Media & Communications Los Angeles, CA Pop. 3,898,747

Photographer Salary in Los Angeles, California

The median photographer salary in Los Angeles, CA is $58,692 per year, which is 46.0% above the national median and 5.8% above the California state average.

City Median
$58,692
vs State Avg
+$3,216
vs National
+$18,492
Cost of Living
146%

Photographer Salary in Los Angeles by Experience

In Los Angeles, an entry-level photographer earns around $37,960, while experienced professionals earn up to $109,500 per year. The local cost of living index is 146% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$37,960
+$11,960 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$61,320
+$19,320 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$109,500
+$34,500 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Los Angeles, CA

Percentile Los Angeles
10th Percentile $35,040
25th Percentile $43,800
Median (50th) $58,692
75th Percentile $84,680
90th Percentile $119,720

Photographer Salary in Other California Cities

How to Become a Photographer in Los Angeles

Education

Most photographer positions require a high school diploma. Los Angeles and the surrounding California area have institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

PhotographyLightroom/PhotoshopLightingCompositionPhoto EditingClient Management

Job Outlook

Nationally, photographer employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Los Angeles may vary based on local industry and population growth.