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Professional Sports Photographer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

WOWK-TV

Photographer (Sports)

New York, NY

$42.97/hr

WPIX is looking for a full-time Sports Photographer/Editor. TheSports Photographeris responsible ... Must be able to work professionally and respectfully with others * A strong work ethic towards ...

Tribune Media

Photographer (Sports)

New York, NY

$42.97/hr

WPIX is looking for a full-time Sports Photographer/Editor. TheSports Photographeris responsible ... Must be able to work professionally and respectfully with others * A strong work ethic towards ...

AEG

Photography Intern

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$14.75 - $19.50/hr

Study professional sports photography portfolios. * Learn positioning strategies around the field. Success Measures * Capture all required match-day assets each game. * Consistently deliver a ...

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How much do professional sports photographer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for professional sports photographer in the United States is $19.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a professional sports photographer?

A professional sports photographer is a trained individual who specializes in capturing high-quality images of sporting events, athletes, and related moments. They use advanced photography equipment and techniques to freeze fast-paced action and convey the excitement, emotion, and intensity of sports. These photographers often work for media outlets, sports teams, or as freelancers, and their work can be seen in magazines, newspapers, online platforms, and promotional materials. Being a sports photographer requires technical skill, creativity, and the ability to anticipate key moments during an event.

What are some common challenges professional sports photographers face during live events?

Professional sports photographers often encounter challenges such as rapidly changing lighting conditions, unpredictable athlete movements, and strict access limitations at venues. Capturing decisive moments requires quick reflexes, technical expertise with camera equipment, and the ability to anticipate the action. Additionally, photographers must work efficiently under tight deadlines, sometimes editing and submitting images immediately after the event for media publication.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a professional sports photographer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Professional Sports Photographer, you need a solid understanding of photography techniques, sports knowledge, and typically a degree or experience in photography or photojournalism. Mastery of digital cameras, editing software like Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom, and fast image transfer systems is essential. Quick reflexes, creativity, and strong communication skills set standout photographers apart in capturing compelling sports moments. These skills ensure you consistently produce high-quality, timely images that meet the fast-paced demands of sports media and publications.

What is the difference between Professional Sports Photographer vs Sports Photojournalist?

AspectProfessional Sports PhotographerSports Photojournalist
CredentialsPhotography experience, portfolio, possibly certificationsPhotography skills, journalism background, portfolio
Work EnvironmentSports venues, studios, eventsLive sports events, newsrooms, field assignments
Employer & IndustrySports teams, agencies, media outletsMedia outlets, newspapers, magazines
Search & Comparison IntentFocus on capturing high-quality sports imagesFocus on storytelling through sports images

While both roles involve sports photography, a Professional Sports Photographer primarily captures high-quality images for commercial or promotional purposes, whereas a Sports Photojournalist focuses on documenting sports events to tell a story for news outlets. The skills overlap, but their goals and work environments differ.

How do you get a job as a professional sports photographer?

To become a professional sports photographer, build a strong portfolio showcasing sports images, gain experience through internships or freelance work, and develop skills in fast-paced photography and editing. Networking with sports organizations and understanding event schedules can also improve job prospects.

Is there a demand for professional sports photographers?

Professional sports photographers are in demand for covering live events, capturing action shots, and working with media outlets, teams, and agencies. Opportunities depend on experience, portfolio quality, and networking, with jobs often available at sporting events, tournaments, and for commercial clients.
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Cities with the most Professional Sports Photographer job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Sports Photographer jobs?

The most popular types of Sports Photographer jobs are:

What states have the most Professional Sports Photographer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Professional Sports Photographer jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Professional Sports Photographer jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Professional Sports Photographer jobs are:

Professional Sports Photographer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Professional Sports Photographer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,815 per year, or $19.6 per hour.

Photographer (Sports)

WOWK-TV

New York, NY

$42.97/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 8 days ago

Job description

WPIX is looking for a full-time Sports Photographer/Editor. TheSports Photographeris responsible for shooting video, sound, editing and transmitting live content.
  • Shoots video for Sports and News coverage
  • Confers with other personnel to discuss assignments, logistics and shot requirements
  • Sets up, composes, and executes broadcast quality video
  • Maintains all assigned equipment
  • Edits video for television broadcasts and web content
  • Operates live microwave and satellite trucks
  • Partners with reporters to develop creative, visually appealing & impactful stories
  • Works efficiently and effectively under extremely tight deadlines
  • Good judgment skills are a must.
  • Comprehensive understanding of ethical and legal issues concerning daily newsgathering. Must routinely use appropriate journalistic standards and guidelines.
  • Excellent lighting, camera, production and editing skills.
  • Performs other duties as assigned
  • Must be able to work professionally and respectfully with others
  • A strong work ethic towards excellence
  • Work weekends and nights

    Requirements & Skills:

    • Applicants must have a flexible schedule with ability to work nights, weekends, and holidays
    • Candidates will be accountable for assigned equipment, including news vehicles, cameras, lights, laptop, writing trouble reports when necessary.
    • Excellent communication skills, both oral and written
    • High school diploma
    • Fluency in English
    • Must possess a valid driver's license and a clean driving record.
    • Must have at least 3 to 5 years of experience in broadcast television.
    • Minimum two years' experience operating video recording equipment (More for larger markets and less for smaller markets)
    • Proficiency with computers, telephones, copiers, scanners, fax machines and other office equipment
    • Proficiency with video recording equipment including Sony cameras
    • Ability to meet deadlines, prioritize assignments and handle multiple tasks simultaneously
    • Flexibility to work any shift

    Starting rate: $42.97 per hour

      Apply