ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Senior Photographer Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

CYNWAVE Solutions

Senior Writer

Falls Church, VA · On-site

The Senior Writer leads updates to the Strategic Communication Plan and the Monthly Status Report and works day-to-day alongside a Photographer/Videographer and Multimedia Designer as a single onsite ...

CYNWAVE Solutions

Senior Writer

Falls Church, VA · On-site

The Senior Writer leads updates to the Strategic Communication Plan and the Monthly Status Report and works day-to-day alongside a Photographer/Videographer and Multimedia Designer as a single onsite ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPhotographer JobsSenior Photographer JobsSenior Photographer Jobs in Reston, VA

Senior Photographer information

See Reston, VA salary details

$11.4K

$58.6K

$81.1K

How much do senior photographer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior photographer in Reston, VA is $58,650.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,700.00 and $72,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a senior photographer?

Senior Photographers are experienced professionals who specialize in capturing high-quality images for various purposes, such as events, portraits, commercial projects, or artistic endeavors. They often lead photography teams, oversee photo shoots, and handle post-processing and editing. Senior Photographers are expected to have strong technical skills, creative vision, and a portfolio demonstrating their expertise. In addition to taking photographs, they may mentor junior photographers and collaborate with clients to ensure the desired outcome.

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

To thrive as a Senior Photographer, you need expert-level proficiency in photography techniques, composition, and lighting, often backed by a degree in photography or extensive professional experience. Mastery of DSLR and mirrorless cameras, image editing software such as Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom, and knowledge of digital asset management systems are typically required. Strong creative vision, attention to detail, and excellent communication skills set standout photographers apart when collaborating with clients and teams. These skills and qualities are crucial for consistently delivering high-quality imagery that meets client expectations and project goals.

What opportunities for creative input and collaboration can a senior photographer expect when working with clients and creative teams?

As a Senior Photographer, you can expect to have significant creative input in shaping the visual direction of projects. You will often collaborate closely with art directors, stylists, and clients to conceptualize shoots, select locations, and decide on lighting and composition. This role typically involves mentoring junior photographers and coordinating with post-production teams to ensure the final images meet the client’s vision. Frequent communication and teamwork are key, and your expertise will often guide the creative decision-making process throughout the project lifecycle.

What is the difference between Senior Photographer vs Commercial Photographer?

AspectSenior PhotographerCommercial Photographer
CredentialsPortfolio, experience, possibly certificationsPortfolio, experience, possibly certifications
Work EnvironmentStudios, on-location shoots, agenciesAdvertising agencies, brands, studios
Industry UsageAdvertising, fashion, editorialAdvertising, product, corporate
Primary FocusLeadership, advanced techniques, mentoringClient needs, commercial projects, branding

While both roles require strong photography skills and experience, a Senior Photographer often leads projects and mentors others, whereas a Commercial Photographer focuses on creating images for advertising and branding purposes. The roles overlap in credentials and work environments but differ in their primary focus and responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Photographer jobs in Reston, VA?

The most popular types of Photographer jobs in Reston, VA are:

What are popular job titles related to Senior Photographer jobs in Reston, VA?

For Senior Photographer jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Senior Photographer jobs in Reston, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Senior Photographer jobs in Reston, VA are:

What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Senior Photographer jobs?

Cities near Reston, VA with the most Senior Photographer job openings:

Senior Photographer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Photographer job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 60% Full Time, 31% Part Time, 4% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,650 per year, or $28.2 per hour.

Senior Photographer (Part Time)

Washington, DC • On-site

FedWriters, Inc.
Document Preparation and Secretarial Services • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about FedWriters, Inc.external

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Overview

Join our team as a Senior Photographer and support the U.S. Department of Labor's Office of Public Affairs (OPA) by capturing high-profile events, portraits, and mission-critical imagery. You will document summits, leadership events, and official portraits, ensure every image meets professional photojournalistic and archival standards.

FWI is expanding rapidly and has been recognized as a 2024 and 2025 Top Workplace by the Washington Post, offering excellent growth opportunities in a collaborative environment.

**Position is contingent upon contract award**

Work Schedule and Location:

On-Site: This part-time on-site position will work approximately 5 hours a week at DOL's Frances Perkins Building (FPB) headquarters in Washington, DC.

Responsibilities
  • Photograph summits, meetings, retreats, internal programs, portraits, and passport-style photos in a photojournalistic style
  • Stage participants and select lighting, exposure, and filters for optimal results
  • Digitally process and correct images using Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom
  • Log, archive, and maintain event files, including metadata tagging per industry (IPTC) standards
  • Perform quality control on internally and externally produced photo work
  • Track, fulfill, and distribute photo requests across the department and external stakeholders
  • Build and maintain stock photography collections, from planning through final execution
Qualifications

Required: 

  • Minimum 10 years of professional experience photographing portraits, live/stage events, and facility tours in a photojournalistic style
  • Ability to work independently with minimal guidance and interact with senior/high-level officials
  • Proficiency in Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Lightroom, Microsoft Office, and Adobe Acrobat
  • Portfolio demonstrating advanced photography and photojournalistic skill (single-subject, group, editorial, and podium shots)

Desired: 

  • Experience building and maintaining a stock photography library program
  • Prior experience supporting a federal public affairs or creative services function
Why Join Our Team

At FWI, we place the highest importance on creating an exceptional employee experience. You'll have opportunities to achieve your career aspirations through internal promotions, professional development, and other recognition and rewards programs. Join our team and take advantage of the many benefits we offer, including:

  • Health Insurance
  • Dental Insurance
  • Vision Insurance
  • Long-term and Short-term Disability Insurance
  • Life Insurance
  • 401(k) Plan
  • Holiday Pay
  • Paid Time Off

FWI is an Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/vets. 

Pay Range

Negotiable

Employment Type: PART_TIME

Apply