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Documentary Photographer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Carnahan Proctor and Cross, Inc.

Be Seen First

Construction Quality Control Inspector

Okeechobee, FL · Remote

$68K - $80K/yr

... documentary photographs of construction and inspection activities. · Confirm home models and driveway configurations are being constructed on the appropriate lots. · Be able to perform quality ...

Colossal Biosciences

Cinematographer

Dallas, TX · On-site

Lead video and photography capture across lab environments, fieldwork, and controlled productions * Operate confidently in both fast-moving documentary conditions and structured in-house shoots

GW Student

$17.25 - $22/hr

Preferred Qualifications Background in event and/or documentary photography; strong visual storytelling skills; experience working with Adobe Creative Suite; excellent communication and time ...

Invisible Ventures

Visual Story Teller

Sarasota, FL · On-site

Photograph on location and in studio settings, including portraits, interiors, food, events, and documentary-style assignments. Execute photo shoots efficiently while maintaining professionalism ...

W3Global Inc.

Construction Estimator

San Fernando, CA · On-site

$55K - $80K/yr

Develop scopes of repair based upon site inspections, plans, documentary evidence, and photos * Develop cost estimates using estimating software and bids from subcontractors * May assist with writing ...

Hearst

Photographer Editor

Winston Salem, NC

Professional still photography experience. * FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. * Experience ... documentary-style production. Values in Action At Hearst Television we tell stories every day.

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Documentary Photographer information

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How much do documentary photographer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for documentary photographer in the United States is $20.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $21.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a documentary photographer do?

A documentary photographer captures real-life events, environments, and stories through photographs, often focusing on social, political, or cultural issues. Their goal is to provide an honest, unbiased visual record that informs, educates, or inspires viewers. They may work independently on personal projects or be commissioned by media outlets, NGOs, or other organizations. Documentary photographers spend significant time researching subjects, building relationships with communities, and ensuring ethical storytelling.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a documentary photographer?

To thrive as a Documentary Photographer, you need strong photography skills, storytelling ability, and a solid understanding of visual composition, often backed by a degree in photography or relevant experience. Proficiency with professional camera equipment, photo editing software like Adobe Lightroom or Photoshop, and familiarity with digital asset management systems are essential. Outstanding interpersonal skills, adaptability, and cultural sensitivity help you build trust with subjects and navigate diverse environments. These skills are crucial for authentically capturing and conveying compelling real-world stories that resonate with viewers.

How do documentary photographers typically collaborate with writers, editors, and other team members on a project?

Documentary photographers often work closely with writers, editors, and sometimes videographers to produce cohesive visual stories. Collaboration usually begins in the planning stage, where photographers and writers discuss the narrative approach and key themes. Throughout the project, photographers share images for feedback and coordinate with editors to ensure the visuals align with the written content. Effective communication and flexibility are crucial, as story direction can evolve based on new developments in the field. This collaborative process not only enriches the final piece but also provides learning opportunities and networking connections.

What is the difference between Documentary Photographer vs Photojournalist?

AspectDocumentary PhotographerPhotojournalist
CredentialsPhotography experience, portfolio, sometimes journalism or visual storytelling backgroundPhotography experience, journalism background, often with press credentials
Work EnvironmentIndependent projects, NGOs, non-profit organizations, studiosNews agencies, newspapers, magazines, on-location reporting
Industry UsageDocumentary projects, exhibitions, booksBreaking news, events, daily reporting

Both roles require strong photography skills and storytelling ability. While documentary photographers focus on long-term projects and in-depth storytelling, photojournalists typically work in fast-paced news environments capturing immediate events. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in visual storytelling.

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What states have the most Documentary Photographer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Documentary Photographer jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Documentary Photographer jobs?

For Documentary Photographer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Documentary Photographer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Documentary Photographer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 46% Full Time, 46% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,345 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

Temporary Director of Photography, Men's Health and Women's Health

Manhattan, NY • On-site

Hearst Magazines Division
See more jobs at Hearst Magazines Divisionexternal

$80/hr

Part-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description


Men's Health and Women's Health is seeking a Temporary Director of Photography, Producer, and Editor to support our video team. This is a hands-on, doer role: you'll shoot, light, help produce, and edit in partnership with our Executive Producer and production team-bringing sharp visual taste while jumping in wherever the day needs coverage, problem-solving, or post support. This role reports to the Executive Producer.
Responsibilities
Be Part of What's Next
Shape the look and feel of premium health and wellness storytelling. As a Temporary Director of Photography, you'll bring ideas to life through camera, lighting, and edit-owning the craft while helping productions run seamlessly from start to finish.
About Hearst Magazines (Why Us?)
Hearst Magazines is one of the world's largest publishers of premium content, with a portfolio of more than 30 iconic brands, including Cosmopolitan, ELLE, Esquire, Harper's BAZAAR, Men's Health, Popular Mechanics, and Seventeen. We reach audiences across platforms-print, digital, video, and social-with storytelling that informs, entertains, and inspires. Our culture is collaborative, innovative, and committed to building an inclusive environment where creativity thrives.
Key Responsibilities (What You Are Doing)
Lead camera and lighting on shoots across Men's Health and Women's Health, spanning studio, field, documentary, and social-first formats
Operate as a hands-on production partner, supporting logistics, run-of-show execution, and on-set coordination to keep shoots moving efficiently
Bring a strong visual point of view, elevating content through thoughtful composition, lighting, and camera movement
Maintain organized, high-functioning sets by communicating clearly, managing time effectively, and ensuring clean coverage
Edit selects, assemblies, and rough cuts, applying pacing, music, and basic sound polish in line with creative direction
Manage post-production workflows, including media organization, file labeling, continuity tracking, and clean project handoffs
Assist in scaling production teams by coordinating freelancers and vendors (camera, sound, G&E) as needed
Contribute creative ideas, references, and production solutions that push formats forward while staying true to brand
Qualifications (What We're Looking For)
5+ years of experience in cinematography, video production, or a related field (or equivalent hands-on experience)
Demonstrated DP/camera experience across digital, documentary, branded, or studio environments
Strong lighting and composition fundamentals with a refined visual sensibility
Producer-minded approach: proactive, highly organized, and calm under pressure in fast-paced environments
Editing proficiency in a modern NLE (Premiere preferred; Avid or Resolve also welcome), including building rough cuts and managing versions
Solid post-production fundamentals, including file organization, audio awareness, and collaborative editing workflows
Ability to flex across multiple roles on set and in post, adapting to evolving production needs
Ability to work onsite Tuesday through Thursday in New York City, with flexibility for early calls and occasional travel as needed
The base salary for this role is $80/hr. The actual base pay offered is dependent upon many factors, such as: transferable skills, work experience, business needs and market demands. The base pay range is subject to change and may be modified in the future.
Hearst Magazines is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.

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