Plan A
Photographer
What they do
Photographers use their technical expertise and creativity to produce and preserve images of people, landscapes, merchandise, or other subjects.
Work Enviroment
Many photographers are self-employed. They work in varied settings, including in studios and on location.Travel may be required. Part-time work is common, and work schedules may vary.
How to Become One
Photographers typically need a high school diploma to enter the occupation. Many photographers take classes or earn a certificate or degree in photography or a related field to improve their skills.
Pay
The median hourly wage for photographers was $20.44 in May 2024.
Job Outlook
Employment of photographers is projected to grow 2 percent from 2024 to 2034, slower than the average for all occupations. Despite limited employment growth, about 12,700 openings for photographers are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Most of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.
Similar Occupations
Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of photographers with similar occupations.