1

Underwater Photography Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

... underwater, ground, air, and space. Duties/Responsibilities Evaluates requirements, proposes ... ranging from photography to yoga, health and finance workshops, off site social events and ...

... underwater, ground, air, and space. Duties/Responsibilities Evaluates requirements, proposes ... ranging from photography to yoga, health and finance workshops, off site social events and ...

... underwater, ground, air, and space. Duties/Responsibilities * Evaluates requirements, proposes ... ranging from photography to yoga, health and finance workshops, off site social events and ...

Underwater Photography information

See Reston, VA salary details

$10

$21

$38

How much do underwater photography jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for underwater photography in Reston, VA is $21.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $22.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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.

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 qualifications do you need to be an underwater photographer?

Underwater photographers typically need strong photography skills, knowledge of diving and safety procedures, and relevant certifications such as a scuba diving license. Experience with underwater equipment and editing software also enhances their qualifications.

What are popular job titles related to Underwater Photography jobs in Reston, VA?

For Underwater Photography jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Underwater Photography jobs in Reston, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Underwater Photography jobs in Reston, VA are:

What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Underwater Photography jobs?

Cities near Reston, VA with the most Underwater Photography job openings:

Infographic showing various Underwater Photography job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,054 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

Principal Guidance & Control Engineer

Draper

Reston, VA • On-site, Remote

$95K - $245K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Overview:

Draper is an independent, nonprofit research and development company headquartered in Cambridge, MA. The 2,000+ employees of Draper tackle important national challenges with a promise of delivering successful and usable solutions. From military defense and space exploration to biomedical engineering, lives often depend on the solutions we provide. Our multidisciplinary teams of engineers and scientists work in a collaborative environment that inspires the cross-fertilization of ideas necessary for true innovation. For more information about Draper, visit www.draper.com.

Job Description Summary:

The Principal Guidance and Control Engineer develops software for cutting-edge space and defense systems used by the US Government and commercial customers as well as internal R&D projects. A Guidance and Control (G&C) Engineer develops, integrates, and deploys advanced G&C algorithms and software for systems able to operate in complex environments such as underwater, ground, air, and space.

Job Description:

Duties/Responsibilities
Evaluates requirements, proposes solutions, explores design trades to support a design.
Designs algorithms using modern theory and proven techniques.
Develops embedded software based on prototype algorithms.
Analyzes designs to demonstrate performance and functionality.
Develops and executes software tests to check compliance with requirements.
Evaluates results to establish problem causes and develop solutions for inefficient or problems.
Prepares technical data, procedures, reports, drawings, manuals, and other required documentation.
Communicates with customers and stakeholders to establish requirements and describe the design and deliverables.
Guidance & Control Subject Matter Expert, deep understanding of domain and customer mission areas.
Leads with humility and respect, and diverse perspectives to foster an inclusive environment.
Performs other duties as assigned.
Skills/Abilities
Strong MATLAB, Simulink, Python, C/C++ skills.
Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Knowledge of real-time software development tools.
Knowledge of project execution, designing, developing, and validating real-time algorithms and software.
Familiarity with trajectory optimization, optimal control, and similar techniques.
Strong leadership and team management skills.
Ability to motivate and develop a team of professionals.
Excellent technical judgment, strong written and oral communication skills, and a practical, common-sense approach to getting things done.
Knowledge of modern software development lifecycles, standards, processes, and tools.
Clearly communicates work assignments to team members.
Tracks priorities, scope, schedule, and cost.
Education
Bachelor's Degree in Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field is required.

Masters or PhD in a related field is preferred.
Experience
10-15 years of relevant Engineering experience is required.

Additional Job Description:

Applicants selected for this position will be required to obtain and maintain a government security clearance. Secret clearance is preferred.

Connect With Draper for Future Opportunities! If you don't find the right posting in our Career Opportunities, you may submit your resume for future consideration.

Job Location - City:

Cambridge

Job Location - State:

Massachusetts

Job Location - Postal Code:

02139-3563

The US base salary range for this full-time position is

$95,000.00 - $245,000.00

Our salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed on each job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target salaries for the position across all US locations. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Union ranges will be in compliance with the collective bargaining agreement's approved rates by location and role. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range for your preferred location during the hiring process.Please note that the compensation details listed in US role postings reflect the base salary only, and does not include bonuses or benefits.

Our work is very important to us, but so is our life outside of work. Draper supports many programs to improve work-life balance including workplace flexibility, employee clubs ranging from photography to yoga, health and finance workshops, off site social events and discounts to local museums and cultural activities. If this specific job opportunity and the chance to work at a nationally renowned R&D innovation company appeals to you, apply now www.draper.com/careers.

Draper is committed to creating an inclusive environment. We understand the value of inclusivity and its impact on a high-performance culture. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Draper is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, please contact hr@draper.com.