How much does a Photographer make in Chicago, IL?
In Chicago, IL, photographers can expect to earn a competitive salary. The average yearly salary for photographers in this city is around $48,750. This figure can vary based on experience, specialization, and the type of photography one engages in.
The salary range for photographers in Chicago spans from $30,500 to $126,060 per year. Photographers with less experience or those just starting out may earn closer to the lower end of this range. As photographers gain experience and build a strong portfolio, they can see their earnings increase. Specializations such as wedding photography, commercial photography, or fine art photography can also influence salary levels. For instance, a wedding photographer may command higher fees due to the specialized nature of the work.
What are the highest paying cities for a Photographer near Chicago, IL?

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Orland Park, IL
Average Salary: $50,950
In Orland Park, a city known for its vibrant community, professionals capture the essence of local events and businesses. Opportunities exist with local marketing firms and event planners. The scenic parks and community centers offer a variety of subjects for photography.
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Joliet, IL
Average Salary: $48,062
Joliet offers a mix of urban and natural settings, providing diverse opportunities for photographers. Local businesses and event organizers often seek skilled photographers to document community events and local attractions. The city's rich history and modern developments create a dynamic backdrop for photography.
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Schaumburg, IL
Average Salary: $45,645
Schaumburg, a hub for business and technology, provides ample opportunities for photographers to work with corporate clients. The city's modern architecture and business parks offer a variety of subjects. Photographers can collaborate with marketing agencies and tech companies to create compelling visuals.
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Waukegan, IL
Average Salary: $45,467
Waukegan, with its lakeside charm and historic sites, offers unique photography opportunities. Photographers can capture the beauty of Lake Michigan and the city's rich heritage. Local businesses and tourism boards often seek photographers to highlight the area's attractions.
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Rockford, IL
Average Salary: $45,057
Rockford, known for its industrial roots and cultural scene, offers diverse photography opportunities. Photographers can work with local businesses, event organizers, and cultural institutions. The city's blend of urban and natural landscapes provides a rich variety of subjects.
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Evanston, IL
Average Salary: $43,150
Evanston, a city with a strong academic presence, offers opportunities for photographers to work with universities and educational institutions. The city's vibrant community and scenic lakefront provide a variety of subjects. Photographers can also capture the essence of local events and festivals.
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Naperville, IL
Average Salary: $42,498
Naperville, a city known for its historic architecture and modern amenities, offers diverse photography opportunities. Photographers can work with local businesses, event planners, and real estate companies. The city's blend of old and new provides a rich variety of subjects.
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Aurora, IL
Average Salary: $39,450
Aurora, with its growing population and diverse community, offers many opportunities for photographers. Local businesses, event organizers, and community groups often seek skilled photographers. The city's parks and neighborhoods provide a variety of subjects for photography.
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Skokie, IL
Average Salary: $38,000
Skokie, a city known for its vibrant community and cultural events, offers diverse photography opportunities. Photographers can work with local businesses, event organizers, and cultural institutions. The city's parks and neighborhoods provide a variety of subjects.
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Palatine, IL
Average Salary: $36,071
Palatine, a city with a mix of residential and commercial areas, offers opportunities for photographers to work with local businesses and community organizations. The city's parks and neighborhoods provide a variety of subjects. Photographers can capture the essence of local events and community life.
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What are the best paying companies for a Photographer in Chicago, IL?

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Universal Church Directories
Average Salary: $66,250
Universal Church Directories offers exciting opportunities for photographers in Chicago. They focus on capturing church events and community gatherings. Their work spans across various locations in the city, providing a diverse range of photography experiences.
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Marathonfoto
Average Salary: $60,000
Marathonfoto is a leading photography company in Chicago. They specialize in event photography, capturing moments at races and other large gatherings. Their photographers work in various venues across the city, offering dynamic and engaging job opportunities.
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Nationwide Studios
Average Salary: $40,000
Nationwide Studios provides photography services for businesses and events in Chicago. They focus on corporate photography, portraits, and event coverage. Their photographers work in different parts of the city, ensuring high-quality images for their clients.
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GradImages
Average Salary: $40,000
GradImages offers photography services for graduation events in Chicago. They capture the special moments of students' achievements. Their photographers work at various schools and venues across the city, providing memorable experiences for graduates.
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Jostens
Average Salary: $38,667
Jostens is known for its school and event photography services in Chicago. They provide high-quality images for school events and graduations. Their photographers work in different locations, ensuring every moment is captured beautifully.
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Mom365
Average Salary: $38,057
Mom365 offers photography services for family events and portraits in Chicago. They focus on capturing the joy and love within families. Their photographers work in various settings, providing personalized and heartfelt images.
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Inter-State Studio & Publishing Co.
Average Salary: $36,800
Inter-State Studio & Publishing Co. provides photography services for various events and publications in Chicago. They specialize in event photography and portraits. Their photographers work in different parts of the city, offering diverse and engaging job opportunities.
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Bella Baby Photography
Average Salary: $35,357
Bella Baby Photography focuses on capturing the precious moments of newborns and families in Chicago. They offer newborn, maternity, and family portrait sessions. Their photographers work in various locations, providing beautiful and heartfelt images.
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Lifetouch
Average Salary: $34,000
Lifetouch offers photography services for schools and events in Chicago. They specialize in capturing school events, portraits, and other special moments. Their photographers work in different parts of the city, ensuring every event is beautifully documented.
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Photogenic Inc.
Average Salary: $32,400
Photogenic Inc. provides photography services for events and portraits in Chicago. They focus on capturing the essence of special moments. Their photographers work in various locations, offering creative and professional photography services.
What are the best paying Photographer related jobs in Chicago, IL?

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Creative Director
Average Salary: $141,907
This role involves leading creative projects and teams. They work with photographers to ensure visual consistency. Companies like Google and Adobe seek creative directors.
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Art Director
Average Salary: $97,962
Art directors manage the visual aspects of an advertisement. They collaborate with photographers to create compelling images. Major firms like Leo Burnett and Ogilvy look for skilled art directors.
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Studio Owner
Average Salary: $94,992
Owning a studio means managing a photography business. It includes hiring staff and managing bookings. Local studios in Chicago offer opportunities for studio owners.
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Social Media Manager
Average Salary: $71,929
They handle a company's social media presence. They work with photographers to create engaging content. Brands like Nike and Coca-Cola need social media managers.
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Marketing Specialist
Average Salary: $70,099
Marketing specialists develop campaigns to promote products. They often use photography to attract customers. Companies like IBM and Microsoft hire marketing specialists.
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Videographer
Average Salary: $66,673
Videographers capture moving images for various media. They often work closely with photographers. Firms like ESPN and NBC need skilled videographers.
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Content Creator
Average Salary: $61,655
Content creators produce engaging material for websites and social media. They use photography to enhance their content. Platforms like BuzzFeed and YouTube seek content creators.
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Graphic Designer
Average Salary: $61,623
Graphic designers create visual concepts using computer software. They often collaborate with photographers to produce cohesive designs. Companies like Apple and Facebook hire graphic designers.
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Cameraman
Average Salary: $50,324
Cameramen operate cameras for film and video production. They work with photographers to capture high-quality images. Production companies like Lionsgate and Warner Bros. need skilled cameramen.
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Photographer Assistant
Average Salary: $39,100
Photographer assistants help set up shoots and manage equipment. They learn from experienced photographers. Studios and agencies in Chicago offer assistant roles.
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