Claire ThompsonMy friend, an actor bouncing between plays and poetry slams, kept using cropped rehearsal photos as headshots. And because of his grainy lighting and awkward angles, he was having a hard time booking acting jobs.
The only one he can call is his colleague, a wedding photographer, but the results came out a little too romantic—not necessarily a universal vibe that fits most of his auditions.
Soon, he even tried DIY setups with lamps and thrifted backdrops. However, that made the pictures look experimental and rushed. Finally realizing he needs help, he asked me to look for professional headshot photographers in Columbus.
I compared many different portfolios, styles, and outcomes for our top picks. So if your current photo needs an update, here’s the list we came up with.
How much do headshot studios charge in Columbus?
Headshot studios in Columbus typically charge between $100 and $300. However, the final cost depends on the photographer’s experience, session complexity, retouching depth, and add-on services.
1. Harry Acosta Photography
Address: 289 W Walnut St #13
Contact Details:
- +1 614 571 0142
- [email protected]
Business Hours: Open 24/7
Harry Acosta Photography is a solo-style, one-shooter studio in downtown Columbus, making it highly accessible.
We especially like that they focus on expressive, personality-driven headshots and portraits rather than your cookie-cutter LinkedIn factory work.
And for us, many would appreciate that the clients would work directly with Harry. There isn’t a sales rep or a rotating team, so we think the experience feels more personal.
It’s also convenient that they’re open late (until 10 pm on some days). They even offer both in-studio and on-location shoots, which is handy for busy professionals or creatives with off-hour availability.
As for the rates, this is a mid-range investment. Headshots start at $185, and they already include all digital files from the shoot plus one professionally retouched image.
But as Harry works solo, his schedule can fill up quickly. We recommend early booking to secure preferred dates.
Beautiful and natural-looking results
“I picked Harry Acosta photography for my headshot session because of his unique backdrops and the overall human-quality of the headshots he produces. He did not disappoint! He allowed multiple different backdrop and outfit variations and midsession suggested different backgrounds that might work better with the outfit I selected. He did a great job creating easy conversation, allowing me to be able to relax in front of the camera and the headshots I have as a result are beautiful and natural-looking! He provides clear instructions of what to expect the day of your shoot and also when to expect the photos (he had a very quick turnaround time as well, which was a plus!). I definitely would recommend to anyone looking for a new headshot!”
-Hannah Smith, Google Review
The studio was neat, tidy, and had ample lighting sources
“Needed a professional headshot for my job within 24 hours. Harry was able to book me the very next day and have the photos ready a couple hours after they were taken. The studio was neat and tidy, and had ample lighting sources. He had a variety of back drops and we discussed which ones looked best with my outfit color. Harry responded to any questions I had and was very friendly/professional. Highly recommend!”
-Ashton, Google Review
2. Headshots Columbus
Address: 400 W Wilson Bridge Rd, Suite 115, Worthington, Floor 1, Officescape Corporate Center
Contact Details:
- +1 614 407 6001
- [email protected]
Business Hours:
- Mon-Fri: 8:30 am to 5:00 pm
- Sat-Sun: Closed
Founded in 2013, Headshots Columbus is one of the longer-running companies in the city that specifically focuses on headshots.
It’s worth noting for us that they highlight fast, clean, business-friendly headshots with a straightforward pricing model.
For one, their basic corporate headshot is comprehensively priced at $165. This already covers the studio session, tax, a set of proofs, one high-resolution retouched portrait, and social-media-ready versions.
Additional images are available for purchase too. We think it’s helpful that they can even digitally add office backgrounds to your studio shot.
Not only that, but we also find it reassuring that they provide same-day and next-day turnaround. Remember that this comes with an additional fee, though.
However, keep in mind that the team specializes heavily in clean business looks. So if you want high-drama, moody, or deeply artistic branding, you might find their style too basic.
Beautiful, high-quality headshot done quickly and efficiently
“HeadshotsColumbus is outstanding and went above and beyond to help me get a beautiful, high quality, headshot quickly and efficiently. Barb, the photographer, was so helpful with instructions on how to pose and she also helped me pick out the best shots. She made the process so enjoyable. Also Will responded to me right away to initially book the appointment and follow up. Also, the price was very reasonable. I highly recommend HeadshotsColumbus.”
-Jean Broderick, Google Review
The finished headshot is professional with strong quality
“Absolutely amazing and phenomenal. I went to Headshots Columbus back in March 2019. I needed a decent professional business headshot for my LinkedIn profile since I started my job hunt . Although most companies don’t care about candidates having a headshot, it really tied together my profile and left a polished impression that matched my resume. The finished headshot is professional with strong quality. The photographer was kind, patient and very responsive in case I had any questions. Not to mention, she works fast with getting the photos together and edited in a few days. The price is worth It. And the headshots she takes are a well needed investment. I highly recommend!”
