Prop stylists send estimates after a creative brief or treatment call, and before any shopping starts. Clients often compare several stylists on day rate, how many prep days are included, and how props are budgeted, so a clear breakdown makes the numbers easy to compare. Agencies commonly ask for a formal bid with a prop budget attached.
When to use estimates: Use estimates to provide project quotes and get client approval before starting work. Once approved, convert your estimate to an invoice with one click to collect payment.
Create an invoice for payment collection
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Invoice_1001_Client_2026-10-14.pdf
Prep and returns are where hours expand, so the estimate should show how many are included.
Clients need to know if the number is a limit you will stay under or a rough guide that may change.
Disclosing it upfront prevents surprise at invoice time.
Says whether you will rent from prop houses, buy and return, or use your own inventory, which affects cost and timeline.
Scope is easiest to dispute when the number of setups is not defined.
A multi-set day often requires help, and the cost should be in the quote or flagged as an add-on.
Shoots change, and you need agreed terms for extra hours or lost held dates.
| Service | Priced | Typical range |
|---|---|---|
| Shoot day styling (10 hours) | per day | $500-1,500 |
| Prep, shopping, and sourcing | per day | $350-1,000 |
| Half-day shoot or short styling session | per half day | $300-800 |
| Prop assistant | per day | $200-400 |
| Kit fee for personal inventory and supplies | per day | $50-150 |
| Handling fee on purchased props | percent of cost | 10-20% |
| Van or personal vehicle use for prop transport | per day | $75-200 |
| E-commerce or catalog styling batch | per image or set | $25-100 |
Typical US ranges. Rates vary by region, experience, and job size.
Show creative fees and prop costs in two sections. Clients can then adjust the prop budget without feeling like they are negotiating your rate.
Props depend on availability and creative decisions, so offer a budget with an agreed ceiling. Your time can be quoted as fixed days at a set rate.
Last-minute swaps and re-shopping trips are common. Include a note on how additional sourcing is billed beyond a set number of rounds.
A lean version using owned inventory and fewer rentals alongside a full-scope version helps clients choose based on budget, and keeps your rate intact.
For larger jobs, many stylists include a short mood board in the quote process and charge for detailed concept work or multiple rounds. Say upfront what is included so clients do not expect unlimited rework for free.
Typically 14 to 30 days. Prop prices, rental availability, and your calendar all change, so include an expiration date and note that held dates are only confirmed with a deposit or signed approval.
Ask for client approval before exceeding the budget. Include a line in your estimate stating that overages need written approval, and send a quick update by email when you see costs climbing.
Use the Prop Stylist invoice template to bill the client, or convert this estimate once it's approved.
Prop Stylist invoice template