Skip to content

Writing > Photographer

Salary National Average

Low Medium High
35840.0000 46680.0000 66520.0000

Supply and Demand

Candidate Supply: 23,416 Job Openings: 1,384

0 50 100

More Difficult Less Difficult

Salary Variance

Enter City, State to view local salaries and candidate demand.

Short Description:

Responsible for taking photos of people, landscapes, merchandise, or other subjects, using digital or film cameras and equipment. May also be accountable for developing negatives or using computer software to produce finished images and prints.

Duties / Responsibilities:

  • Ability to adjust apertures, shutter speeds, and camera focus according to factors such as; lighting, field depth, subject, motion, film type, and film speed.
  • Create appropriate artificial light using flashes and reflectors.
  • Exercise good judgment to determine the value of images and picture composition, selecting and adjusting subjects, equipment, and lighting to achieve desired effects.
  • Manipulate and enhance scanned or digital images using computers and specialized software to create desired effects.
  • Proficiency in traditional and digital cameras and related equipment, such as tripods, filters, and flash attachments.

Skills / Requirements / Qualifications

  • Active Listening: Giving full attention to others to understand the scope and details of projects, asking appropriate questions, and gathering the necessary information.
  • Equipment Knowledge: Comprehensive knowledge of cameras and equipment used to create high-quality images and prints.
  • Communication: Effectively communicating information and ideas, both written and oral.
  • Computer Proficiency: Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to create. Develop, and edit high-quality images and prints.
  • Planning and Prioritizing Work: Developing specific goals and plans to prioritize, organize, and accomplish work within deadlines.
  • Time Management: Managing one's own time to meet deadlines.

Job Zones

  • Education: Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.
  • Related Experience: Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. 
  • Job Training: Employees in these occupations usually need one or two years of on-the-job experience and informal training with experienced workers. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.
  • Job Zone Examples: These occupations usually involve communication and organizational skills to coordinate, supervise, manage, or train others to accomplish goals. Examples include hydroelectric production managers, travel guides, electricians, agricultural technicians, barbers, court reporters, and medical assistants.
  • Specific Vocational Preparation in years: 1-2 years of preparation (6.0 to < 7.0)

Share Role Details

Return to job listings