Photographer Salary (2025)
Photographers capture images for artistic, commercial, or journalistic purposes.
Salary Range
Median: $40,170 — positioned between entry and senior
Top Paying States for Photographers
| State | Est. Annual Salary | vs. National |
|---|---|---|
| Hawaii | $57,000 | +42% |
| California | $55,000 | +37% |
| New York | $51,000 | +27% |
| Alaska | $50,000 | +24% |
| Massachusetts | $50,000 | +24% |
| New Jersey | $48,000 | +19% |
| Connecticut | $47,000 | +17% |
| Washington | $46,000 | +15% |
Estimates based on cost-of-living index adjustments. Actual salaries vary by employer and experience.
How to Become a Photographer
Most Photographer positions require: Bachelor's in Photography or self-taught. Salaries typically increase significantly with experience and specialization.
Photographer Salary by State
Related Careers in Creative
People Also Search For
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average Photographer salary?
The median Photographer salary is $40,170 per year, which works out to approximately $19/hour based on a 40-hour work week.
How much does an entry-level Photographer make?
Entry-level Photographers typically earn around $25,000 per year. Salaries grow significantly with experience and specialization.
What is a senior Photographer's salary?
Experienced Photographers can earn up to $70,000 or more annually depending on location, employer, and specialization.
What education is required to become a Photographer?
Most Photographer positions require: Bachelor's in Photography or self-taught.