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Freelance Photographer Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Part-time photography and sales position with guaranteed pay of $18.00/hour and potential to earn commission up to $24.00/hr! Is photography your passion? Are you searching for a career that goes ...

Photographer

Murrieta, CA · On-site

$24/hr

Part-time photography and sales position with guaranteed pay of $18.00/hour and potential to earn commission up to $24.00/hr! Is photography your passion? Are you searching for a career that goes ...

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Photographer

City Of Industry, CA · On-site

$22 - $25/hr

Are you a talented Photographer/Photo-Retoucher with a passion for beauty and cosmetics? This role offers an exciting opportunity to produce stunning beauty, lifestyle, and fashion imagery that ...

Pitzer Photographer Job Details and Requirement: Department: Communications and Marketing Supervisor: Digital Asset and Production Director Last Updated: 6/2/2026 GENERAL DESCRIPTION The Pitzer ...

Photographer, PCGS

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$26 - $30/hr

We're looking for a Photographer to join our Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) team to photograph and image coins with exacting standards of our clientele and our numismatic experts. This work ...

Photographer

Irvine, CA

$24.04 - $26.44/hr

Summary: The Orange County Register is seeking an exceptional photographer to join our team. Orange County is a diverse, innovative community with 3.2 million residents, and we need a strong ...

Photographer, PCGS

Santa Ana, CA · On-site

$26 - $30/hr

We're looking for a Photographer to join our Professional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) team to photograph and image coins with exacting standards of our clientele and our numismatic experts. This work ...

Photographer

Irvine, CA · On-site

$24.04 - $26.44/hr

Summary: The Orange County Register is seeking an exceptional photographer to join our team. Orange County is a diverse, innovative community with 3.2 million residents, and we need a strong ...

The in-house photographer is accountable for the effective representation of company products on all web properties, both in-house and on e-commerce marketplace platforms. This primarily relates to ...

The in-house photographer is accountable for the effective representation of company products on all web properties, both in-house and on e-commerce marketplace platforms. This primarily relates to ...

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Showing results 1-20

Freelance Photographer information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$30

$65

$74

How much do freelance photographer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance photographer in Riverside, CA is $65.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $62.93 and $71.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Freelance Photographer vs Commercial Photographer?

AspectFreelance PhotographerCommercial Photographer
CredentialsPortfolio, photography skills, sometimes certificationsPortfolio, photography skills, often industry-specific experience
Work EnvironmentVaries; client locations, studios, outdoorStudio settings, client locations, advertising shoots
Employer/IndustrySelf-employed, individual clients, agenciesEmployers, advertising agencies, corporations
Search/Comparison IntentFreelance Photographer vs Commercial Photographer

Freelance photographers often work independently, handling various clients and projects, while commercial photographers typically focus on advertising and product shoots for companies. Both roles require strong photography skills and portfolios, but commercial photographers usually have industry-specific experience and work within more structured environments.

What are some common challenges freelance photographers face when working with new clients?

Freelance photographers often encounter challenges such as clearly defining project scopes, negotiating fair rates, and managing expectations around deliverables and timelines. Building trust with new clients may require providing portfolio samples, references, or detailed contracts to ensure mutual understanding. Additionally, freelancers should be prepared to handle last-minute changes and maintain professional communication to foster long-term client relationships.

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

To thrive as a Freelance Photographer, you need a strong grasp of photography principles, image editing, and a solid portfolio showcasing your work. Proficiency in DSLR or mirrorless cameras, photo editing software like Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop, and sometimes certification in photography are commonly required. Exceptional creativity, time management, and client communication skills help you stand out in this competitive field. These abilities are vital for consistently producing high-quality images, meeting client expectations, and building a sustainable freelance business.

What is a freelance photographer?

As a freelance photographer, you are a self-employed professional who takes photos for clients. You perform jobs on a contract basis, managing your client list and workflow on your own. Freelance photographers work in a variety of specialties including wedding photography, urban journalism, and photography for travel magazines and websites—your specialty, or if you even have a specialty, is up to you. Since you work on a freelance basis, job duties are defined however you choose, but common contracts might require you to take on the role of photographer, editor, curator, contract negotiator, promoter, printer, and anything else required to run a successful business.

What are the most commonly searched types of Photographer jobs in Riverside, CA?

The most popular types of Photographer jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Freelance Photographer jobs in Riverside, CA?

For Freelance Photographer jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Freelance Photographer jobs in Riverside, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Freelance Photographer jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Freelance Photographer jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Freelance Photographer job openings:

Infographic showing various Freelance Photographer job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, and 40% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $135,708 per year, or $65.2 per hour.

Photographer

CHERISHED MEMORIES PHOTOGRAPHY, INC.

Corona, CA • On-site

$17 - $18/hr

Temporary

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

School Photographers Wanted – Entry-Level & Senior Photographer Opportunities

Cherished Memories Photography is hiring seasonal photographers throughout Southern California! Whether you're looking to start your photography career or you're an experienced photographer ready for a fast-paced and rewarding environment, we have opportunities for you.

Locations

Palm Desert • Moreno Valley • Corona • Lake Elsinore • Riverside • Colton • El Cajon • La Mesa • Los Angeles • Cypress • Temecula • Murrieta • Menifee

Position Details
  • Seasonal Employment: July – December
  • Training Begins: Mid-July
  • Part-Time and Full-Time Opportunities Available
  • Flexible Schedule (Monday–Sunday based on business needs)
  • Starting Pay: $17.00–$18.00 per hour, depending on experience
  • Mileage reimbursement when applicable
About Us

Cherished Memories Photography partners with schools throughout Southern California to capture memorable moments for students and families. We are looking for energetic, dependable team members who enjoy working with people and thrive in a fun, fast-paced environment.

Photographer OpportunitiesEntry-Level Photographers

Perfect for individuals looking to gain photography experience. We'll provide training on our equipment, software, and photography processes.

Senior Photographers

Ideal for photographers with previous portrait, school, or studio photography experience who are comfortable posing subjects, managing photo sessions, and maintaining high-quality standards.

Responsibilities
  • Travel to assigned school and studio locations
  • Set up and break down photography equipment
  • Photograph students, seniors, families, and school groups
  • Pose subjects and create a positive photo experience
  • Maintain image quality and production standards
  • Use company photography software and equipment
  • Assist with image organization and workflow processes
  • Provide excellent customer service to students, parents, and school staff
  • Work collaboratively with team members to ensure successful photo days
QualificationsPreferred
  • Experience working with children
  • Photography or portrait photography experience
  • Customer service experience
Required
  • Positive attitude and willingness to learn
  • Strong communication and teamwork skills
  • Dependable, punctual, and adaptable
  • Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment
  • Reliable transportation and a valid driver's license
  • Willingness to travel throughout assigned regions
  • Basic understanding of photography and lighting
What We Offer
  • Paid training
  • Flexible part-time and full-time schedules
  • Hands-on photography experience
  • Opportunities for growth and advancement
  • Supportive team environment
  • The chance to create memories that last a lifetime

Employment is contingent upon passing a background check.

Apply today and join the Cherished Memories Photography team!