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Underwater Photography Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Underwater Mechanix UMX

Commercial Diver

Jacksonville, FL · On-site

$25 - $28/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 ...

UMX Underwater Mechanics

Commercial Diver

Norfolk, VA

$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 ...

Underwater Mechanix UMX

Commercial Diver

Norfolk, VA · On-site

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

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 ...

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 ...

Marriott

Naturalist

Dana Point, CA

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 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

Santa Barbara, 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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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Underwater Photography information

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$9

$20

$37

How much do underwater photography jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for underwater photography 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 qualifications do you need to be an underwater photographer?

To become an underwater photographer, you typically need photography skills, knowledge of underwater equipment, and certification in scuba diving such as PADI or NAUI. Experience with underwater environments and safety training are also important for working safely and effectively in this field.

How to get into underwater photography?

To pursue underwater photography as a career, develop photography skills, learn about marine environments, and acquire underwater camera equipment with appropriate housings. Gaining certifications in diving, such as PADI Open Water, can also be beneficial for safety and access to underwater locations.

What Are Jobs in Underwater Photography?

Jobs in underwater photography involve taking images of shipwrecks, marine life, and other underwater objects. This job frequently requires a scuba diving certification, waterproof equipment, and specialized techniques to help get great photographs in areas with unusual lighting. Many photographers work as either independent contractors who sell photos to publications or as full-time employees for companies that need lots of underwater images, such as scientific research organizations. Underwater photography often interacts with marine life and occasionally traveling with other divers of varying experience levels. You may also spend some time as a diving instructor, with photography as an additional part of your primary job. This dual-role is particularly common in tourist-heavy areas where taking underwater photos of clients can support your business.

What is the difference between Underwater Photography vs Underwater Videography?

AspectUnderwater PhotographyUnderwater Videography
CredentialsPhotography certifications, diving certificationsVideography certifications, diving certifications
Work EnvironmentUnderwater locations, marine settingsUnderwater locations, marine settings
Industry UsageMarine research, tourism, mediaFilm production, documentaries, media

Both underwater photography and underwater videography require diving skills and marine environment knowledge. The main difference lies in the output: photography captures still images, while videography records moving footage. Professionals often overlap in skills, but their equipment and techniques differ based on the medium they specialize in.

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 strong photography skills, a deep understanding of marine environments, and diving certifications such as PADI or SSI. Mastery of underwater camera equipment, strobes, and editing software like Adobe Lightroom is typically required. Creativity, attention to detail, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are valuable soft skills in this field. These competencies ensure safe, high-quality image capture in challenging underwater conditions and help produce compelling photographic work.

What is underwater photography?

Underwater photography is the process of capturing images while submerged in water, typically in oceans, lakes, or swimming pools. It involves using specialized waterproof cameras or housings to protect the equipment from water damage. Underwater photographers often document marine life, underwater landscapes, or human activities beneath the surface. This field requires knowledge of diving or snorkeling, understanding of light behavior underwater, and expertise in photographic techniques tailored to aquatic environments.

What are some common challenges underwater photographers face, and how can they prepare for them?

Underwater photographers often encounter challenges such as limited visibility, varying light conditions, and the need to manage buoyancy while handling delicate camera equipment. To prepare, it's important to become proficient in diving skills, invest in reliable waterproof housing for your camera, and understand how light behaves underwater to adjust your camera settings accordingly. Collaborating with dive guides and marine biologists can also help locate subjects and ensure responsible practices. Regular equipment maintenance and practicing in different underwater environments will further build confidence and adaptability.

How much does an underwater photographer make?

Underwater photographers typically earn between $30,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the type of assignments. Freelance photographers may have variable income based on project volume and client demand, while those working for media or tourism companies often have steady salaries and benefits.

How to get a job as an underwater photographer?

To become an underwater photographer, develop strong photography skills, gain experience with underwater equipment and diving certifications such as PADI or NAUI, and build a professional portfolio. Networking within the industry and applying to freelance or agency positions can also help secure employment in this specialized field.
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Underwater Photography jobs near you
Infographic showing various Underwater Photography job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 9% Temporary, and 9% Contract. Highlights an 73% In-person, and 27% 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

Posted 23 days ago

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