How to Become a Photographers in Tennessee
Photographers in Tennessee earn a median salary of $36,000/year, which is 15% below the national average. Tennessee has no state income tax. After taxes and rent, a photographers takes home approximately $1,168/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a photographers can afford in Tennessee
Becoming a photographers in Tennessee
Meet education requirements
Photographers positions in Tennessee typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Tennessee. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many photographers positions in Tennessee require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Tennessee licensure or certification
Tennessee may require specific licensing or professional certification for photographerss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Tennessee Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Tennessee
Tennessee employs 1,090 photographers. The highest concentrations are in Kingsport-Bristol and Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin.
Photographers salary by metro area in Tennessee
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kingsport-Bristol | $44K | $21.08/hr | 40 |
| Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin | $41K | $19.6/hr | 340 |
| Knoxville | $36K | $17.13/hr | 130 |
| Memphis | $35K | $17.02/hr | 150 |
| Chattanooga | $31K | $15.08/hr | 60 |
Photographers salary range in Tennessee
Photographers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a photographers make in Tennessee?▼
The median photographers salary in Tennessee is $36,000 per year ($17.31/hr). This is 15% below the national median of $42,520. Salaries range from $27,520 to $64,220.
What are the requirements to become a photographers in Tennessee?▼
Photographers positions in Tennessee typically require Bachelor's degree. Tennessee may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Tennessee licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a photographers afford to live in Tennessee?▼
At the median salary of $36,000, a photographers in Tennessee would take home approximately $2,580/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 54.7% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for photographers in Tennessee?▼
The highest paying metro areas for photographers in Tennessee are Kingsport-Bristol ($43,850), Nashville-Davidson--Murfreesboro--Franklin ($40,770), Knoxville ($35,620). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Tennessee have state income tax for photographers?▼
No, Tennessee does not have a state income tax. This means photographers keep more of their gross salary compared to states with income tax — a significant advantage for affordability.