How to become photographerseducation, training, experience and the steps to enter
Median annual pay
$44,660
25th–75th pct. $36,050–$62,740
Top pay (est.)
$119,400
Top 10% $91,810
Pay in 5 years
$51,300est.
2031
Pay in 10 years
$58,900est.
$50,600–$68,400
Outlook score
45/100
★★☆☆☆ Average
AI replacement risk
45%
Moderate
Job growth (10 yr)
−0.7%
11K openings / yr
How to become photographers
Typical education
High school diploma or equivalent
BLS
Related experience
None
On-the-job training
Moderate-term on-the-job training
A step-by-step guide for this occupation is being prepared. The education, training and experience data above show the typical path.
Skills, education and requirements for Photographers
Key skills
O*NET skill level ratings (0–7).
Key knowledge areas
What the work involves
Performing for or Working Directly with the PublicEstablishing and Maintaining Interpersonal RelationshipsSelling or Influencing OthersThinking CreativelyOrganizing, Planning, and Prioritizing WorkCommunicating with People Outside the OrganizationUpdating and Using Relevant KnowledgeMaking Decisions and Solving Problems
Important abilities
Near VisionFar VisionVisualizationOral ExpressionOral ComprehensionVisual Color Discrimination
Education of workers
Training before entry
Related work experience
Job Zone 3 — medium preparation needed (O*NET)
Difficulty of entry: ★★☆☆☆ Fairly easy (from education, training, experience and Job Zone)
Career path and how to earn more as photographers
Career-path guidance is being prepared. Pay by percentile is shown in the Pay section.
Pay and employment figures are national statistics. Projected pay, outlook scores and AI replacement risk are estimates from the Shigoto Zukan model, not guarantees. To request a correction, use the contact form. How to read the data
Sources: BLS OEWS May 2025; BLS Employment Projections 2025–35; O*NET 31.0 Database by USDOL/ETA (CC BY 4.0), modified by Shigoto Zukan. Pay ranges, projections and scores are Shigoto Zukan estimates.