Camera and Photographic Equipment Repairers Salary 2025: $52,720 Median, -15% Job Decline
The median camera and photographic equipment repairer in the U.S. earns $52,720 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That breaks down to roughly $25 an hour, with the typical pay range spanning from $34,320 at the 10th percentile to $83,940 at the 90th. It's a small field — just 1,650 people nationwide — and it's shrinking.
How much Camera and Photographic Equipment Repairers earn
The median annual wage for camera and photographic equipment repairers is $52,720. The mean wage is a bit higher at $56,040, which works out to about $26.94 per hour. Most repairers earn between $34,320 and $83,940, meaning the top 10% pull in over $84,000.
Pay can vary significantly by industry. Repairers working for electronics and appliance stores or independent repair shops often see different ranges compared to those employed by camera manufacturers or government agencies.
Pay by state
Where you work matters a lot. The highest-paying state for camera repairers is Ohio, with an average salary of $85,070. Virginia comes second at $65,170, followed by New Jersey ($60,290), California ($59,770), and Arizona ($59,080).
On the lower end, Texas pays a median of just $33,940, while North Carolina ($41,140) and Florida ($41,290) aren't much better. If you're looking to maximize earnings, Ohio or Virginia are the best bets.
How to become Camera and Photographic Equipment Repairer
Most camera repairers learn through on-the-job training or a certificate program in electronics or optomechanical repair. A high school diploma is typically required, and some technical colleges offer associate degrees in precision instrument repair or similar fields.
There's no state license needed, but voluntary certification from organizations like the Photographic and Imaging Manufacturers Association can help. Hands-on experience with cameras — including digital and film types — is essential. Many repairers start as assistants in a repair shop.
- Earn a high school diploma or GED.
- Complete a certificate or associate program in electronics, optomechanics, or photographic repair.
- Get hands-on training, either through an internship or entry-level job at a repair shop.
- Consider voluntary certification to boost credibility.
- Stay current with new camera technology, especially mirrorless and professional video equipment.
Job outlook
The BLS projects a 15.1% decline in employment for camera and photographic equipment repairers from 2024 to 2034. That's a loss of about 250 jobs, driven by cheaper electronics and disposable cameras. Still, around 200 openings per year are expected, mostly to replace workers who retire or leave the field. It's a niche occupation with limited growth, but steady demand for high-end repair work remains.
Frequently asked questions
What is the salary of a camera and photographic equipment repairer in 2025?
The median salary is $52,720 per year, with a range of $34,320 to $83,940. The mean wage is $56,040.
Is camera repair a growing field?
No, employment is projected to decline by 15.1% from 2024 to 2034, though about 200 openings per year will occur due to turnover.
What education do you need to become a camera repairer?
A high school diploma is required, and many repairers complete a certificate or associate degree in electronics or photographic repair.
Which states pay camera repairers the most?
Ohio ($85,070), Virginia ($65,170), and New Jersey ($60,290) are the top-paying states.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Camera and Photographic Equipment Repairers data.