How Much Does a Photoshoot in Istanbul Cost?

Istanbul has become one of the world’s most atmospheric and cinematic cities for photoshoots. The mix of modern architecture, historical streets, the Bosphorus, dramatic light, and cultural depth creates a visual universe unlike any other. This is the environment where I — Sergio Maiis, a fashion and editorial photographer — create stories for models, brands, artists, and private clients. My work is driven by emotion, character, masculine energy, style, and a strong visual language inspired by contemporary fashion magazines. One of the most common questions I receive is: “How much does a photoshoot cost, and what exactly do I get?” Below is a full, detailed explanation of my process, pricing, and what makes my approach different.

1. Minimum Photoshoot Format — 2 Hours

I work exclusively from a minimum of 2 hours.
This is not only a creative choice — it’s a quality standard.

In 2 hours we can truly build a story:

• Develop mood and presence
• Work through several looks
• Shoot across different locations
• Capture both editorial and natural moments
• Create a full series instead of isolated images

A strong photoshoot is never rushed.
Two hours is the minimum needed to deliver photographs that look professional, stylish, emotional, and magazine-ready.

2. Pricing Structure

Model Test Shoot

⭐ 300 USD / 2 hours (fixed rate)

My model test shoot always includes:

• 1 hour in the studio
• 1 hour outdoors

This combination creates balance: clean fashion portraits in studio light + dynamic, atmospheric urban textures outside.

The result is a complete, versatile package ideal for:

• updating a portfolio
• joining an agency
• improving an existing compcard
• preparing for castings
• strengthening one’s personal brand

This is the same format I use when shooting top models and agency talents.

Personal Photoshoots (tourists, Istanbul residents)

⭐ from 300 USD / 2 hours

Perfect for men who want stylish lifestyle or portrait photography in Istanbul’s most iconic locations.

Price depends on:

• the number of looks
• selected locations
• whether a studio is required
• complexity of the shoot

This is ideal for clients who want unique, emotional images with the cinematic atmosphere of Istanbul — the Bosphorus, Galata, Balat, rooftops, or the modern city center.

Fashion / Editorial Projects

⭐ from 500 USD

This format is designed for:

• magazines
• clothing brands
• artists, musicians, actors
• conceptual and narrative shoots

Fashion/editorial projects include:

• concept development
• moodboard creation
• styling guidance
• location scouting
• creative direction
• high-end editorial retouching

This is where I create full visual stories, not just beautiful photographs.

Full-Day Photoshoot

⭐ 600–1500 USD

For large-scale projects:

• brand campaigns
• catalogues
• lookbooks
• promotional materials
• artist PR shoots

Full-day shoots allow for deep storytelling, multiple locations, wardrobe changes, and complex setups.

3. What’s Included in My Work

Preparation

Every great photoshoot starts with clarity and direction.
Before the shoot we discuss:

• goals and mood
• clothing and styling
• ideal locations
• the visual tone and energy
• moodboard and reference direction

My background in fashion production and art direction allows me to guide clients with precision and confidence.

The Shoot Itself

In 2 hours we create a strong, diverse portfolio:

• portrait shots
• fashion/editorial angles
• dynamic frames
• detailed close-ups
• emotional storytelling
• masculine aesthetic elements
• movement and character

Whether the person has experience or not, I direct easily and naturally.
My goal is always the same: to reveal personality, confidence, depth, and style.

Selection of Photos

You receive a large preview set — typically 200–400 images.
I personally curate the selection to ensure the series feels consistent, stylistic, and narrative.

This stage is essential.
Good selection is 50% of the final impression.

High-End Retouching

My retouching style is:

• clean
• natural
• fashion-oriented
• without over-editing or plastic skin
• focused on color, tone, light, skin texture, atmosphere

Every final image receives careful editorial-level post-production.

Delivery

Your final photos are delivered:

• in full resolution
• without watermarks
• ready for Instagram, websites, portfolios, and print

4. Why a Photoshoot with Me Is an Investment

1) Magazine-level aesthetics

My work is inspired by GQ, Esquire, Vogue, and contemporary fashion photography.
This is the quality I bring into every shoot.

2) Recognizable masculine visual style

Sport-chic, contrast, emotion, character, simplicity with depth — my signature.

3) Portfolio that brings real results

Models receive images that help them get signed, booked, and noticed.

4) A creative and empowering experience

A photoshoot is not only about images — it is about transformation, confidence, and presence.

Conclusion

My standard is simple: minimum 2 hours, because anything less won’t produce the strong, cinematic results I stand for.

• Test shoot for models — 300$
• Personal photoshoots — from 300$
• Fashion/editorial shoots — from 500$

If you want a powerful portfolio, a stylish story, or an emotional series in the atmosphere of Istanbul — I’m always open to discussing concepts.

Instagram: @sergio.maiis
Website: sergiomaiis.com