Is it customary to tip photographers?
It is difficult to establish a simple guideline for tipping etiquette for photographers. There are several reasons for this, including the fact that tipping is expected for some types of photoshoots, partly expected or becoming the norm for other types of photoshoots, and completely unnecessary for other types of photoshoots. Additionally, the amount or percentage of your tip will vary depending on the type of photoshoot. You are more than welcome to tip your photographer if you believe that he or she has gone above and beyond during your photoshoot. It should be noted, however, that this is not standard practice. Here is a detailed breakdown of the tipping etiquette across a number of photographic categories.
Wedding Photographers
It is not uncommon for soon-to-be newlyweds to have thousands of questions, but one that often gets overlooked until the big day comes is whether or not to tip your wedding photographer. Yes, in a nutshell. Photographers are generally expected to receive tips since they spend most of their day capturing each special moment on your wedding day. It is largely up to you how much you tip wedding photographers. A $50 to $100 tip can be given to the photographer at the end of the night or at the beginning of the next day. Additionally, you may wish to give a small tip at the end of your wedding day and a larger tip after you have received your wedding photographs if you are pleased with the quality of the photographs taken. Although you are often expected to tip a wedding photographer, this is not the case for engagement photos. You are more than welcome to send them a simple thank you note to demonstrate your appreciation for their work. If you wish, you may write an online review and/or refer your friends to the photographer.
Headshot Photographers
For professionals who need to get their faces out there, headshot photographers offer a valuable service. Nevertheless, you do not need to tip a headshot photographer. It is not expected that a tip will be given for a headshot photo session. The general rules of etiquette remain in effect, so if you were pleased with the service, writing a good review and referring others is a great way to show your appreciation.
Family Portrait Photographers
The amount to tip a family portrait photographer depends on a number of factors. As a general rule, you should not tip a portrait photographer if he or she is a novice, works in a department store, or is employed by a professional photography studio. If, however, you are hiring an independent photographer to capture the perfect portrait of you and your family, you may be expected to leave a small tip. This tip should be considered a friendly gesture if the family portrait photographer goes the extra mile for you. In this case, no more than 5-10% is required.
Newborn and Baby Photographers
Photographers of newborns and babies capture a very special moment in time. Tipping is not required for these photos, which are often treasured for years by parents and family members. Thank you notes, as well as online reviews and referrals, are always appreciated.
Maternity Photographers
There is no need to worry about gratuities during your maternity photo shoot. Maternity photoshoots do not require tips. Since the photographer is likely to be paid on an hourly basis, there is no need to tip anything in excess of the flat rate.
Portrait Photographers
Tipping a portrait photographer is not common practice. It is common for portrait photography sessions to be based on a flat fee, meaning that the photographer has already taken into consideration the amount of time and effort required to provide a quality portrait.
Senior Photographers
The senior year is an important time in a high school student’s life, and senior pictures are a great way to capture this moment. Nonetheless, tips are only expected if the photographs are exceptional or if the photographer goes above and beyond the call of duty. Tipping a senior photographer should not exceed 10%.
The final thoughts on tipping photographers
Finally, hopefully these guidelines will ease your mind when it comes to tipping your photographer. Remember that when you hire a photographer, you are paying for a service that will enhance your life. Do not let the tipping question add to your stress. Make the most of the moment!
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