1

Photo Assistant Jobs in Massachusetts (NOW HIRING)

The Marketing Assistant supports the planning and execution of marketing initiatives by creating ... Strong photography and photo composition skills. * Experience using Canva for graphic design and ...

R&D Chemist/Technical Assistant

Marlborough, MA · On-site

$38K - $45K/yr

The Technical Assistant will work closely with R&D materials team, R&D formulation team ... Experience in photo-patterning field and fabrication laboratory is a plus. * Experience and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Photo Assistant information

See Massachusetts salary details

$13

$20

$32

How much do photo assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for photo assistant in Massachusetts is $20.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.78 and $25.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a photo assistant?

Photo assistants are professionals who help photographers during photo shoots by setting up equipment, managing lighting, organizing props, and ensuring that everything runs smoothly on set. Their responsibilities can also include handling digital files, maintaining gear, and assisting with post-shoot breakdown. Photo assistants play a crucial role in supporting photographers so that they can focus on capturing the best possible images. This role is often an entry point for those looking to gain experience and build a career in photography.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a photo assistant?

To thrive as a Photo Assistant, you need a solid understanding of photography principles, lighting techniques, and basic camera operations, often supported by coursework or hands-on experience. Familiarity with studio equipment, photo editing software like Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom, and digital asset management systems is typically required. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate clearly and take direction are standout soft skills. These abilities ensure smooth photo shoots, efficient workflow, and effective support for photographers in achieving creative objectives.

What is the difference between Photo Assistant vs Photo Assistant?

AspectPhoto Assistant

Since the comparison is with itself, the main differences often lie in experience level or specialization. Typically, a Photo Assistant supports photographers by handling equipment, setting up shoots, and assisting during photo sessions. They usually require basic photography knowledge, technical skills, and familiarity with studio or on-location environments. The role is common in commercial, fashion, and portrait photography industries. Both entry-level and experienced assistants are called Photo Assistants, but experience and specific skills can vary.

What are some common challenges faced by a photo assistant during on-location shoots?

As a Photo Assistant on location, you may encounter challenges such as managing unpredictable lighting conditions, handling heavy or delicate equipment, and adapting quickly to changing environments. You’ll often need to anticipate the photographer’s needs, problem-solve on the spot, and ensure that all gear is transported and set up safely. Being proactive, communicative, and organized is key to overcoming these challenges and supporting a smooth, successful shoot.

What are the most commonly searched types of Photo jobs in Massachusetts?

The most popular types of Photo jobs in Massachusetts are:

What job categories do people searching Photo Assistant jobs in Massachusetts look for?

The top searched job categories for Photo Assistant jobs in Massachusetts are:

What cities in Massachusetts are hiring for Photo Assistant jobs?

Cities in Massachusetts with the most Photo Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Photo Assistant job openings in Massachusetts as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,407 per year, or $20.9 per hour.

Internship: Right Whale Ecology Program (RWEP) Photo-ID

Center for Coastal Studies

Provincetown, MA • On-site

$15/hr

Internship

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Hiring Organization: Center for Coastal Studies
Job Title: Right Whale Ecology Program (RWEP) Photo-ID Intern
Reports to: RWEP Photo and Database Manager
Job Classification: Seasonal Intern
Pay: $15/hour; housing provided
Hours: An average of 40 hours/week; including weekends and holidays as fieldwork requires
Term: January 04, 2027 through May 28, 2027
FLSA Status: Non-exempt
Application Deadline: September 4, 2026
Job Summary: The RWEP conducts long-term monitoring of North Atlantic right whale abundance, distribution, behavior, and prey in Cape Cod Bay and adjacent Massachusetts waters. The photo-ID intern will participate in research cruises as a vessel observer and the primary vessel photographer, working alongside the habitat intern and assisting the RWEP marine ecologist in research cruise objectives. Office work requires processing all vessel photos and sightings data collected in the field. The intern may also assist with some of the habitat field and office tasks, which include collecting and processing zooplankton samples.
Essential Duties:
  • Photographing critically endangered North Atlantic right whales
  • Collecting behavioral, environmental, and sightings data (other species, vessels, marine debris, and fishing gear)
  • Photo analysis: downloading images, matching individuals to known animals using online and in-house catalogs, inputting sightings information
  • Database entry and maintenance
  • Processing sightings data from other platforms
  • Maintaining vessel field equipment

Minimum Requirements:
  • An undergraduate degree, completed or in progress, preferably in biological/environmental sciences
  • Previous marine mammal survey experience, including background in species identification and photo-identification of large cetaceans
  • Experience with digital SLR cameras, lenses, and filters
  • Basic computer literacy (including Windows operating system) and working knowledge of Microsoft Office and Google Suite applications
  • Experience working on boats and ability to withstand harsh elements for up to 10 hours
  • Not prone to serious seasickness
  • Ability to live and work well in a small team
  • Enthusiasm and willingness to learn field and lab-based research methods
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to work well independently and under pressure

Preferred Requirements:
  • Experience using iMatch image database software
  • Experience with database entry and management
  • Experience using GPS equipment
  • Demonstrated ability to estimate object distance ranges from a vessel
  • A valid US driver's license

The successful applicant will be required to work a minimum of four to five full days per week and will need to be flexible for research cruises due to weather constraints. The intern will often collect data independently in the field; thus responsible, detail-oriented applicants are encouraged to apply. Applicants must be available for the full field season and must be willing to work weekends, holidays, and evenings as needed. International applicants must secure their own visas or other required documentation.
The RWEP has a long history of conservation and research work with the North Atlantic right whale. Cape Cod Bay has been a major critical habitat for around 50% of the estimated population in recent years. This internship will afford the successful applicant an invaluable opportunity to work within a well-established institution, with highly-qualified scientists, and to gain experience in photo-identification, behavioral observation and analysis, and data processing of one of the world's most endangered cetaceans. Details of our work can be found on our website: http://coastalstudies.org/right-whale-research/
How to Apply:
The application package should include the following as a single PDF:
  • Cover letter describing your qualifications for this internship, your specific interests in marine mammal science, and how the experience would assist you in reaching career goals
  • CV/resume
  • Names and contact information of two professional references
  • College transcripts (unofficial are sufficient)