neck is highly visible on camera and undermines an otherwise polished look. The collar should lie flat and close to your neck without feeling tight. If your current shirt collar doesn't fit right, it's worth bringing one that does — having it professionally pressed at a dry cleaner beforehand also helps.

Arrive in pressed, lint-free clothing. Even small details — lint, pilling, wrinkles, or pet hair — will be visible under studio lighting and on camera. Steam or press everything the night before, or take it to the dry cleaner if you can. If wearing dark clothing, lint-roll carefully and bring it in a garment bag.

Keep it simple. Small earrings — studs or small hoops — work beautifully and keep the focus on your face without distraction. Skip necklaces or chains, as they can create unnecessary shadows and lines that pull attention away from your face. A watch is fine if you normally wear one. The goal is to let your face be the star.

Bring at least 3 outfit options. What looks best at home doesn't always translate to camera, so having backups lets us find what photographs best for you. If you're unsure about an outfit, bring it anyway — happy to give feedback on set.

Arrive with your hair styled the way you normally wear it — the goal is for you to look like yourself, just polished. If you're planning a haircut, get it a few days before the session so it looks natural rather than fresh-cut.

The goal is fresh and natural — a more polished version of yourself, not a different look. Foundation that matches your skin tone evens out complexion, and a touch of subtle contouring keeps the camera from flattening your features. Warm, neutral lip tones work best on camera. If you don't normally wear makeup, you don't need to start now — less is more, since we want people to see you first, makeup second. Moisturizing your face and neck the morning of your session and a light lip balm both help too.

Pricing & booking

For individual headshot sessions, use the "book now" button to pick an open time directly from the calendar — no back-and-forth required. Business and team sessions are scoped on a quick call first, so use the "book an inquiry call" button instead.

Home studio sessions are normally $250 for the session fee, plus $200 per selected image. Through 10/31, new clients get a promotional launch offer — $100 for the session fee and $150 per selected image. There are no bundled packages — you choose exactly how many images you want, and only pay for what you select.

After your session, we review the images together and you select your favorites. Each selected image is normally $200, retouched and delivered at full resolution — through 10/31, the promotional launch price is $150 per image. Want just one hero shot for LinkedIn? That's one image. Want a broader set for your website, social, and email signature? Select as many as you'd like.

No — the session fee covers your time in the studio, not any final images. It's charged upfront to reserve your spot on the calendar, similar to a booking deposit. Once your session is complete, you select and purchase the specific images you want at the per-image rate. This keeps things simple: you're never paying for photos you don't end up choosing.

No — pricing is intentionally simple. A session fee plus a flat price per image, with no tiers to compare or packages to decode. You only pay for the images you actually want.

Individual sessions follow the standard home studio pricing above. Business and team sessions are quoted after a short consultation call, since on-site logistics, team size, and timeline vary too much for a one-size price. Reach out and we'll figure out the right approach together.

Retouched, full-resolution images are delivered within 5 to 7 business days of your session.

Sessions are held at a home studio in Issaquah, WA, set up specifically for professional headshot photography — proper lighting, backdrop, and a comfortable space to work. The exact address is shared once your session is confirmed. Photos of the studio space are coming soon so you can see what to expect before you arrive.

Yes — on-location sessions are available for an additional fee, typically discussed on a quick consultation call so we can plan around your space and schedule. This is especially common for business and team sessions.

Questions, answered.

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