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Photography Assistant Jobs in Chicago Ridge, IL (NOW HIRING)

shutterfly

Candid Photographer

Elmhurst, IL · On-site

$18/hr

Description Are you looking for an opportunity to bring your passion for photography together with your love for being inspired by and involved with School Special Events? Consider joining the ...

Best Version Media

Magazine Photographer

Chicago, IL · On-site

... photography? We're seeking a Magazine Photographer to join our creative team and help bring our stories to life through striking, high-quality imagery. Whether you have an established business or are ...

Shutterfly

Candid Photographer

Aurora, IL

$18/hr

Are you looking for an opportunity to bring your passion for photography together with your love for being inspired by and involved with School Special Events? Consider joining the Lifetouch team as ...

Mom365, Inc.

Bilingual Photographer

Chicago, IL

$22.60/hr

This is a part-time photography and sales position with a guaranteed rate of $16.60/hour and the opportunity to earn up to $22.60/hour with commission. At Mom365, we believe every baby deserves a ...

MOM365, Inc.

Bilingual Photographer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$22.60/hr

This is a part-time photography and sales position with a guaranteed rate of $16.60/hour and the opportunity to earn up to $22.60/hour with commission. At Mom365, we believe every baby deserves a ...

Cheez

Street Photographer

Aurora, IL · On-site

This is a recurring street photography gig to help promote a new photo sharing app. Check out the iPhone app and/or the Android app You'll be approaching people on the street, asking them to take ...

Cheez

Street Photographer

Hammond, IN · On-site

This is a recurring street photography gig to help promote a new photo sharing app. Check out the iPhone app and/or the Android app You'll be approaching people on the street, asking them to take ...

Shutterfly

Photographer - Seasonal

Orland Park, IL

$17.05/hr

... photography experience required! Compensation Details * Hourly Rate: $17.05 * Drive Time Rate: $17.05 Why You'll Love This Job: * Competitive hourly pay + paid drive time * Use your own vehicle and ...

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All JobsPhotography JobsPhotography Assistant JobsPhotography Assistant Jobs in Chicago Ridge, IL

Photography Assistant information

See Chicago Ridge, IL salary details

$12

$19

$30

How much do photography assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for photography assistant in Chicago Ridge, IL is $19.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.67 and $23.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to become a photo assistant?

To become a photography assistant, gain basic photography knowledge, develop skills in lighting and camera equipment, and seek entry-level positions or internships with professional photographers. Building a strong portfolio and understanding studio workflows can improve job prospects; some roles may require familiarity with editing software and good communication skills.

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 backdrops, and helping with photo shoots. They may also handle tasks such as carrying gear, organizing props, and assisting with post-shoot processes, often requiring knowledge of camera equipment 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.

Is $100 an hour good for a photographer?

For a photography assistant, earning $100 an hour is considered above average, as typical rates range from $20 to $50 per hour depending on experience and location. High-end or specialized photographers may charge or earn more, but for entry-level or assistant roles, this rate is generally very competitive. Factors such as skill level, equipment, and project scope influence hourly rates in the photography industry.

What careers are in photography?

Careers in photography include roles such as professional photographer, photojournalist, portrait photographer, commercial photographer, and fine art photographer. These careers often require skills in camera operation, editing software, and understanding of lighting and composition, with opportunities in studios, media outlets, advertising, and freelance work.

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 near Chicago Ridge, IL are hiring for Photography Assistant jobs? Cities near Chicago Ridge, IL with the most Photography Assistant job openings:
Photography Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Photography Assistant job openings in Chicago Ridge, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $40,543 per year, or $19.5 per hour.
Candid Photographer

Candid Photographer

shutterfly

Elmhurst, IL • On-site

$18/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New

Shutterfly rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 43 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

210th of 727 rated retailers

Job description

Description
Are you looking for an opportunity to bring your passion for photography together with your love for being inspired by and involved with School Special Events? Consider joining the Lifetouch team as a Candid Photographer!
The Lifetouch Candid Photographers capture high-quality, compelling photographs for school sports, concerts, plays, graduations, and a variety of other special occasions. Bring your photographic talents to highlight the unique personality of students in high-quality portraits. Our photographers enjoy working with kids of all ages to capture candid photos at Picture Event Sites which tell a compelling story.
What You'll Do Here:
  • Transport photography equipment to assigned Picture Event locations

  • Provide leadership on the job site and serve as a liaison between customers (school administration) and Lifetouch.

  • Complete appropriate paperwork related to photography jobs

  • Respond effectively to unexpected situations that arise while on site

  • After events, upload images from home

  • Participate in ongoing training and recognition programs offered by Lifetouch

The Skills You'll Bring:
  • Minimum 18 years of age with high school diploma or GED equivalent

  • Experience working independently, as well as in a team environment

  • One to two years of related photography experience is desired (or equivalent combination of experience and education)

  • Highly organized with excellent communications skills

  • Ability to present a positive and professional image

  • Willingness to work a varied seasonal schedule, usually weekends and evenings and some weekends

  • Valid driver's license as well as reliable, insured vehicle to reach assigned locations and while transporting photography equipment

  • Ability to select, set up, and operate cameras and equipment for varied conditions of inside and outside photography.

Hourly Rate: $18.00
This position will accept applicants on an ongoing basis until filled.
If you're interested in continuing your exciting career in candid photography, enjoy working with kids and love being in action-packed, new settings every day; the market leader in school photography wants to meet with you!
Supporting a diverse and inclusive workforce is important to Shutterfly not only because it directly reflects our value of Embracing our Differences, but also because it's the right thing to do for our business and for our people. We welcome all applicants and evaluate them based on their qualifications, without regard to age, race, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, marital status, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, nationality, sex, or other characteristic covered by law. Learn more about our commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion on our Career Site.

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