Image editor

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

An image editor primarily works with processing and enhancing digital images for print, web publishing, or other visual media. Tasks may include retouching, color correction, removing unwanted objects, image composition, and adapting images according to specific graphic guidelines. The work is often done in close collaboration with photographers, art directors, and marketing departments, where the image editor is responsible for ensuring high-quality visual material that meets client requirements. The work environment is generally office-based but can also be flexible with options for remote work, especially within media and advertising agencies where digital workflows dominate.

Salary development over time

The salary for image editors has shown steady but cautious growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 36,400 SEK per month, which increased the following year to 37 000 SEK. In 2024, the trend continued with an average salary of 37 300 SEK, representing an increase of just over 2.5 percent over the three-year period. The relatively modest increase partly reflects a stable but competitive job market, where demand for digital skills and image editing grows in line with digital transformation in media and communication. At the same time, automation and access to advanced editing tools influence salary development, as some tasks can be streamlined or simplified.

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 on average 39 500 SEK; women's average is not specified but highest and lowest salaries are slightly lower than for men
• Regional differences: No specific statistics available

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming an image editor can vary, but most have education in photography, graphic design, or image processing. Formal education at the upper secondary or post-secondary level is common, but the profession also values practical experience and proficiency with modern image editing software. Many combine education with internships or trainee positions to gain insight into industry workflows and requirements.

• Formal education: Upper secondary education (often the Esthetic program) or post-secondary vocational training in photography, media, or graphic design (1–3 years)
• Certifications: Courses in Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom, or similar tools
• Internships: Internships or trainee programs at media houses, advertising agencies, or photographers
• Prerequisites: Good computer skills and interest in images, color, and form
• Self-study: Online courses and portfolio work are recommended

Common benefits and compensations

In addition to base salary, benefits such as wellness allowances, flexible working hours, and opportunities for remote work are often offered. In some cases, bonus programs, professional development, and access to advanced software and technical equipment are included as part of employment conditions.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as an image editor is intense, especially within media, advertising, and digital production where many seek employment. A challenge is that employers often require broad digital competence and experience with multiple editing tools, making continuous professional development important. Additionally, automation and AI-based solutions can impact demand for basic image editing, while expectations for creativity and specialization increase. Project-based employment and freelance assignments are common, offering varying workloads and income. Overall, adaptability and strong networking skills are essential for long-term success.

Tips for aspiring image editors

To succeed as an image editor, it’s beneficial to develop both technical skills and creative abilities. An eye for detail makes it easier to spot small errors and improve image quality, while curiosity about new programs and techniques provides an edge in a rapidly changing industry. Building a strong portfolio with personal projects demonstrates your skills to employers and facilitates job hunting. Collaboration skills are important, as many projects require close dialogue with photographers and creative teams. Precision and patience are needed for time-consuming retouching, and a willingness to receive and incorporate feedback helps professional growth. Finally, being flexible and adaptable is an advantage, as tasks and workflows often vary between employers.

Key facts about Image Editor

• Education level: Usually upper secondary or post-secondary education in photography, media, or graphic design
• Work environment: Office-based or flexible with remote work options
• Occupational group: Photographers
• Number of job openings: 620 within the profession according to latest data
• Digital skills: High demand for knowledge in image editing software

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, an image editor can advance to more specialized roles such as senior image editor, image manager, or image coordinator within larger organizations. Many also choose to work as freelancers or start their own business, especially if they have a strong portfolio and broad network. Some move into roles in art direction, visual communication, or education. The future outlook for image editors is considered stable, but according to the Employment Service’s forecast, no specific assessment is made for the profession due to limited data. Nevertheless, there is good availability of job openings within the broader group of photographers, indicating ongoing demand for image skills in digital media.

Frequently asked questions about Image Editor

• What is the average salary of a Image Editor?
  - An image editor has an average salary of 37 300 SEK per month.
• What education is required to become an image editor?
  - Most commonly, a vocational or post-secondary education in photography, media, or graphic design.
• Are there significant salary differences within the profession?
  - Yes, the highest salary is 39,600 SEK and the lowest is 36,100 SEK, with some differences between genders.
• What is the job market like for image editors?
  - Currently, there are 620 job openings in the profession, and demand for digital image skills remains stable.
• Which software should an image editor master?
  - Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom, and other modern image editing tools are standard in the industry.
• Can one work remotely as an image editor?
  - Yes, many employers offer flexible arrangements, and remote work is common.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Attention to detail, creativity, flexibility, and teamwork skills are especially important in the profession.