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Professional Photography Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Outfront Media

Director, Photography

New York, NY · On-site

$150K - $170K/yr

Lead and manage the photography department across all markets, including photography managers ... Set clear performance expectations, provide regular feedback, and create professional development ...

Blue Compass RV Albany

Photographer

Latham, NY · On-site

$20/hr

This individual will help elevate the Blue Compass RV brand through professional photography and visual content that supports recruiting, sales, social media, advertising, and company culture ...

VG Systems

Photographer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

Proficiency in professional photography equipment, including high-end DSLR cameras and accessories. * Strong understanding of composition, lighting, and photographic techniques. * Experience with ...

VG Systems

Photographer

Huntsville, AL

Proficiency in professional photography equipment, including high-end DSLR cameras and accessories. * Strong understanding of composition, lighting, and photographic techniques. * Experience with ...

MillerFoto Photography

Photographer

Metairie, LA · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

We are a Local, Family Owned Photography company. Based in Metairie, LA, we are looking for a creative professional to join our photography team and elevate our clients' experiences. About Us: We ...

MillerFoto Photography

Photographer

Metairie, LA · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

We are a Local, Family Owned Photography company. Based in Metairie, LA, we are looking for a creative professional to join our photography team and elevate our clients' experiences. About Us: We ...

MillerFoto Photography

Photographer

Metairie, LA

$18 - $22/hr

We are a Local, Family Owned Photography company. Based in Metairie, LA, we are looking for a creative professional to join our photography team and elevate our clients' experiences. About Us: We ...

Danbren Media

Wedding Photographer

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$200/hr

We provide reliable, professional photography services across the U.S. -- and we're looking to grow our network of talented photographers! Position Overview: We are hiring skilled wedding ...

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Professional Photography information

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How much do professional photography jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for professional photography 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 is the salary of a professional photographer?

The average salary for a professional photographer varies depending on experience, location, and specialization, but typically ranges from $30,000 to $70,000 annually. Freelance photographers may earn more or less based on client demand, portfolio quality, and marketing skills. Many photographers supplement income through workshops, print sales, or stock photography.

What is the 80 20 rule in photography?

The 80/20 rule in photography suggests that roughly 80% of the results come from 20% of the effort or focus, often meaning that a small portion of the subject or scene contributes most to the impact of the photo. For professional photographers, this principle can guide focus on key elements to create more compelling images efficiently.

What is the highest paying job in photography?

The highest paying jobs in professional photography are often in commercial, advertising, or fine art photography, with photographers working for large corporations, agencies, or as high-end freelancers earning six-figure incomes. Specializing in niche areas such as fashion, commercial product photography, or working with luxury brands can also lead to higher earnings, especially with extensive experience and strong portfolios.

How do professional photographers typically manage client expectations and project timelines?

Professional photographers often start by having detailed consultations with clients to clearly define project goals, deliverables, and timelines. They use contracts and project briefs to outline expectations, including the scope of work, editing timeframes, and delivery dates. Effective communication throughout the process is key, as is providing regular updates and sample images to ensure clients are satisfied with progress. Staying organized and transparent helps build trust and ensures smooth collaboration from shoot planning to final image delivery.

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

To thrive as a Professional Photographer, you need a strong grasp of camera operation, composition, lighting techniques, and often a degree or certification in photography or a related field. Mastery of digital editing software like Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom, as well as familiarity with various camera equipment, is typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, and excellent communication skills help photographers capture compelling images and work effectively with clients. These skills are crucial for producing high-quality visuals that meet client expectations and succeed in a competitive industry.

What is professional photography?

Professional photography is the practice of capturing images as a paid occupation, typically for clients or businesses. Professional photographers use advanced equipment, technical skills, and creative expertise to produce high-quality photos for various purposes, such as portraits, events, advertising, or editorial work. They may specialize in areas like weddings, commercial, fashion, or photojournalism, often handling aspects like editing and client consultations. Professional photographers must also manage the business side, including marketing, contracts, and copyright issues.

How much money do pro photographers make?

Professional photographers' earnings vary based on experience, specialization, location, and client base. According to industry data, the median annual income for professional photographers ranges from $30,000 to $50,000, with some top earners making over $100,000 by building a strong portfolio, developing technical skills, and marketing their services effectively.

What is the difference between Professional Photography vs Commercial Photography?

AspectProfessional PhotographyCommercial Photography
CredentialsPortfolio, photography skills, sometimes certificationsPortfolio, photography skills, often industry-specific knowledge
Work EnvironmentStudios, outdoor locations, eventsClient sites, studios, advertising settings
Employer & IndustryFreelancers, studios, media companiesAdvertising agencies, corporations, media firms

Professional Photography encompasses a broad range of photography work, including portraits, events, and artistic projects. Commercial Photography is a specialized subset focused on creating images for commercial use, such as advertising and product promotion. While both require strong photography skills and portfolios, Commercial Photography often involves working directly with clients in business settings to produce images that sell products or services.

