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Art Photography Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Art Director & Design

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$112K - $146K/yr

Art direct photography and video shoots across fashion, beauty, and lifestyle categories, ensuring a consistent aesthetic, strong visual storytelling, and adherence to brand standards. Design and ...

This role demands a creative visionary who can lead a team in capturing compelling images across various photography styles including commercial, event, portrait, and fine art photography. The Lead ...

Studio Art (Drawing, Painting, Printmaking, Sculpture, and Digital Imaging in Studio Art) Photography and Media Art (Photography, Digital Photography, Intermedia/Web Art, and Video Art) Graphic Art ...

A bachelor's degree in Art/Photography required; an advanced degree is preferred. Industry experience in commercial photography is strongly preferred, with demonstrated expertise in studio lighting ...

Bachelor's degrees or equivalent experience in photography, photojournalism, fine art photography, or visual media. * At least 2+ years of experience in photo editing. * Basic video filming and post ...

Photographer + Editor

CA · On-site

$80/hr

Bachelor's degrees or equivalent experience in photography, photojournalism, fine art photography, or visual media. * At least 2+ years of experience in photo editing. * Basic video filming and post ...

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Art Photography information

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$27K

$69.6K

$121.5K

How much do art photography jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for art photography in the United States is $69,553.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,000.00 and $99,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is art photography?

Art photography, also known as fine art photography, is a genre of photography where the photographer uses their creative vision to produce images that express an idea, emotion, or message. Unlike commercial or documentary photography, the primary purpose of art photography is aesthetic or conceptual, rather than functional. Art photographers often experiment with composition, lighting, and post-processing techniques to create unique and thought-provoking works. Their photos are typically intended for exhibition, collection, or personal expression.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an art photographer?

To thrive as an Art Photographer, you need a strong grasp of visual composition, lighting techniques, and proficiency in camera operation, often backed by formal art or photography education. Mastery of image editing software such as Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom and familiarity with professional printing processes are typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, and the ability to convey emotion or narrative visually are vital soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure the creation of compelling, original images that resonate with audiences and meet artistic or commercial objectives.

What are some common challenges faced by art photographers when working on collaborative projects?

Art photographers often collaborate with artists, curators, and designers, which can present challenges such as aligning creative visions, managing differing expectations, and ensuring effective communication. Navigating feedback from multiple stakeholders while maintaining your artistic integrity is key. It's important to develop strong interpersonal skills, be open to compromise, and establish clear project goals at the outset to foster a positive and productive working relationship.

What is the difference between Art Photography vs Commercial Photography?

AspectArt PhotographyCommercial Photography
CredentialsPortfolio, artistic skillsPortfolio, technical skills, client work
Work EnvironmentStudios, galleries, outdoor settingsAdvertising agencies, magazines, corporate settings
Industry UsageArt exhibitions, galleries, personal projectsAdvertising, marketing, product promotion
Search & Comparison IntentArt Photography vs Commercial Photography

Art Photography focuses on creative expression and personal projects, often showcased in galleries or exhibitions. Commercial Photography emphasizes producing images for clients to promote products or services, often working within advertising or corporate environments. While both require technical skills, the primary difference lies in purpose and audience.

What do you do in art photography?

Art photography involves creating images that emphasize artistic expression, creativity, and visual impact. It includes conceptualizing ideas, composing shots, and using techniques such as lighting, framing, and editing to produce compelling artwork, often for exhibitions, galleries, or personal projects.
More about Art Photography jobs

What cities are hiring for Art Photography jobs?

Cities with the most Art Photography job openings:

What states have the most Art Photography jobs?

States with the most job openings for Art Photography jobs include:

Infographic showing various Art Photography job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $69,553 per year, or $33.4 per hour.

