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Photo Illustration Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Concept, design, and execute original photo illustrations utilizing Adobe Creative Suite, including Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign. * Conduct photo research and secure image licensing through ...

Concept, design, and execute original photo illustrations utilizing Adobe Creative Suite, including Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign. * Conduct photo research and secure image licensing through ...

Perform photo editing using graphics software such as, Corel PHOTO-PAINT, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator software, et al. * Enhance photos for use in publications. * Complete assigned work with ...

Perform photo editing using graphics software such as, Corel PHOTO-PAINT, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator software, et al. * Enhance photos for use in publications. * Complete assigned work with ...

Perform photo editing using graphics software such as, Corel PHOTO-PAINT, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator software, et al. * Enhance photos for use in publications. * Complete assigned work with ...

Oversee headline writing, image selection, photo illustration and montage production, and livestream deployment * Work closely with management to set daily editorial direction across platforms

Oversee headline writing, image selection, photo illustration and montage production, and livestream deployment * Work closely with management to set daily editorial direction across platforms

Art direct illustrations and create photo illustrations when needed. * Support the Director of Visuals in maintaining visual standards, workflow systems and consistent editorial practices across the ...

Art direct illustrations and create photo illustrations when needed. * Support the Director of Visuals in maintaining visual standards, workflow systems and consistent editorial practices across the ...

... photo, illustration, and typography libraries to deliver on-brand solutions; create original artwork as needed Prep press-ready files and conduct quality checks before vendor release; attend press ...

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Photo Illustration information

See salary details

$35K

$51.5K

$65K

How much do photo illustration jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for photo illustration in the United States is $51,500.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,000.00 and $65,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a photo illustrator?

A photo illustrator is a creative professional who combines photography and digital illustration techniques to create unique, visually engaging images. These professionals use tools like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and other graphic design software to manipulate photos, add artistic elements, and convey specific concepts or stories. Photo illustrators often work in advertising, publishing, editorial design, and branding, collaborating with clients to bring ideas to life through visually compelling compositions. Their work bridges the gap between traditional photography and digital art, making it possible to achieve effects and narratives that photography alone cannot provide.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a photo illustrator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Photo Illustrator, you need strong visual storytelling abilities, expertise in digital imaging, and typically a degree in graphic design, illustration, or a related field. Proficiency in industry-standard tools like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and sometimes 3D rendering software is essential. Creativity, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate ideas clearly are standout soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure the creation of compelling visual content that meets client objectives and stands out in a competitive visual media landscape.

How do photo illustrators typically collaborate with art directors and other creative team members during a project?

Photo illustrators work closely with art directors, graphic designers, and writers to ensure that their visual concepts align with the overall creative vision of a project. Regular meetings and feedback sessions are common, where illustrators present drafts and receive direction on style, composition, and messaging. This collaborative process helps refine the imagery to best support editorial or commercial goals, and often requires adaptability and strong communication skills. Successful photo illustrators are proactive in seeking input and open to revising their work to fit the project's evolving needs.

What is the difference between Photo Illustration vs Graphic Designer?

AspectPhoto IllustrationGraphic Designer
CredentialsTypically requires a background in fine arts, illustration, or photographyRequires graphic design or visual communication skills, often with a degree in design or related field
Work EnvironmentCreative studios, freelance, advertising agenciesDesign firms, marketing departments, freelance
Industry UsageUsed in advertising, editorial, packaging, and digital mediaUsed in branding, marketing, print, and digital media

While both Photo Illustration and Graphic Design involve visual creativity, Photo Illustration focuses on creating images that combine photography and illustration techniques to convey specific concepts. Graphic Design encompasses a broader range of visual communication, including layout, typography, and branding. Understanding these differences helps clients choose the right professional for their project needs.

More about Photo Illustration jobs

What states have the most Photo Illustration jobs?

States with the most job openings for Photo Illustration jobs include:

Infographic showing various Photo Illustration job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 6% Internship, 60% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 6% Temporary, and 17% Contract. Highlights an 88% In-person, 6% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,500 per year, or $24.8 per hour.

Photo Editor, The Free Press

Paramount

Manhattan, NY

$75K - $90K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Paramount Senior Living rating

5.3

Company rating: 5.3 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

#WeAreParamount on a mission to unleash the power of content... you in?
We've got the brands, we've got the stars, we've got the power to achieve our mission to entertain the planet - now all we're missing is... YOU! Becoming a part of Paramount means joining a team of passionate people who not only recognize the power of content but also enjoy a touch of fun and uniqueness. Together, we co-create moments that matter - both for our audiences and our employees - and aim to leave a positive mark on culture.

