Photography Director salary in United States

Average Yearly Salary of Photography Director in United States is approximately 71,362 USD (71,211 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 Photography Director do?

A photography director is responsible for overseeing the visual aspects of a project or production, ensuring that the desired artistic vision is achieved through photography. They work closely with the director, producers, and other creative team members to plan and execute the photography strategy. This includes selecting locations, organizing shoots, arranging lighting and equipment, and directing the photographers to capture the desired shots. The photography director also collaborates with the art director and set designers to ensure that the visual style and aesthetic are consistent throughout. They may also be involved in post-production, overseeing the editing and retouching process to achieve the desired final look. Overall, a photography director plays a crucial role in bringing the creative vision to life through photography.

Skills: photography director, visual storytelling, creative direction, production coordination, artistic vision, post-production management.
Job industry: Entertainment

How much does Photography Director make?

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


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Salary comparison to National average

Is Photography Director a well paid job?

Yes, our data shows that Photography Director is a well paid job. With years and experience the salary might increase even further, resulting in higher satisfaction.

What is considered a high salary for Photography Director?

High salary for Photography Director would be somewhere between 78,498 USD and 103,475 USD. However this is an estimation based on Gaussian Distribution.

How much can you save working as Photography Director in United States?

Living in United States the approximate monthly expenses are: 2,280 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: 71,362 USD
Estimated Monthly Salary: 5,947 USD
Estimated Weekly Salary: 1,372 USD per week
Estimated Hourly Salary: 34 USD per hour
By working as Photography Director a person can save up to 3,654 USD per month or 43,851 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 United States, see costs of living in United States.

Salary comparison to region and neighbouring coutries

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

Estimated Yearly Salary for Photography Director

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.

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Data as of 2025

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