ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Professional Sports Photography Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Picture Pros Photography

Be Seen First

Youth Sports Photographer and Sales Representative

Oceanside, CA · On-site

$375 - $2.7K/wk

Organize athletes and coaches efficiently for team photography * Capture sharp, professional images ... Sports photography * Youth sports * Coaching or officiating * Retail * Hospitality * Customer ...

SIGNATURE IMAGES

School and Sports Photographer

Mesa, AZ · On-site

$18 - $23/hr

Paid time off School & Sports Photographer - Signature Images (East Valley, AZ) Position Overview ... Transport and handle photography equipment safely and professionally * Troubleshoot basic equipment ...

SIGNATURE IMAGES

School and Sports Photographer

Mesa, AZ · On-site

$18 - $23/hr

School & Sports Photographer - Signature Images (East Valley, AZ) Position Overview Signature ... Transport and handle photography equipment safely and professionally * Troubleshoot basic equipment ...

SIGNATURE IMAGES

School and Sports Photographer

Mesa, AZ · On-site

$18 - $23/hr

School & Sports Photographer - Signature Images (East Valley, AZ) Position Overview Signature ... Transport and handle photography equipment safely and professionally * Troubleshoot basic equipment ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsProfessional Sports Photography Jobs

Professional Sports Photography information

See salary details

$8

$19

$24

How much do professional sports photography jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for professional sports photography 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 professional sports photography?

Professional sports photography is the specialized practice of capturing high-quality images of sporting events, athletes, and related activities. It involves using advanced camera equipment and techniques to freeze fast-paced action, highlight key moments, and convey the excitement of the sport. Sports photographers often work for media outlets, sports teams, or as freelancers, and may cover everything from local matches to international tournaments. Their work is used in newspapers, magazines, online publications, and promotional materials.

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

To thrive as a Professional Sports Photographer, you need expertise in photography fundamentals, a strong understanding of sports action, and often a relevant degree or portfolio demonstrating your work. Proficiency with advanced camera equipment, photo editing software like Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop, and knowledge of digital asset management systems is essential. Quick reflexes, creativity, and excellent communication skills help capture dynamic moments and collaborate with editors or clients. These skills ensure the ability to consistently deliver high-quality, impactful images in fast-paced and unpredictable sports environments.

What are some common challenges professional sports photographers face during live events, and how can they overcome them?

Professional sports photographers often face challenges such as fast-paced action, unpredictable lighting, and restricted access to certain areas of venues. To overcome these, they must have a deep understanding of their equipment, anticipate key moments, and adapt quickly to changing conditions. Building strong relationships with event organizers and athletes can also help secure better positions for capturing shots. Continuous practice and staying updated with the latest technology are essential for producing high-quality images in challenging environments.

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

AspectProfessional Sports PhotographySports Photojournalist
CredentialsPhotography skills, portfolio, sometimes certificationsPhotography skills, journalism background, sometimes certifications
Work EnvironmentSports events, stadiums, training sessionsSports events, press conferences, editorial settings
Employer & IndustrySports teams, agencies, media outletsMedia outlets, newspapers, magazines
Search & Comparison IntentFocus on capturing sports moments professionallyFocus on storytelling and reporting through images

While both roles involve sports photography, Professional Sports Photography emphasizes capturing high-quality images of sports events for commercial or promotional purposes. Sports Photojournalists focus on documenting sports stories, often with a journalistic approach, combining photography with storytelling for media outlets.

How to get into professional sports photography?

To pursue a career in professional sports photography, develop strong photography skills, build a portfolio of sports images, and gain experience by volunteering or assisting at sporting events. Familiarity with fast shutter speeds, telephoto lenses, and editing software is essential, and networking within sports organizations can help secure opportunities.

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 event organizers. Success in this field often requires strong technical skills, specialized equipment, and the ability to work flexible hours during sporting seasons and events.

What are the career opportunities in professional sports photography?

Career opportunities in professional sports photography include working as a team photographer, freelance photographer, or media photographer for sports organizations, media outlets, or agencies. These roles often require strong technical skills, knowledge of sports events, and the ability to work under tight deadlines, with opportunities to specialize in areas like action, portrait, or event photography.
More about Professional Sports Photography jobs

What cities are hiring for Professional Sports Photography jobs?

Cities with the most Professional Sports Photography job openings:

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

The most popular types of Sports Photography jobs are:

What states have the most Professional Sports Photography jobs?

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

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

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

Professional Sports Photography jobs near you
Infographic showing various Professional Sports Photography job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,815 per year, or $19.6 per hour.

Sports Photography Division Manager

G&B Photography

Enfield, CT • On-site

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

G&B Photography is Hiring Immediately for a Sports Photography Division Manager.
We are seeking a highly organized, detail-oriented, and energetic professional to lead our Sports Photography Division. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, enjoys working directly with schools and athletic programs, and is comfortable both behind the camera and in a coordination-focused role.
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM-4:00 PM
Position: Full-Time, Benefits Included
Responsibilities
• Schedule and coordinate team days and action days with photographers and athletic directors
• Communicate directly with schools to provide excellent customer service and support
• Manage and maintain sports and event schedules
• Enter and update all events and scheduling information in company systems
• Upload and manage sports photography images on the company website
• Photograph sports events and team sessions as needed (this is a hands-on photography role)
• Ensure accuracy and attention to detail in all scheduling and data entry tasks
• Work efficiently in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment
Qualifications
• Strong organizational and communication skills
• Experience in photography is required (sports photography experience preferred)
• Comfortable working directly with schools, athletic directors, and staff
• Ability to multitask and manage multiple schedules simultaneously
• Detail-oriented with strong data entry and computer skills
• Must be able to work in a fast-paced environment and adapt quickly to changes
If you are passionate about sports, photography, and working closely with schools to create a smooth and successful photography experience, we'd love to hear from you!
Apply today!

Apply