How Much Does Product Photography Cost?
They say a picture is worth a thousand words—but in e-commerce, it’s worth even more. High-quality product photography doesn’t just showcase your products; it builds credibility, drives conversions, and makes your brand stand out.
At Design Identity, we specialise in product photography in Sydney, knowing that when customers can’t see, touch, or try a product in person, striking visuals become the next best thing. That’s why we believe investing in professional product photography isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about boosting sales and creating a seamless shopping experience.
Factors Influencing Product Photography Costs
From lighting and editing to styling and location, several factors determine the final product photography costs.
Photographer's Experience and Skill Level
A camera doesn’t make a top-tier photographer—experience and skill do.
Seasoned product photographers know how to play with light, composition, and styling to create images that don’t just showcase a product but sell a feeling.
Studio vs. On-Location Shoots: Costs and Benefits
Every product has a story, and where you choose to capture it can shape the final image—and the budget.
A studio offers a controlled setting where lighting, backdrops, and equipment work in harmony to create polished, consistent results. It’s reliable, efficient, and cost-effective. But sometimes, a product needs more than a clean background.
Shoots in specific locations bring personality, placing products in real-world settings that make them feel authentic and relatable.
The right choice isn’t just about budget; it’s about the story you want your products to tell.
The Role of Styling and Props in Pricing
A product on its own is just an object—but with the right styling, it becomes part of a story. Whether it’s sourcing the perfect accessories or building a custom set, styling adds depth and personality to product photography.
Post-Production: Editing and Retouching Costs
A great photo starts with the shot, but the real magic happens in post-production work. At Design Identity, our expert editing team fine-tunes every detail—perfecting colours, refining backgrounds, and making sure each image looks flawless. It’s the difference between a product that simply looks good and one that captivates.
Half-Day vs. Full-Day Rates: Finding Value
Time is money, especially in product photography. A half-day product photography shoot (around four hours) works well for smaller product lines, keeping costs down while still delivering quality visuals. But if you’re capturing a large collection or want room for extra creativity, a full-day shoot offers more efficiency and a lower cost per image.
More time means more setups, angles, and refinements—giving your big or small business a wider range of high-quality shots.
Expert Insight
Employing a professional stylist to provide props, accessories, and that final touch to the imagery can be key to a well-thought-out photoshoot. Although an extra cost, these elements often yield superior images that drive sales and brand credibility.
Average Cost of Product Photography: What to Expect
Understanding Per Image vs. Hourly Photography Rates
When it comes to professional photography costs, one size doesn’t fit all. Some photographers charge per image—a straightforward option if you need just a few standout shots. Others offer hourly rates or daily rates, perfect for companies with a long shot list and multiple products to capture in one go.
Choosing the right product photography pricing model depends on your needs—whether you need a handful of polished images or an extensive collection that brings your entire product range to life.
Breakdown of eCommerce Product Photography Prices
Typical pricing for e-commerce product photography in Australia includes:
• Simple white-background shots: AUD 20–AUD 150 per image. Depending on the size and material of the product.
• Styled product photography: AUD 50–AUD 150 per image, depending on complexity, reflections, and shad
• Editorial-style advertising product photography: AUD 250+ per image, particularly for high-production-value advertising shoots.
Perth-based start-up Huddco required the services of a photographer to complete their product and marketing imagery. After a lengthy local search, they finally bit the bullet and travelled to Sydney to work with Design Identity on the entire creative of their brand. See what Katie, the designer and owner of the brand, has to say:
I had the most wonderful experience with Design Identity! I flew to Sydney from Perth to work with them specifically based on a recommendation, and I am SO GLAD I did! Mark and his team are amazing. I am just a start-up brand, but they treated me with so much respect and consideration regardless of the size of my business. These guys made the entire process fun and even educational. The photos and videos produced were perfection. Darren was a dream to work with and very patient with us :)
I could not recommend Mark and his team enough.
Hidden Costs to Watch Out For in Product Photography
Equipment Fees: What's Included in Your Quote?
Behind every stunning product image is the right mix of skill and top-tier equipment. From professional lighting to high-end cameras and speciality lenses, the right gear can make all the difference. However, not all product photographers include these costs in their base rates—some charge extra for premium setups. That’s not the case at Design Identity; we ensure all costs are clear from the start with no surprises down the lines.
For a seamless and professional experience, reach out to us for tailored product photography solutions.
The Impact of Props and Set Design on Costs
Props and set design are essential components that elevate product photography, turning an ordinary professional photography shoot into a captivating visual experience. By thoughtfully integrating props and custom sets, a professional photographer can craft images that showcase products and tell a deeper, more engaging story.
Potential Costs for Revisions and Extra Edits
Ask about the number of revisions and edits included in your package. Multiple rounds of retouching and edits across multiple products photographed may incur additional charges, so ensure you understand these parameters in advance to avoid unexpected expenses later on.
How to Choose the Right Product Photography Service for Your Budget?
Defining Your Photography Needs
Start by identifying your specific requirements:
• How many images do you need?
• What level of styling and editing is required?
• Do you prefer a photographer’s studio or a specific location?
Clearly outlining your expectations helps photographers provide accurate quotes and ensures the final images align with your vision.
Anecdote:
Australian-based sleepwear brand Contare was in the market in 2024 for an art director or photography agency to produce their marketing imagery. After vigourous pitching rounds, Design Identity was chosen to produce all product and campaign shoots. The brand has since partnered with D! has recorded a huge uplift in wholesale accounts, along with a growing partnership with David Jones retail stores.
Elevate your name with high-impact product photography that captures attention and drives sales. Partnering with a full-service creative photography agency like Design Identity means gaining access to expert photographers who can create visually stunning results tailored to your business and your marketing efforts.
Let’s create something exceptional—contact us today for a customised quote!
