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Second Photographer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CHELSEA PIERS LP

Summer Camp Photographer

Manhattan, NY · On-site

$20/hr

One photographer is based at Chelsea Piers Chelsea (targeting 1,000+ photos/week) and a second is based at Chelsea Piers Field House Brooklyn (targeting 500+ photos/week). Both interns follow the ...

Nexstar Media Group

News Photographer

Rochester, NY · On-site

$16 - $18.50/hr

WROC/RochesterFirst is hiring a News Photographer to join our award-winning team. With the ... Rochester, NY, ranked as the nation's second most affordable housing market, offers an exceptional ...

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How much do second photographer jobs pay per hour?

As of May 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for second 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 Second Photographer Do?

A second photographer, sometimes referred to as a second shooter, works with the primary photographer to assist them and take additional photos. Second shooters provide additional coverage, taking photographs from different angles. You may be in control of other elements of photography, such as the equipment and lighting. Your responsibilities and duties vary depending on the event and the photographer that you work with. You may receive a brief that outlines what you need to do.

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

To thrive as a Second Photographer, you need proficiency in photography techniques, a solid understanding of camera settings, and experience assisting lead photographers, often backed by a relevant portfolio or training. Familiarity with professional camera equipment, lighting setups, and photo editing software like Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop is typically required. Strong communication, reliability, and adaptability are valuable soft skills for efficiently supporting the primary photographer and working with clients. These skills ensure seamless event coverage, high-quality images, and a positive experience for both the lead photographer and clients.

How does a second photographer typically collaborate with the lead photographer during events or shoots?

As a second photographer, you’ll work closely with the lead photographer to ensure comprehensive coverage of an event, such as a wedding or corporate function. Your responsibilities often include capturing alternate angles, candid moments, and details the lead may miss, as well as assisting with equipment or lighting setups. Clear communication and adaptability are crucial, as you may need to quickly adjust your focus based on the lead photographer’s direction. This collaborative environment offers valuable learning opportunities and helps build your portfolio for future advancement.

What are second photographers?

Second photographers, often called second shooters, assist the primary photographer during events like weddings, corporate functions, or photo shoots. Their main role is to capture additional angles, candid moments, and details that the lead photographer may miss. This helps ensure a more comprehensive collection of images, providing clients with a richer and more varied final gallery. Second photographers also support with equipment, setting up shots, and sometimes managing logistics during the event.

What is the difference between Second Photographer vs Assistant Photographer?

AspectSecond PhotographerAssistant Photographer
CredentialsPhotography experience, portfolio, sometimes certificationsPhotography experience, basic knowledge, sometimes certifications
Work EnvironmentWorks alongside lead photographer during shoots, often on location or studioSupports lead photographer, manages equipment, sets up scenes
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in wedding, portrait, commercial photographyCommon in wedding, event, commercial photography
Primary RoleCaptures additional angles, backup shots, or specific scenesAssists with equipment, lighting, and logistical support

While both roles support photographers during shoots, the Second Photographer primarily captures additional or complementary images, whereas the Assistant Photographer focuses on supporting with equipment and setup. Understanding these differences helps clarify job expectations in photography projects.

More about Second Photographer jobs
What cities are hiring for Second Photographer jobs? Cities with the most Second Photographer job openings:
What states have the most Second Photographer jobs? States with the most job openings for Second Photographer jobs include:
Second Photographer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Second Photographer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,345 per year, or $20.4 per hour.
Student Employment - Photography Assistant

Student Employment - Photography Assistant

Ohio Northern University

Ada, OH • On-site

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Posting Details
Posting Details
Posting Number:
Stu001786
Posting Type:
Student - Open to All Current ONU Students
Job Title:
Student Employment - Photography Assistant
Position Type:
Student
Department:
Marketing and Brand Strategy
Job Summary:
In this role, the photography assistant will be responsible for helping the university photographer and digital asset manager with photo cataloging, help maintain the studio area, and help setup and execute photoshoots in the studio and at various campus locations. This is a great opportunity for a student interested in photography to gain experience working on real photo assignments.
Principal Responsibilities
Under the supervision of the university photographer, the photography assistant will perform the following duties:
  • Add keywords and photo captions to improve searchability, assist with photo cataloging
  • Create and distribute photo galleries when needed
  • Organizing and setting up camera and lighting equipment for on campus locations when an extra set of hands are needed
  • Organize and maintain equipment in the photo studio
  • Help to pose and direct clients during photo assignments
  • Students with photography interest could be mentored and could help act as a second photographer for large events on campus
  • Follow department policies and procedures
  • Come to work as scheduled by supervisor
  • Other duties as assigned

Required Skills:
  • Proactive and friendly attitude
  • Detail oriented
  • Dependability and punctuality
  • Familiarity with professional cameras is helpful
  • Familiarity with photo editing software including Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom is helpful

Minimum Qualifications:
- Must be enrolled as an ONU student
- Good academic standing
EEO Statement
ONU is an equal employment opportunity employer. Accordingly, no person shall be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, sex, gender identity, transgender status, religion, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, military or veteran status, genetic information or any other category protected by federal, state, or local law. This policy applies to all areas of employment including recruitment, hiring, training and development, promotion, transfer, compensation, benefits, discipline, separation and other terms, condition and privileges of employment.
Closing Date:
04/30/2026
Open Until Filled
Yes

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