Photographer Salaries

Photographers capture moments through their lenses, creating images that tell stories. The average yearly salary for a photographer is around $43,484. This salary can vary based on experience, skill level, and the type of photography they specialize in.

Photographers can work in many different areas. Some take pictures for newspapers or magazines. Others work in studios, taking portraits or commercial photos. Some even travel the world, capturing landscapes and events. The more experience a photographer has, the higher their salary can be. For example, those with over 10 years of experience may earn more than the average.

1. Fargo, ND
   Average Salary: $114,267
   In Fargo, capturing the essence of the community through photography offers a unique blend of urban and rural landscapes. Opportunities exist with local businesses and event planners, providing a diverse range of projects.
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2. Sioux Falls, SD
   Average Salary: $92,675
   Sioux Falls presents a vibrant market for photographers, with a focus on both commercial and lifestyle photography. Local companies and marketing agencies are keen on creative visual content to boost their brand presence.
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3. Washington, DC
   Average Salary: $82,108
   Working in Washington, DC, photographers have access to a wealth of political, cultural, and historical events. This city offers numerous opportunities with government agencies, media outlets, and high-profile events.
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4. Cedar Rapids, IA
   Average Salary: $81,274
   Cedar Rapids provides a supportive environment for photographers, with a strong community focus. Local businesses and non-profits often seek visual storytelling to enhance their outreach and marketing efforts.
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5. San Francisco, CA
   Average Salary: $74,839
   San Francisco's dynamic landscape offers endless opportunities for photographers, from tech startups to iconic landmarks. The city's diverse culture and events provide a rich backdrop for creative projects.
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6. Corpus Christi, TX
   Average Salary: $73,153
   In Corpus Christi, photographers can capture the beauty of coastal life and local events. Opportunities exist with tourism boards, local businesses, and event organizers, highlighting the city's vibrant culture.
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7. Milwaukee, WI
   Average Salary: $64,535
   Milwaukee offers a mix of urban and industrial settings for photographers. Local breweries, festivals, and businesses provide diverse projects, capturing the city's unique character and community spirit.
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8. South Bend, IN
   Average Salary: $64,379
   South Bend presents a charming setting for photographers, with a focus on local culture and community events. Opportunities exist with educational institutions, local businesses, and non-profits, offering a variety of projects.
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9. Portland, OR
   Average Salary: $61,347
   Portland's artistic vibe offers a fertile ground for photographers, with a focus on lifestyle and environmental themes. Local businesses and creative agencies seek unique visual content to stand out in the market.
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10. Seattle, WA
    Average Salary: $59,494
    Seattle's picturesque landscapes and tech-driven environment provide a dynamic backdrop for photographers. Opportunities exist with tech companies, tourism boards, and local businesses, offering a range of exciting projects.
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1. Complete Weddings + Events
   Average Salary: $136,031
   Complete Weddings + Events offers exciting opportunities for photographers. They work with venues across the country. Photographers capture special moments at weddings and events. Locations include major cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago.
   

   
   

2. Virtuance
   Average Salary: $120,000
   Virtuance provides top-notch jobs for photographers. They focus on creating stunning visuals for businesses. Photographers work on projects in cities like San Francisco, Seattle, and Austin. They create images for marketing and advertising.
   

   
   

3. VHT Studios
   Average Salary: $110,773
   VHT Studios is known for its creative environment. They offer great roles for photographers. Photographers work on various projects, including portraits and commercial shoots. They operate in cities like Denver, Portland, and Miami.
   

   
   

4. Engel & Völkers
   Average Salary: $100,000
   Engel & Völkers provides opportunities for photographers to capture real estate images. They work in luxury properties. Locations include cities like Los Angeles, Miami, and New York. Photographers create stunning visuals to showcase homes.
   

   
   

5. Threshold 360
   Average Salary: $95,000
   Threshold 360 offers diverse roles for photographers. They work on projects for businesses and events. Locations include major cities like Chicago, Dallas, and Atlanta. Photographers capture moments for marketing and advertising.
   

   
   

6. CBS News and Stations
   Average Salary: $91,853
   CBS News and Stations provide exciting opportunities for photographers. They work on news and entertainment projects. Locations include cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago. Photographers capture images for broadcast and digital media.
   

   
   

7. NBCUniversal
   Average Salary: $88,235
   NBCUniversal offers diverse roles for photographers. They work on projects for TV and digital media. Locations include cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago. Photographers capture images for shows and online content.
   

   
   

8. Fox Corporation
   Average Salary: $73,313
   Fox Corporation provides opportunities for photographers to work on news and entertainment projects. Locations include cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago. Photographers capture images for TV shows and digital media.
   

   
   

9. Full Package Media
   Average Salary: $67,143
   Full Package Media offers roles for photographers to work on marketing and advertising projects. Locations include cities like Denver, Austin, and Seattle. Photographers create images for businesses and events.
   

   
   

10. Next Door Photos
    Average Salary: $64,267
    Next Door Photos provides opportunities for photographers to capture real estate images. They work in residential properties. Locations include cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Seattle. Photographers create stunning visuals to showcase homes.
    

A photographer can increase their earnings by focusing on several key areas. Building a strong portfolio showcases skills and attracts more clients. Networking with other professionals opens up opportunities for collaborations and referrals. Specializing in a niche market, such as weddings or corporate events, can command higher rates. Investing in quality equipment and post-processing software enhances the quality of work and efficiency. Marketing through social media and a professional website increases visibility and attracts new clients.

Another way to earn more involves setting competitive pricing. Understanding the market rates and the value of services helps in setting prices that reflect skills and experience. Offering packages and discounts for multiple sessions can also attract more clients. Continuous learning and skill development keep a photographer up-to-date with the latest trends and techniques. Building strong client relationships ensures repeat business and referrals. Each of these factors plays a crucial role in increasing a photographer's income.

Here are five factors to consider for earning more as a photographer:

1. Build a strong portfolio
2. Network with other professionals
3. Specialize in a niche market
4. Invest in quality equipment and software
5. Market through social media and a professional website