Photographers
O*NET 27-4021.00 · SOC 27-4021
Projected Growth
+4%
2024–2034
Median Salary
$41k
per year
Annual Openings
7k
positions/year
Education Level
Zone 3
Medium preparation needed (vocational or associate's)
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
📋
Job Zone 3
Medium preparation needed (vocational or associate's)
Most Photographers 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.
Work Environment
Primary Setting
Hands-on — labs, workshops, or field sites
Work Style
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 Photographers involves a mix of core responsibilities:
MorningPlan and execute photo shoots
MiddayEdit and retouch images
AfternoonManage client relationships
Personality Fit (RIASEC)
Realistic (Doers)5.5
Artistic (Creators)5.3
Conventional (Organizers)3.4
Enterprising (Persuaders)2.3
Investigative (Thinkers)2.2
Social (Helpers)1.9
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