ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Photography Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

People Inc.

Photography Assistant

Birmingham, AL

Photography Assistant Located in Birmingham, Alabama, is the People Inc. Food Studios , a state-of-the-art facility featuring 28 test kitchens, 13 photo studios, a prop and styling studio, an outdoor ...

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 state-of-the-art facility featuring 28 test kitchens, 13 photo studios, a prop and styling studio, an outdoor ...

Unf

Photography Assistant - OPS

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

$15/hr

Department Athletics, Strategic Communications-OPS Compensation $15.00 Hourly The Photography Assistant will assist the North Florida Athletics Communications department with content creation for all ...

Unf

Photography Assistant - OPS

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

$15/hr

Department Athletics, Strategic Communications-OPS Compensation $15.00 Hourly The Photography Assistant will assist the North Florida Athletics Communications department with content creation for all ...

Freed Photography, Inc.

Be Seen First

School Photographers & Assistants

Bethesda, MD · On-site

$25/hr

Portrait Photographers & Assistants Needed (Bethesda) We are a locally owned, Bethesda-based ... The photography is done indoors and outdoors so you will learn a variety of skills and techniques.

Cincinnati Reds

Photography Intern

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

$13/hr

Photography Assistant Development Requirements: Demonstrate growth in photography skills and confidence, with the ability to shoot games, events and assignments with minimal oversight. Establish ...

AEG

Photography Intern

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

$13/hr

Photography Assistant Development Requirements: Demonstrate growth in photography skills and confidence, with the ability to shoot games, events and assignments with minimal oversight. Establish ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPhotography Assistant Jobs

Photography Assistant information

See salary details

$12

$19

$29

How much do photography assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for photography assistant in the United States is $19.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much should I charge for 3 hours of photography?

For a Photography Assistant, rates for three hours typically range from $150 to $300, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the shoot. Professionals often charge hourly or flat rates, and additional costs may include equipment, travel, or editing. It's important to set clear expectations and consider industry standards when pricing your services.

What are photography assistants?

Photography assistants are professionals who support photographers during photo shoots and in studio settings. Their responsibilities typically include setting up lighting and equipment, organizing props, managing files, and helping with administrative tasks. They play a crucial role in ensuring shoots run smoothly by anticipating the photographer’s needs and handling technical or logistical issues. This position is often an entry point for those interested in pursuing a career in photography, providing valuable hands-on experience and industry knowledge.

What do photographers' assistants do?

Photographers' assistants support photographers by setting up equipment, managing lighting and props, and helping during photoshoots. They may also handle tasks such as carrying gear, organizing shots, and maintaining equipment, often requiring knowledge of camera tools and photography techniques.

What Do Photography Assistants Do?

A photography assistant supports a professional photographer during the shooting and editing process. As a photography assistant, your duties include organizing, transporting, and maintaining equipment, such as lighting and cameras. You also ensure everything needed for a photo shoot is readily available to the photographer and may need to help set up special lighting and sets. After a shoot, you may assist in basic editing work, using digital editing software, organizing portfolios, sending proofs to clients for approval, or delivering prints. Travel may be required for this job. You may be the primary contact for customers, so strong customer service skills are beneficial.

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

To thrive as a Photography Assistant, you need a solid understanding of photography basics, lighting, and camera equipment, often gained through formal education or hands-on experience. Familiarity with photo editing software like Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom, as well as digital asset management systems, is commonly required. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication help you anticipate the photographer's needs and manage schedules. These skills are vital for ensuring smooth photo shoots, supporting the lead photographer, and delivering high-quality results.

What is the difference between Photography Assistant vs Photography Intern?

AspectPhotography AssistantPhotography Intern
Required CredentialsBasic photography knowledge, technical skills, sometimes a portfolioOften students or beginners, may have coursework or limited experience
Work EnvironmentProfessional studios, on-location shoots, assisting photographersInternship settings, assisting in shoots, learning environment
Employer & Industry UsagePhotographers, studios, media companiesPhotography studios, media outlets, educational programs
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles, job requirements, career pathEntry-level opportunities, learning experiences, internships

While both Photography Assistants and Photography Interns support photographers and work in similar environments, Assistants typically have more technical skills and responsibilities, often working full-time or part-time in professional settings. Interns are usually students or beginners gaining experience through internships, often with less technical expertise. Both roles serve as entry points into the photography industry but differ in experience level and job expectations.

