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Photography Editing Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

... of all photography technology and equipment at the station, including station vehicles. * Manages staff of news photographers/editors * Plans and manages staffing, training, and performance ...

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Photo Editor

Fullerton, CA · On-site

$22/hr

The position will be responsible for technical editing of in-house, ecommerce/web, product photography and catalog. The position is required to meet the timelines for all gift photography from ...

Basic knowledge of photography principles and camera operation. * Experience taking photographs in a variety of settings. * Familiarity with photo editing software and digital file management.

Showing results 21-40

Photography Editing information

See California salary details

$22.7K

$61.5K

$74K

How much do photography editing jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for photography editing in California is $61,522.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,300.00 and $70,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is photography editing?

Photography editing, also known as photo editing or post-processing, is the process of enhancing or modifying images after they have been taken. This can involve adjusting exposure, color, contrast, cropping, retouching blemishes, and removing unwanted objects. Editors use software like Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom to improve image quality and achieve the desired artistic effect. Photography editing is essential for both professional and amateur photographers to ensure their photos look polished and visually appealing.

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

To thrive as a Photography Editor, you need a strong eye for detail, color theory knowledge, and proficiency in photo manipulation, typically supported by experience or education in photography or visual arts. Mastery of editing software such as Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom, and other digital asset management systems is essential. Creativity, time management, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure high-quality, visually compelling images that meet client or publication standards and deadlines.

What are some common challenges faced in a photography editing role, and how can they be managed?

Photography Editors often encounter tight deadlines, varying client expectations, and large volumes of images that require consistent quality and style. Managing these challenges typically involves developing efficient workflows, utilizing batch processing tools in editing software, and maintaining clear communication with photographers or clients about desired outcomes. Staying organized and up-to-date with editing techniques also helps ensure a smooth process and high-quality results, even during busy periods.

What is the difference between Photography Editing vs Photography Retouching?

AspectPhotography EditingPhotography Retouching
CredentialsPhoto editing software skills, basic photography knowledgeAdvanced retouching skills, often with Photoshop certifications
Work EnvironmentPhoto studios, freelance, media companiesHigh-end studios, fashion, commercial photography
Industry UsageGeneral photo adjustments, color correctionDetailed skin smoothing, object removal, artistic enhancements

Photography Editing involves general adjustments like color correction and cropping, while Photography Retouching focuses on detailed enhancements such as skin smoothing and object removal. Both roles require proficiency in editing software, but retouching demands more advanced skills for high-end image refinement.

Can I get paid to edit photos?

Yes, photography editing is a paid profession, with opportunities including freelance work, working for photography studios, or media companies. Payment can vary based on experience, project complexity, and tools used such as Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom.

How do I become a photography editor?

To become a photography editor, you typically need a strong background in photography or visual arts, proficiency in editing software like Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom, and a good eye for detail. Gaining experience through internships or freelance work and building a portfolio can also help establish your skills in editing and retouching images.

How much do photography editors make?

Photography editors typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of projects. Skilled editors with proficiency in editing software like Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom and a strong portfolio can command higher salaries, especially in competitive markets.

Is photography editing a good career?

Photography editing is a viable career that involves enhancing and retouching images using software like Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom. Success in this field often requires strong technical skills, creativity, and a good understanding of visual aesthetics, with opportunities in freelance work, media, advertising, and photography studios.

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Photography Editing job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 81% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 73% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 21% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $61,522 per year, or $29.6 per hour.

Chief Photographer

Nexstar Media Group

Sacramento, CA • On-site

$70K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


Nexstar Media Group rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 106 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

45th of 78 rated media


Job description

The Chief Photographer oversees the day-to-day operations of the news photojournalist team which includes news photographers. The Chief Photographer is also responsible for the maintenance of all photography technology and equipment at the station, including station vehicles.
  • Manages staff of news photographers/editors
  • Plans and manages staffing, training, and performance evaluations for the photographers
  • Makes decisions regarding hiring, evaluation, promotion of employees
  • Maintains all photography technology and equipment for the station
  • Trains and coach's photographer and MMJ staff
  • Assigns projects to staff and ensures logistics and shot requirements meet established standards
  • Performs photographer duties as required
  • Plans photography needs for live news and station remotes
  • Performs other duties as assigned

Requirements & Skills:
  • Technical degree in Digital Electronics, Broadcasting, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and work-related experience
  • Fluency in English
  • Excellent communication skills, both oral and written
  • Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record
  • Minimum five years' experience as a photographer in a television broadcasting environment, with at least three years' experience in a leadership role
  • Experience guiding, directing and motivating subordinates, including setting performance standards and monitoring performance
  • Experience establishing long-range objectives and specifying the strategies and actions to achieve them
  • Ability to identify the developmental needs of others and to coach, mentor or otherwise help others to improve their knowledge or skills
  • Proficiency with computers, telephones, copiers, scanners, and other office equipment
  • Strong PC/MS Office experience
  • Experience with video recording equipment and camera technology
  • Significant experience evaluating, selecting, and operating video recording equipment
  • Ability to meet deadlines, prioritize assignments and handle multiple tasks simultaneously

Compensation - $70,000 per year commensurate with experience and skill level
To be considered for this position, you must apply online at: https://nexstar.wd5.myworkdayjobs.com/nexstar
Please remember to upload a copy of your resume and include a link to your work.
EEO Statement: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by local, state, or federal laws, rules, or regulations.
KTXL Fox40 will consider qualified applicants with a criminal history pursuant to the California Fair Chance Act. You do not need to disclose your criminal history or participate in a background check until a conditional job offer is made to you. After making a conditional offer and running a background check, if KTXL Fox40 is concerned about conviction that is directly related to the job, you will be given the chance to explain the circumstances surrounding the conviction, provide mitigating evidence, or challenge the accuracy of the background report
#LI-Onsite
SCAM ALERT:
Please be aware candidates may be at risk of being targeted by scammers seeking personal data or money. Recruiters with Nexstar Media Group and its local stations will only contact you through official job boards, LinkedIn, or email with Nexstar.tv domain or official station email addresses (example:@wreg.com). Be cautious of any outreach claiming to be from Nexstar or its recruiters via any other messaging platforms or personal email addresses. We will not contact you using a @gmail email address.

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About Nexstar Media Group

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Headquartered in Irving, Texas, Nexstar Media Group, Inc. is the largest local broadcast television group in the United States and one of the world’s leading diversified media companies. In June 2023, Nexstar marked 27 years of excellence in local programming and service since Perry A. Sook founded the company. Nexstar owns, operates, programs or provides sales and other services to 200 broadcast stations (including partner stations) and their related low power and digital multicast signals reaching 116 markets or more than 68% of all U.S. television households. Coupled with a growing portfolio of digital media marketing, advertising and content management platforms, Nexstar delivers powerful and innovative digital solutions and services to local and national media companies, advertisers, agencies and brands.

Industry

Broadcasting

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Irving, TX, US

Year founded

1996

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