ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Lead Studio Photographer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Cady Studios, LLC

Lead Photographer

San Carlos, CA · On-site

$23.25/hr

Lead and direct photography teams during studio sessions and on-location events to ensure operational excellence and client satisfaction. * Serve as the primary on-site liaison with school ...

Cady Studios, LLC

Lead Photographer

Exton, PA · On-site

$20.50/hr

Lead and direct photography teams during studio sessions and on-location events to ensure operational excellence and client satisfaction. * Serve as the primary on-site liaison with school ...

Cady Studios, LLC

Lead Photographer

Horsham, PA · On-site

$20.50/hr

Lead and direct photography teams during studio sessions and on-location events to ensure operational excellence and client satisfaction. * Serve as the primary on-site liaison with school ...

Cady Studios, LLC

Lead Photographer

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$18/hr

Lead and direct photography teams during studio sessions and on-location events to ensure operational excellence and client satisfaction. * Serve as the primary on-site liaison with school ...

Jaizai Investment Inc

Lead Photographer

Matthews, NC · On-site

Additionally, the Lead Photographer will manage studio operations, including lighting setups and image editing workflows, to maintain efficiency and quality in all photographic endeavors. Minimum ...

CADY

Lead Photographer

San Carlos, CA · On-site

$23.25/hr

Lead and direct photography teams during studio sessions and on-location events to ensure operational excellence and client satisfaction. * Serve as the primary on-site liaison with school ...

CADY

Lead Photographer

Exton, PA

Lead and direct photography teams during studio sessions and on-location events to ensure operational excellence and client satisfaction. * Serve as the primary on-site liaison with school ...

CADY

Lead Photographer

Horsham, PA · On-site

$20.50/hr

Lead and direct photography teams during studio sessions and on-location events to ensure operational excellence and client satisfaction. * Serve as the primary on-site liaison with school ...

CADY

Lead Photographer

Charlotte, NC

$18/hr

Lead and direct photography teams during studio sessions and on-location events to ensure operational excellence and client satisfaction. * Serve as the primary on-site liaison with school ...

evo

Studio Manager

Sumner, WA · On-site

$89K - $95K/yr

The Job The Studio Manager manages and elevates our studio operations, including in-studio product ... Lead and manage a team of photographers and stylists, establishing and maintaining high standards ...

evo

Studio Manager

Sumner, WA · On-site

$89K - $95K/yr

The Job The Studio Manager manages and elevates our studio operations, including in-studio product ... Lead and manage a team of photographers and stylists, establishing and maintaining high standards ...

evo

Studio Manager

Sumner, WA · On-site

$89K - $95K/yr

The Job The Studio Manager manages and elevates our studio operations, including in-studio product ... Lead and manage a team of photographers and stylists, establishing and maintaining high standards ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsArts and Entertainment JobsArts JobsPhotographer JobsLead Studio Photographer Jobs

Lead Studio Photographer information

See salary details

$9

$20

$37

How much do lead studio photographer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead studio 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 lead studio photographer?

A Lead Studio Photographer is a professional responsible for overseeing photographic shoots in a studio environment, managing both the creative and technical aspects of the process. They typically lead a team of photographers and assistants, set up lighting and equipment, direct models or subjects, and ensure high-quality images that meet client or brand standards. Additionally, they may be involved in editing photos, maintaining studio gear, and coordinating with other departments such as stylists or creative directors. Their leadership ensures that projects are completed efficiently and to a professional standard.

How does a lead studio photographer typically collaborate with creative teams during a photoshoot?

As a Lead Studio Photographer, you’ll work closely with art directors, stylists, makeup artists, and sometimes clients to ensure the creative vision is effectively executed. Collaboration often starts in the planning phase, where you'll discuss concepts, lighting setups, and shot lists. During the shoot, clear communication is key to making real-time adjustments and addressing any creative challenges. Post-shoot, you may also coordinate with retouchers and editors to ensure the final images meet the project’s standards. This teamwork-driven environment enables the best possible outcome for each project.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a lead studio photographer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lead Studio Photographer, you need expert knowledge of photography principles, lighting techniques, and post-production, usually backed by formal training or a strong portfolio. Proficiency with advanced camera systems, studio lighting equipment, and editing software like Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom is essential. Strong leadership, creative direction, and clear communication skills help manage teams and collaborate with clients. These skills and qualities are vital for delivering high-quality images, leading successful shoots, and maintaining client satisfaction in a competitive creative environment.

