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Photo Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We are seeking a Photo Retoucher who is a highly trained individual that specializes in image ... Operating Procedure documents. * Proficiency in Microsoft Office Programs * Understanding of color ...

Production Lead

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$18 - $24.50/hr

Description At District Photo, our employees are the heart of our company. We are seeking a ... operating as intended. * Expedite orders throughout the plant to ensure customer orders are ...

Production Lead

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$18 - $24.50/hr

At District Photo, our employees are the heart of our company. We are seeking a Production Lead in ... operating as intended. * Expedite orders throughout the plant to ensure customer orders are ...

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Seasonal School Photographer

Merriam, KS · On-site

$125 - $275/day

Ensure the accuracy and organization of photo order forms, ensuring all necessary information is ... Proficiency in operating professional photography equipment and software. * Excellent interpersonal ...

FT Photo Cake Specialist

Clifton, NJ · On-site

$17.50 - $18/hr

Stew Leonard's, a family-owned and operated fresh food store founded in 1969, has locations in ... Photo Cake Specialist Full Time Hourly $17.50 - $18.00 per hour depending on qualifications and ...

Image Operator

Plymouth, MA · On-site

$17.50 - $25/hr

Expose operators also use conveyor developing equipment and large baking ovens to finish the ... Check, maintains and registers photo tools for use. * Perform exposing processes per general ...

Machine Operator

Elgin, TX · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

Machine Operator Elgin, Texas Red River Brick, a leading brand of the General Shale network in the ... Monitor photo cells, proximity switches, pneumatic controls, and hydraulic controls * Maintain a ...

Machine Operator

Elgin, TX

$16 - $19.25/hr

Machine Operator Elgin, Texas Red River Brick, a leading brand of the General Shale network in the ... Monitor photo cells, proximity switches, pneumatic controls, and hydraulic controls * Maintain a ...

Image Operator

Plymouth, MA · On-site

$17.50 - $25/hr

Expose operators also use conveyor developing equipment and large baking ovens to finish the ... Check, maintains and registers photo tools for use. * Perform exposing processes per general ...

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Photo Operator information

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How much do photo operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for photo operator in the United States is $20.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $22.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Photo Operator, you need a solid understanding of photography principles, camera operation, and image editing, often supported by a high school diploma or relevant certification. Familiarity with digital cameras, photo editing software like Adobe Photoshop, and printing systems is typically required. Attention to detail, customer service skills, and the ability to work efficiently under deadlines are important soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure high-quality photo production, satisfied customers, and smooth workflow in fast-paced environments such as retail photo labs or studios.

What is the 80 20 rule in photography?

The 80/20 rule in photography suggests that roughly 80% of the results come from 20% of the efforts, such as focusing on key subjects or techniques that have the most impact. For a photo operator, this means prioritizing essential skills like lighting, composition, and camera settings to produce high-quality images efficiently.

What are Photo Operators?

Photo Operators are professionals who operate photographic equipment in various settings, such as studios, retail locations, or event venues. Their responsibilities typically include taking, processing, and sometimes editing photographs for customers. They ensure proper camera settings, lighting, and composition to produce high-quality images. Photo Operators may also handle photo printing and customer service tasks. This role is commonly found in photo labs, amusement parks, or organizations that require on-site photography services.

What are some typical challenges faced by Photo Operators, and how can they be managed effectively?

Photo Operators often encounter challenges such as managing high volumes of photo processing during peak periods, ensuring consistent image quality, and troubleshooting technical issues with equipment. Time management and attention to detail are crucial, as is familiarity with operating and calibrating various photo machines. Building strong communication with team members and supervisors helps resolve issues quickly and maintain a smooth workflow. Training on new technology and staying updated with best practices also supports efficiency and job satisfaction.

What is an image operator job?

A photo operator is responsible for operating and maintaining photographic equipment, capturing images, and ensuring high-quality output. The role often requires knowledge of cameras, lighting, and image editing software, and may involve working in studios or on location with a focus on technical skill and attention to detail.

Is AI replacing photographers?

AI technology is increasingly used in photography for tasks like editing, retouching, and generating images, but it does not replace the role of a professional photographer. Photo operators and photographers rely on creative skills, technical knowledge, and equipment to produce high-quality images, which AI cannot fully replicate. Human judgment remains essential in capturing and interpreting visual content.

What photography job pays the most?

