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Second Photographer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Gray Television

PHOTOGRAPHER/EDITOR - KGNS

Laredo, TX · On-site

... and/or second highest rated television station in average all-day ratings across 116 of such ... The photographer/editor shoots and edits videos of various news events and is responsible for ...

GRAY TELEVISION

PHOTOGRAPHER/EDITOR - KGNS

Laredo, TX · On-site

... and/or second highest rated television station in average all-day ratings across 116 of such ... The photographer/editor shoots and edits videos of various news events and is responsible for ...

Tribune Media

News Photographer

Rochester, NY · On-site

$16 - $18.50/hr

Rochester, NY, ranked as the nation's second most affordable housing market, offers an exceptional ... Proven experience in news photography, editing, and multi-platform content creation * Demonstrated ...

WOWK-TV

News Photographer

Rochester, NY · On-site

$16 - $18.50/hr

Rochester, NY, ranked as the nation's second most affordable housing market, offers an exceptional ... Proven experience in news photography, editing, and multi-platform content creation * Demonstrated ...

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Second Photographer information

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$9

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$37

How much do second photographer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 23, 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.
Automotive Dealership Photographer - Houston, TX - Full Time

Automotive Dealership Photographer - Houston, TX - Full Time

CarData

Houston, TX • On-site

$1.5K - $2.0K/mo

Full-time

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

Position & Location: Field Service Representative "Automotive Photographer" in Houston, TX


What is a Field Service Representative?: A Field Service Representative "Automotive Photographer" is a hard working, highly motivated, energetic & organized team player! You will be given the opportunity to build & manage relationships with our clients as you handle their most important asset (Online Vehicle Showroom).


Please review this 5 Minute video to see exactly what this position entails: https://youtu.be/GGyYD3y87e4?si=CQDxSjDE2HfsSFF5


Pay Structure:

  • Performance Based Commissions & Bonuses [This is NOT a salary or Hourly Position!] - You get paid for every vehicle you process/photograph.
  • Pay Dates are every 1st & 16th via Direct Deposit.
  • All Gas is Fully reimbursed


Specific Pay Details for this position:

  • You can expect to make anywhere from $1,500 - $2,000Monthly (Not counting any Performance based Bonuses)
  • Schedule: Monday - Friday; Start Time 9AM; End time dependent upon workload for the day


Responsibilities & Qualifications for Field Service Representative

  • Excellent communication skills [If it takes you longer than 1 hour to respond to a text message, this isn't the position for you.]
  • Able to maintain quality of work in an independent environment.
  • This position requires the ability to be on your feet and enter/exit vehicles with ease.
  • Photograph, Video & apply window labels to new and pre-owned vehicles.
  • Must have a reliable vehicle [If you can't drive to clients you can't work!]
  • Clean license. Only clean driving records will be considered.


Who are we?: CarData, Inc. is an Internet Merchandising company that services car dealerships. We provide photos, videos, 360 virtual walkarounds & data collection services to dealerships that utilize our services to then promote the sales of cars on their websites and hundreds of third-party websites such as Autotrader, Cars.com & more. Everything an online car shopper sees on the web for one of our clients concerning the merchandising of inventory is powered by our system, processes & certified field service representatives.


Why CarData?: If you are tired of being behind a desk or in a cubicle & want the freedom of working outdoors while helping clients & team members achieve their goals then this could be the career for you! Your hard work & dedication will not go unnoticed and as a rapidly growing company there are always opportunities for growth!


FAQ:

Q - How many visits will I be making per day?

A - 1Dealerships per day

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Q - How does the commission structure work?

A - Your core duties will be to take photos, videos & apply window labels to vehicles. You get paid for every vehicle you take photos, videos & apply window labels to. So someone who does 10 vehicles makes more $ in commissions than someone who does 2 vehicles.

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Q - Approximately how many miles will I be driving per day?

A - Every route is different but the typical daily mileage will be around 50-60 Total Round Trip Miles [From Your Home to the Locations & Back Home]. We can give you exact details during the 2nd phase of our interview process.

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Q - How many cars per day will I be doing?

A - Every dealership has a different "flow" of inventory so the exact # of vehicles is not known on a day to day basis. If you visit ABC Autos on Monday they may only have 2 vehicles to take photos of BUT when you go back on Thursday they could have 19 vehicles to take photos of because they just purchased from auction or otherwise got cars in.

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