Explore Careers

Photographers and Videographers

Arts, Audio/Video Technology & Communications

Service Branches

  • Marines logo
  • navy logo
  • Air Force logo
  • Space Force logo

Work Environment

Photographers and videographers work both indoors and outdoors while photographing their subjects. They may take photos from aircraft or ships. They process photographs in photographic laboratories on bases or aboard ships.

  • Military Status

    Enlisted

  • Median Military Salary This is the median, or the midpoint, of the salary range for this career.

    $49,026

    Military Salary Range Salary varies based on years of service, degree level, special pays, family status and location.

    $25,775 - $150,128

Overview

Military photographers and videographers have an important job in communicating and recording military activity. Photographers photograph people, landscapes, merchandise, and other subjects, using digital or film cameras and other equipment. Videographers use a variety of electronic media to record videos for television, internet, and film.

Military Training

All enlisted service members complete basic military training which includes time spent in a classroom and in the field and covers tactical and survival skills physical training military life and customs and weapons training. Photographers and videographers in the Military will gain skills through classroom study including practice in taking and developing photographs and on-the-job experience. Job-specific training content may include:

  • Photographic processing and reproduction
  • Principles of photojournalism
  • Operation and maintenance of photographic equipment
  • Motion picture equipment operation
  • Audio recording and using sound equipment
  • Scripting and special effects techniques

Helpful Attributes

  • Ability to recognize and arrange interesting photo subjects
  • Accuracy and attention to detail

Related Civilian Careers

  • Camera Operators, Television, Video and Film
  • Special Effects Artists and Animators
  • Photographers