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Photography Studio Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Portrait Studio Manager * Retail Store Manager or Assistant Manager * Wedding or Portrait Photography Business Owner * Hospitality Manager * Sales Manager or Team Lead * Trainer, Coach, or Mentor ...

Photo Lab Student Assistant

Orange, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $17.50/hr

Support students and faculty with photography studio and lab-related needs. * Promote compliance with studio safety guidelines, policies, and procedures. * Maintain clean, organized, and functional ...

Portrait Studio Manager * Retail Store Manager or Assistant Manager * Wedding or Portrait Photography Business Owner * Hospitality Manager * Sales Manager or Team Lead * Trainer, Coach, or Mentor ...

Portrait Studio Manager * Retail Store Manager or Assistant Manager * Wedding or Portrait Photography Business Owner * Hospitality Manager * Sales Manager or Team Lead * Trainer, Coach, or Mentor ...

Portrait Studio Manager * Retail Store Manager or Assistant Manager * Wedding or Portrait Photography Business Owner * Hospitality Manager * Sales Manager or Team Lead * Trainer, Coach, or Mentor ...

Portrait Studio Manager * Retail Store Manager or Assistant Manager * Wedding or Portrait Photography Business Owner * Hospitality Manager * Sales Manager or Team Lead * Trainer, Coach, or Mentor ...

Portrait Studio Manager * Retail Store Manager or Assistant Manager * Wedding or Portrait Photography Business Owner * Hospitality Manager * Sales Manager or Team Lead * Trainer, Coach, or Mentor ...

Portrait Studio Manager * Retail Store Manager or Assistant Manager * Wedding or Portrait Photography Business Owner * Hospitality Manager * Sales Manager or Team Lead * Trainer, Coach, or Mentor ...

Portrait Studio Manager * Retail Store Manager or Assistant Manager * Wedding or Portrait Photography Business Owner * Hospitality Manager * Sales Manager or Team Lead * Trainer, Coach, or Mentor ...

Portrait Studio Manager * Retail Store Manager or Assistant Manager * Wedding or Portrait Photography Business Owner * Hospitality Manager * Sales Manager or Team Lead * Trainer, Coach, or Mentor ...

Portrait Studio Manager * Retail Store Manager or Assistant Manager * Wedding or Portrait Photography Business Owner * Hospitality Manager * Sales Manager or Team Lead * Trainer, Coach, or Mentor ...

Ensure studio processes and standards established by the Marketing Director and Rusnak photography consultants are being followed. * Lead special photo and video projects - production of web and TV ...

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Photography Studio information

See California salary details

$15

$26

$64

How much do photography studio jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for photography studio in California is $26.99, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $27.74 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a photography studio?

A photography studio is a dedicated space equipped with professional lighting, backdrops, cameras, and other tools where photographers capture high-quality images. Studios are often used for portraits, commercial shoots, product photography, fashion, and more. They provide a controlled environment to adjust lighting and settings, ensuring consistent results regardless of external conditions. Many studios also offer editing services and may rent their space to other photographers or clients.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in a photography studio?

To thrive in a photography studio, you need a solid understanding of photography principles, lighting techniques, and camera operation, often supported by formal training or a degree in photography. Familiarity with professional cameras, studio lighting equipment, and photo editing software like Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom is essential. Creativity, attention to detail, and strong interpersonal communication set outstanding studio photographers apart. These skills ensure the creation of visually compelling images, efficient workflow, and excellent client experiences in a competitive industry.

What are some common challenges faced by photographers working in a studio environment?

Photographers in a studio environment often encounter challenges such as managing artificial lighting setups, coordinating with clients and models, and troubleshooting equipment issues under time constraints. Additionally, maintaining a creative workflow while adhering to client briefs and deadlines can be demanding. Teamwork is essential, as studio photographers frequently collaborate with stylists, makeup artists, and assistants to achieve the desired outcome for each shoot.

What is the difference between Photography Studio vs Photography Assistant?

AspectPhotography StudioPhotography Assistant
CredentialsOften requires a portfolio, photography skills, and sometimes formal trainingTypically needs basic photography knowledge, sometimes a photography course or internship
Work EnvironmentStudio setting, controlled environment, client meetingsAssist in studio or on-location shoots, supporting lead photographers
Industry UsagePrimary role for capturing images, managing studio operationsSupport role, helping with equipment, setup, and logistics

Photography Studio and Photography Assistant roles differ mainly in responsibility and experience. The studio is the main environment for capturing images and managing client projects, while the assistant supports the studio's operations. Both roles often require some photography knowledge, but the studio role typically demands more experience and credentials.

