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Photo Assistant Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Requirements What You'll Do As a Special Event Assistant, you'll play a key role in making weddings ... Helping guests with photo booth use and overall event experience * Working closely with the DJ to ...

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Photo Assistant information

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How much do photo assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for photo assistant in Washington, DC is $21.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.40 and $26.11 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 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 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 the most commonly searched types of Photo jobs in Washington, DC?

The most popular types of Photo jobs in Washington, DC are:

What job categories do people searching Photo Assistant jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Photo Assistant jobs in Washington, DC are:

Infographic showing various Photo Assistant job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,016 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Seasonal Holiday Retail Assistant Manager- Tysons Galleria

Cherry Hill Programs

Mclean, VA • On-site

$16.75 - $22.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New


Cherry Hill Programs rating

5.3

Company rating: 5.3 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 12 rated photography companies


Job description

About Us 
Cherry Hill Programs brings the magic to every experience by capturing moments that last a lifetime. In partnership with retail locations, tourist attractions, and destinations across North America, Cherry Hill Programs contributes millions of holiday and souvenir experiences for children and families, year after year. 

As our Assistant Local Manager, you’ll work alongside the Local Manager to help lead the team responsible for creating magical holiday memories for children and families. You’ll support daily photo operations, help motivate and develop the seasonal team, drive sales and service excellence, and ensure every family enjoys a memorable Santa visit, exceptional photo experience, and outstanding guest service from start to finish. 

Santas’s season is short and spots fill fast- apply now to lock in your schedule!  

Why You’ll Love Working with Us:  

  • Build valuable leadership experience developing skills in team leadership, staffing and scheduling, coaching, sales performance, problem-solving, and delivering exceptional guest experiences 
  • Flexible scheduling to fit your lifestyle 
  • Same day pay options for early access to your paycheck 
  • Employee Referral Program 
  • A fun, fast-paced environment where you’ll lead a team that helps create memorable experiences for families 
  • Opportunities beyond the season — return for future holiday seasons and explore growth opportunities within our souvenir photography division, where available 
  • Exclusive Holiday Perks for You & Your Family: 
  •  One free visit with Santa for friends and family including:  
  • 10 photo prints 
  • 10 free holiday cards from Shutterfly 
  •  A personalized digital message from Santa, powered by Portable North Pole 
  • 3 free months of access to Pixie Post, our digital greeting card platform 

What You’ll Do:  

  • Promote a positive, collaborative environment while upholding company values and policies 
  • Support opening-day preparations, including hiring completion, inventory, equipment setup/testing, scheduling, training, and opening/closing procedures 
  • Capture photos and help guests choose memorable souvenirs to take home 
  • Photography experience not required 
  • Resolve customer concerns and service issues to support a positive guest experience 
  • Lead by example and reinforce procedures set by senior management 
  • Troubleshoot technical issues and escalate to IT or Local Management as needed 
  • Assist the Local Manager with inventory, scheduling, training, recruiting, and other administrative tasks 
  • Perform other duties as assigned 

What We’re Looking For: 

  • Must Haves:  
  • Must be at least 18 years of age 
  • Strong communication, organization, time management, and problem-solving skills 
  • Must be comfortable in a cash handling/ sales transaction position 
  • Ability to lead a team, work independently, and make sound decisions 
  • Availability to attend required pre-season training 
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, holidays, and peak retail periods 
  • Available to work a minimum of 20 hours a week or as needed 
  • Ability to lift and carry equipment up to 10-25 pounds and stand for prolonged periods of time 
  • Nice to Haves:  
  • Previous leadership or management experience in retail, hospitality, customer service, or a similar environment 
  • High school diploma or equivalent 
  • Experience managing teams or operations across multiple locations 
  • Demonstrated success driving sales, guest experience, and operational results 
  • Experience with scheduling, training, coaching, and developing team members 

We Work Together to Win Together 

Our mission is simple: to bring magic to every experience by capturing moments that last a lifetime. We believe that building a diverse team, with a variety of backgrounds and experiences, is the best way to bring our mission to life. 

Cherry Hill Programs strives to provide a positive work environment that values excellence in safety and quality, free from discrimination and harassment. Every employee plays a part in our Company’s success and makes this a great place to work. Our people are the heart of our organization and the foundation of our success. Driven by our core values of safety, diversity, integrity, and collaboration, we strive to promote a culture that supports and encourages creativity, fairness, and inclusion. 


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About Cherry Hill Programs

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Cherry Hill Programs is the industry-leader in experiential photography, operating seasonal holiday experiences in hundreds of venues across the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico and year-round souvenir experiences in some of the most popular tourist destinations and landmarks across North America. For more information, visit www.cherryhillprograms.com

Industry

Photography services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Marlton, NJ, US

Year founded

1961

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