Photographers
Photographers capture images of people, landscapes, merchandise, and other subjects for commercial, industrial, scientific, or journalistic purposes. They work in studios, offices, outdoor locations, or on assignment, using cameras, lighting equipment, and editing software to produce finished photographs that meet client specifications or publication standards.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against photographers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A photographer's week typically includes client meetings to discuss project requirements, setting up equipment and lighting at shoot locations, directing subjects or arranging compositions, and spending hours editing and retouching images using specialized software. Tasks vary widely—one day might involve studio portraits, the next architectural photography or product shots for catalog use, depending on specialization and current assignments.
Who this work suits
Holland code RAC. Realistic work is hands-on, practical work with tools, machines or the outdoors. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You're suited to this work if you have a strong eye for composition and visual storytelling combined with technical skill and patience for detail work. People who thrive here tend to be creative problem-solvers who also enjoy the technical side of equipment and software, and who can translate a client's vision into finished images.
What it takes
Preparation: Medium preparation (vocational training, an associate degree, or related experience). Most people in this occupation hold a certificate or training program.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Openings right now
- Photographer (Forensics) · U.S. Secret Service · Washington, District of Columbia · $85447–$133142
- Photographer--DIRECT HIRE AUTHORITY · Department of the Air Force Headquarters · Robins AFB, Georgia · $40736–$97087
- Photographer (Scientific-Technical) · National Institutes of Health · Montgomery County, Maryland · $85447–$133142
Openings are read from employers’ own career pages and public job boards and change daily. Search all openings (free account) to filter by distance, pay and how well you qualify.
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $83,170 | $110,970 | $125,220 | 260 |
| New York | $43,080 | $60,050 | $93,620 | 3,650 |
| Massachusetts | $43,410 | $57,990 | $98,490 | 830 |
| Oregon | $42,560 | $53,630 | $80,680 | 510 |
| Utah | $34,150 | $52,140 | $62,200 | 660 |
| Delaware | $35,380 | $50,100 | $60,200 | 180 |
| Connecticut | $44,300 | $49,790 | $69,730 | 630 |
| New Mexico | $40,980 | $48,090 | $67,030 | 230 |
| Washington | $40,690 | $48,050 | $65,450 | 960 |
| California | $38,410 | $47,840 | $72,100 | 7,980 |
| Kentucky | $30,200 | $47,170 | $59,600 | 380 |
| Colorado | $38,730 | $47,070 | $69,990 | 1,140 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Forensic Photography & Imaging Certification — International Association for Identification
- Digital Imaging - Certified Digital Designer (CDD) — American Design Drafting Association/American Digital Design Association
- Total Body Photography Certification (TBP) — BioCommunications Association, Inc. - Board of Registry
- Certified Forensic Video Technician (CFVT) — Law Enforcement and Emergency Services Video Association
- Adobe Certified Associate - Adobe Photoshop — Adobe Systems Incorporated
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against photographers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 27-4021.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.