CreativeOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/10010+ years
Staff / Lead Photographer Salary in Chicago
2026 · Staff, lead, and principal-level professionals in the top 10% of earners.
$87,465/yr
Typical range: $90,691 – $117,075
P90 · 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry | 0 yrs | 0 yrs | $42,366 | $3,531 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $54,666 | $4,556 | +29% |
| Mid-Level | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $63,777 | $5,315 | +51% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $72,159 | $6,013 | +70% |
| StaffThis page | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $87,465 | $7,289 | +106% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $99,491 | $8,291 | +135% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $102,498 | $8,542 | +142% |
Current Salary
$87,465
Staff / Lead · 10+ years
Hourly: $42/hr
Next Level Target
$99,491
Principal · 14
+$12Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
29/100
High Risk
+4% demand · Moderate AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the staff / lead Photographer salary in Chicago, IL?
Staff / Lead Photographers in Chicago, IL earn approximately $87K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P90 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a staff / lead Photographer make per hour in Chicago, IL?
Based on $87K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $42/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from staff / lead to senior Photographer in Chicago, IL?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Photographer in Chicago, IL earns $91K–$117K/yr.