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Photographers Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Freed Photography, Inc.

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School Photographers & Assistants

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$25/hr

Portrait Photographers & Assistants Needed (Bethesda) We are a locally owned, Bethesda-based photography studio in search of great student portrait photographers AND assistants! This is a full time, ...

Orendorff Studios, LLC

Photography Assistant

York, PA

$20 - $25/hr

Photography Assistant Updated draft with role-specific HR recommendations Position Title Photography Assistant Department Photo Day / Operations Reports To Lead Photographer, Manager, or Owner FLSA ...

New

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Showtime Pictures

Photo Sales Associate

New York, NY

$17/hr

As a Photographers Assistant and Sales Guide for Showtime Pictures, you will be working at some of the most iconic and popular attractions, museums, and aquariums nationwide. This is a great ...

People Inc.

Photography Assistant

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$37.50 - $43.75/hr

Photography Assistant Located in Birmingham, Alabama, is the People Inc. Food Studios, a ... Powered by a talented team of test kitchen professionals, stylists, and photographers, the Peoople ...

100 DIVA INC

Assistant Photographer

Doral, FL · On-site

$16/hr

ooking for a creative, enthusiastic assistant photographer/editor to join our growing team! Photographer will work closely with our experienced photography team on Photography projects, Newsletters ...

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100 DIVA INC

Assistant Photographer

Doral, FL

$16/hr

ooking for a creative, enthusiastic assistant photographer/editor to join our growing team! Photographer will work closely with our experienced photography team on Photography projects, Newsletters ...

100 DIVA INC

Assistant Photographer

Miami, FL

$16/hr

ooking for a creative, enthusiastic assistant photographer/editor to join our growing team! Photographer will work closely with our experienced photography team on Photography projects, Newsletters ...

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Photographers Assistant information

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$8

$17

$33

How much do photographers assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for photographers assistant in the United States is $17.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.54 and $19.95 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Photographer's Assistant, you need a solid understanding of photography basics, lighting techniques, and camera equipment, often gained through coursework or hands-on experience. Familiarity with photo editing software (such as Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop) and studio equipment is typically required. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate and collaborate effectively are standout soft skills. These competencies ensure efficient shoot preparation, smooth workflow, and high-quality results that support the photographer’s vision.

How to become a photographer's assistant?

To become a photographer's assistant, gaining relevant experience through internships, assisting local photographers, or taking photography courses can be helpful. Strong organizational skills, familiarity with camera equipment and lighting, and good communication are important. Some assistants start with entry-level positions and learn on the job to develop their skills.

Is $100 an hour good for a photographer?

For a photographer's 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 assistants usually earn less than lead photographers. Factors such as skill level, equipment, and project complexity influence pay rates in the industry.

What do photographer assistants do?

Photographer assistants support photographers by setting up equipment, managing lighting and backdrops, and helping with photo shoots. They may also handle tasks such as organizing gear, assisting with client interactions, and ensuring the smooth operation of the shoot, often requiring knowledge of camera equipment and photography techniques.

What are some common challenges faced by a Photographer's Assistant during on-location shoots?

Photographer's Assistants often encounter challenges such as rapidly changing lighting conditions, managing and transporting heavy equipment, and adapting to unforeseen logistical issues on location. They must be prepared to think quickly and communicate effectively with both the photographer and other crew members to ensure the shoot runs smoothly. Being organized and proactive in anticipating the photographer's needs can make a significant difference in overcoming these challenges and maintaining a productive workflow.

What is the difference between Photographers Assistant vs Photography Intern?

AspectPhotographers AssistantPhotography Intern
Required CredentialsNone mandatory, some experience preferredOften students or beginners, may have relevant coursework
Work EnvironmentOn-location shoots, studio settingsVaries, includes assisting during shoots or studio work
Employer & Industry UsageProfessional photographers, studios, agenciesEducational settings, internships, entry-level positions

Photographers Assistants typically support professional photographers with equipment, setup, and logistics, often requiring some experience but not formal credentials. Photography Interns are usually students or beginners gaining exposure and learning on the job. Both roles work in similar environments but differ in experience level and purpose, with assistants focusing on supporting ongoing projects and interns on learning and skill development.

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 photographer or their creative vision. Photographers' skills in composition, lighting, and storytelling remain essential, and AI tools are typically used to support their work rather than replace it entirely.

What are the main responsibilities of a photographer's assistant?

A photographer's assistant supports the main photographer in various aspects of a photoshoot or photographic project. Their duties typically include setting up and breaking down equipment, managing lighting, organizing props, helping subjects feel comfortable, and sometimes handling administrative tasks like scheduling or file management. Assistants may also be responsible for maintaining camera gear, keeping track of shot lists, and ensuring everything runs smoothly on set. This role is crucial for allowing photographers to focus on capturing quality images while logistical and technical needs are taken care of. It's also a valuable learning experience for those looking to build a career in photography.
More about Photographers Assistant jobs
What cities are hiring for Photographers Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Photographers Assistant job openings:
What states have the most Photographers Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Photographers Assistant jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Photographers Assistant jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Photographers Assistant jobs are:
Photographers Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Photographers Assistant job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 92% Part Time, and 4% Temporary. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,806 per year, or $17.7 per hour.
School Photographers & Assistants

School Photographers & Assistants

Freed Photography, Inc.

Bethesda, MD • On-site

$25/hr

Other

Posted 9 days ago

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Job description

Portrait Photographers & Assistants Needed (Bethesda)

We are a locally owned, Bethesda-based photography studio in search of great student portrait photographers AND assistants! This is a full time, seasonal position (during the day, Monday through Friday, August through mid-November). While experience is important, we look for great people that can learn fast and have fun.

Prior experience is preferred, but not a requirement. We provide equipment, and will train you on everything you need to know. The photography is done indoors and outdoors so you will learn a variety of skills and techniques. These learned skills will always be with you to help you grow, develop, and cultivate your photography career.

Our ideal candidates will have great people skills, and a high level of energy, enjoy working outdoors and won't mind early morning starts. Photographers are always assigned in teams, so you will not be photographing without an experienced support. Photographers must have their own transportation since our photo shoots are in MD, DC and VA. Mandatory background check.

Company Description

Freed Photography, Inc. is changing the face of school photography. We don’t take a one-size-fits-all approach to photography. Our photographers capture the spirit of each individual student, resulting in high quality portraits that the parents are thrilled to have. A Freed portrait will end up in a frame not thrown into a desk drawer.
Parents and students have all become used to the stale school portrait formula: sit here, sit up straight, smile, click, next. This results in stiff pictures that are a let down year after year. It may seem like there is no school photographer that does it differently, but with Freed change is here.
Here’s how we capture the Freed Photography in our students
Talent: Our photographers are REAL photographers. With great instincts and experience with events, weddings, portraits and more. They understand lighting, posing and expressions. Our photographers understand that, most importantly, they need to form a connection with each student, and create an environment in which the students feel comfortable to express themselves and show off their true spirit.
System: Our system is organized in a way that makes it easy on everybody. Our convenient online ordering system takes out the middleman position that the school administration is usually stuck with. Parents and students can view all the photos online and do all their ordering through our website. They can share the online password-protected gallery with other family members, If a parent needs assistance or has a question, they can feel free to call us!
Quality: Our product is what one would expect from professional studio portraits: gorgeous photographs in a wide variety of expressions and poses on both a traditional background as well as a beautiful outdoor setting. We offer all of this at the school photo prices the parents are used to.