Pay by Role
South Africa · Salary comparison

Graphic Designer vs Photographer salary

In South Africa, a graphic designer earns about 12% more than a photographer $23,360 vs $20,853 per year.

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

Pays more
Creative
Graphic Designer
$23,360/yr
Monthly
$1,945
Hourly
$11
Range
$15,374$33,126
10-yr outlook
+3%
Creative
Photographer
$20,853/yr
Monthly
$1,737
Hourly
$10
Range
$12,408$31,175
10-yr outlook
+4%

Pay range, side by side

PercentileGraphic DesignerPhotographer
Entry (10th)$15,374$12,408
25th$19,367$16,627
Median$23,360$20,853
75th$28,240$26,014
Senior (90th)$33,126$31,175

National South Africa figures in ZAR. Individual pay varies with experience, employer, and location.

More Creative comparisons

Frequently asked questions

Does a graphic designer or photographer earn more in South Africa?
A graphic designer earns more, at about R 382 000 per year vs R 341 000 for a photographer — roughly 12% (R 41 000) more.
What is the salary range for these roles in South Africa?
A graphic designer typically earns R 251 400–R 541 700, while a photographer earns R 202 900–R 509 800 per year.
How much do these jobs pay per month in South Africa?
On a monthly basis before tax, a graphic designer averages about R 31 800 and a photographer about R 28 400.
How do entry-level salaries compare?
At the 10th percentile in South Africa, a graphic designer earns about R 251 400 while a photographer earns about R 202 900 per year.
How do senior-level salaries compare?
At the 90th percentile in South Africa, a graphic designer earns about R 541 700 while a photographer earns about R 509 800 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.