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Police Photographer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Police Photographer

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

$52K - $58K/yr

... photographs of prisoners, injured police officers and civilians, and other evidence for identification and court exhibits in black and white and color. A portion of the work may involve contact with ...

New

University Photographer

Radford, VA · On-site

$46K - $57K/yr

University Photographer Job no: 55000473 Work type: Classified Staff Location: Radford Categories ... The report and statistical data can be found online at Radford.edu/police. You may also request a ...

University Photographer Apply now Job no: 55000473 Work type: Classified Staff Location: Radford ... The report and statistical data can be found online at Radford.edu/police. You may also request a ...

Police Officer Police Officer I Job Classification: Grade 8 $58,094 - $73,070 DEFINITION Under ... Performs crime scene photography and evidentiary photography. Maintain chain of evidence on all ...

Police Officer Police Officer I Job Classification: Grade 8 $58,094 - $73,070 DEFINITION Under ... Performs crime scene photography and evidentiary photography. Maintain chain of evidence on all ...

Company Description The Huron Police Department provides police and dispatch services to a ... photograph evidence, and contact responsible parties; issues notices, tickets, and enforces ...

Company Description The Huron Police Department provides police and dispatch services to a ... photograph evidence, and contact responsible parties; issues notices, tickets, and enforces ...

Police Officer

Palatine, IL · On-site

$63K - $75K/yr

Processes arrestees by taking photographs, obtaining fingerprints, and writing arrest reports ... The Police Officer is directly supervised by Deputy Chief and Chief of Police, Harper College ...

Police Officers are responsible for maintaining law and order, the enforcement of laws and ... Photograph or draw diagrams of crime or accident scenes and interview principals and eyewitnesses.

Police Officer

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$65K - $85K/yr

Police Officers are responsible for maintaining law and order, the enforcement of laws and ... Photograph or draw diagrams of crime or accident scenes and interview principals and eyewitnesses.

CITY OF WHARTON POLICE OFFICER I Class specifications are intended to present a descriptive list of ... Collect, process, photograph and present evidence including fingerprints, fibers, blood and related ...

CITY OF WHARTON POLICE OFFICER I Class specifications are intended to present a descriptive list of ... Collect, process, photograph and present evidence including fingerprints, fibers, blood and related ...

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Police Photographer information

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How much do police photographer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for police photographer in the United States is $20.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $21.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does a Police Photographer Do?

A police photographer takes pictures during crime investigations. In this role, you capture images throughout a crime scene to record evidence or other visual information that detectives can use during their investigation. Your responsibilities can vary, depending on the procedures of the department in which you work. Crime scene investigators may collect or locate evidence and then direct a photographer to take pictures of specific items or areas within the crime scene. Some photographers also collect measurement, location, and description data while they take photos. In some instances, a photographer may not take directions from other personnel, but conduct their duties according to their department's crime scene processing procedures. Your photos must provide context for the evidence, close up images, and overall crime scene images. Many police photographers also process their own film to avoid potential contamination.

How much money do crime scene photographers make?

Crime scene photographers typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and employer. They often require knowledge of photography, forensic procedures, and specialized equipment, with some positions offering overtime or shift differentials.

What are common challenges faced by police photographers during crime scene documentation?

Police photographers often work in unpredictable and sometimes hazardous environments, which can make capturing clear and comprehensive images challenging. Adverse weather conditions, low lighting, and the presence of sensitive evidence require the use of specialized equipment and techniques. Additionally, maintaining the integrity of the evidence while working quickly and efficiently is crucial, as is adhering to strict chain-of-custody protocols. Effective communication with investigators and other law enforcement personnel is also essential to ensure all necessary evidence is thoroughly documented.

Do police hire photographers?

Police departments often employ photographers as crime scene or forensic photographers to document evidence and scenes accurately. These roles typically require knowledge of photography techniques, attention to detail, and sometimes specialized training or certifications in forensic photography. Police photographers work closely with investigators and may use digital cameras and editing software in their daily tasks.

How much do FBI photographers make?

