How to Become a Photographers in Pennsylvania
Photographers in Pennsylvania earn a median salary of $39,640/year, which is 7% below the national average. Pennsylvania has a state income tax of ~3.1%. After taxes and rent, a photographers takes home approximately $1,311/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a photographers can afford in Pennsylvania
Becoming a photographers in Pennsylvania
Meet education requirements
Photographers positions in Pennsylvania typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Pennsylvania. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many photographers positions in Pennsylvania require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Pennsylvania licensure or certification
Pennsylvania may require specific licensing or professional certification for photographerss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Pennsylvania Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania employs 2,000 photographers. The highest concentrations are in Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington and Reading.
Photographers salary by metro area in Pennsylvania
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington | $45K | $21.78/hr | 830 |
| Reading | $44K | $21.04/hr | 30 |
| Harrisburg-Carlisle | $42K | $20.23/hr | 90 |
| Lancaster | $42K | $20.04/hr | 140 |
| Scranton--Wilkes-Barre | $42K | $20/hr | 30 |
| Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton | $39K | $18.82/hr | 110 |
| Pittsburgh | $34K | $16.55/hr | 580 |
Photographers salary range in Pennsylvania
Photographers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a photographers make in Pennsylvania?▼
The median photographers salary in Pennsylvania is $39,640 per year ($19.06/hr). This is 7% below the national median of $42,520. Salaries range from $28,530 to $73,220.
What are the requirements to become a photographers in Pennsylvania?▼
Photographers positions in Pennsylvania typically require Bachelor's degree. Pennsylvania may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Pennsylvania licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a photographers afford to live in Pennsylvania?▼
At the median salary of $39,640, a photographers in Pennsylvania would take home approximately $2,723/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 51.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for photographers in Pennsylvania?▼
The highest paying metro areas for photographers in Pennsylvania are Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington ($45,310), Reading ($43,770), Harrisburg-Carlisle ($42,080). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Pennsylvania have state income tax for photographers?▼
Yes, Pennsylvania has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.1%. On a $39,640 salary, this means roughly $1,217/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.