CreativeOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1000–2 years
Entry Level Photographer Salary in Chicago
2026 · Recent graduates and professionals with under 2 years of experience.
$39,529/yr
Typical range: $37,212 – $48,038
P10–P25 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Photographer salary by experience level in Chicago
Photographer Salary Progression in Chicago
From entry-level through staff — based on BLS OEWS percentile data
| Experience Level | Years | Percentile | Annual Salary | Monthly | vs Entry |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EntryThis page | 0 yrs | 0 yrs | $39,529 | $3,294 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $51,006 | $4,251 | +29% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $59,507 | $4,959 | +51% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $67,327 | $5,611 | +70% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $81,609 | $6,801 | +106% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $92,830 | $7,736 | +135% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $95,636 | $7,970 | +142% |
Current Salary
$39,529
Entry Level · 0–2 years
Hourly: $19/hr
Next Level Target
$51,006
Junior · 2
+$11Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
29/100
High Risk
+4% demand · Moderate AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the entry level Photographer salary in Chicago, IL?
Entry Level Photographers in Chicago, IL earn approximately $40K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P10–P25 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a entry level Photographer make per hour in Chicago, IL?
Based on $40K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $19/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from entry level to senior Photographer in Chicago, IL?
The typical progression takes 4–6 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Photographer in Chicago, IL earns $85K–$109K/yr.