Photographers use their technical expertise, creativity, and composition skills to produce and preserve images that tell a story or record an event.

Working conditions for photographers vary considerably with their specialty. Some travel for photoshoots; others work in their own studios. Still others work in laboratories and use microscopes to photograph subjects.

Although postsecondary education is not required for portrait photographers, many take classes because employers usually seek applicants with a “good eye” and creativity, as well as a good technical understanding of photography. Photojournalists and industrial and scientific photographers often need a bachelor's degree.

The median hourly wage for photographers was $15.24 in May 2015.

Employment of photographers is projected to grow 3 percent from 2014 to 2024, slower than the average for all occupations. Salaried jobs may be more difficult to find as more companies contract with freelancers rather than hire their own photographers.

Explore resources for employment and wages by state and area for photographers.

Compare the job duties, education, job growth, and pay of photographers with similar occupations.

Learn more about photographers by visiting additional resources, including O*NET, a source on key characteristics of workers and occupations.