FBI photographers, who are federal law enforcement professionals, typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience and location. They often hold specialized skills in forensic photography and may require security clearances and law enforcement training.

What is the difference between Police Photographer vs Crime Scene Photographer?

AspectPolice PhotographerCrime Scene Photographer
CredentialsPhotography certification, law enforcement trainingPhotography certification, forensic training
Work EnvironmentPolice stations, crime scenes, courtroomsCrime scenes, forensic labs, law enforcement agencies
Employer & IndustryLaw enforcement agencies, police departmentsForensic units, crime labs, law enforcement agencies

Police Photographers and Crime Scene Photographers both work within law enforcement, capturing images for investigations. Police Photographers focus on documenting scenes, evidence, and incidents, often working directly with police officers. Crime Scene Photographers specialize in detailed forensic imaging of crime scenes, often requiring additional forensic training. While their roles overlap, Crime Scene Photographers typically have more specialized forensic skills, but both roles are essential for criminal investigations.

How to become a photographer for police?

To become a police photographer, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by training in photography and crime scene documentation. Many police photographers are sworn officers with specialized training, while others are civilian employees with skills in forensic photography and the use of cameras and lighting equipment.

What are police photographers?

Police photographers are specialized professionals who capture photographic evidence at crime scenes, accident sites, and during investigations. Their work helps document crucial details that may be used in court or during the investigative process. They are trained to photograph scenes methodically, ensuring images are clear, properly scaled, and admissible as evidence. Police photographers often work closely with law enforcement officers and forensic teams to ensure that all relevant visual information is accurately preserved.

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

To thrive as a Police Photographer, you need expertise in photography, forensic evidence documentation, and a solid understanding of crime scene procedures, often supported by specialized training or certification in forensic photography. Proficiency with digital cameras, photo editing software, and evidence management systems is typically required. Attention to detail, discretion, and strong communication skills are essential soft skills for accurately documenting sensitive evidence and collaborating with law enforcement teams. These skills ensure that photographic evidence is reliable, admissible in court, and supports effective criminal investigations.
What cities are hiring for Police Photographer jobs? Cities with the most Police Photographer job openings:
What states have the most Police Photographer jobs? States with the most job openings for Police Photographer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Police Photographer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 57% Full Time, and 43% Part Time. Highlights an 86% In-person, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,345 per year, or $20.4 per hour.
Police Photographer

Police Photographer

City of Philadelphia

Philadelphia, PA • On-site

$52K - $58K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 4 days ago

New


City Of Philadelphia rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 70 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