Part-Time Art-Photography Instructor

Southwestern College

Chula Vista, CA • On-site

$72.85 - $105.85/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

Salary: $72.85 - $105.85 Hourly
Location : Chula Vista Campus - Chula Vista, CA
Job Type: Part-Time Faculty
Job Number: 00216
Division: Academic Affairs
Department: Sch of Arts, Com, Dsgn & Media
Opening Date: 06/17/2026
FLSA: Determined by Position
Funding Type: District
Initial Screening Deadline: 07/05/2026
Start Date: August 21, 2026 (Fall Semester)
Southwestern Community College District (SWCCD) is committed to meeting the educational goals of its students in an inclusive environment that promotes intellectual growth and develops human potential. We are the leader in equitable education that transforms the lives of students and communities.
SWCCD employees are collegial and collaborative. They demonstrate the highest degree of professionalism, integrity and respect when interacting with students, colleagues, leadership and members of the Jaguar community. Our employees actively honor and respect diversity to foster a safe and welcoming community where all are inspired to participate and realize a sense of belonging.
Incumbents exhibit an equity-minded focus, responsiveness, and sensitivity to and understanding of the diverse academic, socioeconomic, cultural, gender identity, sexual orientation, and ethnic backgrounds of community college students, and employees, including those with physical or learning disabilities, and successfully foster and support an inclusive educational and employment environment.
Description
Applications for Part-Time, Adjunct Instructor will be reviewed by hiring authorities. Should you be invited for an interview, you will be contacted by a District representative.
Southwestern College is looking to hire a part-time instructor to teach an Art - Portrait Photography course:
ART 210: Portrait Photography - Explores diverse aspects of portraiture including studio, headshots, environmental, and fashion photography. Introduces lighting and equipment specific to portraiture. Emphasizes styles, compositions, psychological considerations, and concepts associated with portraiture. Requires an adjustable camera with manual exposure mode. A digital SLR is recommended.
Class is to be offered face-to-face at the Chula Vista campus on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11:45 a.m.-2:50 p.m., starting on 08/24/26 and ending on 12/13/26.
Qualifications
Master's in fine arts, art, or art history
OR
Bachelor's in any of the above AND Master's in humanities
OR
the equivalent.
NOTE: "Master's in fine arts" as used here refers to any master's degree in the subject matter of fine arts, which is defined to include visual studio arts such as drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, ceramics, textiles, and metal and jewelry art; and also art education and art therapy. It does not refer to the "Master of Fine Arts" (MFA) degree when that degree is based on specialization in performing arts or dance, film, creative writing, or other non plastic arts.
Additional assessment is required for applicants with foreign degrees from colleges or universities outside of the United States. Applicants must have their coursework evaluated by a professional association that is a member of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services () and must submit a copy of the evaluation with the application.
Desired Qualifications
  • Demonstrated expertise in portrait photography, including studio lighting, composition, posing, and digital editing workflows.
  • Experience teaching photography at the community college level.
  • Proficiency with contemporary photography equipment and software, including Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop.
  • Active professional practice in photography through exhibitions, commissions, freelance work, or related creative activity.
  • Commitment to equity-minded, student-centered teaching practices that support diverse student populations.
  • Ability to teach across multiple instructional modalities, including in-person, hybrid, and online formats.
  • Experience supporting student portfolio development, transfer preparation, and/or career pathways in photography and visual arts.
  • Ability to collaborate effectively within a dynamic and interdisciplinary arts environment.

Supplemental Information
SALARY SCHEDULE: Academic Part-time - Instructional
For more information, please contact Department Chair Donald Gould at or the School of Arts, Communication, Design, & Media at (619) 482-6441.
Application Process:
A confirmation email will be sent once your application packet has been successfully submitted.
It is the sole responsibility of the applicant to ensure that all required application materials are submitted by the initial screening deadline date. Required materials including a current resume, unofficial transcripts verifying awarded degree(s) and completion date, and any relevant certifications, diplomas, or licenses that demonstrate you meet the minimum qualifications of the position. Failure to submit supporting documentations may result in an incomplete application.
Applications should be completed thoroughly, and resumes will not be accepted in lieu of an application but should be attached as a supporting document. All notifications to applicants will be sent electronically to the email address provided in the application.
A separate, complete application packet is required for each position for which you are applying for. All materials included in your application packet become SWCCD property, will not be returned, will not be copied, and will be considered for this opening only.
For Academic positions (only): If you do not possess the exact degree major(s) listed in the minimum qualifications section, you will need to submit an
A screening committee will evaluate applicants, taking into account the breadth and depth of relevant education, training, experience, skills, knowledge, and abilities. Selected applicants will be invited for an interview.
INTERVIEW TRAVEL COSTS MUST BE BORNE BY THE APPLICANT.
If additional positions become available in this classification, applications received in response to this posting may be considered for those additional positions for up to 90 days after final board approval.
Candidates selected for employment with SWCCD must be fingerprinted by an electronic fingerprinting service (i.e. LiveScan) within 10 days of employment; provide clearance of tuberculosis (dated within the past 4 years and renewed every four years as a condition of continued employment) within 60 days of employment; provide proof of eligibility to work in the United States.
Successful candidate selected may be assigned to any of the campus sites (Chula Vista, Crown Cove, National City, Otay Mesa, and/or San Ysidro).
American with Disabilities (ADA):
Reasonable accommodations will be provided to candidates with verified disabilities. Accommodation requests should be made as soon as practical by calling Human Resources at (619) 482-6395.
Equal Employment Opportunity:
As an Equal Opportunity Employer and in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, SWCCD will make reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities.
SWCCD shall not discriminate against any person in employment or in any program affiliated with the SWCCD on the basis of age, ancestry, color, ethnic group identification, national origin, religion, race, sex, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, veteran status, or on the basis of these perceived characteristics, or based on association with a person or group with one or more of these actual or perceived characteristics.
Notice of Availability of the Annual Security Report:
SWCCD is committed to assisting all members of the community in providing for their own safety and security. The Annual Security Report is available on the
If you would like to receive a hard copy of the Annual Security Report, which contains this information, you can stop by the College Police Department or you can request that a copy be mailed to you by calling (619) 482-6390.
Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention Plan (DAAPP):
More information about the DAAPP, including the Biennial report and additional resources can be found in the website.