Do You Tip Photographers?

Tip etiquette for photographers is not simple. Tipping is expected for some types of photoshoots, partly expected or becoming the norm for others, and completely unnecessary for others. Additionally, tip amounts will vary depending on the type of photoshoot. Tip your photographer if you feel they went above and beyond during your photoshoot. This is not standard practice. A detailed breakdown of tipping etiquette across a variety of photographic categories follows.

Tipping Wedding Photographers

A question that gets overlooked until the big day is whether or not to tip your wedding photographer, and if so how much? Yes. A wedding photographer typically spends an entire day capturing each special moment, so tips are expected. It’s up to you how much to tip wedding photographers. You can tip the photographer $50 to $100 at the end of the night or at the beginning of the day. In case the photographer delivered some outstanding shots, you might give a small tip after your wedding day and a larger one after receiving your photos.

Tipping Engagement Photographers

While wedding photographers are often tipped, engagement photographers are not. Thank them for Page 2 their work with a simple note. You can always write an online review and/or refer your friends to the photographer.

Tipping Headshot Photographers

Photographers offer a valuable service for professionals who need to get their faces out there. You don’t need to tip a headshot photographer. A headshot session does not require a tip. You can show your appreciation by writing a good review and referring others if the service was outstanding.

Tipping Family Portrait Photographers

Tipping a family portrait photographer depends on several factors. Generally, you do not need to tip a portrait photographer if they are a novice, work in a department store, or are part of a professional studio. When you hire an independent photographer to capture your family’s portraits, you are often expected to leave a small tip. This tip is a friendly gesture if the family portrait photographer goes the extra mile. This case requires no more than 5-10%.

Tipping Newborn and Baby Photographers

Photographs of newborns and babies capture a very special moment. Parents and family members often treasure these photos for years. Thank you notes and online reviews are always appreciated! Tips are not expected.

Tipping Maternity Photographers

You don’t have to worry about gratuities at your maternity photoshoot. Maternity photoshoots do not require tips. The photographer likely charges an hourly rate, so tipping beyond that is not necessary.

Tipping Portrait Photographers

Tipping a portrait photographer is uncommon. Flat rates are often used in portrait photography, which means that the photographer has already taken into account the amount of work needed.

Tipping Senior Photographers

A senior photo is a great way to commemorate the end of high school. However, tips are only expected if the photos are amazing or if the photographer went above and beyond. Don’t tip more than 10% if you choose to tip a senior photographer.

Final Thoughts On Tipping Photographers

Hopefully, these guidelines help put your mind at ease when it comes to tipping your photographer. Don’t let the tipping question cause you any additional stress when you hire a photographer. Take it all in!