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Creative Photographer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Fashion Nova

Photographer

Beverly Hills, CA · On-site

Partner with the Manager, Photography to maintain high quality studio photography lighting for ... Design creative methods to implement lighting, set design and model poses, both in studio and on ...

Fashion Nova

Photographer

Beverly Hills, CA

Partner with the Manager, Photography to maintain high quality studio photography lighting for ... Design creative methods to implement lighting, set design and model poses, both in studio and on ...

DeLeon Realty

Photographer + Editor

CA · On-site

$80/hr

Creative mind with a keen eye for detail. Salary range: $80-90k, role includes benefits Must attach portfolio or you can email them to [email protected]

DeLeon Realty

Photographer + Editor

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

The Photographer + Editor is responsible for producing high-end residential real estate photography ... Experience with Adobe Creative Suite editing software preferred. * Knowledge in Matterport 3D/2D ...

House of CB, London

Creative Director

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$80 - $110/hr

You'll work hand-in-hand with the Art Director, in-house Creative team, photographers, stylists, and producers to deliver imagery that feels distinctively House of CB: bold, feminine, and culturally ...

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Creative Photographer information

What is a creative photographer?

A Creative Photographer is a professional who uses artistic vision and technical skills to capture unique and imaginative images. Unlike traditional photographers who may focus on standard portraits or events, creative photographers experiment with composition, lighting, and post-processing to produce visually compelling photos. They often work on projects such as advertising campaigns, fashion shoots, fine art, or conceptual photography. Their work requires a blend of creativity, technical expertise, and a strong understanding of visual storytelling.

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

To thrive as a Creative Photographer, you need a solid grasp of photographic techniques, composition, lighting, and post-processing, often supported by formal education or a strong portfolio. Mastery of digital cameras, editing software like Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom, and familiarity with studio equipment are typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, and strong communication skills help you interpret client needs and bring unique visions to life. These skills are crucial for producing compelling imagery that meets professional standards and client expectations.

How does a creative photographer typically collaborate with clients and other creative professionals during a project?

A Creative Photographer regularly works closely with clients, art directors, stylists, and sometimes makeup artists to understand the creative vision for a shoot. Effective communication is essential, as photographers must interpret and translate client needs into compelling visual concepts. Collaboration often involves pre-shoot meetings to discuss mood boards, location scouting, and shot planning, followed by coordination during the shoot to ensure everyone’s expectations are met. After the shoot, photographers may work with editors or graphic designers to finalize the images, ensuring the final product aligns with the project’s objectives.

What is the difference between Creative Photographer vs Commercial Photographer?

AspectCreative PhotographerCommercial Photographer
CredentialsPortfolio, photography skills, possibly a degree in photography or related fieldPortfolio, photography skills, often a degree or certification in photography or visual arts
Work EnvironmentStudio, outdoor, artistic projects, personal or freelance workAdvertising agencies, magazines, product shoots, corporate clients
Employer & IndustryFreelance, art galleries, personal projectsAdvertising, marketing, media companies
Search & Comparison IntentCreative photography styles, artistic projectsProduct photography, advertising campaigns

Creative photographers focus on artistic expression, personal projects, and unique visual styles, often working freelance or in art settings. Commercial photographers specialize in producing images for advertising, marketing, and corporate clients, emphasizing product and brand representation. While both roles require strong photography skills and portfolios, their work environments and client bases differ significantly.

What are popular job titles related to Creative Photographer jobs in California?

For Creative Photographer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Creative Photographer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Creative Photographer jobs in California are:

Creative Photographer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Creative Photographer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 88% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution.

Photographer & Lab Production Worker

GLORY DAYS SERVICE INC

Ojai, CA

$20/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Photographers: Interviewing now at our Simi Valley and San Gabriel locations. Posed youth sports photography at parks within 100 miles. You must be kid friendly, we provide equipment, but it is helpful if you have a decent DSLR and Flash\Strobe (Flash is $65 if you don't have one). Reliable transportation is critical and you must be able to get up early and travel within 100 miles. This is a lucrative\fun weekend job and we strongly encourage couples to apply as we often work with photographer\assistant combinations. Photography is easily learned! We have complete training videos and you can see some of them at www.sportsphotostation.com

This is not "creative photography,". The ability to show up on time, work well with kids and parents, and follow instructions, is much more important than your creative skills. This has nothing to do with photoshop, you turn in your memory cards at the end of the shoot.
Interviews and training are ongoing. Our busy photographers work 20-30 weekends per year and overtime pay is followed. You do not need to work every assignment, we are flexible with scheduling.   We pay from the time you leave home until the time you get home so overtime pay is often earned.
Equipment: We do provide a camera and flash but we do like photographers to have back up gear, so send a list of what you have.
If you would like to apply, please send a list of photography experience, a resume and we can set up an interview at either San Gabriel or Simi Valley. Feel free to ask any questions.
We are also hiring in our lab facility in Simi Valley for customer service and lab technician which are full time positions, let us know if you are interested.
Pay starts at $20 per hour but we pay more if you have substantial experience and\or equipment. 
YOU MUST BE ABLE TO PASS A BACKGROUND CHECK!  Some customers and schools require photographers to be background checked.