Photographer

Position Number: 01381W
Position Title: Photographer
Employment Category: Full Time Operational
Location: William & Mary
Department: 610000 University Advancement
Unit Mission Statement: At William & Mary, we convene great hearts and minds to meet the most pressing needs of our time. As such, the university aspires to attract and retain exceptional students, faculty and staff who keep W&M at the forefront of teaching, learning and research. University Marketing emphasizes three core areas — enrollment, advancement and reputation — to enhance William & Mary's standing as a top institution of higher learning in the U.S. and around the globe. Through its work to strengthen brand perception, student recruitment, alumni engagement and fundraising, University Marketing advances William & Mary's distinctive excellence, raises its profile worldwide and secures its financial foundation — creating meaningful connections and wide-ranging impact for all times coming.
Position Summary: The photographer is a key strategic member of the creative team for University Marketing at William & Mary. University Marketing includes all William & Mary efforts to develop and execute marketing programs and campaigns that increase brand identity, perception, and awareness across three core areas: enrollment, advancement, and institutional reputation. William & Mary's ability to advance as a preeminent university depends largely on our ability to drive competitive application and enrollment metrics, ensure long-term financial sustainability and raise W&M's profile on a national and global scale.
The photographer reports to the director of art & design and is responsible for creating captivating images that showcase the spirit and vibrancy of the William & Mary community. The photographer must demonstrate a passion for storytelling through visual art, the ability to immerse viewers in compelling narratives, and the skill to implement a range of photographic styles to capture our diverse and active community as well as our beautiful campus.
This position will be responsible for a variety of photo requests ranging from event coverage to creative lighting setups. In a collaborative and fast-paced environment, the photographer must be able to deliver final images within established deadlines and have outstanding interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills. The photographer must display a friendly and approachable demeanor when working with subjects across the University, establishing relationships with diverse individuals and groups of William & Mary's community. To be effective and impactful, the photographer must have the understanding and desire to make an impact on the future of higher education.
The photographer will play a strategic role to ensure visual consistency and style of our photography across both print and digital channels. They will collaborate with marketing teams across the university to create breakthrough imagery that elevates the W&M brand and establishes visual consistency between the institution's schools and units. The photographer's work will be instrumental in attracting prospective students, engaging alumni, and promoting the university's brand and values.
This position will also be responsible for building and maintaining our digital asset management (DAM) system based on internal client requirements, audience personas, channel, and distribution method, ensuring our DAM adheres to brand and organizational standards, intuitive tagging and search functionality and ease of access.
The photographer will be required to stay up to date with the latest industry trends, techniques, and technologies. They should be proactive in expanding their knowledge and skills through workshops, conferences, online resources, and networking with other professionals in the field.
The successful photographer will be an innovator who will foster a culture of belonging that embraces all people and perspectives. This is a hybrid position based in Williamsburg, Virginia, that offers a flexible work environment.
Please review the full position description with all job duties under the "Featured Job Opportunities" on the University Advancement recruitment website: Conditions of Employment: Position is subject to include evenings and weekends around university events and deadlines, as directed and approved by the supervisor. This position is eligible for a flexible work schedule. Ability to travel as required. Essential Designation: No
FLSA: Non-Exempt
Position Restricted?: No, this is a continuing E&G funded position
Position Term: 12 month - Continuing
Required Qualifications: Bachelor's degree or the equivalent combination of education and training experience. Experience in photography in a freelance, studio, corporate, or higher education setting (typically 3+ years experience). A creative portfolio that demonstrates imagination and exceptional photography skill in capturing people, events, and landscapes. Strong understanding of composition, lighting techniques, and post-processing to create visually stunning and impactful images. Demonstrated ability to provide full scope of photography services, to include lighting set up, creative event photography and delivery of final images "within established timeline Proficiency in using professional photography and editing software including Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom to enhance images, adjust colors, correct imperfections, and prepare them for various platforms. Understanding of digital asset management (DAM) platforms to organize, distribute and archive photography. Exceptional retouching and photo manipulation skills. Understanding the usage of a variety of cameras, camera lenses, lighting and studio equipment fulfill a variety of photo requests. Preferred Qualifications: MFA or advanced degree in Photography, Fine Arts, Graphic Design, or a related field. A portfolio showcasing higher education experience across a diverse range of subject matter covering students, faculty, alumni and donors. Knowledge of photography and its role in the development of higher education communications. Experience in photography in a freelance, studio, corporate, or higher education setting (typically 5+ years). Is the position remote work eligible?: Hybrid (works remotely at least 1 day per week but not full-time)
Remote Work Disclaimer: Remote work eligibility is not guaranteed and is subject to approval. Employee eligibility depends on the likelihood of the employee succeeding in a remote work arrangement and the supervisor's ability to manage remote workers. Departments and/or Human Resources may amend, alter, change, delete, or modify eligibility.
Advertised Pay Range: Up to $55,000, commensurate with experience
University Salary Range: U07
Benefits Summary Statement: William & Mary offers our employees a full array of benefits including retirement, health insurance with options for expanded dental and vision along with group and optional life insurance with coverage for spouse and children, flexible spending accounts, and an EAP (Employee Assistance Program).
Our employees enjoy additional university benefits such as educational assistance, professional development, wellness benefits, and a robust holiday schedule. All employees have access to fitness facilities on campus. Staff members also have access to the university libraries, and much more. To learn more, go to: Job Open Date: 01/26/2024
Review Begin Date: 02/26/2024
Open Until Filled: Yes
Special Application Instructions: To be considered, applicants are asked to submit a portfolio of their work, or link to online portfolio/samples of their work.
Background Check Statement: William & Mary is committed to providing a safe campus community. W&M conducts background investigations for applicants being considered for employment. Background investigations include reference checks, a criminal history record check, and when appropriate, a financial (credit) report or driving history check.
EEO Statement: William & Mary values diversity and invites applications from underrepresented groups who will enrich the research, teaching and service missions of the university. The university is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and encourages applications from women, minorities, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities.