Creative & Media
Photographer Salary
Captures images for editorial, commercial, or personal clients.
Low
$30,000
Average
$46,000
High
$74,000
What this role does
- Plan and execute photo shoots
- Edit and retouch images
- Manage client relationships and bookings
- Maintain and use camera equipment
Education & path in
No formal requirement; many are self-taught or study photography formally
Experience level: Often freelance/self-employed; building a portfolio is the main path in
Where it pays best
States that typically pay above the national average for this role: California, New York, Nevada, Florida, Texas. Actual pay depends heavily on metro area, employer size, and cost of living.
Job outlook
Decline
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Figures are editorial estimates as of Jul 1, 2026, not official government statistics. For official data, see the Bureau of Labor Statistics.