ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Freelance Photo Editing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Daily Meal

Drink Channel Editor

Manhattan, NY · On-site

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 ...

The Daily Meal

Drink Channel Editor

Manhattan, NY · On-site

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 ...

Kinn Studio

Freelance Art Director

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

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 ...

The Banner

Visuals Editor

Baltimore, MD · On-site

Fluency in Photoshop, Lightroom, InDesign, Photo Mechanic and related visual editing or design ... Staff and freelance contributors receive useful direction, timely feedback and the context they ...

The Banner

Visuals Editor

Baltimore, MD

Fluency in Photoshop, Lightroom, InDesign, Photo Mechanic and related visual editing or design ... Staff and freelance contributors receive useful direction, timely feedback and the context they ...

Condé Nast

Staff Editor

San Francisco, CA

$80K - $105K/yr

In this role, you'll be responsible for editing a variety of stories, anything from breaking news ... Coordinate with other WIRED teams on all aspects of the story process, partnering with photo/art on ...

Condé Nast

Staff Editor

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$80K - $105K/yr

In this role, you'll be responsible for editing a variety of stories, anything from breaking news ... Coordinate with other WIRED teams on all aspects of the story process, partnering with photo/art on ...

Condé Nast

Staff Editor

New York, NY

$80K - $105K/yr

In this role, you'll be responsible for editing a variety of stories, anything from breaking news ... Coordinate with other WIRED teams on all aspects of the story process, partnering with photo/art on ...

BarkleyOKRP

FREELANCE | Content Creator

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$129K/yr

Concepting and producing original video and photo content for social media including: TikTok ... Proficiency in editing software (Adobe Creative Suite) * Operates at the speed of culture * Has ...

Career Search

Brand Content Producer

Clearwater, FL

$110K/yr

Partner with creative agencies, production vendors, photographers, videographers, and freelancers ... Strong photography, lighting, photo editing, and video editing capabilities. Proficiency in Adobe ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPhoto Editing JobsFreelance Photo Editing Jobs

Freelance Photo Editing information

See salary details

$29

$62

$71

How much do freelance photo editing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 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.

Can I get paid to edit photos?

Freelance photo editing is a legitimate way to earn income by providing editing services to clients, often through online platforms or personal networks. Payment depends on factors such as experience, skill level, project complexity, and client agreements, with many editors charging per image or project. Proficiency in editing tools like Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom and a strong portfolio can help secure paid work.

How to get hired as a freelance editor?

To get hired as a freelance photo editor, build a strong portfolio showcasing your editing skills using software like Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom. Gain experience through practice or internships, create profiles on freelance platforms, and network with potential clients to find opportunities.

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.

How much does a freelance photo editor make?

Freelance photo editors typically earn between $20 and $75 per hour, depending on experience, skill level, and project complexity. Many work on a per-project basis, with rates varying based on the scope of editing and client requirements.

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.

Is photo editing a good career?

Photo editing as a career involves enhancing and retouching images using software like Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom. It offers freelance and full-time opportunities across industries such as advertising, fashion, and media, often requiring strong technical skills and an eye for detail. The profession can be flexible but competitive, with income varying based on experience, skill level, and client base.

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:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Photo Editing jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Photo Editing jobs are:
Freelance Photo Editing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Photo Editing job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. 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.
Drink Channel Editor

Drink Channel Editor

The Daily Meal

Manhattan, NY • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Company Description

Unprecedented in scope and depth, The Daily Meal, now a part of tronc (owners of The Chicago Tribune, the Baltimore Sun, and other top newspapers and websites), produces more culinary content than any other resource. Our passionate team canvasses the world to bring its millions of readers the best food and drink experiences at all levels, around the table, at home or on the road.

Job Description

We are searching for a self-starting, fast-working editor/writer who has a passion for and knowledge of the world of wine, spirits, cocktails, beer, and coffee, tea, and other non-alcoholic beverages, as well as the places where these beverages are consumed (bars, lounges, wine bars, coffee shops, etc.) - with an interest in the people, places, and companies that make and serve them.
Responsibilities Include:
Developing a consistent voice for the Drink Channel

Editing and regularly updating The Daily Meal's Drink Channel and its associated section pages

Posting rink-related stories and slideshows daily, either written by the editor or sourced from freelance contributors

Working with the social and audience development teams to help promote

channel content

Discovering and resolving any technical issues with the channel with the help of the dev team

Working with the photo editor to maintain a high quality of images and overall look of  the channel

Programming the twice-weekly Drink Channel newsletter and developing Cocktail of the Day and Wine of the Day newsletters for future publication

Qualifications

Undergraduate or graduate degree

Knowledge of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and the international cocktail scene; knowledge of wine a plus

Experience in writing and editing for online media


Additional Information

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

Apply