In photography, commercial and advertising photographers tend to earn the highest salaries, often exceeding six figures, especially with experience, a strong portfolio, and specialized skills in areas like fashion, product, or corporate photography. High-end photographers working with major clients or in luxury markets typically earn the most, while freelance photographers' income varies based on reputation and project scope.

What is the difference between Photo Operator vs Camera Assistant?

AspectPhoto OperatorCamera Assistant
CredentialsPhotography certifications, technical skillsCamera operation training, technical knowledge
Work EnvironmentPhoto studios, events, commercial shootsFilm/TV sets, production environments
Industry UsageAdvertising, portrait, commercial photographyFilm and television production

The main difference is that a Photo Operator primarily handles photography tasks, including capturing images and managing lighting, while a Camera Assistant supports camera setup, maintenance, and assists during filming. Both roles require technical skills, but their focus and work environments differ significantly.

More about Photo Operator jobs
What job categories do people searching Photo Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Photo Operator jobs are:
Infographic showing various Photo Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,066 per year, or $20.2 per hour.
Photographic Retoucher

Photographic Retoucher

Arhaus

Boston Heights, OH

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Arhaus rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 59 rated furniture retailers


Job description

Since 1986, our mission has been simple. We design and build heirloom quality products while holding true to our commitment to use earth-friendly materials and to give back whenever possible.  We are looking for someone who shares our love of storytelling and believes passionately in the value of heirloom quality artisan furniture, sustainability, and our mission to continue to learn and grow as a brand.

We are seeking a Photo Retoucher who is a highly trained individual that specializes in image manipulation and color correction within the creative industry. This role will work on the retouching and color management of images for a range of marketing materials, including ecommerce photography.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities: 

  • Retouch environment, silhouette and editorial photography for Arhaus.com and other Marketing projects as needed, including, but not limited to, compositing, clipping, color correcting, object removal and alteration all while using non-destructive photo manipulation and retouching techniques.
  • Collaborate with Post-Production Manager, fellow Retouchers, and Art Directors to create high-quality retouched imagery for Web, Catalog & Marketing use.
  • Work with Marketing teams to provide efficient, high quality visual solutions.
  • Stay up to date on brand standards via Web, Catalog & Marketing style guides and ensure all imagery adheres to those standards.
  • Deliver consistent, color accurate images.
  • Prioritize and execute responsibilities efficiently.
  • Efficiently handle multiple projects at once.

Requirements: 

  • Bachelor’s degree in Photography, Computer Graphics, or Graphic Arts OR 3-5+ years of experience in photo and image production
  • Product & Editorial Color Correction/Retouching Test Required.
  • Deep understanding and experience with Adobe Creative Suite software (for example, Photoshop, Bridge, InDesign, Acrobat Pro), including experience with non-destructive photo manipulation and retouching.
  • Excellent photo-retouching skills necessary. Retouching skills include but are not limited to, outlines, shadows, clipping, masking, color correcting, adjustment layers, liquefying, compositing, using history states, creating, and creating/using actions.
  • Experience with Standard Work processes, process accountability, evaluation and documentation including creating and maintaining Standard Operating Procedure documents.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Programs
  • Understanding of color profiles and file formats 
  • Must be able to take direction and work within cross functional teams.
  • Must be highly organized and detail oriented.
  • Video Editing experience using Premiere Pro is a plus but not required.
  • Fluent in English with excellent communication skills.

Arhaus is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind. Arhaus is committed to the principle of equal employment opportunity for all employees and to providing employees with a work environment free of discrimination and harassment. All employment decisions at Arhaus are based on business needs, job requirements, and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion or belief, family or parental status, or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where we operate. Arhaus will not tolerate discrimination or harassment based on any of these characteristics. Arhaus encourages applicants of all ages.

AI Code of Conduct

At Arhaus, we believe great hiring starts with authentic human connection. Throughout your candidate experience, you will be engaging with real recruiters, hiring managers, and interviewers who are focused on getting to know you, your experiences, skills, perspectives, and potential. We encourage candidates to use AI to support resume refinement, interview preparation, brainstorming, and communication. All application materials, assessments, and interview responses must accurately reflect your own experiences, qualifications, and capabilities. We ask that you participate in phone and virtual interviews without using AI to develop your responses. To protect the integrity of our hiring process and the confidentiality of information shared during interviews, candidates may not record, transcribe, or use AI-powered note-taking tools during interviews. We expect all candidates to participate in the hiring process with honesty and integrity. For take-home assignments or role-specific assessments where AI use is permitted, we request transparency on which specific tools were used and how the tools were used and expect an explanation of your approach, contributions, and decision-making.  


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