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Event Photography Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Memory Makers Images

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Photographer

Fremont, CA · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

A leading Sports, School & Event Photography Company is looking to hire several photographers for our upcoming seasons. You will be working in fast paced environment with great people. Our company ...

Mom365, Inc.

Photography Sales Manager

Fresno, CA

$30 - $35/hr

Photography experience preferred, especially portrait, studio, family, newborn, or event photography. * Experience managing business operations, scheduling, staffing, or performance metrics. * Strong ...

Mom365, Inc.

Photography Sales Manager

Santa Rosa, CA

$30 - $35/hr

Photography experience preferred, especially portrait, studio, family, newborn, or event photography. * Experience managing business operations, scheduling, staffing, or performance metrics. * Strong ...

Mom365, Inc.

Photography Sales Manager

San Jose, CA

$30 - $35/hr

Photography experience preferred, especially portrait, studio, family, newborn, or event photography. * Experience managing business operations, scheduling, staffing, or performance metrics. * Strong ...

MOM365, Inc.

Photography Sales Manager

San Jose, CA · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Photography experience preferred, especially portrait, studio, family, newborn, or event photography. * Experience managing business operations, scheduling, staffing, or performance metrics. * Strong ...

MOM365, Inc.

Photography Sales Manager

Fresno, CA · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Photography experience preferred, especially portrait, studio, family, newborn, or event photography. * Experience managing business operations, scheduling, staffing, or performance metrics. * Strong ...

Mom365, Inc.

Photography Sales Manager

Modesto, CA · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Photography experience preferred, especially portrait, studio, family, newborn, or event photography. * Experience managing business operations, scheduling, staffing, or performance metrics. * Strong ...

Mom365

Photography Sales Manager

Modesto, CA · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Photography experience preferred, especially portrait, studio, family, newborn, or event photography. * Experience managing business operations, scheduling, staffing, or performance metrics. * Strong ...

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Event Photography information

See California salary details

$15

$26

$64

How much do event photography jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for event photography in California is $26.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $27.74 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is event photography?

Event photography is a specialized field of photography focused on capturing important moments and details during events such as weddings, corporate functions, concerts, parties, and other gatherings. Event photographers document the atmosphere, key activities, and candid interactions to tell the story of the occasion. Their work is used for memories, marketing, or archival purposes, depending on the event and client needs. Event photographers often work on location and must be skilled at adapting to different lighting and environments.

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

To thrive as an Event Photographer, you need a solid understanding of photography techniques, lighting, and image composition, often backed by a portfolio or relevant training. Proficiency with professional cameras, lenses, editing software like Adobe Lightroom or Photoshop, and sometimes image delivery platforms is essential. Excellent interpersonal skills, adaptability, and attention to detail help you interact with clients and capture candid moments in dynamic environments. These skills ensure you consistently deliver high-quality images that meet client expectations and stand out in a competitive industry.

What are some common challenges faced by event photographers during large-scale events, and how can they be managed?

Event photographers often encounter challenges such as rapidly changing lighting conditions, unpredictable movement of people, and tight schedules during large-scale events. Managing these requires adaptability, thorough preparation, and excellent communication with event organizers. Bringing backup equipment, scouting the venue in advance, and coordinating with the event schedule can help photographers anticipate key moments and capture high-quality images efficiently.

What is the difference between Event Photography vs Portrait Photography?

AspectEvent PhotographyPortrait Photography
Required CredentialsPortfolio, photography skills, possibly certificationsPortfolio, photography skills, possibly certifications
Work EnvironmentEvents like weddings, conferences, partiesStudio or outdoor settings focused on individuals or groups
Employer & Industry UsageEvent planning companies, individuals, venuesStudios, freelance, advertising agencies
Search & Comparison IntentClients seeking event coverageClients seeking personal or professional portraits

While both event photography and portrait photography require strong photography skills and similar credentials, they differ mainly in work environment and client needs. Event photography captures moments at live events, focusing on candid and dynamic shots, whereas portrait photography emphasizes individual or group portraits in controlled settings. Understanding these differences helps clients find the right photographer for their specific needs.

How do I get into event photography?

To start a career in event photography, build a strong portfolio showcasing your work, gain experience by volunteering or assisting at events, and develop skills in camera operation, lighting, and editing. Having a good understanding of event environments and customer service can also improve your chances of success.

What are popular job titles related to Event Photography jobs in California?

For Event Photography jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Event Photography jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Event Photography jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Event Photography jobs?

Cities in California with the most Event Photography job openings:

Event Photography jobs near you
Infographic showing various Event Photography job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,143 per year, or $27 per hour.

SALSU Student Event Photographer 2026-27

Riverside, CA • On-site

La Sierra University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about La Sierra Universityexternal

$16.90/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

Department: Office of Student Involvement/SALSU 

Title: SALSU Student Event Photographer

Pay Range: $16.90/hr

Start Date: January 6, 2025

Report to: Director, Admin Secretary & Visions Editor

Hours: Event Based/Varies

Job Summary: The student event photographer will play a crucial role in documenting the vibrant campus life and helping to create a visual record of our university's diverse range of activities and events, especially events hosted under the division of student life. All images captured will be submitted to the Visions Editor to prepare the yearbook.

Duties & Responsibilities:

Description/Duties:

  • The student event photographer is expected to produce photographic content (portraits, action shots, etc.) for Visions (La Sierra University Yearbook).
  • The student event photographer must work in a timely manner
  • The student event photographer is responsible for not only taking photos but also editing photos, uploading the best shots and keeping organized digital folders
  • The student event photographer is willing to attend various events hosted by the university
  • The student event photographer is responsible for attending any editorial staff meeting.
  • The student event photographer will report directly to the Visions Editor

Requirements:

  • Must be a current registered La Sierra University student

Expectations

  • Photographers are not to exceed more than 6 hours in a pay period (every two weeks) unless agreed upon by the Director.

To apply, please submit a resume/CV as well as send a photography portfolio to osi@lasierra.edu.

Apply