On-Call Senior Photographer

SUMMARY

Photographers at the Exploratorium are responsible for all aspects of photographic work : event shooting and exhibition documentation, photo-based project work, creating portfolios of iconic imagery for use in print and digital collateral, and content-based and thematic curation of images.

The Exploratorium photographers serve the diverse needs of many groups across the museum, from Public Programs, temporary exhibitions, and the teacher programs, to Membership, Marketing, and Development.

The Senior Photographer must have the ability to work in different capacities as the work requires, and with a wide array of people, including graphic designers, editors, web developers, marketing, social media, and project leadership.

This position reports to the Director of Photography. The Senior Photographer position differs from the Photographer position in its emphasis on self-direction and independent production of high-quality photography and in its contributions to creative concept development.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Execution :
• Consistently produce and deliver high-quality photo documentation of programs, projects, and events with minimum supervision.
• Actively participate in developing visual concepts and photo design briefs for projects where imagery plays a central role;

develop visual prototypes on a variety of projects.

• In collaboration with team members, transform content and communication goals into visual and sometimes interactive form, producing animations or short video clips as needed.
• Process, edit, and archive digital files on a timely basis for museum-wide use.
• Respond to requests for image searches using the in-house archiving system; curate collections of high-resolution imagery for key departments to access.
• Direct shoots on- and off-site by coordinating lighting set-up, props and backdrops, model recruitment, model releases, and equipment set-up and teardown.
• Be available for evening and weekend work and for occasional off-site shoots.
• Idea generation : Reliably produce a wide variety of compelling and engaging photography that reflects the museum’s mission and values.

Initiate ideas to enhance project development and execution.

• Facilities work : Organize and maintain equipment, supplies, and facilities including archive and studio spaces; spearhead ongoing archiving and organization of image assets, coordinating file organization system and hardware needs with IT department.
• Flexibility : Adapt to project constraints with proactive solutions; work comfortably and productively on a range of projects (e.

g. grant-based R&D, client-facing, marketing campaigns).

• Judgment : Make timely design choices; show strong creative discernment and good discipline around editing of ideas; respond to internal collaborators’ needs while balancing aesthetic considerations.
• Other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• BA + 5 years’ professional photography experience on photojournalistic, documentary, or commercial projects. We welcome applicants with any equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Museum experience is a plus.
• Advanced skills in image processing software such as Photoshop, Bridge, and Lightroom.
• Demonstrated experience shooting both in the field and in the studio; ability to troubleshoot in challenging photographic conditions.
• Experience with Nikon and Sony digital photographic equipment a plus.
• Advanced understanding of lighting principles and knowledge of strobe systems.
• Demonstrated ability to create unique imagery with an artistic sensibility; ability to effectively communicate complex ideas is essential.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Talent for collaboration and effective teamwork, and demonstrated ability to work with people at all levels of an organization.
• Ability to meet tight deadlines and juggle multiple projects with minimal supervision.
• Ability to coordinate all elements for a photo shoot including propping, lighting, recruiting models, and set-up and break-down.
• Interest in science, art, or education a plus.
• Availability for some travel, weekend, and evening work is required.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENT

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Ability to lift and carry up to 25 lbs. short distances. Ability to climb ladders, work at heights, kneel and stand for extended periods of time in a variety of conditions.

APPLICATION DEADLINE

This position is open until filled.

HOW TO APPLY

This is an on-call position that does not include benefits. The pay rate for this role is $40.68. This rate represents step 1 on a 6 step union pay scale.

Please, no phone calls in regards to this job. To apply, please visit the Exploratorium job page.

Please include a cover letter with your application telling us about your interest in the position and how your experience makes you a great candidate.

Please also curate 5-10 images that best represent your work and share them as a PDF with a brief rationale for why it fits with our brand and a link to your website or portfolio.

The Exploratorium is proud to be an equal opportunity employer and values diversity, inclusion and respect. We welcome and strongly encourage applicants from all backgrounds.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment.

Exploratorium

All candidates should make sure to read the following job description and information carefully before applying.

Piers 15 / 17, San Francisco, CA 94111

Website : https : / / www.exploratorium.edu / about / jobs. No phone calls, please

The Exploratorium is committed to a diverse workforce.

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