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Still Photographer Salary in the United States

How much does a Still Photographer make in the United States?

$66,983 (USD)/year

Average Bonus

$1,259 (USD)

per Year
Total Compensation

$67,444.28

As of July, 23, 2026, the average still photographer gross salary in United States is $66,983 or an equivalent hourly rate of $32. In addition, still photographers earn an average bonus of $1,259. An entry level still photographer with 1-3 years of experience earns an average salary of $48,927. At the higher end of the pay range, a senior level still photographer with 8+ years of experience earns an average salary of $75,271. Salary estimates are based on salary survey data collected directly from employers in United States.
Data powered by ERI

Salary Potential for a Still Photographer

Explore the estimated salary growth for a Still Photographer in the United States for up to 5 years. The estimated salary of a Still Photographer will be $68,718 in 1 year and $76,120 in 5 years.
View Salary by Year
Estimated Salary
$70,498
Average Growth
5.2 %
The estimated salary for a Still Photographer in 2 years is $70,498, which is 5.2 % average growth. This information is based on ERI's compensation database.

Typical Still Photographer Education

This chart displays the highest level of education for Still Photographers.

  • 3% of Still Photographers have less than a High School Diploma
  • 41% of Still Photographers have a High School Diploma
  • 15% of Still Photographers have an Associate's Degree
  • 33% of Still Photographers have a Bachelor's Degree
  • 8% of Still Photographers have a Master's Degree
  • 0% of Still Photographers have a Doctorate Degree

The typical field of study for a Still Photographer is Commercial Photography Training.

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Popular Skills for a Still Photographer

Photographs persons
100%
Takes pictures
100%

These are the most popular skills for Still Photographers. About 100% of Still Photographers have a skill in Photographs persons.

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Where can a Still Photographer earn more?

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Still Photographer Salaries in Other Locations

Still Photographer Jobs

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Cost of Living in the United States

The cost of living in the United States is equal to the national average.
0% equal to
than the national average
Whether you're planning to move or just want to see the cost of living in different locations, our cost-of-living calculator is the place to start. Compare salaries for other locations by city, U.S. ZIP code, state, or country.
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Frequently Asked Questions

What does a Still Photographer do?
Photographs persons, animals, scenery, or commercial products in a studio or at a requested site, using still, video, or digital cameras, color or black and white film, and a variety of photographic accessories. Picks and assembles equipment according to subject materials, anticipated conditions, and knowledge of function and limitations of various types of cameras, lenses, filters, films, and accessories. Sees people, animals, required subjects, or setting and plans composition, camera position, and camera angle to produce desired effect. Arranges subject materials, poses subjects, or maneuvers into position to take candid photographs. Requires artistic talent, as well as technical knowledge of digital equipment, high-quality printers, and editing software.
How much does a Still Photographer make in the United States?
The average salary for a Still Photographer is $66,983 per year or $32.20 per hour in the United States. Top earners have reported making up to $75,271. However, the typical pay range in the United States is between $48,927 and $75,271 annually.
What is the salary trajectory for a Still Photographer?
Still Photographer is projected to see a 13.6 % salary change in 5 years.
How can you increase your salary?
Increasing your salary often starts with understanding your value in today’s job market. You can increase your earning potential by building your skills, advancing your education, moving into a new role or industry, switching companies, or negotiating pay.
How can you negotiate a salary offer? 
Negotiating a salary offer involves preparation and finding our your market value. Use our salary calculator to find out how much you should be paid based on what someone in your area, with similar experience, earns. Use this personalized report to help negotiate a higher salary offer or find your dream career. 
What are some factors that impact Still Photographer salaries? 
Several factors can impact your salary, including experience, company size, job market, location, industry, and more. Understanding how these factors affect your role can help you spot pay gaps and provide opportunities for a competitive salary.

About Our Data

This page is an excerpt of the much more complete compensation information available in ERI's Assessor Series.

ERI compiles the most robust and accurate salary, cost-of-living, and executive compensation survey database available. Data are analyzed using AI and traditional statistics, depending on which approach is best for a particular application. ERI collects salary survey data from five different sources, which you can learn about here.

Verified Sources
Data sourced from internal salary surveys, purchased surveys, public sources, HRIS data, and proprietary databases.
Real-Time Data
Our salary database is updated and verified approximately every six weeks.
Quality Assurance
Along with our data scientists, we have included AI in our rigorous process to analyze and provide the highest quality data.

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