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Underwater Photographer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Underwater Mechanix UMX

Commercial Diver

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$30 - $38/hr

Perform underwater inspection of piles, fenders, sheet pile walls, submerged structures, and seabed conditions with written and photographic documentation. * Conduct underwater cutting, welding, and ...

Leisnoi, Inc.

UXO Diver

Anchorage, AK · On-site

Underwater Hazard Identification: Conduct underwater surveys and search operations to detect ... Document findings, site conditions, and operational outcomes with detailed written and photographic ...

Leisnoi Incorporated

UXO Diver

Underwater Hazard Identification: Conduct underwater surveys and search operations to detect ... Document findings, site conditions, and operational outcomes with detailed written and photographic ...

Marriott International

Naturalist

Dana Point, CA · On-site

$24.50/hr

POSITION SUMMARY Lead programs for kids, youth, adults, families, and group activities, such as snorkeling, kayaking, underwater photography and videography, botanic park (terrestrial) tours ...

Marriott

Naturalist

Dana Point, CA · On-site

POSITION SUMMARY Lead programs for kids, youth, adults, families, and group activities, such as snorkeling, kayaking, underwater photography and videography, botanic park (terrestrial) tours ...

Premier Marine Detailing

Diver

Melbourne, FL · On-site

... photos, quality audits * Growth: Clear advancement, cross-training (docks, moorings, salvage), and leadership opportunities. Ready to build a real career underwater? Apply today. Watch this short ...

Premier Marine Detailing

Diver

Melbourne, FL · On-site

... photos, quality audits * Growth: Clear advancement, cross-training (docks, moorings, salvage), and leadership opportunities. Ready to build a real career underwater? Apply today. Watch this short ...

Leisnoi Incorporated

Commercial Diver

Perform underwater inspections, photographic/video documentation, and light maintenance. * Repairs: Execute mechanical and structural repairs below water to client and regulatory standards

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Underwater Photographer information

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How much do underwater photographer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for underwater 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 Underwater Photographer vs Marine Photographer?

AspectUnderwater PhotographerMarine Photographer
CredentialsPhotography skills, possibly certifications in diving or underwater safetyPhotography skills, possibly certifications in marine biology or diving
Work EnvironmentUnderwater settings, often in oceans, lakes, or reefsBoth underwater and surface marine environments, including boats, docks, or coastal areas
Industry UsageMedia, tourism, research, advertisingResearch, journalism, conservation, media

Underwater Photographers focus on capturing images beneath the water surface, often requiring diving certifications. Marine Photographers may work both above and below water, with a broader focus on marine environments. While both roles involve underwater photography, the Underwater Photographer specializes exclusively in underwater settings, making their skills more specialized for underwater conditions.

How do you become an underwater photographer?

To become an underwater photographer, develop photography skills and gain experience with underwater equipment such as waterproof cameras and housings. Obtain relevant certifications like open water diver certification and practice in various underwater environments to build a portfolio and improve technical proficiency.

What is an underwater photographer?

Underwater photographers are professionals who specialize in capturing images and videos beneath the surface of water, including oceans, lakes, and rivers. They use specialized waterproof cameras and equipment to document marine life, underwater landscapes, and sometimes people or objects in aquatic environments. This career often combines skills in photography, diving, and marine biology to produce compelling visual content for scientific research, media, tourism, or artistic purposes. Underwater photographers must also be knowledgeable about safety protocols and environmental conservation. Their work helps raise awareness about underwater ecosystems and can be seen in magazines, documentaries, and online platforms.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an underwater photographer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Underwater Photographer, you need proficiency in photography, a strong understanding of marine environments, and relevant diving certifications. Familiarity with underwater camera gear, lighting equipment, and photo editing software is important for capturing high-quality images. Creativity, attention to detail, and adaptability help set exceptional underwater photographers apart. These skills ensure stunning, safe, and technically sound photos in challenging underwater conditions.

How much do underwater photographers make?

Underwater photographers' earnings vary based on experience, location, and clients, with many earning between $30,000 and $70,000 annually. Professional underwater photographers often supplement income through freelance work, licensing images, or working on commercial projects, and strong skills in photography and diving are essential for higher earnings.

