Photographers photograph persons, subjects, merchandise, or other commercial products. They may develop negatives and produce finished prints.  Sample job titles include: photographer, photojournalist, newspaper photographer, newspaper photojournalist, advertising photographer, news photographer, photo editor, sports photographer, and studio photographer.

Average Salary:

$29,440

Average Hours (per week):

Working conditions for photographers vary considerably. Some photographers may work a 5-day, 40-hour week. News photographers, however, often work long, irregular hours and must be available to work on short notice. Many photographers work part time or on variable schedules.   60 percent of photographers are self-employed and 28 percent are employed in professional, scientific, and technical services.

Union:

None

Certifications:

None

Training Period:

Entry-level positions in photojournalism or in industrial or scientific photography generally require a college degree in photography or in a field related to the industry in which the photographer seeks employment. Entry-level freelance or portrait photographers need technical proficiency. Some complete a college degree or vocational training programs. Photographers wishing to enter the news business can often find an internship with a publishing entity, where they can develop a real-life portfolio, get experience and develop contacts.

Strongest Market(s):

Demand for portrait photographers should increase as the population grows. Growth of Internet versions of magazines, journals, and newspapers will require increasing numbers of commercial photographers to provide digital images. The Internet and improved data management programs also should make it easier for freelancers to market directly to their customers, increasing opportunities for self-employment and decreasing reliance on stock photo agencies. This allows the photographer more freedom to work and live virtually anywhere, depending on the particular subjects they are shooting.

Entry Level Salary:

Entry level salaries for qualified individuals range from $8.14 to $9.91 per hour.

Top Salary:

$62,430

Job Growth Forecast:

Growth is expected to be average nationally over the next decade at 7 to 13 percent.

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