Are you interested in booking a boudoir photography session but unsure about the cost? As a boudoir photographer, I’ve seen first-hand how empowering and rewarding this experience is for women. Many women may have a hard to giving themselves permission to spend money on something that is just for them, but this experience of self-care and self-discovery helps women be better for themselves and those around them.
People will spend money on what they value, and first-timers may not understand the full value of a boudoir until they experience it for themselves. The price of a boudoir photoshoot is often a factor, and the reality is that it is weighed into the decision on whether to move forward. But whether or not they move forward is ultimately whether they feel it’s worth it to them.
For those who are interested but pricing holds you back, some photographers offer packages, financing, and pre-session payment plans that can make boudoir more approachable and affordable.
Photographers tend to offer different rates and packages based on experience, location, and number of other factors. In this article, we break down the pricing and costs of a boudoir session.
How Much Does a Boudoir Shoot Typically Cost?
Most people can expect to spend anywhere between $1,500 and $5,000 for boudoir photoshoots, with an average rate from $200 to $500 for an hourly.
However, once you include prints, an online gallery, hair and makeup, and delivery of albums, you will make a larger investment in yourself. Depending on the studio, you may consider their hourly rate, package, and a la carte items that include these services.
The final cost of a boudoir photographer will depend on a few things. We’re going to break down everything for you so you can see where you can save or splurge while receiving the highest-quality boudoir photos.
Pricing Structures Boudoir Photographers
How a boudoir session is priced depends on the photographer.
There’s no exact rate on how much you’ll be spending on a boudoir photographer. However, there’s a range that will help you determine what kind of services or products you can avail of.
Hourly Session Fee
Most boudoir photographers charge a session or sitting fee, which normally lasts a few hours, costing an average of $300 to $500. This covers the actual time the photographer is taking pictures of you. Hence, it may or may not include hair, makeup, or wardrobe preparation time. This typically doesn’t include the delivery of images or keepsakes (like albums)
A La Carte
A la carte pricing is similar to browsing a restaurant menu with a variety of meals to pick from.
The advantage is that you can handpick the products or services you want. Combining them may seem more affordable than purchasing a package, but it can actually be much more expensive, so be sure to ask about packages and collections that combine offerings and keepsakes.
Bundled Packages
Most boudoir photographers offer a package service. This covers payment for the photo shoot time, a number of retouched images, and other elements such as setups, hair and makeup, and wardrobe changes.
With bundled packages, you’ll be paying a lower fee than selecting a la carte services. Tiered packages will often start small, with higher-priced ones having more products.
Factors That Influence Boudoir Photography Pricing
You may pay around $300 to $500 for an hourly rate or a complete package starting at $1000. It’s vital to consider the numerous factors that affect how much you will pay for a boudoir photographer to help you assess your options and determine what is important to you as far as quality, artistic value, and overall experience.
- Photography Style: Some boudoir photography styles are more complex than others, including how a photographer edits the pictures, which is why it is important that you select the right boudoir photographer for your session. For instance, you may pay more for a photographer who does complicated image alterations.
- Time: The photo session’s timeframe is among the most significant determiners of the fee. The rate increases with the duration of the shoot.
- Number of photos: The number of pictures you choose for your package will impact the pricing. The more photos the photographer takes and edits, the higher the fee.
- Experience and professionalism: a boudoir photographer who is professionally trained may provide better quality work and client experience, and as a result, they may charge more than their counterparts.
- Outfit changes: Make sure to prepare in advance which outfits to wear for the boudoir session, as most photographers limit the number of outfit changes, especially if the time to do so is included in the hourly rate. In addition, you may spend more if you’re using a wardrobe from the studio.
- Hair and makeup: Across the United States, expect to pay between $100 and $450 for professional makeup and styling.
- Location: Will the photographer need to hire a studio or go to your preferred location? You can save more if you can find a photographer with a studio in your area.
- Prints: Generally, photographers will ask you to pay $50 to $200 per print. This depends on the size, photo quality, and material.
Related Questions: Boudoir Cost & Pricing
How Can I Save Money on a Boudoir Shoot?
Wait for special promos or seasonal packages to save money on a boudoir session. Most photographers offer discounted rates or may waive particular fees on holidays like Valentine’s Day, International Women’s Day, or Mother’s Day. Some also give surprise promos through newsletters and contests.
How Much Do You Tip Boudoir Photographers?
You can tip boudoir photographers at least 10% of their fee. While it’s not mandatory, you can also give them gifts or refer them to others as a sign of gratitude and appreciation.
Why Is Boudoir Photography Expensive?
The best boudoir photography is expensive because you’re paying for the photographer’s experience and undivided attention to provide top-notch photos of yourself. You’re paying for the photographer’s expertise in helping you pose and post-processing the images.
Working With Me
While you may be hesitant to invest in yourself initially, you’ll eventually see how boudoir photos are worth it and why you should book a boudoir session right now. Investing in yourself and experiencing boudoir that can change your view of yourself is incredibly valuable in life and your self-love journey!
I offer financing and prepayment plans to help women say yes to themselves, and give them the best boudoir experience, stress-free. I also offer a boudoir photography package, which includes professional hair and makeup services.
And of course, if you have any questions about the boudoir process, I am more than happy to help! Contact me here to book a call.
