Should I List My Pricing Publicly or Only Share When Asked?

Ah, the age-old debate for photographers and creatives alike: Do I post my prices on my website or keep them private until someone reaches out?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—but there is a right answer for you. And it depends on your goals, your boundaries, and the kind of clients you want to attract.

Let’s break it down.

The Case for Posting Your Prices

1. It builds trust early.
Transparency is magnetic. Potential clients feel more comfortable when they know what they’re walking into—and being upfront about your rates sets the tone for an honest working relationship.

2. It filters inquiries.
If your work costs $600 and someone’s budget is $150, you don’t need to spend 10 emails figuring that out. Posting your prices helps both of you save time and energy.

3. It positions you as a professional.
When someone walks into a store and sees no price tags, it feels unclear—maybe even uninviting. Listing your rates signals that you’ve done the math, value your time, and run a real business.

4. It sets a floor, not a ceiling.
Afraid that listing your prices means you can’t charge more? Just clarify: “Sessions start at…” or “Collections begin at…” This leaves room to customize while still offering clarity.

The Case for Keeping Prices Private

1. You want to customize every experience.
Some photographers offer a wide range of services—from branding to weddings to editorials. If your work is deeply tailored, you might prefer to quote after a discovery call.

2. You’re still testing your rates.
If you’re in a season of adjusting your pricing, it might make sense to hold off on publishing until you’re confident in your baseline numbers.

3. You want a chance to connect before numbers come up.
Sometimes a client sees a number and walks away—not realizing the value or intention behind it. Having a conversation first gives you space to communicate the why behind your pricing.

So… What Should You Do?

Here’s a hybrid approach a lot of photographers are leaning into now:

✅ List a “starting at” price.
This sets expectations without boxing you in. Ex: “Lifestyle sessions start at $450. Custom packages available upon request.”

✅ Create a pricing guide PDF.
If you don’t want to put your pricing on your website, have a clean, well-designed guide ready to send to inquiries. This makes you look prepared and intentional.

✅ Speak to value, not just numbers.
Whether your pricing is public or private, be sure to communicate the experience, not just the deliverables. People aren’t buying 50 edited images—they’re buying the way they’ll feel when they receive them.

Bottom Line

Pricing isn’t just a number—it’s a reflection of your boundaries, your process, and your worth. Whether you post it publicly or share it after a conversation, make sure it’s clear, intentional, and aligned with the kind of client experience you’re building.

Because clarity doesn’t scare good clients away—it helps them say yes faster.