Photographers
O*NET 27-4021.00 · SOC 27-4021
Photographer is a risky career choice. Median pay is $45k a year with -0.7% projected growth through 2035 (declining) and about 10,700 openings a year. AI exposure: Moderate.
Bureau of Labor Statistics projections 2025–2035 · Data updated 2026-07-27
What You'd Actually Do
- →Plan and execute photo shoots
- →Edit and retouch images
- →Manage client relationships
- →Maintain photography equipment
- →Deliver final images to specifications
Education & How to Get In
Most Photographer positions require an associate degree or vocational training. Many community colleges and technical schools offer relevant programs that can be completed in 1–2 years, often with hands-on clinical or lab experience built in.
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Work Environment
Hands-on, labs, workshops, or field sites
Mixed, alternates between solo focused work and collaboration
A Day in the Life
While every role varies by employer and specialization, a typical day as a Photographer involves a mix of core responsibilities:
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Who Thrives as Photographer?
Based on the interests and work style this role actually demands, these personality types tend to fit it best. Salary and growth tell you if a career is worth entering; personality fit tells you whether you'll still want it in five years.
Not sure which you are? Take the 7-minute quiz →
See Open Photographer Roles
Browse live openings to get a feel for requirements and pay in your area.
Similar Careers
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Job Outlook
Employment of Photographers is projected to decline 0.7% from 2025 to 2035, declining for all occupations.
Will AI Replace This Job?
- ·34% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace
- ·34% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress
Scored from the mix of routine, creative, physical and social tasks the role involves, adjusted for sector and projected growth. An estimate, not a forecast.
Common Questions
How much does a Photographer make?
The median Photographer earns $45k a year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' May 2025 wage data. Half earn more than that and half earn less, and pay varies considerably by state, industry and experience.
Will AI replace Photographer jobs?
Our model puts Photographer at 28 out of 100 for automation exposure, which is moderate, likely AI-complementary. The main drivers: 34% creative/strategic tasks, AI augments, doesn't replace; 34% physical tasks, limited by robotics progress.
Is Photographer a growing field?
Employment is projected to shrink 0.7% between 2025 and 2035, which is declining. That works out to roughly 10,700 openings a year, counting both new positions and people leaving the occupation.
What degree do you need to be a Photographer?
Most Photographer roles expect an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational certificate rather than a four-year degree.
How long does it take to become a Photographer?
Typically one to two years, typically an associate degree, apprenticeship or vocational program. O*NET classes this role as Job Zone 3 of 5, which describes how much preparation people in it usually have.
Is a Photographer career right for you?
Your personality, values, and strengths matter as much as the job market. Take the quiz to see your personalized Future-Fit Score for this career and hundreds more.
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