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Photography Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Cantrell Photography

Photographer

Fullerton, CA · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

We are seeking enthusiastic and energetic individuals who are passionate about photography and love working with children to become School Photographers. This entry-level seasonal role runs from Fall ...

CANTRELL PHOTOGRAPHY

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PHOTOGRAPHERS Wanted

Fullerton, CA · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

We are seeking enthusiastic and energetic individuals who are passionate about photography and love working with children to become School Photographers. This entry-level seasonal role runs from Fall ...

Picture Pros Photography

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Youth Sports Photographer and Sales Representative

Oceanside, CA · On-site

$375 - $2.7K/wk

This Is More Than a Photography Role Photography is an important part of what we do, but our photographers also play a major role in creating a positive customer experience. Throughout an event, you ...

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How much do photography jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for photography in California is $20.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $21.35 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is photography?

Photography is the art, science, and practice of creating durable images by recording light, either electronically with a camera sensor or chemically with photographic film. Photographers use various techniques and equipment to capture moments, tell stories, and express creative ideas through images. Photography can encompass many genres such as portrait, landscape, fashion, commercial, and documentary. It requires both technical skills, such as understanding camera settings and lighting, and creative vision to produce compelling photographs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a photographer?

To thrive as a Photographer, you need a solid understanding of photographic techniques, composition, lighting, and often a degree or certification in photography or visual arts. Familiarity with digital cameras, photo editing software like Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop, and digital asset management systems is typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, and strong interpersonal skills help photographers capture compelling images and work effectively with clients. These skills are vital for producing high-quality visuals, meeting client expectations, and maintaining a competitive edge in the industry.

What do photography professionals do?

Photography professionals, also called photographers, capture moments using cameras and other equipment. They most often take pictures of people, but they also photograph places, artwork, animals, and a wide range of other subjects. Photographers may take pictures for their own use, or they may be hired by individuals, groups, or companies. Before the photo shoot, photographers offer advice about locations, settings, and poses based on their expertise. Standard tools used by a photographer include a camera, tripod, different types of camera lenses, photo editing software, and backdrops. Photographers may work independently on a contract basis, or they may work for a company or agency as a staff photographer.

What are some common challenges photographers face when working on location shoots?

Photographers working on location shoots often encounter unpredictable factors such as changing weather conditions, fluctuating natural light, and logistical issues with equipment transport. Adapting quickly and being resourceful is essential to maintain high-quality results under these varying circumstances. Additionally, collaborating with clients, models, or other creatives on-site requires strong communication and problem-solving skills to ensure everyone’s vision aligns and the shoot runs smoothly.

What is the difference between Photography vs Videography?

AspectPhotographyVideography
Required SkillsCamera operation, composition, lighting, editing imagesCamera operation, storytelling, editing videos, sound
Work EnvironmentPhoto shoots, studios, outdoor locationsEvent coverage, film sets, corporate videos
Common UsageAdvertising, portraits, fashion, journalismEvent coverage, commercials, documentaries

Photography and videography share many skills like camera operation and editing, but photography focuses on capturing still images, while videography involves recording moving images with sound. Both roles are essential in media production, often overlapping but serving different storytelling needs.

What are careers in photography?

Careers in photography include roles such as commercial photographer, portrait photographer, photojournalist, fashion photographer, and wildlife photographer. These jobs often require skills in using cameras and editing software, and may involve working in studios, on location, or freelance. Opportunities can be found in media, advertising, fashion, journalism, and fine arts sectors.
More about Photography 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 jobs in California?

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Photography jobs?

Cities in California with the most Photography job openings:

Photography jobs near you
Infographic showing various Photography job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,791 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

Photographer

Cantrell Photography

Fullerton, CA • On-site

$17 - $20/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Join the Cantrell Team, a family-owned and operated business with over 45 years of experience in capturing priceless memories for schools in the greater Orange County area. We are seeking enthusiastic and energetic individuals who are passionate about photography and love working with children to become School Photographers. This entry-level seasonal role runs from Fall through December, offering comprehensive training and the chance to develop your skills in school photography.

Responsibilities

  • Set up equipment at local schools early in the morning
  • Use company-provided cameras and lighting to photograph students
  • Work efficiently within a small team to capture quality images
  • Engage positively with children to create a comfortable environment
  • Complete photography tasks during 5-8 hour shifts on assignment days

Preferred Qualifications

  • Entry-level experience in photography