Home studio headshot and portfolio photographer

Actors, models, dancers, musicians and other performers, and sometimes professionals who need a polished headshot.

Fixed price per session, with tiered packages by number of looks and retouched images, and add-ons such as extra edits or quick turnaround. Mini-session days can fill quiet periods.

• Studio lighting and portrait photography
• Directing poses and building client confidence
• Photo retouching and file delivery
• Booking and scheduling

• Home-based business rules from your municipality, and any restrictions in your lease or condo bylaws
• Commercial general liability insurance, and check whether your home insurance covers clients visiting and business equipment
• Personal safety and professionalism when hosting clients at home, especially minors, who should come with a parent or guardian
• Signed model releases and clear image usage terms
• Check whether you need GST/HST registration once revenue passes the small supplier threshold

Startup costs are typically estimated at around $3,000 to $10,000, depending on the cameras, lighting, backdrops and editing software you buy and how much you spend setting up a spare room or garage.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $500 to $3,500, depending on how many appointments you take, your session prices and how steadily you can attract performers and professionals as clients.

Check home-based business rules from your municipality and any lease or condo bylaw restrictions. Check insurance for clients visiting and business equipment, use signed model releases, have minors accompanied by a parent or guardian, and check GST/HST registration.