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If you’ve searched “Photographer job description,” you’ve probably come across dozens of articles with the same tired format: a list of bullet points, some vague job duties, and a half-hearted CTA like “Apply Now.”
But here’s the problem—great photographers don’t apply to generic job posts.
They’re not just looking for a job. They’re looking for meaning, purpose, and creative alignment. And if your post doesn’t communicate that, you’ll lose them before they even finish reading.
Most job descriptions fail because they’re built like HR checklists instead of compelling invitations.
So if your goal is to attract talented, passionate photographers—not just fill a role—you need more than a template. You need a clear, thoughtful, and human approach.
This guide will show you exactly how to do that.
We’ll break down what the role actually is, give you two ready-to-use templates, show you what makes a post effective, and even walk you through how to use AI the right way (without falling into the generic trap).
Want to go deeper on how to write job posts that actually convert?
Check out this full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/ before you move on.
Smart Hiring Starts Here
WorkScreen simplifies the hiring process, helping you quickly identify top talent while eliminating low-quality applications. By saving you countless hours and reducing the risk of bad hires, it empowers you to build a team that delivers results
What A Photographer Actually Does - Their Roles
A photographer doesn’t just take pictures.
They tell stories, capture moments, and create visuals that represent your brand, your clients, or your events in ways that words can’t. Whether it’s a product shoot, a wedding, or a behind-the-scenes brand campaign, a great photographer knows how to frame, light, and edit images that speak to the viewer.
But here’s what often gets overlooked:
Photographers need more than technical skill. They need creative instincts, people skills, attention to detail, and the ability to adapt on the fly. Especially in high-stakes or fast-paced environments, soft skills like patience, direction-giving, and quick problem-solving are just as valuable as knowing their way around a camera.
That’s why hiring a great photographer isn’t just about finding someone who owns the right gear.
It’s about finding someone who sees what others miss, collaborates well with a team or client, and brings your vision to life through images that feel authentic and intentional.
Two Great Photographer Job Description Templates
We’ll provide two tailored job description options:
1.✅ Option 1: For employers looking to hire an experienced candidates with prior experience.
2.Option 2: For employers open to hiring entry-level candidates or those willing to train someone with potential.
✅ Option 1: Job Description For Experienced Photographers
📸 Job Title: Brand Photographer for Outdoor Apparel Company – Trailborn Supply Co.
💼 Location: Hybrid – Denver, CO + Travel for Shoots
💰 Salary: $60,000–$75,000/year + Paid Travel + Equipment Budget
🕒 Type: Full-Time
🎥 Hear from our Creative Director, Jamie, about what we’re building and how this role fits into it:
[Insert Loom/YouTube Video Link]
Who We Are
Trailborn Supply Co. is a growing outdoor apparel brand for people who live life off the beaten path. Whether you’re hiking the Rockies or camping with friends, our products are made to move with you—and so is our content. We’ve built a loyal following through honest storytelling, high-quality design, and a commitment to sustainability. Now, we’re looking for a skilled photographer to help us elevate that story across every visual touchpoint.
Our Creative Culture
We believe great work comes from trust and creative freedom—not micro-managing. Our team includes designers, marketers, and makers who are deeply passionate about the outdoors, and we’re looking for someone who can bring that same energy and storytelling instinct to our brand visuals.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Plan and shoot lifestyle, product, and behind-the-scenes content
- Travel for seasonal campaign shoots (2–3 per quarter)
- Work closely with the creative team to concept visual direction
- Retouch and finalize image assets for use across web, retail, and social
- Manage and organize all photo files in our digital asset system
What We’re Looking For
- 3+ years of experience in brand, commercial, or lifestyle photography
- Strong visual portfolio (please include link)
- Experience working with models and directing on set
- Skilled in Lightroom, Photoshop, and file management
- Comfortable in outdoor environments (shoots may involve hiking!)
- Highly organized and proactive
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
This is not a content-factory job. It’s a creative role where your ideas, energy, and eye will help shape how our brand looks and feels in the world. You’ll have freedom to experiment, support to grow, and a team that values people as much as outcomes. Your photos will be used in real campaigns that reach real people—and you’ll see the direct impact of your work.
Perks and Benefits
- Competitive salary based on experience
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- 401(k) with employer match
- Paid travel for all campaign shoots
- Annual gear/equipment allowance
- 15 PTO days + 10 company holidays
- Quarterly team retreats in outdoor destinations
How to Apply
We use WorkScreen to evaluate candidates based on creative ability—not just resumes.
