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Freelance Photo Editing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Selection and management of photo interns and any freelance photo-research help.Developing and ... A keen eye for editing and selecting visual assets. Strong understanding of photo copyright and ...

... freelance photo-research help.Developing and maintaining strong relationships with top ... A quick technology learner with demonstrated proficiency in photo editing or commercial camera ...

Local Freelance Photographer

Fargo, ND · On-site

$61.50 - $69.75/hr

We are seeking a talented and creative Freelance Photographer to join our team and capture high ... Proficiency in photo editing software, such as Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom, etc. * Excellent ...

Photo Assignment Editor

Washington, DC · On-site

$92K - $138K/yr

A track record of editing complex visual stories across a range of formats. * A strong eye for ... freelance photographers. * Deep understanding of visual storytelling across digital and print ...

Freelance Photographer

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

$60.25 - $68/hr

Strong portfolio showcasing both photo and short-form video work * Proficiency with camera ... Basic editing skills (preferred but not required) Deliverables: * High-resolution photos * Short ...

Freelance Photographer

Fort Worth, TX · On-site

$60.25 - $68/hr

Strong portfolio showcasing both photo and short-form video work * Proficiency with camera ... Basic editing skills (preferred but not required) Deliverables: * High-resolution photos * Short ...

Developing a consistent voice for the Drink Channel Editing and regularly updating The Daily Meal ... freelance contributors Working with the social and audience development teams to help promote ...

Developing a consistent voice for the Drink Channel Editing and regularly updating The Daily Meal ... freelance contributors Working with the social and audience development teams to help promote ...

Direct photo and video shoots on set - lighting, composition, styling, props * Manage shoot ... Guide post-production: selects, editing notes, pacing, and final visual polish Social & Content ...

Direct photo and video shoots on set -- lighting, composition, styling, props * Manage shoot ... Guide post-production: selects, editing notes, pacing, and final visual polish Social & Content ...

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Freelance Photo Editing information

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How much do freelance photo editing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance photo editing in the United States is $62.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60.34 and $68.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is freelance photo editing?

Freelance photo editing involves working independently to enhance, retouch, or manipulate images for clients rather than being employed by a single company. Freelance photo editors use software like Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom to adjust lighting, color, remove imperfections, and create visually appealing images based on client requirements. Projects can range from wedding photography touch-ups to commercial advertising campaigns, and freelancers often manage their own schedules, client communications, and billing. This role requires strong technical skills, creativity, and attention to detail.

What are common challenges freelance photo editors face when managing multiple client projects?

Freelance photo editors often juggle several client projects at once, which can lead to challenges in time management and communication. Balancing different editing styles, turnaround times, and revision requests requires strong organizational skills and clear client communication. Additionally, freelancers must stay updated on the latest editing software and trends to meet diverse client expectations. Setting clear boundaries and using project management tools can help maintain workflow efficiency and client satisfaction.

What is the difference between Freelance Photo Editing vs Photo Retouching?

AspectFreelance Photo EditingPhoto Retouching
CredentialsPortfolio, editing skills, software proficiencyPortfolio, retouching skills, software proficiency
Work EnvironmentRemote, freelance projects, client-basedRemote or studio, client-based or agency work
Industry UsagePhotography, advertising, e-commerceFashion, beauty, commercial photography
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for editing servicesOften compared for retouching services

Freelance Photo Editing involves enhancing and adjusting images using editing software, often for various clients across industries like e-commerce and advertising. Photo Retouching focuses more on detailed corrections, skin smoothing, and aesthetic enhancements, typically in fashion or beauty sectors. While both roles require similar skills and tools, they serve different purposes in the post-production process.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Freelance Photo Editor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freelance Photo Editor, you need expertise in image correction, retouching, color grading, and a strong portfolio demonstrating your editing abilities. Proficiency in industry-standard software such as Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom, and familiarity with RAW file processing are typically required. Attention to detail, creative vision, time management, and strong communication skills help you meet client expectations and deadlines. These skills are crucial for delivering high-quality edits that satisfy clients and build a strong professional reputation in a competitive market.
More about Freelance Photo Editing jobs
What cities are hiring for Freelance Photo Editing jobs? Cities with the most Freelance Photo Editing job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Photo Editing jobs? The most popular types of Photo Editing jobs are:
What states have the most Freelance Photo Editing jobs? States with the most job openings for Freelance Photo Editing jobs include:
Infographic showing various Freelance Photo Editing job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 10% Full Time, 84% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 75% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 20% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $130,079 per year, or $62.5 per hour.
Photo Editor

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Company Description

At SANDOW, we know the key to being the best is to hire the best. We are looking for passionate, driven, committed talent to deliver exceptional performance.

