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Photo Internship Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Williams/PMI

Photography Intern

Colton, CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Job Type Part-time, Internship Description Williams Furnace Company is seeking a creative and ... Edit images using photo software (Photoshop/Lightroom preferred) * Collaborate with Marketing and ...

Private Search

Photography Intern

Colton, CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

This part time internship will focus on capturing and editing high-quality product photos for use ... Edit images using photo software (Photoshop/Lightroom preferred) * Collaborate with Marketing and ...

Private Search

Photography Intern

Colton, CA

$20 - $25/hr

This part time internship will focus on capturing and editing high-quality product photos for use ... Edit images using photo software (Photoshop/Lightroom preferred) * Collaborate with Marketing and ...

J/PR

Fall 2026 PR and Social Media Internship

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$16.25 - $20.75/hr

Research and pull imagery requests and photo needs, content calendar requests, and influencer ... Interns propose their own schedules * In-office any hours Monday-Thursday * Remote on Fridays * ...

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$5

$14

$22

How much do photo internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for photo internship in California is $14.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $9.47 and $17.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a photo internship?

A photo internship is a temporary position that allows aspiring photographers to gain hands-on experience in the field by working alongside professionals. Interns typically assist with photo shoots, editing, organizing images, and may help with administrative tasks. These internships are often found at media companies, magazines, newspapers, or with independent photographers. The main goal is to provide practical training, build a portfolio, and make industry connections that can help launch a photography career.

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

To thrive as a Photo Intern, you need a solid understanding of photography principles, basic editing skills, and often, enrollment in or completion of a related academic program. Familiarity with DSLR cameras, Adobe Creative Suite (especially Photoshop and Lightroom), and image management systems is typically expected. Strong organizational skills, creativity, attention to detail, and the ability to take constructive feedback help interns stand out. These skills and qualities are crucial for producing high-quality visual content, meeting project deadlines, and growing professionally in a competitive field.

How to get an internship at a gallery?

To secure a photo internship at a gallery, applicants should develop a strong portfolio showcasing their photography skills, gain knowledge of art and photography history, and demonstrate enthusiasm for the gallery's focus. Applying through the gallery's official website or internship programs, and networking with gallery staff or attending relevant events, can improve chances. Some internships may require basic proficiency with editing software and a willingness to work flexible hours.

What types of projects or assignments can a photo intern expect to work on during their internship?

As a photo intern, you can anticipate working on a mix of assignments that may include assisting staff photographers on shoots, editing and organizing digital images, and covering smaller events or stories independently. Interns often help with equipment setup, post-production tasks, and maintaining photo archives. You'll also have opportunities to pitch your own story ideas and collaborate closely with writers, editors, and designers, gaining valuable experience in a fast-paced, creative team environment.

How to become a photography intern?

To become a photography intern, candidates typically need a basic understanding of photography principles, proficiency with camera equipment and editing software, and a portfolio showcasing their work. Relevant education or coursework in photography or visual arts can be beneficial, and internships often require applying through company websites or job boards with a resume and cover letter.

What does a photography intern do?

A photography intern assists professional photographers by setting up equipment, taking photos, and editing images using software like Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom. They gain experience in photo shoots, learn about lighting and composition, and often perform tasks such as organizing files and maintaining equipment. The role provides practical training and exposure to the photography industry.

What is the salary of image processing intern?

The salary of an image processing intern typically ranges from $1,000 to $3,000 per month, depending on the location, company, and level of experience. Interns often receive stipends or hourly wages and may work part-time or full-time during their internship period.

What is the difference between Photo Internship vs Photography Assistant?

AspectPhoto InternshipPhotography Assistant
Required CredentialsBasic photography knowledge, student status often preferredSome experience, technical skills beneficial
Work EnvironmentLearning-focused, often in studios or on locationSupportive role, assisting photographers during shoots
Employer & Industry UsageInternships offered by studios, agencies, or educational programsPhotographers, studios, production companies
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

In summary, a Photo Internship is typically a learning position for students or beginners to gain experience, while a Photography Assistant is a more experienced role supporting professional photographers during shoots. Both roles are essential in the photography industry but differ mainly in experience level and responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Photo jobs in California? The most popular types of Photo jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Photo Internship jobs? Cities in California with the most Photo Internship job openings:
Photo Internship jobs near you
Infographic showing various Photo Internship job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,116 per year, or $15 per hour.

Visual Journalist Intern (Photo + Video), Snappr News

Snappr

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$25/hr

Internship

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

About Snappr News
Snappr is the one-stop-shop for visual content for brands, including the largest on-demand marketplace for photographers and videographers. Snappr News is a new product line: an editorial photo and video product launching in 2026, starting with technology news in the San Francisco Bay Area. We will cover the top tech stories of the day with stunning visuals that can't be found anywhere else. You'll play a leading role in shaping the product and business model from the ground up, and helping define how the world gets visuals for the moments that matter. This is our first ever internship position for this product.
The Role
You'll work alongside the Snappr News team to cover broad tech news and tech's impact across San Francisco and the Bay Area: companies, founders, workers, money, culture, policy, and the on-the-ground moments that explain what's actually happening - beyond the press releases.
This is a photo and video capture internship. You won't need to edit - we have a whole backend platform for that!
You'll get a front seat view of the early days of a new product at a fast growing technology startup!
What You'll Do:
  • Report visually in the field: breaking news, events, portraits, features, and "tech meets real life" stories.
  • Deliver fast: often same-day, frequently within hours, occasionally immediately when news breaks.
  • Produce both photo and video on assignment: from quick hit coverage to short-form storytelling.
  • Write complete, accurate captions for every photo/video: names, titles, dates, locations, context - no guessing. Use AI tools responsibly to speed up your writing and tagging without sacrificing quality.
  • Tag and package everything correctly in the proprietary Snappr News app: keywords, locations, people/companies, and legal information.
  • Operate according to photojournalistic ethics and standards.
  • Receive coaching from experienced photographers.

Must-Haves:
  • Strong photographic portfolio (street photography is a good proxy if you don't have experience in photojournalism specifically).
  • Solid video shooting skills.
  • Extreme attention to detail.
  • Charismatic and love meeting new people.
  • Calm under pressure.
  • Patient.

Strong Preference:
  • Studying a relevant field at a local university (preference to Berkeley and Stanford).
  • Experience in photojournalism (e.g. school photojournalism).
  • Motorbike license (or willing to get one). We have company bikes.

Gear
We provide top-end gear. If you prefer, we will consider allowing you to use your own kit if it's full-frame and compatible with our hardware and remote transfer requirements.
Schedule
8-12 weeks over summer - flexible depending on school schedule. Mostly Mon-Fri, with occasional weekend assignments and on-call. Must be flexible for evening events and fast-breaking coverage.
Compensation & Benefits
• $25 per hour (40 hours per week).
• Approved travel expenses covered where needed.

Apply