Pay by Role
New Zealand · Salary comparison

Graphic Designer vs Photographer salary

In New Zealand, a graphic designer earns about 14% more than a photographer $66,788 vs $58,728 per year.

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

Pays more
Creative
Graphic Designer
$66,788/yr
Monthly
$5,585
Hourly
$32
Range
$43,931$94,713
10-yr outlook
+3%
Creative
Photographer
$58,728/yr
Monthly
$4,894
Hourly
$28
Range
$34,949$87,804
10-yr outlook
+4%

Pay range, side by side

PercentileGraphic DesignerPhotographer
Entry (10th)$43,931$34,949
25th$55,388$46,809
Median$66,788$58,728
75th$80,722$73,237
Senior (90th)$94,713$87,804

National New Zealand figures in NZD. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.

More Creative comparisons

Frequently asked questions

Does a graphic designer or photographer earn more in New Zealand?
A graphic designer earns more, at about $116,000 per year vs $102,000 for a photographer — roughly 14% ($14,000) more.
What is the salary range for these roles in New Zealand?
A graphic designer typically earns $76,300–$164,500, while a photographer earns $60,700–$152,500 per year.
How much do these jobs pay per month in New Zealand?
On a monthly basis before tax, a graphic designer averages about $9,700 and a photographer about $8,500.
How do entry-level salaries compare?
At the 10th percentile in New Zealand, a graphic designer earns about $76,300 while a photographer earns about $60,700 per year.
How do senior-level salaries compare?
At the 90th percentile in New Zealand, a graphic designer earns about $164,500 while a photographer earns about $152,500 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.