In California, it’s common to tip your server when you dine out or receive any kind of service. But what happens when you hire a photographer, do you tip your photographer? If you do tip a photographer, how much is sufficient? Today, I will share my thoughts on the tipping culture in the photography world and other alternatives to tipping.
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Is it mandatory to tip your photographer?
No, it has never been a requirement to tip a photographer. As a photographer working with couples and families, I never expect a tip from my clients. However, when I receive a surprise alert on my phone that I received a payment, it brings me joy and happiness. I’m happy because it greatly implies their satisfaction with my photography service. Subsequently, I was also just as happy when a family showed up to a mini-session with a boba drink for me to enjoy. Tipping is never mandatory, and it all depends on your intentions and how you feel about the photographer’s service.
Why it’s good practice to tip a photographer
Like any other business, running a photography business has its expenses to keep it in business. Most people just think they’re simply hiring someone to click on the shutter button and call it a day. A photograpaher that truly care about their work and business invest in so much more to continually improve their craft: Multiple professional cameras, a lens collection, Lightroom & Photoshop subscriptions, backup cloud storage, a website, photography permits, courses, marketing, insurance, and other fees.
While it’s never required to tip your photographer, your tip can make a difference and if you’re feeling generous then make it happen. Again, it’s never mandatory, but I believe that any photographer who’s going to document your event for more than 5 hours definitely deserves a tip, unless they messed it up somehow and had terrible customer service.
How much to tip your photographer?
If you’re feeling generous and appreciate your photographer a lot, then tipping would make their day. Tipping is optional in my opinion; therefore, the amount to tip a photographer is at your discretion. If someone is not expecting a tip, any amount is a great surprise to them.
What if I’m on a budget and cannot tip my photographer?
There’s a difference between not wanting to tip and not being able to tip. If you truly want to tip your photographer, but are on a budget, then here’s a list of ways you can express your gratitude towards your photographer.
- Write them a good 5-star Google & Yelp Review
- Refer your friends and families to your photographer
- Support their business by liking their Instagram posts/story
- Book them again for future events (e.g. newborn photos, maternity photos, etc.)
- Share & tag your photographer on social media
As a business owner, I appreciate every single Google review and it actually gives me a boost of confidence to continue doing what I love.
How I do it in business
I personally find it awkward and will never ask for a tip after a photoshoot, even if there’s a good rapport. I treat my clients like how I would like to be treated. If someone came up to me and dared to ask for tips, then it would be a quick turn-off, and I would want to run away asap.
Tipping a Photographer
This awkward question is commonly asked out of curiosity and courtesy. In most cases, when someone is curious, they are asking to confirm what everyone else is doing or not doing so they can reach their own decision. I hope this article helps clear the fog and allows you to make a win-win decision. When in doubt, it’s perfectly okay to also ask your photographer directly. It’s less awkward when you approach the question and it might even save you some research time.
Sarah Nguyen Photography is a professional lifestyle newborn photographer in San Diego, California and enjoys meeting families that cherish beautiful moments. Her journey started in motherhood/family photography and she books limited amount of wedding clients per year to ensure that she has a nice work life balance. Her clients love how she goes above and beyond to make everyone feel prepared, relaxed, and comfortable. If you love her photos and would like to book a photoshoot with Sarah, reach out to her to inquire before the busy season arrives.