What are some unique challenges underwater photographers face during a typical shoot?

Underwater photographers often encounter challenges such as managing limited natural light, dealing with water clarity and visibility, and handling the effects of currents or waves on stability and equipment. Additionally, they must ensure their camera housing is completely sealed to prevent water damage, and they need to be skilled in diving techniques for safety and compositional flexibility. Collaborating with marine biologists or dive teams is also common to locate specific subjects and ensure responsible interactions with marine life.

Are there jobs for underwater photographers?

Underwater photographers can find employment in industries such as marine research, tourism, media, and advertising. These roles often require specialized diving skills, photography equipment, and sometimes certifications like PADI or NAUI. Opportunities may be freelance or with organizations that operate in aquatic environments.
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Underwater Photographer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Underwater Photographer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% As Needed, 50% Full Time, 40% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,345 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

PADI Divemaster / Dive Guide

Dive Kauai Scuba Center Inc

Koloa, HI • On-site

$800 - $2.5K/mo

Full-time

Medical

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Dive Kauai Scuba Center | Koloa, Kauai

Looking for more than just another Divemaster job?

Dive Kauai Scuba Center has been creating unforgettable underwater adventures on Kauai for more than 24 years. We're looking for enthusiastic, guest-focused PADI Divemasters who love introducing people to the underwater world while creating exceptional vacation experiences.

This position is perfect for someone who enjoys guiding certified divers, leading Discover Scuba Diving experiences, interacting with guests from around the world, and working as part of a professional, high-energy team.

This is a hospitality position first and foremost. Every interaction is an opportunity to create lifelong memories while representing one of Kauai's premier dive operations.

What You'll Do
  • Guide certified scuba divers on both shore and boat dives.
  • Conduct resort pool demonstrations and Discover Scuba Diving experiences (DSD Leader certification or willingness to obtain).
  • Assist instructors during certification courses.
  • Serve as an underwater photographer on scuba, snorkeling, and other ocean adventures.
  • Capture memorable guest photos and videos both above and below the water.
  • Prepare equipment, tanks, vehicles, and paperwork for daily operations.
  • Assist with rental equipment maintenance and daily dive shop operations.
  • Recommend additional diving experiences, tours, and retail merchandise.
  • Deliver exceptional customer service while maintaining the highest safety standards.

    • Minimum Qualifications

    Applicants must:
  • Be a current PADI Divemaster or higher.
  • Be in good standing with PADI.
  • Be legally authorized to work in the United States.
  • Hold current CPR and First Aid certifications.
  • Carry (or be able to obtain before your first day) DAN Professional Liability Insurance.
  • Own a complete set of professional scuba equipment.
  • Pass preemployment and random drug testing.
  • Hold a valid driver's license with a clean driving record.
  • Be comfortable driving company vans and transporting dive equipment.
  • Lift and carry equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.
  • Be available to work weekends, holidays, and peak tourism seasons.
    • Preferred Qualifications
  • Current DSD Leader qualification.
  • Underwater photography experience.
  • Boat diving experience.
  • Experience working in hospitality, tourism, or customer service.
  • Knowledge of Kauai dive sites.
  • Interest in becoming a PADI Instructor.
    • Compensation & Benefits
  • Competitive pay
  • Generous gratuities.
  • Health insurance (eligible employees).
  • Employee activity benefits.
  • Professional and supportive work environment.
  • Yearround employment opportunities.
  • Consistent scheduling with opportunities for advancement.
    • Availability Requirements

    We operate seven days a week throughout the year.

    Applicants must be available to work:
  • Weekends and holidays.
  • June through September.
  • December 15 through January 15.

    • These are our busiest seasons, and time-off requests during these blackout periods generally cannot be accommodated.

    Why Join Dive Kauai?

    You'll work alongside an experienced team dedicated to providing safe, memorable ocean adventures for thousands of guests every year. If you're passionate about scuba diving, enjoy meeting people from around the world, and want to grow your career in the dive industry while living on one of the most beautiful islands on Earth, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply