Discover a career made for you.

How much does a Professional Photographer make in Calgary, Alberta?

Professional Photographer in Calgary – $32,614 to $72,696 annually.

Average base salary

$21.60 /hour

Pays below Calgary Average Weekly : $864 Monthly : $3,744 Yearly : $44,928

National Average $24.04 /hour Salary & tax breakdown

Average cost of living

$3,644 /month

for a single person who rents in Calgary

Cost of living breakdown

Last Updated: November 19, 2025

What does a Professional Photographer do?

Capture the world through your lens and tell stories that resonate. As a Professional Photographer, you'll have the opportunity to immortalize moments, whether it's a wedding, a breathtaking landscape, or a product that needs to shine. Your work will involve using your creative eye and technical skills to produce stunning images that speak volumes. You might find yourself in a bustling studio, on assignment for a magazine, or even running your own business. Wherever you go, your photos will leave a lasting impact.

Related Skills:

Creative Thinking Aerial Photography Attention to Detail Image Composition Project Management Show all skills (12)

Core Skills

Creative Thinking Portfolio Development

Technical Skills

Aerial Photography Camera Operation Digital Imaging Lighting Techniques Photo Editing Software Photography Techniques

Foundational Skills

Attention to Detail

Analytical Skills

Image Composition

Resource Management

Project Management

Interpersonal Skills

Communication Skills

Job Alerts?

Type your email below to get alerted to new
Professional Photographer's jobs in Calgary, Alberta.

Professional Photographer jobs in Calgary, Alberta

No current postings for Professional Photographer in Calgary, Alberta

This role opens up periodically. Try these options:

Browse Professional Photographer jobs in Alberta Browse Professional Photographer Jobs Browse similar jobs

Highest paying cities for Professional Photographer

Calgary, AB

$44,928 per year

Browse Jobs

Edmonton, AB

$43,493 per year

Browse Jobs

Ottawa, ON

$45,614 per year

Browse Jobs

Montréal, QC

$49,920 per year

Browse Jobs

Halifax, NS

$48,006 per year

Browse Jobs

Toronto, ON

$45,240 per year

Browse Jobs

How much do similar professions as Professional Photographer get paid in Alberta?

Media Production Assistant

Browse Jobs

$66,872 per year

Creative Designer

Browse Jobs

$59,904 per year

Sports Coach

Browse Jobs

$52,000 per year

Interior Designer

Browse Jobs

$63,606 per year

Graphic Designer

Browse Jobs

$62,400 per year

Recreation and Fitness Instructor

Browse Jobs

$41,600 per year

Media Production Coordinator

Browse Jobs

$68,390 per year

Broadcast Announcer

Browse Jobs

$67,350 per year

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the primary responsibilities of a photographer?

Photographers are responsible for studying the requirements of an assignment, deciding on the type of camera, film, lighting, and background accessories to be used, determining picture composition, making technical adjustments to equipment, and photographing subjects. They may also operate scanners and computers to manipulate and transfer photographic images.

What educational background is required to become a photographer?

A bachelor's degree in visual arts with a specialization in photography, completion of specialized training in photography in high school, college, or specialized training schools, or extensive on-the-job training under the supervision of a photographer is required.

What skills are essential for a successful career in photography?

Essential skills for photographers include aerial photography, attention to detail, camera operation, communication skills, creative thinking, digital imaging, image composition, lighting techniques, photo editing software proficiency, photography techniques, portfolio development, and project management.

In which industries can photographers find employment?

Photographers can find employment in photographic studios, newspapers, magazines, museums, government agencies, or they may choose to be self-employed.

What is the salary range for photographers?

The salary range for photographers typically falls between $15.68 and $34.95, depending on experience, specialization, and location.

What is the job outlook for photographers?

The job outlook for photographers varies based on industry demand and technological advancements. Photographers with skills in digital imaging and multimedia may find more opportunities as these areas continue to grow.

Is remote work possible for photographers?

Yes, remote work is possible for photographers, especially for those specializing in digital imaging, photo editing, and multimedia projects. However, certain assignments may require on-site presence.

Can photographers specialize in specific areas?

Yes, photographers can specialize in areas such as portrait photography, commercial photography, scientific photography, forensic photography, medical photography, digitized photography, multimedia photography, or photojournalism.

What is the population of Calgary, Alberta?

Calgary has a population of 1,306,784 as of 2021, which represents a 6% increase since 2016. [ Explore demographics in Calgary, Alberta ]

What is the average income in Calgary?

The average employment income in 2020 was $60,450, while the median for full-time, full-year workers was $72,500. [ Explore demographics in Calgary, Alberta ]

What are housing costs like in Calgary?

The median monthly shelter cost for owned dwellings is $1,720, compared to $1,350 for rented dwellings. [ Explore demographics in Calgary, Alberta ]

What is the unemployment rate in Calgary?

The unemployment rate in 2021 was 12.5%. [ Explore demographics in Calgary, Alberta ]

How many people in Calgary own their home?

68.8% of households in Calgary are owner-occupied, while 31.2% are renters. [ Explore demographics in Calgary, Alberta ]

20,000 Canadian salary reported, updated November 19, 2025 (data source: open.canada.ca).