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Photographer Assistant Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

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Photographer Assistant information

See Reston, VA salary details

$9

$18

$35

How much do photographer assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for photographer assistant in Reston, VA is $18.41, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.02 and $20.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is $100 an hour good for a photographer?

For a photographer assistant, earning $100 an hour is considered above average, as typical rates range from $15 to $50 per hour depending on experience and location. High-end or specialized photographers may charge higher rates, but for assistant roles, this rate is generally very competitive. Factors such as skill level, equipment, and project complexity can influence pay rates in the industry.

What are some typical responsibilities of a Photographer Assistant during a photoshoot?

As a Photographer Assistant, you’ll be involved in a range of tasks during a photoshoot, including setting up lighting equipment, preparing and organizing props, and ensuring the studio or location is ready for shooting. You may also help with adjusting camera settings, managing cables, and assisting the photographer in capturing the desired shots. Strong organizational skills and the ability to anticipate the photographer’s needs are key, as the role often requires quick thinking and adaptability to keep the session running smoothly.

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

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.

How to become a photographer's assistant?

To become a photographer's assistant, gaining experience through internships, entry-level positions, or assisting amateur photographers is common. Skills in photography equipment, lighting, and organization are valuable, and a high school diploma or equivalent is typically required. Building a portfolio and networking can also help secure assistant roles in the photography industry.

How to get a job as a camera assistant?

To become a camera assistant, gain experience through internships or entry-level positions in film or photography, and develop skills in camera operation, maintenance, and equipment setup. Familiarity with industry-standard tools like cameras, lenses, and lighting, along with a good understanding of safety protocols, can improve job prospects.

What does a photographer's assistant do?

A photographer's assistant helps set up equipment, manages lighting and props, and assists during photoshoots to ensure smooth operation. They may also handle tasks like carrying gear, organizing shots, and maintaining equipment, often requiring knowledge of camera tools and photography techniques.

What Is the Job of a Photographer Assistant?

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 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.

What are photographer assistants?

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.
More about Photographer Assistant jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Photographer jobs in Reston, VA? The most popular types of Photographer jobs in Reston, VA are:
What job categories do people searching Photographer Assistant jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Photographer Assistant jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Photographer Assistant jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Photographer Assistant job openings:
Photographer Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Photographer Assistant job openings in Reston, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,292 per year, or $18.4 per hour.
Photographer, Casual with Security Clearance

Photographer, Casual with Security Clearance

Aerospace Corporation

Chantilly, VA • On-site

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation's space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space- delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you'll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space. The Photographer will be responsible for creating, producing, and executing photo content that supports the company's capabilities, values and culture. The ideal candidate will have experience of capturing a wide range of imagery in and out of studio, with and without talent. This role requires a high degree of craft and technical expertise, along with creativity and a passion to deliver first-rate imagery. This is a casual position based in Chantilly, Virginia, with a 100% onsite requirement. Commute to Crystal City, Virginia and other remote locations are also possible. What You'll Be Doing * Develop and execute original photography in response to creative briefs and brand initiatives for emotional storytelling and enhanced audience engagement
* Capture employee stories and technical documentation for internal/external platforms, briefings, and trade publications
* Lead in-studio and on-location shoots, including set assembly, lighting design, and talent direction
* Create emotionally resonant visual content that engages target audiences across multiple channels
* Provide corporate portraits for organizational materials, conferences, and publications
* Manage post-production workflows, including batch editing, asset organization, and file management
* Availability to participate and potentially lead in-studio and on-location photo shoots, including assembling sets, styling props, and managing lighting with either continuous or strobes
* Maintain studio equipment, props, and sets (regularly lifting ~25lbs)
* Coordinate production logistics: scheduling, equipment maintenance, and project tracking
* Respond to time-sensitive photo requests in a deadline-driven environment
* Maintain proper image naming conventions, post-production workflows, including batch editing, organizing assets, and ensuring consistent file management practices, and perform daily backups of all photo shoots
* Research emerging production technologies and recommend equipment upgrades What You Need to be Successful Minimum Requirements: * Bachelor's degree in photography or similar creative/design field
* Five to seven years of experience working as a Photographer, production, and editing
* Extensive experience with photo retouching
* A dynamic rich portfolio website that represents you and your work
* Excellent production skills with the ability to pull in the appropriate assets needed and work independently
* Collaborative with the ability to concept fresh ideas that remain on brand * Advanced knowledge of lifestyle and location photography
* Excellent communication skills and a teamwork mentality to collaborate with the internal stakeholders to showcase companies' messaging while maintaining high receptivity to feedback.
* Ability to multitask effectively, organize workflows, remain flexible in dynamic situations, and follow established processes while providing suggestions for improvements to enhance workflow efficiency and productivity in tight deadlines
* Exceptional organizational skills
* Expert knowledge of Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom and Premier Pro
* Possess equipment and software proficiency including experience with Mac and PC platforms, familiarity with related equipment such as lighting rigs, microphones, gimbals, drones, and stabilizers
* Willingness to travel on occasion to support production needs * This position requires ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance, which is issued by the U.S. government. U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance. How You Can Stand Out It would be impressive if you have one or more of these: * Possess a current TS-SCI clearance
* Experience with DAM software
* Awareness of graphic design
* Knowledge of filming and editing videos
* Experience working as a Videographer, video production, editing and development We offer a competitive compensation package where you'll be rewarded based on your performance and recognized for the value you bring to our business. The grade-based pay range for this job is listed below. Individual salaries within that range are determined through a wide variety of factors including but not limited to education, experience, knowledge and skills. (Min - Max)
$0.00 - $480.00 Pay Basis: Hourly Leadership Competencies Our leadership philosophy is simple: every employee, regardless of level and role, can demonstrate leadership. At Aerospace, our commitment is our people. To cultivate our talent and ensure that we have a strong pipeline of future leaders, we want individuals who: * Operate Strategically * Lead Change * Engage with Impact * Foster Innovation * Deliver Results Ways We Reward Our Employees During your interview process, our team will provide details of our industry-leading benefits. Benefits vary and are applicable based on Job Type. A few highlights include: * Comprehensive health care and wellness plans
* Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation
* Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options
* 401(k) Plan - Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire
* Flexible spending accounts
* Variable pay program for exceptional contributions
* Relocation assistance
* Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career
* Education assistance programs
* An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect We are all unique, from various backgrounds and all walks of life, yet one thing bonds all of us to each other-the belief that we can make a difference. This core belief empowers us to do our best work at The Aerospace Corporation. Equal Opportunity Commitment The Aerospace Corporation is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, color, religion, genetic information, marital status, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, physical disability, medical condition, mental disability, or disability status and any other characteristic protected by state or federal law. If you're an individual with a disability or a disabled veteran who needs assistance using our online job search and application tools or need reasonable accommodation to complete the job application process, please contact us by phone at 310.336.5432 or by email at . You can also review Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal .

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