Model portfolio and headshot photographer

New and working models, actors, dancers and musicians, plus parents of young hopefuls and sometimes agencies.

A fixed price per session or package (for example headshots only, or a full portfolio with several looks), with extra for additional retouched images or prints.

• Portrait photography and lighting
• Directing and posing people
• Photo editing and retouching
• Making nervous clients feel at ease

• Public liability insurance, and check whether studio hire venues need to see it
• Written agreements on image use and copyright, and model release forms
• Extra care with clients under 18: check your state's working with children check requirements and have a parent or guardian present
• Register an ABN and check when you need to register for GST
• Studio hire costs eat into margins, so price sessions to cover them

Startup costs are typically around $2,500 to $8,000, depending on your camera, lighting, backdrops and editing software. Studio hire is charged per session, so price your sessions to cover it. These are estimates only.

Monthly revenue is typically around $500 to $3,500, depending on how many sessions you book, your prices and your studio hire costs. The estimate assumes at least about 8 hours a week.

Check public liability insurance and whether studios need to see it. Use written agreements on image use and copyright, plus model releases. For clients under 18, check your state's working with children check requirements and have a parent present. Check ABN and GST registration.