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Graduate Photographer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Oregonstate

Photographer

Corvallis, OR · On-site

Graduate student officially admitted to Graduate School: 5 credit hours per term * Graduate ... The Photographer employment dates: Sept. 8, 2026 - June 15, 2027 Able to work flexible hours ...

DOGS INC

Photographer

Palmetto, FL

If you view photography as art and love capturing moments that make people feel moved and inspired ... graduate, setting times, dates, and locations * Work as part of a collaborative team where you'll ...

Bethel University

Athletics Photographer

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

Provide photography for Athletics events in the summer: golf classic, sports camps, etc as directed ... graduate, seminary, and adult education programs. Based in St. Paul, Minnesota, Bethel offers ...

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How much do graduate photographer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for graduate photographer in the United States is $20.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $21.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a graduate photographer?

A Graduate Photographer is someone who has recently completed a photography degree or related program and is starting their professional career in photography. These individuals typically have foundational knowledge in various photography techniques, editing software, and visual storytelling. Graduate Photographers may work as assistants, freelance photographers, or in entry-level positions to gain practical experience and build their portfolios. They often focus on developing a unique style and expanding their network in the industry. Over time, they may specialize in areas such as portrait, commercial, or event photography.

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

To thrive as a Graduate Photographer, you need a solid grasp of photography principles, creative vision, and a relevant degree or diploma in photography or visual arts. Familiarity with professional cameras, photo editing software like Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom, and basic lighting equipment is typically required. Strong communication, attention to detail, and adaptability help you collaborate with clients and respond to diverse shooting environments. These skills ensure high-quality, compelling images that meet client needs and build a strong professional portfolio.

What are some common challenges graduate photographers face when starting out in the industry?

Graduate Photographers often encounter challenges such as building a diverse and compelling portfolio, establishing a client base, and learning to manage the business aspects of freelance or studio work. Adjusting to a fast-paced environment and handling feedback from clients or senior photographers can also be part of the learning curve. However, these challenges provide valuable opportunities for skill development, networking, and creative growth in the early stages of a photography career.

What is the difference between Graduate Photographer vs Assistant Photographer?

AspectGraduate PhotographerAssistant Photographer
Required CredentialsTypically a degree or diploma in photography or related fieldOften a high school diploma; some experience or training preferred
Work EnvironmentIndependent or freelance work, studio, or on-location shootsSupports lead photographer, assists during shoots, and handles equipment
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in creative studios, media companies, or freelance settingsCommonly employed in photography studios, event photography, or media

The main difference between a Graduate Photographer and an Assistant Photographer lies in their experience and responsibilities. Graduate Photographers are often starting their careers, focusing on developing their skills and building a portfolio, while Assistant Photographers support experienced photographers during shoots. Both roles are essential in the photography industry, with the Graduate Photographer position often serving as a stepping stone to more independent roles.

What jobs can you get with a degree in photography?

A degree in photography can lead to careers such as professional photographer, photojournalist, commercial photographer, portrait photographer, or freelance artist. These roles often require strong technical skills, knowledge of editing software, and a portfolio to showcase work. Opportunities exist in media, advertising, fashion, events, and fine art sectors.
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What job categories do people searching Graduate Photographer jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Graduate Photographer jobs are:

Graduate Photographer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Graduate Photographer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,345 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

Student Photographer (Technical) - Photographic Services

University of Central Oklahoma

Edmond, OK

$10/hr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New

University Of Central Oklahoma rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

56th of 621 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Position Overview

This is a regular student technical position which serves as the Student Photographer for Photographic Services. The student photographer will create authentic, exciting imagery that captures the university experience and tells the university story. This position will report to the Director of Photographic Services.

Hours per Week

Up to 25 hours per week, flexible scheduling.

College/Department Overview

Photographic Services.

Department Specific Job Functions

  • Works closely with the Director of Photographic Services in all areas of the Photographic Services Department.
  • Photograph and edit newsworthy events, locations, people, sports, and other illustrative or educational material for university use.
  • Digitize negatives for editing, storage, and electronic transmission.
  • Maintain digital assets including metadata key wording and storage of digital archive.
  • Utilize discretion and good judgment in representing the organization while interfacing with clients, talent, staff members, and the broader community.
  • The duties listed in this job description are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work that may be performed. The omission of specific statements of duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.

Enrollment Requirements

Fall/Spring Semesters: All student employees must be enrolled at least half-time to be eligible to work any UCO student position. Half-time enrollment for fall/spring semesters is considered 5 hours for graduates and 6 hours for undergraduates. F1/J1 Visa students must be enrolled full-time to be eligible to work as a student employee. Full-time enrollment is 9 credit hours for graduates and 12 credit hours for undergraduates.

Summer Semester: To work in a regular student position during the summer semester, students must be enrolled in at least 3 summer credit hours or be enrolled in the upcoming fall semester in the minimum credit hours required for their classification and employment type. Students enrolled in fewer than 3 summer credit hours will be subject to FICA taxes during the summer term, which apply to both the student and the department. For Federal Work Study Program (FWSP) positions, students must be enrolled in at least 6 credit hours (undergraduate) or 5 credit hours (graduate).

Note: New incoming students are not eligible for student employment until the semester in which they begin classes.

Enrollment Exception: If the number of credit hours needed to graduate is less than the minimum number of hours required for student employment, the student must obtain a letter from their Academic Advisor (stating the number of hours needed to graduate and anticipated graduation date) and submit it to Human Resources. This pertains to both regular and Federal Work Study Program positions. Contact jobs@uco.edu for more information.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

  • Ability and availability to work frequent night and weekend assignments.
  • Ability to lift 25-50 lbs. repeatedly at multiple assignments.
  • Must be able to take professional quality photographs.
  • Must be proficient in Adobe Photoshop and Mac OS.
  • Ability to work quickly, effectively, thrives with deadlines.
  • Photo-editing skills using Adobe Suite.
  • Excellent communication skills.
  • Ability to collaborate with a team.

Physical Demands

Reasonable accommodation, in accordance with ADA requirements, may be made upon request to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

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