What cities are hiring for Professional Photography jobs? Cities with the most Professional Photography job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Photography jobs? The most popular types of Photography jobs are:
What states have the most Professional Photography jobs? States with the most job openings for Professional Photography jobs include:
Professional Photography jobs near you
Infographic showing various Professional Photography job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% Locum Tenens, 3% Full Time, 91% Contract, and 3% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,345 per year, or $20.4 per hour.
Director, Photography

Director, Photography

Outfront Media

New York, NY • On-site

$150K - $170K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago

Outfront Media rating

9.4

Company rating: 9.4 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

2nd of 65 rated media

Job description

About OUTFRONT

OUTFRONT is one of America's leading IRL media companies, built to do more than be seen. We create breakthrough real-world experiences that engage, influence, and drive impact. Through creative excellence, high-impact environments, and intelligent audience data, we help brands move people, show up with relevance, and make a lasting impression.

Our media lives where life happens, embedded in the culture and landscape of cities and the flow of everyday movement. It's trusted, unavoidable, and part of the cultural fabric, creating meaningful connections between brands and the audiences they serve.

We're redefining out of home by bringing intelligence, flexibility, and digital innovation to scale, turning physical presence into measurable impact and real-world influence. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment that promotes the growth of our people. Come join our industry-leading team!

What We Offer

OUTFRONT offers a comprehensive benefits program including:

  • Medical, Dental, Vision (including same and opposite-sex domestic partners)
  • HSA and FSA plans, Family Benefits, Pet Benefits
  • 401(k) Plan with an Employer Match
  • Paid Time Off, Commuter Benefits, Educational Assistance
  • Robust Diversity, Equity and Inclusion program including 7 Employee Resource Groups (ERGs)

Job Summary

The Photography Director is responsible for leading and scaling nationwide photography and video production functions. This role owns the endtoend visual production process, including planning, scheduling, execution, quality control, and delivery of high-quality photo and video assets.

The ideal candidate combines hands-on photography expertise, operational discipline, and executive communication skills to ensure consistently high standards across markets while aligning output with company goals.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Lead and manage the photography department across all markets, including photography managers, photographers, editors, and vendors.
  • Define and maintain visual standards, ensuring consistency in brand quality nationwide.
  • Establish processes, workflows, and best practices for scalable production operations.
  • Recruit, train, and retain top-tier talent, including building a network of freelance photographers for high-volume periods.
  • Set clear performance expectations, provide regular feedback, and create professional development opportunities.
  • Streamline the image creation process and implement workflow solutions to improve productivity and quality.
  • Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and photography metrics to measure efficiency and drive improvements.
  • Develop and maintain SOPs for photography workflows, asset management, and delivery.
  • Drive efficiency through process improvements and standardization.
  • Manage budgets, production costs, and vendor relationships.
  • Stay current on industry trends, tools, and technologies.
  • Present performance, strategy, and visual output to senior leadership and stakeholders.
  • Translate business objectives into photography and video production strategies.
  • Partner cross-functionally with marketing, sales, and operations teams.
CORE COMPETENCIES:
  • Process-oriented with strong operational mindset.
  • Exceptional organizational and scheduling capabilities.
  • Strong eye for quality and attention to detail.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including executive-facing presentations.
  • Ability to lead, coach, and scale high-performing teams.
  • Problem-solving and decision-making under pressure.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS/EDUCATION:
  • 8-12+ years of professional photography and/or video production experience.
  • 5+ years in a leadership role managing teams and/or multi-market operations.
  • Proven experience running large-scale or distributed production environments.
  • Strong portfolio demonstrating photography and video expertise.
  • Advanced proficiency in editing tools (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite - Photoshop, Lightroom, Premiere Pro).
  • Strong working knowledge of camera systems, lighting, and production workflows.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) for reporting, planning, and communication.

For New York and New Jersey the salary range for this role is $150,000-$170,000 per year. Compensation is determined during our interview process by assessing a candidate's experience and skills relative to internal peers and market benchmarks evaluated for the scope and responsibilities of the position. Please note that the foregoing compensation information is a good-faith assessment associated with this position only and is provided pursuant to the corresponding Salary Transparency Laws.

To all Recruitment Agencies: OUTFRONT Media LLC does not accept agency and unsolicited resumes. Please do not forward resumes to our OUTFRONT Media employees or any other company location.

OUTFRONT Media is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited resumes.

OUTFRONT Media Is An Equal Opportunity Employer

All applicants shall receive equal consideration without regard to race, color, religion, gender, marital status, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, veteran status or disability. Please refer to the OUTFRONT Media Affirmative Action policy statement.

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