A Beginner Photographer's Salary: Challenges and Successes

When it comes to earning potential for photographers, especially those just starting out, the picture can be quite variable. Let's break down what a beginning photographer can expect in terms of their earnings and the factors that influence these amounts.

The Starting Point for a Novice Photographer

A novice or beginning photographer can earn between $30,000 to $75,000 annually if they are a licensed Limited Liability Company (LLC) owner. However, this salary can be significantly less if they are a freelancer or traveling photographer. In many cases, money isn't the primary driving factor. Instead, passion, drive, and business acumen can play a crucial role in success.

The photography industry is diverse, and different sectors pay different rates. Modeling agencies, advertising agencies, and professional sports teams typically offer the highest salaries. Independent photographers often compete fiercely for positions with high-ranking agents.

Current State of the Photography Industry

As of 2022, the photography industry has faced significant challenges. Many photographers report earning mid to high six figures only if they are taking pictures of celebrities like Ryan Reynolds, Robert Downey Jr., or Adam Sandler. If a photographer is not taking pictures of a famous person, they are unlikely to make substantial earnings.

The key takeaway is that a beginner or professional photographer only makes what they can market, sell, and deliver through their photography. An assistant role at different levels is highly coveted and rarely filled outside of the photographer's inner circle. However, things have changed, and the current landscape requires a new approach.

Personal Experience: A Career in Photography

Let's take a look at a real-world example. When I first began my career, I worked as a newspaper photojournalist at a small weekly newspaper in rural Arizona. I covered the education beat, the Yavapai Apache Indian Tribe, and features writing alongside taking all the photos for each edition. My weekly salary was $280 in 1994. When I transitioned to freelance work at a metro newspaper two years later, my earnings grew to between $500 and $600 per week. I thought I was doing great!

As my career progressed, I became the chief photographer at a small Utah daily newspaper and then a staff shooter at a smaller metro newspaper. I also held the position of photo editor for another small newspaper. Earnings during these periods ranged from $34,000 to $50,000 annually.

When I started as a commercial independent photographer, I earned $13,000 my first year. This was during the Great Recession, and I had another job to supplement my income. However, I managed to triple my revenue the following year and have seen steady growth ever since.

A noteworthy point is that starting a business during a poor economic climate can be beneficial. With nowhere to go but up, the photography industry provides an excellent opportunity for growth and success.