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Freelance Photo Editor 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 ...

Photo Assignment Editor

Washington, DC · On-site

$92K - $138K/yr

The photo assignment editor will assign, shape and deliver high-impact photography and visual ... A strong eye for photography and the ability to work effectively with a diverse group of freelance ...

... by the editor or sourced from freelance contributors Working with the social and audience ... with the photo editor to maintain a high quality of images and overall look of the channel ...

... by the editor or sourced from freelance contributors Working with the social and audience ... with the photo editor to maintain a high quality of images and overall look of the channel ...

Local Freelance Photographer

Fargo, ND

$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 ...

Strong experience working with photo agencies and freelance photographers, including negotiating rates and contracts. * Deep knowledge of photo editing processes, technical standards, and best ...

Staff Editor

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$80K - $105K/yr

... freelance contributors, and more. * Proactively seek out interesting, diverse voices who can help ... Coordinate with other WIRED teams on all aspects of the story process, partnering with photo/art on ...

Staff Editor

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$80K - $105K/yr

... freelance contributors, and more. * Proactively seek out interesting, diverse voices who can help ... Coordinate with other WIRED teams on all aspects of the story process, partnering with photo/art on ...

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 ...

Staff Editor

New York, NY · On-site

$80K - $105K/yr

... freelance contributors, and more. * Proactively seek out interesting, diverse voices who can help ... Coordinate with other WIRED teams on all aspects of the story process, partnering with photo/art on ...

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 ...

Plan, assign, and execute timely and comprehensive local news coverage using staff, freelancers ... photo sizes and headline sizes Decide what articles will go on which pages and where on the page ...

Plan, assign, and execute timely and comprehensive local news coverage using staff, freelancers ... photo sizes and headline sizes • Decide what articles will go on which pages and where on the ...

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Freelance Photo Editor information

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How much do freelance photo editor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance photo editor in the United States is $22.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $29.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to become a freelance photo editor?

To become a freelance photo editor, develop strong skills in photo editing software such as Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom, build a diverse portfolio to showcase your work, and gain experience through internships or freelance projects. Establish an online presence on platforms like Behance or Fiverr, set competitive rates, and network with potential clients to grow your freelance business.

What does a freelance photo editor do?

A freelance photo editor is a professional who edits and enhances photographs for clients, often on a project or contract basis. Their tasks can include retouching images, adjusting color balance, cropping, removing imperfections, and preparing photos for print or digital publication. Freelance photo editors work with photographers, businesses, or media outlets to ensure that images meet the desired aesthetic and technical standards. They use software like Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom and may specialize in specific types of photography such as fashion, weddings, or commercial products.

How much to charge for 10 edited photos?

Freelance photo editors typically charge between $10 and $50 per photo, depending on complexity, experience, and client requirements. For 10 photos, this could range from $100 to $500. Rates may vary based on editing style, turnaround time, and whether the work involves retouching or advanced techniques.

What Does a Freelance Photo Editor Do?

As a freelance photo editor, you work as an independent contractor for photographers, advertising agencies, or other organizations in the photography industry. Your duties and responsibilities are to enhance, adjust, edit, or retouch digital or print images, using software, such as Photoshop or Gimp, or traditional darkroom tools. You typically work closely with your client to ensure that your work meets their standards or needs. Some photo editors may specialize in a specific area, such as fashion photography or web design.

What are some common challenges freelance photo editors face when working with multiple clients simultaneously?

Freelance photo editors often juggle projects from various clients, each with distinct styles, deadlines, and expectations. Managing clear communication and maintaining consistency across different editing requests can be challenging, especially when balancing urgent revisions or feedback. Effective organization, time management, and setting clear expectations with clients from the outset are crucial for delivering high-quality work while avoiding burnout. Additionally, freelancers must stay updated on editing software and industry trends to remain competitive and meet client needs.

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 a solid grasp of photographic composition, color correction, retouching techniques, and a portfolio demonstrating your editing abilities. Proficiency with editing software such as Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom, and familiarity with digital asset management tools is essential, and relevant certifications can be advantageous. Strong attention to detail, time management, and effective communication with clients are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure high-quality, client-focused results and the ability to manage multiple projects efficiently in a competitive freelance environment.

Is photo editing in demand?

Photo editing is in high demand across industries such as advertising, media, and e-commerce, driven by the growth of digital content. Freelance photo editors with skills in software like Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom are increasingly sought after for projects involving retouching, color correction, and image enhancement.

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 cities are hiring for Freelance Photo Editor jobs? Cities with the most Freelance Photo Editor job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Photo Editor jobs? The most popular types of Photo Editor jobs are:
What states have the most Freelance Photo Editor jobs? States with the most job openings for Freelance Photo Editor jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Freelance Photo Editor jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Freelance Photo Editor jobs are:
Infographic showing various Freelance Photo Editor job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 29% Full Time, 64% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 72% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 24% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,978 per year, or $22.1 per hour.
Photo Editor

Full-time

Posted 27 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.