Do You Tip Photographers?

In terms of tipping etiquette for photographers, there is no simple rule or guideline to follow. This is largely due to the fact that tipping is expected for certain types of photoshoots, partially expected or becoming the norm for other types of photoshoots, and totally unnecessary for other types of photoshoots. There is also the fact that the amount or percentage that you tip will also vary depending on the type of photoshoot that you have. The general rule of thumb is that if you feel that a photographer has gone above and beyond during your photoshoot, then you are more than welcome to tip them. In spite of this, this is not a standard practice. We have put together an in-depth guide to tipping etiquette across a number of photographic categories.

Tipping Wedding Photographers

As soon-to-be newlyweds, there are going to be thousands of questions on their minds, but one question that tends to get overlooked until the big day comes is whether or not to tip your wedding photographer, and if you answer yes, then how much should you tip? In a nutshell, the answer is yes. It is generally expected that a wedding photographer will receive a tip, since he or she is likely to spend an entire day capturing your special moments on your wedding day. There is a great deal of flexibility when it comes to tipping wedding photographers. Depending on the time of day and the time of night, you can give a $50 to $100 tip to the photographer, not the owner of the company, at the end of the night or the beginning of the day. It is also possible for you to give a small tip at the end of the day of your wedding and a larger tip after you receive the photos if you feel that the photographer delivered some outstanding shots.

Tipping Engagement Photographers

In spite of the fact that you are often expected to tip a wedding photographer, the same is not true for engagement photography. You are more than welcome to send a simple thank you note to show that you appreciate the work they have done for you. In addition to that, you can always go the extra mile by leaving an online review and/or referring your friends to the photographer as well.

Tipping Headshot Photographers

There is no doubt that headshot photographers provide a valuable service for those professionals who need to get their faces out there, literally speaking. However, this does not mean that you need to tip the photographer who takes your headshots. During a headshot photo session, there is no expectation that a tip will be given. Nevertheless, the general rules of etiquette still apply, so if you are pleased with the service, and if you are willing to refer other people, then writing a good review and recommending others is an excellent way to show your appreciation.

Tipping Family Portrait Photographers

When it comes to tipping a family portrait photographer, there are a number of factors to consider. As a general rule, you do not need to tip a portrait photographer if he or she is a novice, works in a department store, or is a member of a professional photography studio. However, if you are hiring an independent photographer to capture the perfect portraits of you and your family for your home’s walls, you are often expected to leave them a small tip. Consider this tip as a friendly gesture on the part of the family portrait photographer if they go the extra mile for you. There is no need for more than 5-10% in this case.

Tipping Newborn and Baby Photographers

Newborn and baby photographers capture a very special moment in time when a child is born. It is often the case that these photos are treasured for years by parents and family members, but tipping is not required. There is no doubt that thank you notes, online reviews, and referrals are always appreciated and will always be appreciated.

Tipping Maternity Photographers

You do not have to worry about gratuities when it comes to your maternity photoshoot. It is not expected that maternity photoshoots will be tipped. As the photographer is likely to be working on an hourly basis, there is no need to tip anything beyond the flat rate that he or she charges.

Tipping Portrait Photographers

There is no norm when it comes to tipping a portrait photographer. It is common for a portrait photography session to be based on a flat rate, meaning that when the photographer calculates the amount of work that will be needed to give you a beautiful portrait, he or she has already factored this into the price.

Tipping Senior Photographers

Senior pictures are one of the best ways to capture the moment a high schooler closes one of the most important chapters in their lives. However, tips are only expected if your photos turn out to be fantastic or if you feel that your photographer went above and beyond what was expected of them. It is recommended that you tip a senior photographer no more than 10% if you choose to do so.

Final Thoughts on Tipping Photographers

In conclusion, I hope that these guidelines will help put your mind at ease when it comes to deciding whether or not to tip your photographer when it comes to your wedding day. Whenever you hire a photographer to enhance your life, remember that you’re paying for a service to enhance your life, so don’t let the tipping question cause you any further stress. Don’t let the moment pass you by without enjoying it!