Freelance Photographer salary in Japan

Average Yearly Salary of Freelance Photographer in Japan is approximately 6,709,518 JPY (43,434 USD). Data is for 2025 and indicates a pre-tax value. The salary itself depends on multiple factors such as seniority, job performance, certifications, experience or any other bonuses. The value indicated is an average amount based on records we have in database. Real values may vary. The data is for orientational purposes.

What does Freelance Photographer do?

A freelance photographer is a self-employed professional who specializes in capturing images for various purposes. They work on a project basis, taking on assignments from clients such as individuals, businesses, or organizations. The occupation requires a combination of technical skills, creativity, and business acumen. Freelance photographers are responsible for conceptualizing, planning, and executing photo shoots, ensuring that they meet the client's requirements and vision. They may specialize in different areas such as portrait photography, fashion photography, event photography, or nature photography.

Skills: freelance photographer, photography, self-employed, creative, client assignments, photo shoots.
Job industry: Arts and entertainment

How much does Freelance Photographer make?

Difference in salary year over year or average salary increase is approximately 3 %


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Salary comparison to National average

Is Freelance Photographer a well paid job?

Yes, our data show that Freelance Photographer is an averagely well paid job that still allows for some yearly savings. With years and experience the salary might increase even further, resulting in higher satisfaction.

What is considered a high salary for Freelance Photographer?

High salary for Freelance Photographer would be somewhere between 7,380,470 JPY and 9,728,801 JPY. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Freelance Photographer in Japan?

Living in Japan the approximate monthly expenses are: 1,698 USD. This amount covers basic needs such as food, housing, clothing, healthcare and education costs for a single person. No luxury expenses such as traveling, leisure, hobbies are included in the estimation.

Estimated Yearly Salary: 6,709,518 JPY
Estimated Monthly Salary: 559,127 JPY
Estimated Weekly Salary: 129,029 JPY per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 3,226 JPY per hour
By working as Freelance Photographer a person can save up to 1,922 USD per month or 23,063 USD yearly. Values are pre-tax.

NOTE: These values are estimates and are averaged for the whole country. Furthermore the value is likely exaggerated as no other expenses are taken into account in the projection. Unessential expenses are very subjective and are difficult to assess. Most likely the previously estimated number is significantly lower for majority of people. Expenses in different cities across the country may vary. Above values accuracy is low and is based on limited set of data obtained.

For more information regarding expenses in Japan, see costs of living in Japan.

Salary comparison to region and neighbouring coutries

Country's neighbours are: China, South Korea, North Korea, Russia.
To make it easier for comparison a conversion from local currency to USD has been made (conversion rates may vary).

Estimated Yearly Salary for Freelance Photographer

Last revision of data: 2025-01-04

Salary increase per years of experience

Based on data available the salary increase per years of experience is as following

0 years (beginner) equals base salary

1 to 5 years of experience yields +12% salary increase

6 to 10 years of experience yields +25% salary increase

11 to 15 years of experience yields +16% salary increase

16 to 25 years of experience yields +9% salary increase

more than 25 years of experience yields +10% salary increase

NOTE: Details based on limited set of data. Percentages may vary. The salary increase over years of experience can vary widely based on factors such as job industry, job role, location, company size, and individual performance. To gain even larger increase in salary one is advised to switch jobs and / or employer.

Top 10 highest salaries in Japan

Data as of 2025

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