Pay by Role
Japan · Salary comparison

Graphic Designer vs Photographer salary

In Japan, a graphic designer earns about 14% more than a photographer $64,616 vs $56,585 per year.

Showing amounts in USD (USD default; source data is JPY). FX as of Mon, 13 Jul 2026 00:02:31 +0000. Convert currencies

Pays more
Creative
Graphic Designer
$64,616/yr
Monthly
$5,385
Hourly
$31
Range
$42,517$91,625
10-yr outlook
+3%
Creative
Photographer
$56,585/yr
Monthly
$4,715
Hourly
$27
Range
$33,668$84,595
10-yr outlook
+4%

Pay range, side by side

PercentileGraphic DesignerPhotographer
Entry (10th)$42,517$33,668
25th$53,566$45,127
Median$64,616$56,585
75th$78,120$70,590
Senior (90th)$91,625$84,595

National Japan figures in JPY. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.

More Creative comparisons

Frequently asked questions

Does a graphic designer or photographer earn more in Japan?
A graphic designer earns more, at about ¥10,460,000 per year vs ¥9,160,000 for a photographer — roughly 14% (¥1,300,000) more.
What is the salary range for these roles in Japan?
A graphic designer typically earns ¥6,882,700–¥14,832,300, while a photographer earns ¥5,450,200–¥13,694,200 per year.
How much do these jobs pay per month in Japan?
On a monthly basis before tax, a graphic designer averages about ¥871,700 and a photographer about ¥763,300.
How do entry-level salaries compare?
At the 10th percentile in Japan, a graphic designer earns about ¥6,882,700 while a photographer earns about ¥5,450,200 per year.
How do senior-level salaries compare?
At the 90th percentile in Japan, a graphic designer earns about ¥14,832,300 while a photographer earns about ¥13,694,200 per year.
Are graphic designer and photographer similar careers?
Both roles sit in the Creative category on Pay by Role, which is why we compare them head-to-head. Day-to-day work still differs — review each job page for skills and outlook.