SOC 27-4021
Photographers
Risk Score
โ ๏ธ41/100
Elevated
US Employment
๐ฅ51,230
Total workers
Median Wage
๐ฐ$43K
$30K โ $95K
Projected Growth
๐+1.8%
2023-2033 (BLS)
GenAI Exposure
๐ค71/100
High exposure
๐ก Photographers face a risk score of 41/100 โ 3 points below the national average of 44. With 71/100 GenAI exposure, this occupation faces significant pressure from AI tools despite strong projected growth. See our methodology โ
๐ก Workers in this field earn $43K. The 3 recommended career transitions all maintain competitive wages while reducing automation exposure. Explore transition paths โ
๐ AI Impact Analysis
With a risk score of 41/100, Photographers faces moderate automation pressure. While tasks like large language model automation of analysis tasks are increasingly handled by AI, the role retains significant human elements. The 51,230 workers in this occupation should focus on strengthening skills in cultural interpretation and contextual sensitivity and collaborative creative ideation and brainstorming to stay ahead. The role will likely evolve rather than disappear.
Will AI Replace Photographers?
Read our full analysis with verdict, risk factors, safe tasks, and career transition paths โ
โ ๏ธ Top Risk Factors
Large language model automation of analysis tasks
AI-generated written content replacing manual drafting
Text-to-image tools displacing graphic design work
Chatbot displacement of customer-facing interactions
๐ก๏ธ Tasks Safe from Automation
Cultural interpretation and contextual sensitivity
Collaborative creative ideation and brainstorming
Physical artistry and hands-on creative execution
Emotionally resonant storytelling and narrative craft
๐ Task Automation Breakdown
Based on O*NET task analysis and GenAI exposure scoring. Shows the estimated proportion of this occupation's core tasks that are automatable by current AI, augmented by AI tools, or require essential human skills.
๐ O*NET Task Profile
Adjust apertures, shutter speeds, and camera focus according to a combination of factors, such as lighting, field depth, subject motion, film type, and film speed.
Create artificial light, using flashes and reflectors.
Determine desired images and picture composition, selecting and adjusting subjects, equipment, and lighting to achieve desired effects.
Transfer photographs to computers for editing, archiving, and electronic transmission.
Use traditional or digital cameras, along with a variety of equipment, such as tripods, filters, and flash attachments.
๐ป Technology Skills
Document management software
Video creation and editing software
Graphics or photo imaging software
Desktop publishing software
Operating system software
๐ Key Knowledge Areas
Customer and Personal Service
Sales and Marketing
Computers and Electronics
Administration and Management
English Language
๐ vs National Average
National avg: $46K
National avg: 44/100
National avg: 38/100
National avg: 3.7%
๐ Career Transition Paths
| Occupation | Risk | Wage | Overlap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Artists and Related Workers, All Other | 23 | $73K | 81% |
| Fashion Designers | 23 | $81K | 81% |
| Special Effects Artists and Animators | 25 | $100K | 77% |