ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Second Photographer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Walt Disney Company

Photographer

Lake Buena Vista, FL

$20.10 - $25.15/hr

Serve as Second Shooter for large weddings * Create creative and unique images * Photograph small weddings as the primary contact * Shoot portrait sessions * Photograph product and promotional images ...

Buffalo Bills

Photographer

Orchard Park, NY · On-site

Terry and Kim Pegula purchased the Buffalo Bills in 2014 and are only the second owners in the team ... The Team Photographer will be responsible for photographing, editing, archiving, ideating, and ...

AEG

Photographer

Orchard Park, NY · On-site

Terry and Kim Pegula purchased the Buffalo Bills in 2014 and are only the second owners in the team ... The Team Photographer will be responsible for photographing, editing, archiving, ideating, and ...

The Buffalo Bills

Photographer

Orchard Park, NY

Terry and Kim Pegula purchased the Buffalo Bills in 2014 and are only the second owners in the team ... The Team Photographer will be responsible for photographing, editing, archiving, ideating, and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsSecond Photographer Jobs

Second Photographer information

See salary details

$9

$20

$37

How much do second photographer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 22, 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 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.

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. For a second photographer, this means prioritizing key moments and essential shots to maximize efficiency during events like weddings or portraits.

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.

How to be a second photographer?

To become a second photographer, you should develop strong photography skills, gain experience by assisting or working as an apprentice to a lead photographer, and build a portfolio showcasing your work. Familiarity with camera equipment, editing software, and understanding of event or portrait photography are also important. Networking within the industry can help you find opportunities for paid or assistant roles.

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.

How much do 2nd photographers make?

Second photographers typically earn between $25,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the type of events they cover. They often work alongside lead photographers at weddings, events, or commercial shoots and may receive additional compensation for overtime or travel.

What other jobs can a photographer do?

Photographers can transition into roles such as photo editors, studio managers, or photography instructors, utilizing their skills in image composition, editing software, and client interaction. They may also work in related fields like videography, visual content creation, or commercial imaging, often requiring knowledge of editing tools and equipment operation.

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.

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.

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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 7% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,345 per year, or $20.4 per hour.
Student Photographer - Federal Work Study

Student Photographer - Federal Work Study

University of North Georgia

Dahlonega, GA • On-site

Part-time

Posted 19 days ago

University Of North Georgia rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

429th of 539 rated colleges and universities

Job description

About Us
Located in the fastest-growing region of the state, the University of North Georgia is a multi-campus university with an enrollment of over 20,000 students, making it one of the largest institutions in the University System of Georgia. UNG is focused on a mission of educational excellence, leadership development and community engagement opportunities that develop students into leaders for a diverse and global society. Through a variety of educational pathways that provide access and range from certificates and associate degrees to a professional doctoral program, UNG is responsive to regional education and economic development needs. Federally designated as a senior military college, one of the university's signature leadership programs is its 800-member Corps of Cadets on UNG's Dahlonega Campus.
Job Summary
The University of North Georgia is currently accepting applications for a federal work study student in the Strategic Communications & Marketing department on the Dahlonega campus. The Federal Work-Study Student Photographer supports the Senior Content Strategist within Strategic Communications & Marketing Department by capturing compelling visual content that highlights student life and key university events. This role assists with photographing a variety of campus activities and serves as a secondary photographer for large-scale institutional events.
Responsibilities
  • Assist the Senior Content Strategist in capturing high-quality photography at student events and campus activities.
  • Serve as a second photographer at large-scale university events by capturing supplemental angles and candid moments.
  • Edit and deliver images in a timely manner while adhering to university brand standards.
  • Organize and upload photos to shared digital archives to support ongoing marketing and communications efforts.

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities
  • Strong attention to detail, creativity, and the ability to follow brand guidelines are essential.
  • Candidates should be dependable, organized, and able to manage time effectively while working both independently and as part of a team.

Required Qualifications
  • Must be enrolled at the University of North Georgia in a minimum of six (6) credit hours to qualify as a student worker.
  • Proficiency in Adobe Lightroom for photo editing and organization is required.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Basic knowledge of photography principles and experience using DSLR or mirrorless cameras is preferred.

Required Documents to Attach
  • Resume
  • Cover Letter
  • Federal Work Study Award

USG Core Values
The University System of Georgia is comprised of our 25 institutions of higher education and learning as well as the System Office. Our USG Statement of Core Values are Integrity, Excellence, Accountability, and Respect. These values serve as the foundation for all that we do as an organization, and each USG community member is responsible for demonstrating and upholding these standards. More details on the USG Statement of Core Values and Code of Conduct are available in USG Board Policy 8.2.18.1.2 and can be found on-line at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section8/C224/#p8.2.18_personnel_conduct .
Additionally, USG supports Freedom of Expression as stated in Board Policy 6.5 Freedom of Expression and Academic Freedom found on-line at https://www.usg.edu/policymanual/section6/C2653 .
Institutional Values
The University of North Georgia, a regional multi-campus institution and premier senior military college, provides a culture of academic excellence in a student-focused environment that includes quality education, service, research, and creativity. This is accomplished through broad access to comprehensive academic and co-curricular programs that develop students into leaders for a diverse and global society. The University of North Georgia is a University System of Georgia leadership institution and is The Military College of Georgia. More details on the UNG Mission, Values, Vision, and Culture can be found at https://ung.edu/about/mission-vision-values.php
Conditions of Employment
Offers of employment are contingent upon completion of a background investigation including a criminal background check demonstrating your eligibility for employment with the University of North Georgia, as determined by University of North Georgia in its sole discretion, confirmation of the credentials and employment history reflected in your application materials and, if applicable, a satisfactory credit check. Applicants may be subject to a pre-employment drug test.
Equal Employment Opportunity
The University of North Georgia, a unit of the University System of Georgia, is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, sex or national origin, age, disability, religion, genetics or veteran status. Georgia is an open records state. Also, UNG is a federal contractor and desires priority referrals of protected veterans.
Other Information
  • This is not a supervisory position.
  • This position does not have any financial responsibilities.
  • This position will not be required to drive.
  • This role is considered a position of trust.
  • This position does not require a purchasing card (P-Card).
  • This position will not travel
  • This position does not require security clearance.

Please note: the University of North Georgia career board updates daily, positions are subject to be removed without prior notice or before the posting expires.
Background Check
  • Position of Trust

Apply