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Photojournalist Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Parsons

Public Affairs Officer - Mid

Springfield, VA · On-site

Produce photojournalist products for social media and public websites. * Manage social media (Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, YouTube, X/Twitter), conduct trend research, build content calendars, and ...

Tulk LLC

Public Affairs Officer Junior

Fort Belvoir, VA · On-site

$88K - $117K/yr

Provide photojournalist products for both social media and public facing websites as well. * Outreach Support: Provide public affairs support for external conferences, academic outreach, and other ...

Tulk LLC

Public Affairs Officer Mid

Fort Belvoir, VA · On-site

$124K - $148K/yr

Provide photojournalist products for both social media and public facing websites as well. * Strategic Communications: Lead communications planning and product development for key agency initiatives ...

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All JobsPhotojournalist JobsPhotojournalist Jobs in Virginia

Photojournalist information

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$5

$21

$27

How much do photojournalist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for photojournalist in Virginia is $21.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.85 and $24.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a photojournalist?

Photojournalists are professional photographers who capture images to tell news stories and document events as they unfold. They work for newspapers, magazines, news agencies, or as freelancers, often covering breaking news, political events, sports, or social issues. Their goal is to provide accurate, compelling visual documentation that enhances written journalism and informs the public. Photojournalists must act ethically, often working in challenging or even dangerous environments to capture the truth of a situation. Their work plays a vital role in shaping public perception and historical records.

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

To thrive as a Photojournalist, you need strong photography skills, journalistic integrity, and a solid understanding of news reporting, often backed by a degree in journalism or photography. Proficiency with digital cameras, photo editing software like Adobe Photoshop, and experience with content management systems are typically required. Outstanding communication, adaptability, and the ability to work under pressure help photojournalists excel in dynamic news environments. These skills ensure impactful visual storytelling while maintaining ethical standards and meeting tight deadlines.

What are some common challenges photojournalists face while working on assignments?

Photojournalists often encounter challenges such as tight deadlines, unpredictable environments, and the need to quickly adapt to changing situations. They may work in remote or hazardous locations and must balance capturing compelling images with ensuring their own safety. Additionally, photojournalists frequently collaborate with reporters, editors, and other team members to ensure their visuals accurately support the story, requiring strong communication and teamwork skills.

What is the difference between Photojournalist vs Photo Editor?

AspectPhotojournalistPhoto Editor
CredentialsPhotography degree or related experiencePhotography or journalism background, often with editing skills
Work EnvironmentOn-location, news events, fieldworkStudio or office, post-production, editing suites
Industry UsageNews agencies, magazines, newspapersMedia outlets, publishing companies, online platforms
Primary FocusCapturing newsworthy images in real-timeSelecting, editing, and preparing images for publication

While both roles involve photography, a photojournalist focuses on capturing news images in the field, whereas a photo editor works behind the scenes to select and refine images for publication. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths in the media industry.

Do I need a degree to be a photojournalist?

A degree is not strictly required to become a photojournalist, but many employers prefer candidates with a bachelor's degree in journalism, photography, or a related field. Strong photography skills, a compelling portfolio, and experience with editing software are often more important for entry-level positions.

Do photojournalists get paid well?

Photojournalists' salaries vary based on experience, location, and the employer, with median annual pay around $45,000 to $60,000. Freelance photojournalists may earn more depending on assignments and reputation, but income can be inconsistent. Skills in editing, storytelling, and digital tools can influence earning potential.

What do you do as a photojournalist?

A photojournalist captures newsworthy images that tell stories about current events, often working in the field under tight deadlines. They use cameras and editing tools to produce compelling photographs for newspapers, magazines, or online media, and may need to work in various environments and conditions.

What is the difference between a photographer and a photojournalist?

A photojournalist is a type of photographer who captures newsworthy events and stories, often working under deadlines and for media outlets. While photographers may take a wide range of images for various purposes, photojournalists focus on documenting current events with an emphasis on storytelling and accuracy, often requiring knowledge of ethics and the use of specific equipment like fast lenses and digital cameras.
More about Photojournalist jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Photojournalist jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Photojournalist jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Photojournalist jobs in Virginia?

For Photojournalist jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Photojournalist jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Photojournalist jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Photojournalist jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Photojournalist job openings:

Photojournalist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Photojournalist job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 77% Full Time, and 22% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $44,286 per year, or $21.3 per hour.

TV Photojournalist - WAVY-TV 10 (VB, Norfolk, Portsmouth)

WOWK-TV

Portsmouth, VA • On-site

$42K - $46K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 18 days ago

Job description

TV PHOTOJOURNALIST - WAVY-TV 10(Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Portsmouth)

WAVY-TV 10/ WVBT FOX43 has a full time opening for a TV Photojournalist to join our award-winning news staff. We are looking for a candidate with a positive attitude, a good eye for shooting TV news and enjoys creative storytelling.We edit on Adobe Premiere Pro at the station and in the field. All WAVY Photojournalists are issued their own equipment. Successful candidate will produce creative content for television, social media and wavy.com.

We are the #1 station in the Norfolk/VA Beach, VA market (#42); our coverage extends from Williamsburg/Eastern Shore of Virginia to the Outer Banks of North Carolina. Experience in shooting TV news preferred but we are willing to train the right candidate, a good driving record is required. Do you need a change of scenery, a fresh start, and want to improve your craft? If so, consider moving to our beach town and joining our solid news team.

In addition to applying online, please send resume and a link to your demo reel to Jeff Myers/News Operations Manager at jeff.myers@wavy.com.

To be considered for this job 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.

COMPENSATION RANGE:

Annual Salary $42,000 - $46,000 - commensurate with experience

ADDITIONAL BENEFITS:

  • A career path to grow your professional experiences
  • Full medical, dental and vision benefits, as well as certain other health and wellness benefits
  • Retirement savings plan with company match
  • Other key company benefits include disability accident insurance, hospital indemnity, critical illness, life insurance, AD&D, ID protection, and employee assistance program. More details about timing and conditions of benefits eligibility and other plan terms and conditions will be provided upon hire.

No calls

No telecommuting.

EOE/Minorities/Females/Vet/Disability

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