Photographer - Pay and progression
Kaitango Whakaahua
Pay
As with most creative occupations in New Zealand, pay for photographers varies.
- Many photographers start out as assistants in a photography studio. They are usually paid the minimum wage ($12 an hour).
- Most photographers are self-employed and do contract work. Their income depends on the success of their business as well as the amount of hours they work and – in some cases – where in the country they work.
According to the 2006 Census, photographers earn an average of $35,000 a year.
Source: Department of Labour, Jobs and Tertiary Education Indicator Tool.
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"I would say my highest income is through weddings and my regular income is through contract work for magazines." Zoe Gower, Photographer
According to the 2006 Census, photographers earned an average of $35,400 a year and worked an average of 37 hours per week. This includes full and part-time workers.
This information is provided as a guide only
Career Progression
People new to photography often work as studio assistants or assistant photographers. They can also do freelance work, and many go on to set up their own photography businesses.
Because photographers specialise in a number of areas, they can move into roles in other areas such as:
- journalism
- publishing
- retail and photo processing
- promotion and art dealing
- teaching.
Further training is required to enter these areas.
Updated
September 2009
