Image editor

What does a picture editor do? – Tasks and work environment

A picture editor is responsible for planning, selecting, and editing images for publication in various media such as newspapers, magazines, book productions, and digital platforms. Tasks often include assessing image quality and relevance, negotiating rights, collaborating with photographers and designers, and ensuring that the visual material maintains high journalistic and ethical standards. In many cases, some editing of images, image archiving, and development of visual concepts are also involved. The work environment is characterized by deadlines, teamwork, and a fast pace, especially at larger editorial offices or media houses.

Salary development over time

The salary for a picture editor has shown a relatively stable but positive development over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 43000 kr per month, while in 2023 it decreased slightly to 42 500 kr. However, by 2024, the average salary increased significantly to 44 800 kr, corresponding to an increase of about 5.4% compared to the previous year. This development can be linked to the increased demand for digital image material and the need for specialized skills in line with the digitalization of the media industry. Overall, the profession has experienced weak but steady salary growth, with some salary dynamics influenced by changes in the job market and technological impacts on work tasks.

Picture editor salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 44 800 kr/month
• Lowest salary: 43,900 kr/month
• Highest salary: 51,000 kr/month (male, public sector, post-secondary education of 3 years or more)
• Highest salary (female): 48,500 kr/month
• Hourly wage: 269 kr
• Women earn: 44 400 kr (98% of what men do)
• Men earn: 45 200 kr
• Regional differences: Data not available

Education and qualifications

The path to working as a picture editor usually goes through post-secondary education in journalism, media production, or visual communication. Many employers also value practical experience and specialized courses in image management, digital publishing, and copyright. It is common to supplement formal education with internships or trainee positions at editorial offices, which provide valuable industry contacts and insight into the profession's requirements.

• Formal degree: Post-secondary education in journalism, media production, or equivalent (2–3 years)
• Courses/certifications: Image editing, copyright, digital publishing
• Internship/trainee: Recommended at editorial or media companies
• Prerequisites: Basic knowledge of image handling and journalism
• Self-study/online: Possible within digital tools and image processing

Common benefits and compensations

Picture editors are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, flexible working hours, and opportunities for remote work. Other common benefits include professional development, subsidized lunches, and access to modern technical equipment, especially in larger media houses or public employers.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a picture editor is significant, especially in metropolitan regions where many seek employment at leading media outlets. Increased automation and digitalization have changed work tasks, demanding continuous skills development, particularly in digital image management and new publishing platforms. The challenge often lies in staying updated on technological tools and image rights, while workloads can be high during intensive publishing periods. Since the profession is part of a broader occupational group, standing out with specialized skills and a strong visual judgment is important. Limited job openings mean that networking and experience are often crucial for establishing oneself in the job market.

Tips for aspiring picture editors

To succeed as a picture editor, it is helpful to be precise and have a good eye for visual language, which facilitates selecting the right images for the right context. Being communicative and collaborative is a significant advantage, as the role often involves contact with photographers, journalists, and designers. Gaining broad experience through internships or part-time jobs in media, and early networking within the industry, is recommended. Technical interest and the ability to quickly learn new digital tools are valuable, as developments in image management are rapid. Flexibility and stress management skills help handle the high pace of the industry. Finally, staying updated on current trends in photojournalism and copyright law is essential.

Key facts about Picture Editor

• Education level: Post-secondary education (2–3 years)
• Work environment: Editorial setting with a high pace
• Occupational group: Journalists and others
• Number of available jobs in the profession: 620
• Gender distribution: Women earn 98% of what men do

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a picture editor, there are opportunities to advance to leadership roles such as photo chief, editorial manager, or project leader within visual communication. Some choose to specialize in digital publishing, image research, or work as freelancers focusing on niche media. Forecasts from the Employment Service for the occupational group of journalists indicate that it is difficult to make an exact assessment of future prospects for picture editors, as the profession is relatively narrow and part of a broader category. Currently, there are 620 available jobs in the profession, indicating some demand, but competition for the most attractive positions is expected to remain high in the future.

Frequently asked questions about Picture Editor

• What does a Picture Editor earn?
  - The average salary is 44 800 kr per month. Men earn 45 200 kr and women 44 400 kr.
• How has the salary development been for picture editors?
  - Salaries have increased from 43000 kr (2022) to 44 800 kr (2024), an increase of about 5.4% over three years.
• What education is required to become a picture editor?
  - Post-secondary education in journalism, media production, or visual communication, often 2–3 years, is recommended.
• Are there gender differences in salary for picture editors?
  - Yes, women earn 98% of what men do in the profession.
• What does the job market look like for picture editors?
  - There are 620 available jobs, but competition is high and future prospects are difficult to assess.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for a picture editor?
  - The highest salary is 51 000 kr and the lowest 43 900 kr per month.
• What personal qualities are important for a picture editor?
  - Accuracy, teamwork skills, and technical interest are especially valued qualities in the profession.