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Chief Photojournalist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

WOWK-TV

Photographer III, Chief

Knoxville, TN

The Chief Photographer oversees the day-to-day operations of the news photojournalist team which includes news photographers/editors and MMJs. The Chief Photographer is also responsible for the ...

Tribune Media

Photographer III, Chief

Knoxville, TN · On-site

The Chief Photographer oversees the day-to-day operations of the news photojournalist team which includes news photographers/editors and MMJs. The Chief Photographer is also responsible for the ...

All JobsChief Photojournalist Jobs

Chief Photojournalist information

See salary details

$33K

$124.4K

$200.5K

How much do chief photojournalist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for chief photojournalist in the United States is $124,409.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,000.00 and $146,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much money do photojournalists make?

Photojournalists' salaries vary based on experience, location, and employer, with median annual earnings typically ranging from $30,000 to $70,000. Experienced professionals working for major media outlets or in high-demand areas can earn higher wages, and skills in digital editing and multimedia storytelling can enhance earning potential.

How much does a chief photographer make?

A chief photojournalist typically earns between $50,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the size of the organization. They often have advanced photography skills, experience in news environments, and may oversee a team of photographers or manage editorial content.

What is the highest paying photography job?

Chief photojournalists or senior photojournalists in major media organizations tend to have the highest salaries in photography, often earning six-figure incomes. High earnings are typically associated with extensive experience, strong portfolio, and skills in digital editing and storytelling, often working under tight deadlines and in demanding environments.

What is a Chief Photojournalist?

A Chief Photojournalist is a senior photographer who leads a team of photojournalists, often within a news organization or media outlet. They are responsible for assigning photo coverage, ensuring high standards of photography, editing images, and often managing equipment and schedules. The Chief Photojournalist also mentors junior staff, coordinates with editors and reporters, and may cover major stories themselves. Their role is crucial in maintaining the visual quality and integrity of news reporting.

What is the difference between Chief Photojournalist vs Photojournalist?

AspectChief PhotojournalistPhotojournalist
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in journalism, photography, or related field; extensive portfolioSimilar educational background; portfolio often essential
Work EnvironmentLeads photo teams, manages projects, and coordinates coverage for news organizationsCaptures news stories in the field, working independently or with a team
Industry UsageUsed in news agencies, media outlets, and large publicationsCommon across newspapers, magazines, and online media

The main difference is that a Chief Photojournalist oversees photo coverage and manages teams, while a Photojournalist focuses on capturing news images. The Chief role involves leadership and planning, whereas the Photojournalist role emphasizes fieldwork and storytelling through images.

What are some common challenges Chief Photojournalists face when leading a team in the field?

Chief Photojournalists often encounter challenges such as coordinating coverage across multiple locations, managing tight deadlines, and ensuring the safety of their team in unpredictable environments. Balancing creative storytelling with editorial standards and logistical constraints is critical. Additionally, they must foster collaboration among photographers, reporters, and editors to deliver compelling visual content while mentoring junior staff and adapting to evolving technology in the industry.

How much do FBI photographers make?

FBI photographers are federal employees and typically earn salaries based on the General Schedule (GS) pay scale, with starting salaries around GS-7 to GS-9, which range from approximately $40,000 to $60,000 annually. With experience and specialized skills, such as proficiency with professional photography equipment and security clearances, salaries can increase to GS-11 or higher, reaching over $80,000 per year. Benefits often include health insurance, retirement plans, and paid leave.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Chief Photojournalist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Chief Photojournalist, you need advanced photography skills, editorial judgment, and experience in news gathering, often supported by a degree in journalism or photojournalism. Expertise with professional camera equipment, photo editing software like Adobe Photoshop, and digital asset management systems is typically required. Strong leadership, communication, and decision-making skills help in coordinating teams and managing assignments. These abilities are crucial for producing impactful visual stories, maintaining high journalistic standards, and effectively leading a photo department.
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Chief Photojournalist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chief Photojournalist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $124,409 per year, or $59.8 per hour.
KWTV Chief Photographer

KWTV Chief Photographer

Griffin Media

Oklahoma City, OK • On-site

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

A Chief Photographer at News 9 helps drive the Ideal Team Player culture.