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Application Link]
Complete a short visual evaluation and share your portfolio link. If shortlisted, we’ll invite you to a paid test shoot with our team. You’ll hear from us whether or not you move forward—because we respect your time and effort.
✅ Option 2: Job Description For Entry-Level or Passionate, Trainable Candidates
📸 Job Title: Junior Photographer – No Experience Needed (Train On the Job) – LocalLens Media
💼 Location: In-Person – Phoenix, AZ
💰 Pay: $18–$23/hour + Paid Shoots + Gear Provided
🕒 Type: Part-Time to Start, Flexible Schedule
🎥 Watch a quick message from our founder, Eli, about why this role matters and who we’re looking for:
[Insert Loom/YouTube Video Link]
Who We Are
LocalLens Media is a creative studio helping small businesses and nonprofits in the Phoenix area tell their stories through powerful visuals. From food trucks to grassroots campaigns, we shoot real people doing real things—and we care deeply about capturing the heart behind every project. If you’re passionate about photography and want to grow your skills in a supportive environment, we’d love to meet you.
Our Creative Culture
We believe everyone starts somewhere—and that hustle and curiosity matter just as much as formal training. You’ll be mentored by experienced creatives who will teach you how to plan, shoot, edit, and deliver work that clients are proud to share.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Assist on-location shoots (events, product, portraits)
- Help set up lighting and camera gear
- Learn editing workflows using Lightroom and Photoshop
- Tag and organize photos for delivery
- Collaborate on creative direction and get feedback regularly
- Over time, take the lead on small shoots and projects
What We’re Looking For
- A genuine interest in photography—personal projects count!
- Eagerness to learn, take feedback, and grow
- Strong sense of reliability and punctuality
- Ability to be available for weekend/evening shoots when needed
- Bonus: Any familiarity with editing software
✨ Don’t check every box? That’s okay. We’re more interested in your attitude and willingness to learn than your resume.
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
This is the perfect role if you’re looking to get real, hands-on experience and build your portfolio with guidance—not just sit on the sidelines. You’ll get one-on-one mentorship, opportunities to shadow on paid shoots, and space to grow into a lead role over time. We believe in hiring potential—not perfection.
Perks and Benefits
- Paid on-the-job training
- All gear provided (no need to bring your own equipment)
- Free access to Adobe tools
- Mentorship from professional photographers
- Flexible schedule around school or side gigs
- Paid team lunch after every major project
How to Apply
We use WorkScreen to make sure passionate applicants like you don’t get buried behind fancy resumes.
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Application Link]
Complete the short evaluation and upload a few of your favorite shots—even phone pics are welcome. Tell us why this opportunity excites you, and we’ll follow up with next steps.
Don’t let bad hires slow you down.
WorkScreen helps you identify the right people—fast, easy, and stress-free.
Breakdown of Why These Photographer Job Posts Work
Both job descriptions—the one for Trailborn Supply Co. and the one for LocalLens Media—follow the modern structure that attracts thoughtful, committed candidates. Here’s what makes them effective:
✅ 1. Clear, Specific Job Titles
Instead of vague titles like “Photographer Wanted,” each job post uses descriptive titles that tell the candidate exactly what the role involves—and who it’s for.
- “Brand Photographer for Outdoor Apparel Company” signals industry, purpose, and creative tone.
- “Junior Photographer – No Experience Needed” opens the door for emerging talent without sugarcoating the level of experience expected.
This level of clarity increases relevance and filters out the wrong applicants early.
✅ 2. Warm Introductions That Set Context
Each post starts with a human voice—not corporate jargon.
- Trailborn’s intro grounds the brand in its mission and lifestyle.
- LocalLens connects directly with aspiring creatives and speaks to their values.
These openings do more than state facts. They build an emotional connection—and that’s what makes great talent lean in and read more.
✅ 3. Video Element Adds Trust and Personality
Both posts include a video from a team member or founder, which brings the job to life.
Candidates get to see who they’d be working with and hear the tone of the team. This instantly builds trust and helps your job post stand out in a sea of text.
✅ 4. Transparent Salary and Perks
No guessing games here.
- Salary ranges are listed clearly.
- Benefits are separated from the pitch to avoid blending “what we offer” with “why this matters.”
- PTO, holidays, gear allowances, and team retreats are all spelled out—so candidates can evaluate total compensation, not just the role.
