Associate Photographer at Jaizai Investment Inc – Matthews, North Carolina

About Company:

The Whitaker Group is always looking for talented individuals that are willing to push the boundaries of creativity –– thinkers, strategists, photographers, sales, marketers, and computer savvy designers that are not afraid to challenge the status quo. The culture we cultivate welcomes innovation through creativity and promotes teamwork.

About the Role:

The Associate Photographer plays a crucial role in capturing high-quality images that meet the creative and technical standards of the organization. This position involves collaborating closely with senior photographers and creative teams to produce compelling visual content for various projects, including events, marketing campaigns, and editorial work. The Associate Photographer is responsible for managing photography equipment, setting up shoots, and ensuring optimal lighting and composition to achieve the desired aesthetic. Additionally, this role requires post-production skills to edit and retouch images, ensuring they are polished and ready for publication or client delivery. Ultimately, the Associate Photographer contributes to the visual storytelling efforts of the company by delivering consistent, professional, and impactful photographs that align with brand objectives.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Associate degree or equivalent experience in photography, visual arts, or a related field.
• Proficiency in using professional DSLR or mirrorless cameras and lighting equipment.
• Experience with photo editing software such as Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom.
• Strong understanding of photographic principles including composition, lighting, and color theory.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and take direction from senior staff.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Photography, Visual Arts, or a related discipline.
• Experience in commercial, event, or editorial photography.
• Knowledge of video production and editing is a plus.
• Familiarity with digital asset management systems.
• Strong portfolio demonstrating a range of photographic styles and technical skills.

Responsibilities:

• Assist senior photographers in planning and executing photo shoots, including location scouting and equipment preparation.
• Operate cameras and lighting equipment to capture high-quality images according to project specifications.
• Edit and retouch photographs using industry-standard software to enhance image quality and meet creative guidelines.
• Collaborate with creative teams to understand project goals and deliver images that support marketing, editorial, or event needs.
• Manage and maintain photography equipment, ensuring all gear is in good working condition and ready for use.
• Organize and archive digital files systematically for easy retrieval and future use.
• Stay updated on photography trends and techniques to continuously improve skills and contribute fresh ideas.

Skills:

The Associate Photographer utilizes technical skills daily to operate cameras and lighting equipment effectively, ensuring each shot meets the desired quality standards. Proficiency in photo editing software is essential for refining images, correcting colors, and retouching to produce polished final products. Strong communication and collaboration skills enable the photographer to work seamlessly with creative teams, understanding project requirements and adapting to feedback. Organizational skills are applied to manage equipment and digital files efficiently, supporting smooth workflow and project execution. Additionally, a creative eye and attention to detail are critical for composing visually compelling images that align with the brand’s vision and storytelling goals.