Job Summary: The Chief Photographer will oversee the day-to-day operations of the news Photojournalist and Editor team, ensuring high-quality visual content and efficient newsroom operations. This position manages a team of Photojournalists and Editors and is responsible for coordinating and purchasing technical resources, equipment, and vehicles essential to news coverage. Additionally, the role includes managing the overall workflow of news operations, including camera and editing equipment and resources while collaborating with Multimedia Journalists to enhance visual storytelling and uphold industry standards for news coverage and safety.

Job Responsibilities:

  • Supervise, coach, and mentor a team of Photojournalists, Multimedia Journalists, and Editors, providing guidance on shooting techniques, equipment usage, and storytelling through visuals. Responsible for all areas of on-air visual presentation.
  • Oversee the maintenance, distribution, and functionality of all photography, video, and editing equipment, including cameras, drones, and vehicles.
  • Develop and manage schedules for the Photojournalist and Editor team, ensuring proper coverage for breaking news and planned assignments across the state.
  • Conduct regular training sessions for the Photojournalists, and Editors on best practices, including new equipment, safety protocols, and advanced storytelling techniques.
  • Work closely with the newsroom, assignment desk, and reporters to plan and execute news stories, ensuring seamless coordination between field crews and the production team.
  • Enforce safety protocols for fieldwork, especially during live coverage of severe weather, high-risk events, or hazardous environments.
  • Participate in communication with vendors to secure the latest technology to enhance news coverage.
  • Ensure consistency in the quality of video content, reviewing footage for storytelling, technical excellence, and journalistic integrity.
  • Assist in the planning and execution of special news projects or events, coordinating resources for extended coverage, such as elections or major state events.
  • Work alongside newsroom managers to maintain and improve newsroom operations, focusing on both efficiency and innovation.
  • Serve as the point person for the upkeep, maintenance, of all news department vehicles, ensuring they are properly equipped for news coverage.
  • Function as staff photojournalist as needed.
  • Perform other job-related duties as assigned, including driving an automobile for company business.

Job Schedule: This is a full-time position primarily working 40 hours per week. You may also be called upon at times to fill in other hours and days of the week to help cover vacations, illnesses, breaking news, severe weather, or special projects/events. This position is not eligible to work remotely.

Essential Qualities:

  • Humble: A habit of sharing successes, putting the team first, and working for the good of the team. A “we” not “me” attitude. The ability to give and receive constructive criticism. Observe and employ the Golden Rule.
  • Hungry: Exhibit a strong work ethic, drive, and willingness to take initiative.
  • Smart (People Smart): The virtue of being interpersonally smart about the interactions and relationships of those you encounter.
  • Positive Attitude: Exhibited by focusing on opportunities not problems, see the glass as half-full not half-empty.
  • Sense of Urgency: How we react and respond. 

Skills and Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree in a broadcast related field. Related experience will be evaluated and may be substituted as years of education. 
  • Minimum 5-8 years of experience in a television newsroom as a Photographer in a small to medium market.
  • Proven experience as a senior-level photojournalist with demonstrated leadership skills. Prior supervisory experience is preferred. 
  • In-depth knowledge of news photography, video production, editing, and live broadcast technology.
  • Strong understanding of journalistic ethics and visual storytelling.
  • Prior experience managing staff, equipment, and logistics in a fast-paced news environment preferred. 
  • Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks under deadline pressure.
  • Experience with drone operations is a plus. 
  • Technical knowledge of broadcast production equipment.
  • Ability to direct and gain the cooperation of others with strong organizational and interpersonal skills.
  • Basic understanding of automotive maintenance to effectively oversee routine vehicle upkeep and to ensure timely repairs as needed.
  • Must have, or be able to obtain, a valid Oklahoma driver’s license and have a driving record acceptable to the company. 
  • Ability to perform other job-related duties as assigned. 
  • Capable of handling the physical and mental requirements including:
    • ability to verbally communicate in English
    • ability to read computer monitor information (words and data)
    • ability to hear detailed spoken word
    • ability to remain sedentary and to travel to work location
    • ability to perform manual dexterity tasks with hands, fingers
    • ability to analyze data, concentrate, reason, and write
    • ability to perform under emotional stress
    • ability to lift 50 pounds unaided
    • ability to work rotating shifts and be on 24-hour call

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

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