Advertising photographer

What does a Commercial Photographer do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A Commercial Photographer works to create visually appealing images for marketing, advertising campaigns, and commercial assignments. Tasks often include planning photoshoots, lighting, composition, and post-processing in digital tools. Photoshoots occur both in studios and on location at clients or environments suited to the assignment's purpose. The work involves close collaboration with advertising agencies, companies, and sometimes directly with clients to understand their brand and wishes. The work environment is creative but can also be time-pressured, especially with deadlines for campaigns and launches.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary for a Commercial Photographer has shown a steady but modest increase. In 2022, the average salary was 36,400 SEK per month, increasing to 37 000 SEK in 2023. The trend continued in 2024 with an average salary of 37 300 SEK. This represents a total increase of about 5% over the three-year period, which may relate to a slightly increased demand for visual content in digital media as well as inflationary pressures in the industry. Salary development is also influenced by competition within the profession and demands for technical and artistic skills. Despite a large number of trained photographers, the market remains relatively stable, with small margins for significant salary increases. Salary levels can also vary depending on assignment type, employer, and the photographer’s creative portfolio built over time.

Commercial Photographer Salary – Complete 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 in the profession earn an average of 39 500 SEK/month, salary data for women is not available at an aggregated level
• Regional differences: Available data is lacking

Education and Qualifications

The path to becoming a Commercial Photographer can vary, but a combination of formal education and practical experience is common. Many start through post-secondary programs in photography or visual communication, but it is also possible to build competence via self-study and internships. Specialized courses in lighting, image editing, and advertising production are often advantageous. To succeed, technical skills, creativity, and a strong portfolio are required.

• Formal education: Photography or visual communication, 1–3 years post-secondary
• Courses and certifications: Specializations in lighting, image editing, and advertising photography
• Internships: Internships or trainee positions with established photographers or agencies
• Prerequisites: Basic photographic techniques, composition, and digital tools
• Self-study: Portfolio development and networking are crucial

Common Benefits and Compensation

For Commercial Photographers, benefits such as travel allowances, access to photo equipment, and sometimes bonuses linked to larger projects are common. Flexibility in working hours and remote work are typical, especially for freelancers. Some employment may also include wellness allowances and insurance coverage.

Competition and Challenges

The competition within commercial photography is high, as the profession attracts many creative talents and the number of trained photographers is large. Client demands for unique and innovative images mean professionals constantly need to develop their technical and artistic skills. Digitalization has made it easier to enter the industry, but at the same time, the availability of cheap equipment and image banks has pressured prices and increased competition. Building a strong network and a well-known portfolio is crucial for securing recurring assignments. Uncertainty about the scope of projects and irregular income are challenges, especially for self-employed individuals.

Tips for Aspiring Commercial Photographers

To succeed as a Commercial Photographer, it is good to have both creativity and technical curiosity, as the profession requires constant development and adaptation to new trends. Being proactive and actively building a varied portfolio increases chances of assignments and visibility. Networking skills are important, as many jobs are mediated through personal contacts and recommendations. Precision and the ability to handle stress are valuable, as the work often involves tight deadlines and high customer expectations. Self-discipline helps, especially if working as a freelancer or running your own business. Investing in knowledge of image editing and post-production is wise, as digital skills are crucial in today’s advertising world. Finally, being communicative and attentive to clients’ needs is advantageous for creating long-term collaborations.

Key Facts about Commercial Photographer

• Education level: Post-secondary education in photography or visual communication
• Work environment: Varies, both studio and on location
• Employment type: Commonly freelance or project-based employment
• Demand: 620 available jobs within the photographer group
• Special skills: Lighting, image editing, and advertising production

Career Paths and Future Outlook

After three to five years, a Commercial Photographer can develop into more advanced roles such as senior photographer, image editor, or project manager within larger advertising campaigns. Some choose to specialize in areas like fashion, food, or product photography, while others start their own business and build a broad client base. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecasts, no precise assessment of future prospects is available due to limited data. However, currently, there are 620 available jobs in the group, indicating some demand. Digitalization and social media continue to drive the need for professional images, but competition for assignments remains high. Those who stay updated on technology and trends have the best chances for a long-term career.

Frequently Asked Questions about Commercial Photographer

• What does a Commercial Photographer earn?
  - A Commercial Photographer earns an average of 37 300 SEK per month. Men in the profession have an average salary of 39 500 SEK, while salary data for women is not available at an aggregated level.
• What education is required to become a Commercial Photographer?
  - Post-secondary education in photography or visual communication is recommended, often 1–3 years, along with internships and self-study.
• What is the job market like?
  - There are 620 available jobs within the photographer profession, but competition is high and the future outlook is uncertain.
• What are the most common job tasks?
  - Planning and executing photoshoots, lighting, image editing, and collaborating with advertising agencies and companies.
• Are there gender differences in salary?
  - Men in the profession earn a higher average salary. The highest known salary for men is 39,600 SEK and for women 39,000 SEK.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Creativity, accuracy, networking skills, and self-discipline are important for success as a Commercial Photographer.
• What does a typical workweek look like?
  - The workweek can be varied, including planned photoshoots, post-processing, and client meetings, often with flexible hours.