Working for innovative, groundbreaking brands in an entrepreneurial environment requires a what-it takes mentality to get the job done. At SANDOW, there is always opportunity to shine and, in return, we reward stellar employees with competitive compensation, attractive perks, and the ability to take on new challenges - even if it is outside your wheelhouse. If you have got the chops, we'll take notice and provide the pathway to grow your career faster than you ever imagined possible.

Want to join us? Keep reading.

Job Description

Job Overview:
SANDOW is seeking an enthusiastic, hardworking, and extremely well -organized Photo Editor to join our team. The ideal candidate is an energetic self-starter who shows a sophisticated eye towards image selection and a strong visual point-of-view to help steer, produce and maintain the imagery for our design-focused brands. As an experienced member of the creative team, they should demonstrate good decision-making ability and be able to handle multiple tasks with little direction while prioritizing and managing their time efficiently.
The position works closely with various editorial and design teams to perform photo research, obtain cost estimates, manage photo budgets, and work with stock agencies and photographers to get hi-res files.  There will be some management and negotiation of photo contracts; however, the most important attribute of the ideal candidate for this role is that they have a keen eye for beautiful design and luxury images.  This role requires an individual who is highly organized and has a strong attention to detail.  A candidate having practiced disciplines of DAM and experience in assisting, shooting or managing in a photography environment is a plus.Job Responsibilities:
Uses a keen eye for visual aesthetic and imagination to edit and narrow down images for selects and the creation of contact sheets and catalogs with impeccable judgment towards image quality and narrative.
    Advise on photography concepts and references, including budgets and rights consideration, usage and licensing.
    Manage communications, fee and expense negotiations, creating detailed cost estimates, usage reports and ensuring adherence to photo budgets by   individual shoots, as well as by issue.
    File organization and Asset Management of product photography and royalty free images. Compile all supporting attribute information, supplied or observed, such as credits, captions for file meta-tagging and archival purposes.
    Selection and management of photo interns and any freelance photo-research help.Developing and maintaining strong relationships with top photographers, stylists, models, agencies and stock houses and identifying other sources for high-quality imagery.
    Researching, sourcing, and assigning photographers for multiple magazines. This requires knowledge of all areas of photography including lifestyle, beauty, conceptual, still life, portrait, action, reportage.
    Producing photo shoots: casting and hiring talent, hiring and managing stylists and prop designers, securing locations and permits, orchestrating shoot logistics, selecting wardrobe, scouting, and all aspects of production. 

Qualifications

    Bachelors degree in Photography, Photojournalism, Visual Communication or related field of study.
    Minimum of 5-7 years photo editing experience in a publication or commercial setting.
    A keen eye for editing and selecting visual assets.
    Strong understanding of photo copyright and negotiating rights usage and clearance.
    Strong ability to negotiate fees with photographers, talent agencies and reps, stock houses, authors, models, etc.
    Must demonstrate expert knowledge photographic standards as well as a comprehensive understanding of digital file specs, size and formats.
    Extensive knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite including Photoshop, Lightroom and Bridge in a Mac OS X environment. A quick technology learner with demonstrated proficiency in photo editing or commercial camera software such as Photo Mechanic or Phase One Media Pro a plus.
    Must have solid writing, proofing, interpersonal and communication skills and be able to maintain a professional demeanor at all times. 
    Highly organized, strong attention to detail, keen problem solving and analytical skills and the ability to think logically and be resourceful when issues arise.
    Demonstrates teamwork and positive attitude while being self-motivated and comfortable working independently and juggling several projects on tight deadlines.
    Working knowledge of digital asset best practices including keyword, metadata and cataloging standards. Background and familiarity with DAM systems is a plus.

Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.