AI headshots vs a professional photographer

Cost

A professional headshot session often costs $150 to $500 depending on your city, the photographer and how many edited images you get. An AI headshot service like Fylvy costs $39 for 40 photos.

Time

With a photographer you book a slot, travel, sit for the session and usually wait a few days for edits. With AI you take selfies at home in about 10 minutes and get your headshots in about 30 minutes.

Variety

A typical session uses one or two backgrounds and outfits. Fylvy gives you 10 looks in one order, from a gray studio to an outdoor setting.

Accuracy and quality

A good photographer captures exactly how you look, every time. AI is impressive but not perfect: some images will miss, and results depend heavily on your selfies. That's why AI services give you many options to choose from.

When a photographer is the better choice

• You need a photo for an official ID, passport or badge (AI images aren't suitable)
• Your industry requires a real, unedited photo, such as acting or modeling headshots
• You want a specific location, prop or team shoot

When AI headshots make more sense

• You need a professional photo quickly
• You want several looks for different platforms
• You're on a budget, or updating an old photo
• Scheduling a shoot just isn't realistic

The bottom line

For most profiles, websites and bios, AI headshots give you a polished result for a fraction of the cost and time. For IDs and acting work, book a photographer.