What career can I do with a photography studio?

A photography studio can lead to careers such as professional photographer, portrait artist, commercial photographer, or studio manager. These roles often require skills in lighting, editing, and client interaction, and may involve working with equipment like cameras and photo editing software.

What careers can you go into with photography studio?

A photography studio can lead to careers such as professional photographer, photo editor, studio manager, or portrait photographer. Skills in lighting, composition, and editing software like Adobe Photoshop are essential, and certifications or a portfolio are often required for advanced roles.

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

The most popular types of Photography Studio jobs in California are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Photography Studio jobs?

Cities in California with the most Photography Studio job openings:

Infographic showing various Photography Studio job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 48% Full Time, 42% Part Time, and 8% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $56,143 per year, or $27 per hour.

Photo Lab Student Assistant

Orange, CA


Chapman University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 1 - 5K employees

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

262nd of 627 rated colleges and universities

Great coworkers

People enjoy working here

Good employer


$16.90 - $17.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

Student Title Classification Information
Quick Link https://chapman.peopleadmin.com/postings/39701 Job Number SE199424
Position Information
Department or Unit Name Art Position Headcount 3 Position Title Photo Lab Student Assistant Academic Year Academic Year 2026-2027 Term or Semester All Academic Year Is this Role for an Undergrad or Grad Student? Grad and Undergrad Anticipated Pay Range $16.90 - $17.50 Pay Range Information
Chapman University is required to provide a reasonable estimate of the compensation range for this position. This range takes into account a variety of factors that are considered in making compensation decisions, including experience, skills, knowledge, abilities, education, licensure and certifications, and other business and organizational needs. Salary offers are determined based on the final candidate's qualifications and experience, as well as internal equity and other internal factors. The anticipated pay range is not a promise of a particular wage.
On which Campus will this work be done? Orange Approved Supervisor Lorena Ochoa Supervisor Email lochoa@chapman.edu
Scheduling

Please use dates within Chapman Academic Calendar
(https://www.chapman.edu/academics/academic-calendar.aspx)

Desired Start Date 09/14/2026 Projected End Date 05/23/2027 Average number of hours per week Up to 10 Hrs
Position Summary Information
Job Description Summary
The Photo Lab Student Assistant supports the daily operations of the Photography Studio and Darkroom within the Department of Art. 
Working under the direction of the Photography Program Lead and Department Manager, the student assistant helps maintain a safe, organized, and productive learning environment for students and faculty. Responsibilities include assisting with studio operations, supporting students in the lab, maintaining equipment and supplies, monitoring facility usage, and assisting with photography chemistry preparation and disposal procedures. Evening and weekend hours may be required.
Responsibilities
  • Assist in the daily operation and monitoring of photography studios and darkroom facilities.
  • Support students and faculty with photography studio and lab-related needs.
  • Promote compliance with studio safety guidelines, policies, and procedures.
  • Maintain clean, organized, and functional studio and laboratory spaces.
  • Prepare, monitor, replenish, and properly dispose of photography chemicals and supplies in accordance with department procedures.
  • Assist with basic darkroom operations, including film processing and black-and-white print development.
  • Monitor equipment, facilities, and supplies and report maintenance or safety concerns to the Department Manager or Program Lead.
  • Perform opening, closing, setup, and cleanup tasks for studio and laboratory spaces.
  • Work independently during assigned shifts while providing excellent customer service and support.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.
Required Qualifications
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Strong communication and customer service skills.
  • Dependable, professional, and able to manage multiple responsibilities.
  • Ability to follow safety procedures and departmental guidelines.
  • Ability to work evening and/or weekend shifts as needed.

Desired Qualifications
  • Successful completion of a photography course or equivalent experience.
  • Basic knowledge of black-and-white darkroom processes, including film development and print enlargement.
  • Experience working in photography studio, darkroom, or arts-related environments.
  • Interest in photography, visual arts, or studio management.
Special Instructions to Applicants
Budget Information
Is Federal work-study required? With or Without FWS


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