CreativeOfficial Payroll Survey · 99/1003–5 years
Mid Level Photographer Salary in New York
2026 · Mid-career professionals with 3–5 years of experience at median market pay.
$82,531/yr
Typical range: $66,625 – $117,360
P25–P50 · BLS OEWS employer payroll data
Photographer salary by experience level in New York
Photographer Salary Progression in New York
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 | $54,824 | $4,569 | — |
| Junior | 2 yrs | 2 yrs | $70,741 | $5,895 | +29% |
| Mid-LevelThis page | 4 yrs | 4 yrs | $82,531 | $6,878 | +51% |
| Senior | 6 yrs | 6 yrs | $93,378 | $7,782 | +70% |
| Staff | 10 yrs | 10 yrs | $113,185 | $9,432 | +106% |
| Principal | 14 yrs | 14 yrs | $128,748 | $10,729 | +135% |
| Distinguished | 18 yrs | 18 yrs | $132,639 | $11,053 | +142% |
Current Salary
$82,531
Mid Level · 3–5 years
Hourly: $40/hr
Next Level Target
$93,378
Senior · 6
+$11Kpotential uplift
Career Opportunity
29/100
High Risk
+4% demand · Moderate AI risk
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the mid level Photographer salary in New York, NY?
Mid Level Photographers in New York, NY earn approximately $83K per year (2026). This corresponds to the P25–P50 range of BLS OEWS employer payroll data.
How much does a mid level Photographer make per hour in New York, NY?
Based on $83K annually, the hourly rate is approximately $40/hr (2,080-hour work year).
How do I get from mid level to senior Photographer in New York, NY?
The typical progression takes 2–4 years with consistent skill development, project leadership, and strategic job moves. A senior Photographer in New York, NY earns $117K–$152K/yr.