Photographers
Photograph people, landscapes, merchandise, or other subjects. May use lighting equipment to enhance a subject's appearance. May use editing software to produce finished images and prints. Includes commercial and industrial photographers, scientific photographers, and photojournalists.
SOC: 27-4021.00
Common Job Titles
Commercial PhotographerPhotographerPhotojournalistPortrait Photographer
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Photographers (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
51,230
Wage Distribution by Percentile
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $29,610 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $94,760 |
| Workers on average earn | $55,650 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Customer and Personal Service4.7/5
- Sales and Marketing4.5/5
- Computers and Electronics4.2/5
- Administration and Management3.9/5
- English Language3.7/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
Adobe AcrobatAdobe After EffectsAdobe Creative Cloud softwareAdobe IllustratorAdobe InDesignAdobe PhotoshopApple macOSFacebookIntuit QuickBooksMicrosoft AccessMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft WordWordPress
Technology Skills
Adobe Photoshop LightroomApple Final Cut ProBlinkbidCradoc fotoBizEmail softwareGenbookGoogle DriveHindSight InView
Tools & Equipment
Board reflectorsBubble machinesCamera cleaning brushesCamera flash attachmentsCamera positioning tripodsComputer inkjet printersComputer laser printersContact print frames