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Photography Assistant Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Tailored Brands

On Call Photo Assistant

Dublin, CA · On-site

What You'll Do | Key Accountabilities • Assist Producer, wardrobe dept, creative team, camera ... needs of photographer(s) on set • Help prepare the set with lights, props, equipment etc. • ...

Tsutsumida Pictures

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Architectural Photo Assistant - NO LA CANDIDATES, ENTRY LEVEL OK

Tustin, CA · On-site

$350 - $400/day

Architectural Photography Assistant position available for Orange County / Inland Empire / Northern California / Nevada based multi-award winning architectural photography firm. Contract based ...

REVOLVE

Assistant E-Commerce Photographer

Cerritos, CA · On-site

Photo assisting on editorial shoots, Special event photography as needed Major Responsibilities: Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned. * Assist ...

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All JobsPhotography JobsPhotography Assistant JobsPhotography Assistant Jobs in California

Photography Assistant information

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$12

$18

$29

How much do photography assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for photography assistant in California is $18.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $22.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a photography assistant?

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 does a photography assistant 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 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.

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.

More about Photography Assistant jobs

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

The most popular types of Photography jobs in California are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Photography Assistant jobs?

Cities in California with the most Photography Assistant job openings:

Photography Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Photography Assistant job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,225 per year, or $18.9 per hour.

On Call Photo Assistant

Tailored Brands

Dublin, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

Tailored Brands rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 62 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

27th of 104 rated fashion retailers

Job description

Tailored Brands is a leading specialty retailer of menswear, including suits, formalwear, sportswear, and a broad selection of business casual offerings. Our brands include Men's Wearhouse, Jos. A. Bank, Moores and K&G Fashion Superstore, which offers merchandise for the entire family. We help people love the way they look and feel for their most important moments by delivering personalized products and services through our convenient network of stores and e-commerce sites.
About the Job
We currently have an exciting opportunity for an on call Photo Studio Assistant to join our Advertising Production team.
What You'll Do | Key Accountabilities
• Assist Producer, wardrobe dept, creative team, camera people and other crew members
• Focus on needs and serve production crew
• Support needs of photographer(s) on set
• Help prepare the set with lights, props, equipment etc.
• Account for and organize merchandise, props and grip equipment for photography
• Help to keep the set clean and tidy
• Print and distribute daily paperwork
• Act as a runner distributing messages or items within film crew and cast
• Perform administrative work (answering phones, paperwork etc.)
• Undertake errands as assigned
• When on location, conduct crowd control by putting up signs, directing pedestrians away from filming, lock down sets etc.
What You'll Bring | Skills & Experience
• Proven experience as production assistant with a minimum of 1-year experience in either film/video or photo production
• High school diploma; Relevant training (e.g. production courses) will be an advantage
• Knowledge of terminology will be appreciated
• Excellent organizational and multi-tasking ability
• Resourceful and problem-solving personality
• A team player with great communication skills
• Poses strong follow through with communications
• Capable to be on feet, in the weather, non-stop for 8-10 hour a day
• Quick learner, very organized and able to multi-task or changes directions quickly
• Physical strength and stamina - Ability to lift and move 100lbs minimum
• Attentive to detail
• Must have a valid driver's license
Please note that you do not need to qualify for all requirements to be considered. We encourage you to apply if you can meet most of the requirements and are comfortable opening a dialog to be considered.
Work Environment, Physical & Mental Demands
• Ability to sit and work at a computer keyboard for extended periods of time
  • Ability to stoop, kneel, bend at the waist, and reach daily
  • Able to lift and move up to 25 pounds occasionally
  • Must utilize visual acuity, speech and hearing, hand and eye coordination and manual dexterity necessary to operate a computer and office equipment
  • On call hours, as work dictates, from our Dublin California Photo Studio

$37.50 - $50.00. We take into consideration an individual's skills, background, and experience in determining final salary. Base pay information is based on market location and may be subject to prevailing wage laws, if applicable.
Note: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required and are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities or qualifications associated with this job.

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