Photographers Salary in the United States
Median pay, percentile range, and top US metros — official BLS data.
The median salary for Photographers in the United States is $44,660 per year — about $21 per hour, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Half of all workers in this occupation earn between $36,050 and $62,740 a year.
Salary range
Top US metros for Photographers
| Metro | Local salary |
|---|---|
| Fort Collins-Loveland, CO | $62,550 |
| Bend, OR | $65,990 |
| Salt Lake City-Murray, UT | $60,000 |
| Springfield, MA | $60,430 |
| Boulder, CO | $60,930 |
| Springfield, MO | $52,510 |
| Montgomery, AL | $52,160 |
| Charleston-North Charleston, SC | $56,890 |
| Portland-Vancouver-Hillsboro, OR-WA | $59,220 |
| Bakersfield-Delano, CA | $56,220 |
Frequently asked questions
How much do Photographers make in the US?
The median salary is $44,660 per year (about $21 per hour), according to BLS data. The middle 50% of workers earn between $36,050 and $62,740 a year.
How much do Photographers make per hour?
About $21 per hour, based on the median annual salary of $44,660 for full-time work (2,080 hours per year).
What education do you need to work as Photographers?
Typical entry-level education: High school diploma or equivalent, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Do these salary figures include bonuses or overtime?
No. BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics reflect base wages only — they exclude overtime pay, bonuses, and most benefits.
View Photographers jobs
Browse open positions in this career — remote and on-site roles available.
Find Photographers jobs →