This kind of transparency filters out unqualified applicants and attracts serious candidates who appreciate honesty.
✅ 5. Respectful, Human Hiring Process
Both job posts explain the next steps in a calm, confident tone.
- Trailborn invites applicants to a paid test shoot—signaling fairness and professionalism.
- LocalLens makes it clear that even beginners will get feedback—which shows genuine respect for applicants’ time.
This human-centric approach helps your brand reputation—even among people you don’t hire.
✅ 6. Human Tone That Speaks to Values
Every section—from responsibilities to application steps—is written in natural, engaging language.
No corporate buzzwords. No laundry lists of demands. Just real talk.
Even the soft encouragement (“Don’t meet every requirement? That’s okay.”) opens the door for high-potential candidates who might otherwise self-select out.
✅ 7. Culture Isn’t Claimed—It’s Shown
Instead of saying “we’re collaborative,” the posts show it:
- Trailborn mentions creative freedom and trust.
- LocalLens highlights mentorship and small wins (like team lunches).
These details give candidates a glimpse into how it actually feels to work there.
Example of a Bad Photographer Job Description (And Why It Fails)
❌ Bad Job Post Example
Job Title: Photographer
Company: [Company Name]
Location: [City]
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Summary:
We are seeking a professional photographer to take high-quality photos for our company. The ideal candidate will be responsible for capturing images for events, marketing materials, and other general photography needs.
Responsibilities:
- Take photos as needed for the company
- Edit and retouch photos
- Maintain camera equipment
- Work with team members as required
Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in photography or related field
- 2–3 years of experience preferred
- Knowledge of Adobe Photoshop
- Strong communication skills
How to Apply:
Please send your resume and portfolio to hr@companyname.com. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
🔍 Why This Job Post Falls Flat
🚫 1. The Job Title Is Too Generic
Just “Photographer” doesn’t tell candidates who the role is for, what kind of photography is involved, or why the role matters.
🚫 2. The Introduction Is Lifeless
No mention of what the company does. No brand personality. No mission or story. It reads like a placeholder text, not a real opportunity.
🚫 3. No Mention of Culture, Vision, or Values
There’s no insight into what it’s like to work at this company or what they believe in. This makes it impossible for candidates to assess culture fit—or get excited about the team they’d join.
🚫 4. No Salary or Perks
The omission of pay and benefits makes the post feel outdated and opaque. Today’s best candidates expect transparency. Leaving it out sends the message that the company may undervalue its talent.
🚫 5. Responsibilities Are Vague and Uninspiring
“Take photos as needed” doesn’t show the purpose behind the work. It reduces the role to task execution, with no emotional or strategic framing.
🚫 6. Requirements Are Overly Formal and Rigid
Listing a degree as a must-have is unnecessary for many photography roles—especially when practical experience or portfolios matter more. It may unintentionally discourage self-taught creatives with strong real-world skills.
🚫 7. The Hiring Process Feels Cold
“Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted” is impersonal and dismissive. It adds friction to the process and makes applicants feel like they’re sending their work into a black hole.
🚫 8. No CTA That Inspires Action
There’s no encouragement, no human connection, and no motivation to apply—just a dry email address. This post feels like it was written by a template for a filing cabinet.
Bonus Tips to Make Your Job Post Stand Out
If you want your job post to attract the right candidates—and not get lost in a sea of “meh”—here are a few powerful upgrades you can include:
✅ Tip 1: Add an IMPORTANT NOTICE for Applicant Trust
A quick privacy disclaimer reassures candidates that your company is professional and trustworthy. You’d be surprised how many people don’t apply because they’re unsure if the listing is real.
📌 Example:
“We take the security and privacy of all applicants seriously. We’ll never ask for banking information, personal financial details, or any kind of payment during the hiring process.”
✅ Tip 2: Mention Time Off or Flex Days
Top candidates care about balance. Even if your benefits aren’t massive, just being upfront shows respect and builds trust.
📌 Example:
“Enjoy up to 15 PTO days per year plus 10 company holidays—and we encourage our team to fully unplug when off.”
Or for part-time/entry-level:
“We’re flexible—your schedule can adjust around school, freelance gigs, or other life priorities.”
✅ Tip 3: Emphasize Growth & Training Opportunities
Whether it’s a junior photographer looking to learn or a seasoned one looking to level up, development is a big hook.
📌 Example:
“You’ll receive on-the-job mentorship, regular feedback sessions, and access to editing tutorials and pro tools. We invest in your creative growth.”
