How much does a Image processor make

  1. Salary statistics
  2. Image processor
Image that illustrates Image processor

Image processor

37 300 kr

Photographers

36 100 - 39 600 kr / month

Kultur, media, design

What will be the salary after tax?

Salary progression Image processor

Average salary 37 300 kr
Males 39 500 kr
Females 0 kr
1 Likes 0 Comments 10 Vacant jobs ->

What does an image editor do? – Tasks and work environment

An image editor works with processing, enhancing, and customizing digital images for print, web, or other media. Tasks often include advanced retouching, color correction, cropping, and file management. Common work environments include photo studios, advertising agencies, publishers, and in-house departments at larger companies. The profession requires great precision, technical skills, and an eye for aesthetic composition. Collaboration with photographers, art directors, and clients is common, which means communication skills and flexibility are often in demand.

Salary development over time

The salary for image editors has shown a cautious but steady increase over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 36,400 SEK per month, which increased to 37 000 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average has risen further to 37 300 SEK. The total increase over this period is approximately 5%, reflecting a calm but steady trend in line with increased demand for digital image services and greater use of visual communication in business. Salary development is also influenced by technological advances and requirements for specialized skills, where those with high technical proficiency and experience often have better conditions. Despite the industry’s technological transformation, salary increases have been relatively modest, which may be due to competition and some automation within the field.

Image editor salary – comprehensive overview

  • Average salary: 37 300 SEK/month
  • Lowest salary: 36,100 SEK/month (men), 37,100 SEK/month (women)
  • Highest salary: 39,600 SEK/month (men), 39,000 SEK/month (women)
  • Hourly wage: 224 SEK
  • Gender differences: Men earn an average of 39 500 SEK, specific data on women is lacking
  • Regional differences: No specific statistics available

Education and qualifications

To work as an image editor, education in photography, graphic design, or similar creative fields is usually required. Many attend vocational colleges or universities, but it is also possible to enter the profession through practical experience and self-study. Technical skills in image editing software are crucial, and employers often value previous work samples and references.

  • Formal education: Vocational college or university, 2–3 years
  • Certifications/courses: Courses in Photoshop and similar programs are advantageous
  • Internship/trainee: Internships during studies are common
  • Prerequisites: Basic knowledge of image editing and digital tools
  • Self-study/online: Many supplement with self-study and online courses

Many image editors develop a unique style and specialize in niches such as fashion, advertising, or art. Artistic freedom can be significant, especially for freelancers or those working in creative teams.

– statsskuld.se

Common benefits and compensations

Among image editors, benefits such as wellness allowances, flexible working hours, and opportunities for remote work are common. In some cases, additional benefits like professional development, occupational pension, and insurance are offered. Employers within larger organizations may have further perks related to work environment and health.

Competition and challenges

The profession of image editing is characterized by high competition, especially in metropolitan areas where the demand for creative professions is greatest. The increasing availability of advanced image editing programs has lowered the barrier for new entrants, making it important to stand out through experience and a strong portfolio. Automation and AI-based tools also impact the industry and may lead to the disappearance of some simpler tasks. At the same time, there is a continuous demand for specialized skills in advanced retouching and artistic image processing. The ability to quickly adapt to new technologies and workflows is a key success factor.

Tips for aspiring image editors

To succeed as an image editor, it is good to be both technically skilled and have an eye for detail. A curious attitude towards digital tools and a desire to constantly develop your skills makes it easier to stay updated in a rapidly changing industry. Creativity and problem-solving skills are crucial when unexpected challenges arise in image editing. Building a strong portfolio and networking with industry professionals increases chances of employment, while the ability to collaborate and communicate clearly with colleagues and clients often leads to better results. Taking initiative with personal projects and showing engagement for the visual expression provides a competitive advantage, especially in a job market with many applicants.

Key facts about Image Editors

  • Education level: Vocational college or university, 2–3 years
  • Work environment: Office, studio, or remote work
  • Typical employment: Employment or freelance
  • Demand: Approximately 620 job openings within the group
  • Special skills: Advanced retouching and color management

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, image editors can advance to roles such as senior image editor, image coordinator, or specialist in areas like advertising, fashion, or art. There is also potential to move into more overarching roles within project management or education. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts for the photographer group, no specific assessment exists for image editors due to limited data, but the number of job openings within the group is around 620. Technological development and increased use of digital media suggest that demand for qualified image editors will persist, although the competitive situation may vary locally and over time.

Common questions about Image Editors

  • What does an image editor earn?
    - The average salary is 37 300 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience and employer.
  • What education is required to become an image editor?
    - Usually, education at vocational college or university in photography, graphic design, or similar fields is required.
  • Are there salary differences between men and women?
    - Men earn an average of 39 500 SEK, but specific data on women is lacking; highest female salary is 39,000 SEK, lowest 37,100 SEK.
  • What tasks does an image editor perform?
    - Tasks include retouching, color correction, cropping, and adapting images for various media.
  • What is the future outlook for image editors?
    - No specific forecast, but about 620 job openings are reported within the group according to recent data.
  • Can you work as a freelancer?
    - Yes, many work as freelancers or combine freelancing with employment.
  • Which software skills are necessary?
    - Knowledge of Photoshop, Lightroom, and other image editing programs is essential.

Richard Andersson

Richard Andersson - 2025-07-13 16:00:03

Occupation
Who has the highest salary?
The highest salary for a Image processor is 39600 kr. This salary belongs to a man working in the Public sector with a upper secondary education, maximum 2 years. The highest salary for a woman in this profession is 39000 kr.
Who has the lowest salary?
The lowest salary for a Image processor is 36100 kr. This salary belongs to a man working in the Multiple sectors. The lowest salary for a woman in this profession is 37100 kr.
Salary distributed by age and sector
Age Women's salary as a percentage of men's Base salary Monthly salary
25-34 33800 kr 34200 kr
35-44 41200 kr 41700 kr
45-54 42400 kr 43800 kr
55-64 45500 kr 47900 kr
Snitt 36500 kr 37300 kr
* Empty columns indicate that the statistical data was insufficient to allow for a statistically significant conclusion.
Salary per sector
Salary based on education
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About the data

All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.

All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.

Profession Image processor has the SSYK code 3431, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.

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