ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Photographer Assistant Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

REVOLVE

Assistant E-Commerce Photographer

Cerritos, CA · On-site

$21 - $22/hr

Main purpose of the Assistant E-Commerce Photographer role: Photo assisting on editorial shoots, Special event photography as needed Major Responsibilities: Essential Duties and Responsibilities ...

Cantrell Photography

Photographer

Fullerton, CA · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

We are seeking enthusiastic and energetic individuals who are passionate about photography and love working with children to become School Photographers. This entry-level seasonal role runs from Fall ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPhotographer JobsPhotographer Assistant JobsPhotographer Assistant Jobs in California

Photographer Assistant information

See California salary details

$8

$17

$33

How much do photographer assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for photographer assistant in California is $17.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.39 and $19.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a photographer assistant?

Photographer assistants are professionals who support photographers during photo shoots and in the preparation and post-production processes. Their duties can include setting up lighting and equipment, organizing props, assisting with model positioning, and handling administrative tasks such as scheduling and file management. They play a crucial role in ensuring the shoot runs smoothly and efficiently. In addition, photographer assistants often help with editing and retouching photos, maintaining equipment, and sometimes managing social media or client communications. This role is an excellent entry point for those interested in pursuing a career in photography.

What does a photographer assistant do?

A photographer assistant supports a professional photographer during the shooting and editing process. The specific job duties may vary, depending on the type of photographer you work for and the size and type of the organization. In general, your responsibilities as a photographer assistant include organizing, maintaining, and sometimes transporting equipment, such as lighting and cameras. You also need to ensure that everything the photographer needs for the photo shoot is easily accessible. For studio shoots or elaborate outdoor shoots, you may be responsible for setting up special lighting and sets. After a shoot, you may assist in editing the photos using digital editing software. Once the images have been adjusted, you need to organize the portfolios, send proofs to clients for approval, or deliver prints. Travel may be required for this job.

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

To thrive as a Photographer Assistant, you need a strong understanding of photography basics, lighting techniques, and camera equipment, often gained through coursework or hands-on experience. Familiarity with photo editing software like Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom, as well as studio equipment, is commonly required. Organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate and collaborate effectively with photographers and clients are highly valued. These skills ensure efficient shoot operations, high-quality results, and a positive working environment on set.

What is the difference between Photographer Assistant vs Photography Intern?

AspectPhotographer AssistantPhotography Intern
Required CredentialsNone mandatory, some experience preferredOften students or entry-level, may have photography coursework
Work EnvironmentProfessional studio or on-location shootsVaries; educational settings or internships with photographers
Employer & Industry UsagePhotographers, studios, media companiesEducational institutions, photography studios, freelance photographers
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles, job duties, and career pathLearning about entry-level opportunities and experience

Photographer Assistants typically support professional photographers during shoots, handling equipment and setup, while Photography Interns often gain hands-on experience through educational programs or internships. Both roles serve as entry points into the photography industry but differ in responsibilities and work environment.

More about Photographer Assistant jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Photographer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Photographer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Photographer Assistant jobs in California?

For Photographer Assistant jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Photographer Assistant jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Photographer Assistant jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Photographer Assistant jobs?

Cities in California with the most Photographer Assistant job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Photographer Assistant jobs in CA?

For Photographer Assistant jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Photographer Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Photographer Assistant job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,324 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

Photographer & Lab Production Worker

GLORY DAYS SERVICE INC

Ojai, CA

$20/hr

Part-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Photographers: Interviewing now at our Simi Valley and San Gabriel locations. Posed youth sports photography at parks within 100 miles. You must be kid friendly, we provide equipment, but it is helpful if you have a decent DSLR and Flash\Strobe (Flash is $65 if you don't have one). Reliable transportation is critical and you must be able to get up early and travel within 100 miles. This is a lucrative\fun weekend job and we strongly encourage couples to apply as we often work with photographer\assistant combinations. Photography is easily learned! We have complete training videos and you can see some of them at www.sportsphotostation.com

This is not "creative photography,". The ability to show up on time, work well with kids and parents, and follow instructions, is much more important than your creative skills. This has nothing to do with photoshop, you turn in your memory cards at the end of the shoot.
Interviews and training are ongoing. Our busy photographers work 20-30 weekends per year and overtime pay is followed. You do not need to work every assignment, we are flexible with scheduling.   We pay from the time you leave home until the time you get home so overtime pay is often earned.
Equipment: We do provide a camera and flash but we do like photographers to have back up gear, so send a list of what you have.
If you would like to apply, please send a list of photography experience, a resume and we can set up an interview at either San Gabriel or Simi Valley. Feel free to ask any questions.
We are also hiring in our lab facility in Simi Valley for customer service and lab technician which are full time positions, let us know if you are interested.
Pay starts at $20 per hour but we pay more if you have substantial experience and\or equipment. 
YOU MUST BE ABLE TO PASS A BACKGROUND CHECK!  Some customers and schools require photographers to be background checked.