309th of 675 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Salary: $52,983.00 - $58,142.00 Annually
Location : Philadelphia, PA
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 7L18-20260706-OC-00
Department: PPD Police
Opening Date: 07/06/2026
Closing Date: 7/19/2026 11:59 PM Eastern
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Bargaining Unit: M
Competition: Open Competitive
Residency Waiver: No Waiver
Certification Rule: Rule of List
1. Parts: Training & Experience Evaluation
1. Weight: 100%
Salary Range: 0015
WHO WE ARE
As an employer, the City of Philadelphia values inclusion, integrity, innovation, empowerment, and hard work above all else. We offer a vibrant work environment, comprehensive health care and benefits, and the experience you need to grow and excel. If you're interested in working with a passionate team of people who care about the future of Philadelphia, start here.
What We Offer:
Impact - The work you do here matters to millions.
Growth - Philadelphia is growing, why not grow with it?
Diversity & Inclusion - Find a career in a place where everyone belongs.
Benefits - We care about your well-being.
The City of Philadelphia is a Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program qualified employer.
Learn more here:
Equal Access to Civil Service Testing
The City of Philadelphia is an Equal Opportunity employer and does not permit discrimination based on race, ethnicity, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, marital status, source of income, familial status, genetic information or domestic or sexual violence victim status. If you believe you were discriminated against, call the Philadelphia Commission on Human Relations at 215-686-4670 or send an email to faqpchr@phila.gov. For more information, go to: www.phila.gov/humanrelations
The City of Philadelphia is committed to ensuring access to Civil Service examinations by providing appropriate accommodation for candidates with documented medical or religious reasons. Candidates may request accommodation for a Civil Service examination by contacting the Office of Human Resources (OHR) at 215-686-2350 or by email at janine.labletta@phila.gov. The accommodation process is interactive and requires cooperation and communication between the applicant and OHR. Decisions will be made on a case-by-case basis using the required documentation that is submitted. Requests are to be made in a timely manner prior to the scheduled date of the Civil Service examination.
Only an on-line application will be accepted for this exam. Paper applications will not be accepted.
Computers are available in the 3-1-1 Walk-In Center located in Room 167 of City Hall (Weekdays from 9 AM to 5 PM) and at your local Philadelphia Free Library branch.
For inquiries regarding City employment, contact the Office of Human Resources Monday through Friday between 8 AM and 4 PM by telephone at 215-686-0880 or by email at hrhelpdesk@phila.gov
Information concerning employment with the City of Philadelphia may be found at:
General Definition
This is technical photographic work at the full performance level. The employee is responsible for working with Photoshop or other photographic computer programs to improve or create photographs of a non-arrest nature such as presentations and graduations; shooting, developing and printing still photographs of prisoners, injured police officers and civilians, and other evidence for identification and court exhibits in black and white and color. A portion of the work may involve contact with prisoners. Employees work on a rotating shift. The employee is supervised by a technical superior.
CONTACT INFORMATION
The analyst responsible for reviewing applications and additional documentation for this job opportunity is
Stefan Koprivica
City of Philadelphia - Office of Human Resources
1401 JFK Blvd., Room 1530
Philadelphia, PA 19102-1675
Phone: 215-686-3159
Fax: 215-686-0861
Email:
For all other inquiries please contact Customer Service at 215-686-0880 or email
Notes to Applicants and Projected Exam Information
ELIGIBLE LIST: OPEN-COMPETITIVE
Only an Open-Competitive eligible list will be established as a result of this examination. Permanent City employees will receive no promotional preference in this examination.
Candidates who pass the exam and are placed on the civil service list will be retained on the list for a minimum of one year and a maximum of two years after the establishment of the Eligible List.
RESIDENCY REQUIREMENT
Philadelphia residency is not required to submit an application. However, applicants must have established bona fide residency in the City of Philadelphia for one year prior to appointment.
PREFERENCE FOR PHILADELPHIA RESIDENTS
Candidates who have maintained a bona fide residence in Philadelphia for at least one year prior to the date of the civil service examination shall have priority over all other people receiving an identical test score.
To receive such preference, candidates must respond to the question regarding residence on this application. This response will be used to determine eligibility for preference for residents. Documentation of residence may be required if there is any question as to whether you meet the residency preference requirements.
If an applicant does not respond to the appropriate residence question, it will be assumed that the applicant does not qualify for residence preference. Eligibility for residence preference must be determined by the date of the test administration. No requests for residence preference will be granted after the test administration.
INDEBTEDNESS NOTICE
As a condition of employment with the City, any person offered employment shall be required to certify that such person either is fully current on any and all debts, taxes, fees, judgments, claims, and other accounts and obligations due and owing to the City; or has voluntarily entered into a payment agreement with the City. For so long as the person is employed by the City, the amount of the payment as set forth in the payment agreement (not to exceed, for any pay period, twenty percent (20%) of the person's gross pay for such period, without the person's consent) shall be withheld from each paycheck until such payment agreement is fully satisfied.
Such person shall also be required to certify as a condition of employment that he or she is fully current on any and all debts, taxes, fees, judgments, claims, and other accounts and obligations due and owing to the Philadelphia Gas Works (PGW) or has voluntarily entered into a payment agreement with PGW.
Failure to enter into a payment agreement shall result in the cancellation of the appointment and removal from the certification. The name of the eligible candidate will be returned to the eligible list.
PREFERENCE POINTS FOR CANDIDATES FOR OPEN-COMPETITIVE EXAMS
Candidates who pass Open-Competitive exams may be eligible for additional points added to their final score. Preference Points may be claimed from the time of application until 30 days after the eligible list is established. The required documentation for the preference must be provided to receive the points.
U.S. VETERAN'S PREFERENCE
Ten points will be added to the scores of eligible veterans. You must be honorably discharged from the U.S. armed forces. Attach a DD214, member 4, or NGB-22 to your application if you wish your eligibility to be reviewed. Spouses of disabled or deceased veterans may also be considered. Veteran's Points may be claimed at any time before the list expires.
LEGACY PREFERENCE
Ten points will be added to the scores of the children or grandchildren of Philadelphia Firefighters or Police Officers who were killed or died in the line of duty.
NATIONAL VOLUNTEER SERVICE PREFERENCE
Up to 5 points will be added to the score of any candidate who has:
  1. Successfully completed a term of volunteer service with Peace Corps, AmeriCorps NCCC (including FEMA Corps), or AmeriCorps VISTA are eligible for additional points