Overview:
The Free Press is hiring a full-time Photo Editor to support daily newsroom production and elevate the quality of our visual journalism. We're looking for someone with an exceptional eye for detail, well-developed graphic design skills, and the ability to translate editorial ideas into precise, polished visual packages. Great taste, a fast production metabolism, and an obsession with stewarding The Free Press brand is a must. 
 
Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
  • Support the daily planning of the Art Desk schedule by working closely with the Creative Director to anticipate the visual needs of upcoming editorial coverage.
  • Concept, design, and execute original photo illustrations utilizing Adobe Creative Suite, including Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign.
  • Conduct photo research and secure image licensing through agencies including Getty Images, Reuters, AP, Redux, and Alamy for breaking news and longform editorial features.
  • Manage all aspects of original photo shoots, including commissioning photographers and vendors, coordinating production logistics, and overseeing budgets and billing.
  • Work closely with the editorial team to ensure visual coverage aligns with the editorial vision and maintains The Free Press' visual standards.
 
Basic Qualifications:
  • 2+ years of experience in editorial art and photo editing, or graphic design in a media environment
  • Exemplary editorial news judgment and a strong sense of visual storytelling.
  • Strong visual judgment and the ability to illustrate editorial concepts with clear, compelling visuals
  • Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop and InDesign required; Illustrator preferred)
  • Ability to design clean, professional layouts, graphics, and presentation decks for articles, podcast series, events and wherever The Free Press shows up in the world
  • Working knowledge of photo licensing, usage rights, and image sourcing
 
Additional Qualifications:
  • Experience commissioning photographers and managing freelance talent preferred
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced newsroom where priorities shift quickly
  • Interest in news, politics, culture, and current events
  • Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple deadlines in a fast-paced newsroom
  • Strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate across editorial, design, and production teams

Paramount Skydance Corporation (NASDAQ: PSKY) is a leading global media and entertainment company that creates premium content and experiences for audiences worldwide. Driven by iconic studios, networks and streaming services, Paramount's portfolio of consumer brands includes CBS, Showtime Networks, Paramount Pictures, Nickelodeon, MTV, Comedy Central, BET, Paramount+, and Pluto TV, among others. Paramount delivers the largest share of the U.S. television audience and boasts one of the industry's most important and extensive libraries of TV and film titles. In addition to offering innovative streaming services and digital video products, the company provides powerful capabilities in production, distribution and advertising solutions.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Hiring Salary Range: $75,000.00 - 90,000.00. 

The hiring salary range for this position applies to New York City, California, Colorado, Washington state, and most other geographies. Starting pay for the successful applicant depends on a variety of job-related factors, including but not limited to geographic location, market demands, experience, training, and education.  The benefits available for this position include medical, dental, vision, 401(k) plan, life insurance coverage, disability benefits, tuition assistance program and PTO or, if applicable,  as otherwise dictated by the appropriate Collective Bargaining Agreement.   

What We Offer:
  • Attractive compensation and comprehensive benefits packages. Check out our full list of benefits here: https://www.paramount.com/careers/benefits
  • Generous paid time off.
  • An exciting and fulfilling opportunity to be part of one of Paramount's most dynamic teams.
  • Opportunities for both on-site and virtual engagement events.
  • Unique opportunities to make meaningful connections and build a vibrant community, both inside and outside the workplace.
  • Explore life at Paramount: https://www.paramount.com/careers/life-at-paramount

Paramount is an equal opportunity employer (EOE) including disability/vet.

At Paramount, the spirit of inclusion feeds into everything that we do, on-screen and off. From the programming and movies we create to employee benefits/programs and social impact outreach initiatives, we believe that opportunity, access, resources and rewards should be available to and for the benefit of all. Paramount is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ethnicity, ancestry, religion, creed, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship status, marital status, disability, gender identity, gender expression, and Veteran status.

If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran, you may request a reasonable accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access https://www.paramount.com/careers as a result of your disability. You can request reasonable accommodations by calling 212.846.5500 or by sending an email to paramountaccommodations@paramount.com. Only messages left for this purpose will be returned.


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