-Kayla Hugley, Google Review
3. The Que Studio
Address: 1278 E Main St
Contact Details: [email protected]
Business Hours: Daily: 8:00 am to 8:00 pm
If you’re awkward with photographers, The Que Studio is a natural-light photo studio that you can rent. You can do your own headshots or hire your own photographer with ease.
They’re a 1,500 sq. ft. space with 3 large open bay windows and an industrial-chic aesthetic that we reckon makes for great lighting. The exposed brick and modern neutral furniture also elevate the vibe.
Besides headshots, we appreciate that this place is flexible for many other photos—families, small events, workshops, and even bridal-party prep.
Their self-portrait starts at $100 for a 30-minute session or $200 for 60 minutes, and this already includes up to 4 guests.
As for the hourly rentals, they go from $49 to $70. This depends on current promotions and group size. This range is highly affordable, unlike other mid-size creative studios.
Conveniently, the company offers membership for $40 a month too. This gives you a 10% discount on all rentals and inclusion in their creator directory.
Just note that the results here are heavily dependent on the time of day and weather. Sessions booked in the evening might require you to bring your own lighting equipment if you’re not using the self-portrait setups.
The backdrops and sets are amazing
“Absolutely wonderful! The space is very open, the backdrops and sets are amazing! 10/10 recommend to anyone looking for a place to have pictures done!”
-Marcie Bobst, Google Review
So clean, easy to navigate, and with gorgeous light pouring into the space
“Wonderful, beautiful, fantastic studio! So clean, easy to navigate, and gorgeous light pouring into the space. I loved my first experience photographing here and can’t wait to come back! :)”
-Kristy Ann, Google Review
4. Steve’s Creative Sessions
Address: 2050 S High St
Contact Details:
- +1 614 859 0575
- [email protected]
Business Hours:
- Mon-Tue, Thu-Sat: 9:00 am to 6:00 pm
- Wed: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
- Sun: Closed
Steve’s Creative Sessions is a creative Columbus-based headshot and personal branding studio run by photographer Steve Sessions. We think what sets them apart is their affordable and flexible headshots with a small studio you can rent.
Their portfolio seems pretty diverse too, as the owner has a specific niche in fitness and athletic photography. For us, this makes him great for personal trainers or athletes who need hero shots with specialized lighting to show muscle definition.
Corporate headshots here start at $65, while larger group sessions (with over 5 people) are quoted at around $325 per hour. This entry rate is significantly lower than other options, making it budget-friendly.
They’re also very flexible with multiple services. This involves videography, wedding photography, senior portraits, and “Beautifully Broken” sessions focused on personal resilience.
Still, their standard session only includes 3 digital files. If you need a wider variety of retouched shots, you’ll have to upgrade to a branding package at $220 or pay for add-ons.
Very kind and helpful
“Amazing photos! Steve was very kind and helpful. I will definitely be getting more professional pictures done with him throughout my career.”
-Adrianna Roth, Google Review
Excellent job, on-time service, beautiful images
“Excellent job, the service was provided on time, the images are beautiful, the canvas photo is stunning, good colors on the print. Very professional”
-Renaissance Healthcare LLC, Google Review
5. Goodlife Studios
Address: 4560 Indianola Ave
Contact Details:
- +1 614 571 3966
- [email protected]
Business Hours: Daily: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm
Goodlife Studios is a creative-focused production studio run by a small Columbus-based team. They’re skilled in empowering creatives and businesses with a polished, ready-to-shoot space.
Their main services include quick 15-minute headshot sessions with a photographer, which looks ideal for LinkedIn or a website. You can even rent the studio for hours or half a day for photography, video, or small events.
Their well-equipped space includes a cyclorama (an all-white infinity wall) and paper backgrounds too. Plus, there’s professional lighting gear, a dedicated podcast studio, and a changing room. We also love the thoughtful free snacks and drinks for clients.
And unlike space-only rentals, it’s reassuring that the owner (Tucker) is known for being hands-on and providing production assistance if you get stuck with equipment.
As for the rates, their in-house headshot sessions start at $100. This is done in as little as 15 minutes by a staff photographer, who provides professionally retouched images. We think this is one of the most accessible price points in the Columbus market.
However, there may be multiple productions or activities happening nearby in the building, which could be distracting for some.
Professional, easy to work with, and made the whole experience fun
“Tucker was our photographer and we couldn’t be happier. He made time for us on very short notice and delivered amazing photos with incredible service. He was professional, easy to work with, and made the whole experience comfortable and fun. Highly recommend him to anyone looking for quality work and great customer care”
-Josh Hadinger, Google Review
Perfect spot, infinity wall, backdrops, lights—they got it
“Tucker & Goodlife studios would receive 10 stars if possible. Always goes above an beyond to help out anyone. Perfect spot, infinity wall, backdrops, lights anything you need they got it. 100% RECOMMEND TGIS STUDIO IF YOU’RE IN COLUMBUS! Shoutout Tuck and Greg 🏆 keep up the work!”
-Phillip Pitz, Google Review