What is the difference between Lead Studio Photographer vs Studio Photographer?

AspectLead Studio PhotographerStudio Photographer
CredentialsTypically requires a portfolio, photography experience, and sometimes leadership skillsPortfolio and technical photography skills
Work EnvironmentLeads photo shoots, manages team, oversees creative directionPerforms photography tasks, assists in shoots
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in commercial, fashion, and advertising studiosCommon in various photography studios including portrait and commercial
Search & Comparison IntentOften compared for leadership and project management rolesCompared for entry to mid-level photography roles

The Lead Studio Photographer typically has leadership responsibilities, overseeing photo shoots and managing teams, while the Studio Photographer focuses on executing photography tasks. Both roles require strong photography skills, but the lead position involves additional management and creative direction duties.

How much do lead studio photographers make?

Lead studio photographers typically earn between $40,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the size of the studio. They often have advanced photography skills, knowledge of studio lighting, and may oversee a team of photographers or assistants.
More about Lead Studio Photographer jobs

What cities are hiring for Lead Studio Photographer jobs?

Cities with the most Lead Studio Photographer job openings:

What job categories do people searching Lead Studio Photographer jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Lead Studio Photographer jobs are:

Lead Studio Photographer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lead Studio Photographer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,345 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

Studio Photography Manager

Pinnacle Technical Resources

Culver City, CA • On-site

$50 - $52/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Position: Studio Photography Manager Location: Culver City, California Duration: Contract Job ID: 171327 Job Overview: We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Studio Photography Manager to oversee and manage all aspects of studio photography operations. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in photography, excellent organizational skills, and the ability to lead a team to deliver high-quality results. This role requires a creative and detail-oriented individual who can ensure the smooth execution of photography projects while maintaining the highest standards of quality. Responsibilities: Manage and oversee all studio photography operations, including scheduling, equipment maintenance, and workflow coordination. Lead a team of photographers and support staff to ensure the successful execution of photography projects. Collaborate with clients and creative teams to understand project requirements and deliver exceptional results. Maintain and organize studio equipment, ensuring it is in optimal working condition. Ensure all photography meets quality standards and aligns with project goals and brand guidelines. Stay updated on industry trends and advancements in photography techniques and equipment. Manage budgets and timelines for photography projects, ensuring efficient use of resources. Qualifications: Proven experience as a Studio Photography Manager or in a similar role. Strong knowledge of photography techniques, equipment, and software. Excellent leadership and team management skills. Exceptional organizational and time management abilities. Strong communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines. Creative mindset with a keen eye for detail. About PTR Global: PTR Global is a leading provider of information technology and workforce solutions. PTR Global has become one of the largest providers in its industry, with over 5000 professionals providing services across the U.S. and Canada. For more information visit www.ptrglobal.com At PTR Global, we understand the importance of your privacy and security. We NEVER ASK job applicants to: Pay any fee to be considered for, submitted to, or selected for any opportunity. Purchase any product, service, or gift cards from us or for us as part of an application, interview, or selection process. Provide sensitive financial information such as credit card numbers or banking information. Successfully placed or hired candidates would only be asked for banking details after accepting an offer from us during our official onboarding processes as part of payroll setup. Pay Range: $50 - $52 The specific compensation for this position will be determined by a number of factors, including the scope, complexity and location of the role as well as the cost of labor in the market; the skills, education, training, credentials and experience of the candidate; and other conditions of employment. Our full-time consultants have access to benefits including medical, dental, vision and 401K contributions as well as any other PTO, sick leave, and other benefits mandated by appliable state or localities where you reside or work. If you receive a suspicious message, email, or phone call claiming to be from PTR Global do not respond or click on any links. Instead, contact us directly at +1 214-740-2424. To report any concerns, please email us at legal@pinnacle1.com

Apply