How to get a job as a camera assistant?

To become a camera assistant, gaining experience through internships, assisting experienced camera operators, and learning about camera equipment and terminology are essential. Developing technical skills, understanding lighting and framing, and obtaining relevant certifications can improve job prospects in film and video production environments.

How do I become a photography assistant?

To become a photography assistant, gain experience through internships or entry-level positions, develop skills in camera equipment and lighting, and build a portfolio. Some assistants also pursue photography courses or certifications to improve their knowledge and employability.

What are some common challenges faced by Photography Assistants on set, and how can they prepare for them?

Photography Assistants often encounter fast-paced environments where they must anticipate the needs of the photographer and adapt quickly to changing situations, such as shifting lighting or sudden schedule adjustments. Being proactive, organized, and familiar with both camera gear and lighting equipment helps assistants stay prepared. Good communication skills are essential for collaborating with photographers, stylists, and other team members. To succeed, assistants should also be ready for physically demanding tasks, such as moving equipment and setting up backdrops, and maintain a positive, solution-oriented attitude even under pressure.
More about Photography Assistant jobs
What cities are hiring for Photography Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Photography Assistant job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Photography jobs? The most popular types of Photography jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Photography Assistant jobs? The top employers for Photography Assistant jobs are:
What states have the most Photography Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Photography Assistant jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Photography Assistant jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Photography Assistant jobs are:
Photography Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Photography Assistant job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 97% Full Time, and 1% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,746 per year, or $19.1 per hour.

Photography Assistant

Wandering Seaman Photography

Fort Collins, CO

Part-time

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

Company Description

Wandering Seaman Photography started out much like any other studio; after spending a number of years as a hobbyist, I merged my love for the art with my passion for working with and helping people. With a keen eye and unique style, I began taking portraits of friends, family and my pug puppy, Franklin.

Job Description

The lowdown
Assisting a photographer in all aspects of their work
Doing whatever is necessary to ensure that a photographic shoot runs smoothly
Assisting in everything from administration, to the shoot, to scouting locations
Is this role right for me?
To do this role, you will need to:
be willing to learn
be organised and practical
understand how to operate digital and traditional cameras, and scanning equipment
anticipate the needs of the photographer
have excellent communication skills
be able to foresee and evaluate potential problems, and deal with them calmly
be skilled in image-manipulation and image-management software
possess good office skills
pay close attention to detail
What does an Assistant Photographer do?
Getting a job as an Assistant Photographer is one of the best routes into a career in professional photography.
Assistant Photographers can learn on the job from a professional, without the responsibility of running a business or producing professional quality images before they are ready.
They must do whatever is necessary to ensure that a photographic shoot runs smoothly. Usually, this involves preparing sets, checking that all equipment is functioning properly, setting up lighting and accessories, taking meter readings, uploading files and transporting film or prints to and from laboratories.
When working from a studio, an Assistant Photographer will help out with general administration, keeping the sets clean and tidy and printing photographs as required. They will be expected to catalogue and optimise digital files, to scan film and to assist with image manipulation and enhancement.
They will also keep records of the film stock, exposures, lighting set-ups, as well as the names and details of art directors, models, stylists, animal handlers and other contributors. When clients are present during a shoot, it is the Assistant Photographer's job to play host and shield the photographer from unnecessary interruptions.
On location, the Assistant Photographer's duties may involve making a technical assessment of the site in advance, checking for vehicle access, power and communications facilities. They will often organise transport, catering and accommodation, set up equipment, and source a local laboratory or reliable courier.
High-profile photographers sometimes employ several Assistant Photographers who are then known as First Assistant, Second Assistant, and so on. Duties will be divided between the various assistants at the discretion of the photographer. In most cases, the First Assistant provides direct support to the Photographer on set, while the Second Assistant assists with production and general administration.

Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Apply