For Peace Corps, such candidates will be awarded five (5) points for the completion of a two-year term of service or three (3) points for the completion of a one-year term of service.
  1. Successfully completed at least 450 hours of service with AmeriCorps State and National (including Teach for America).

Such candidates will have:
  • 1 point added to their final score if they have completed 450 Hours of the above service.
  • 2 points added to their final score if they have completed 675 Hours of the above service.
  • 3 points added to their final score if they have completed 900 Hours of the above service.
  • 5 points added to their final score if they have completed 1700 Hours of the above service.

PHILADELPHIA SCHOOL DISTRICT CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION PREFERENCE
Up to 5 points will be added to the score of candidates who have completed and graduated from a career technical education (CTE) program of the School District of Philadelphia within the last three years before the examination announcement date. If the 5 additional points from the CTE preference would rank a CTE graduate above a veteran, additional points shall be applied to the CTE candidate's passing score to rank them directly below the veteran.
Candidates must successfully pass all parts of the examination before veteran's preference, legacy preference, national volunteer service preference or CTE preference points are awarded.
MODIFIED TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE EVALUATION
Approved applicants will receive a score of 70 and any additional preference points and be ranked on the eligible list. Applicants will not be asked to appear to take a scheduled examination.
An Eligible List will be established the week of August 12, 2026. Please note that this date may change.
CERTIFICATION RULE
Rule of List
TEST REVIEW:
In accordance with Civil Service Regulation 9.091B, candidates will have 30 days after the results have been mailed to review their test and to file appeals to the key answers. Call 215-686-0880 if you wish to schedule a Test Review.
In accordance with Civil Service Regulation 9.091D, candidates may review their answer sheets and other test papers to determine if they have been scored correctly or if there has been an irregularity in the administration of the examination. Candidates will have 30 days after the results have been mailed to review their test and to file a written appeal. Call 215 686-0880 if you wish to schedule a test review.
Level of Education Required
High School/GED
ANTICIPATED ELIGIBILITY
Candidates who meet all eligibility requirements within 6 months of the application deadline will be admitted to this examination. Successful candidates will be placed on the eligible list but may not be hired or promoted until all requirements have been satisfied.
Minimum Acceptable Training and Experience
EDUCATION:
Education equivalent to completion of the twelfth school grade.
AND
A minimum of six (6) credits of coursework which includes basic photography and/or digital photography
AND
GENERAL EXPERIENCE:
Two years of photography experience which has included photo editing using digital software.
City of Philadelphia Benefits includes:
  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Prescription
  • Vision
  • Life Insurance
  • Flexible Spending Account
  • Hybrid Defined Benefit/Defined Contribution Plan
  • Voluntary Deferred Compensation Plan
  • Employee Assistant Program
  • 13 paid holidays
  • Paid sick leave
  • Vacation leave
  • Paid personal days
  • 8 weeks paid Parental Leave
  • Backup Child and Adult care
  • Wellbeing platform and programs
  • Retiree Health Benefits
  • Qualified Student Loan Forgiveness Employer
  • Tuition Discounts for City Employees

01
Do you have two years of photography experience which has included photo editing using digital software?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question

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