✅ Tip 4: Include a Loom Video From the Hiring Manager or Creative Lead
A short video from someone they’d actually work with can build instant connection—and set you apart from 95% of job posts.
📌 What to say in the video:
- What the company does
- What kind of photographer you’re looking for
- What kind of projects they’ll work on
- What it’s like working with the team
Then drop the link before the “Who We Are” section in your job post.
Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4
✅ Tip 5: Use Formatting to Guide the Reader
Break long blocks of text with:
- Emojis (used sparingly, like for job type or pay)
- Bullet points for responsibilities/requirements
- Clear headers for each section (e.g., “Perks and Benefits”)
This makes the post easy to scan, especially on mobile.
Should You Use AI to Write a Job Description?
🤖 The Short Answer: Yes—but only if you guide it properly.
A lot of companies are now using AI tools to generate job descriptions with one click. It feels fast and efficient—but if you’re not careful, it backfires.
❌ Why You Shouldn’t Rely on AI Alone
If you just type “Write a photographer job description” into ChatGPT or an ATS generator, you’ll likely get:
- Generic content that sounds like it came from a textbook
- A lifeless list of duties and requirements
- Buzzword-filled copy that lacks personality or culture
The result? You’ll attract people who apply to every job—and turn off those who are actually the right fit.
A job post is your first impression. If it feels robotic, disconnected, or vague… great candidates will scroll right past.
✅ The Right Way to Use AI (With a Real Example)
AI is a great tool—for polishing, organizing, and expanding your ideas. But it only works when you give it context.
Here’s how to prompt AI properly:
“Help me write a job post for our company, Trailborn Supply Co. We’re hiring a Brand Photographer to help us shoot outdoor lifestyle content for our apparel campaigns. Our culture is creative, flexible, and mission-driven, and we want to attract candidates who are independent, detail-oriented, and passionate about visual storytelling.
We offer $60–75k salary, paid travel, and a gear budget. Here is our hiring process: We use WorkScreen to evaluate skills, then invite finalists for a paid test shoot.
Here are a few rough notes to get started:
[Paste notes or bullet points here]
Then let the AI give you a draft—and edit it to sound like your team. Inject your brand voice, your values, and your expectations.
🧠 Bottom Line
AI can help speed things up—but if you use it blindly, it’ll produce something generic. The best job posts still come from you—they just get a little boost from the right tools.
Hiring doesn’t have to be hard.
If your hiring process is stressful, slow, or filled with second-guessing—WorkScreen fixes that. Workscreen helps you quickly identify top talent fast, eliminate low-quality applicants, and make better hires without the headaches.
Copy-Paste Job Description Templates for Quick Use
Need a Photographer Job Description You Can Copy and Use Right Away?
We get it—sometimes you need something fast.
Maybe you’ve already read through this guide and understand what makes a strong job post. But you still want a solid starting point you can copy, paste, and tailor to your company.
That’s what this is.
✏️ Important Reminder:
Don’t copy this word-for-word and expect magic.
This is a foundation, not a final draft.
Add a Loom video, inject your team culture, and edit the details to reflect your actual company.
In this section, you’ll find two ready-to-use job description templates for quick copy-paste use — but please remember, like we mentioned above, don’t just copy them word-for-word and expect results.
Think of these as starting points, not final drafts.
- Option 1: A more conversational, culture-first job description that highlights personality and team fit.
- Option 2: A more structured format, including a Job Brief, Responsibilities, and Requirements for a traditional approach.
✅ Option 1: Conversational, Culture-First Photographer Job Description
📸 Job Title: Brand Photographer for [Company Name]
💼 Location: Hybrid – [City] + Travel
💰 Salary: [$X]
🕒 Job Type: Full-Time
🎥 Hear from our [Creative Lead/Founder] on what makes this role special:
[Insert Video Link]
Who We Are
[Company Name] is a fast-growing brand in [industry] that believes in powerful storytelling through visuals. Whether it’s a product launch or a behind-the-scenes campaign, we create images that connect with real people—and we’re looking for a photographer who can help us bring that to life.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Plan, shoot, and edit photo content across digital and print platforms
- Collaborate with creative, marketing, and product teams
- Lead both studio and on-location shoots
- Handle photo selection, editing, and organization
- Help define visual direction for upcoming campaigns
What We’re Looking For
- 2+ years of photography experience
- Strong portfolio (please include link)
- Experience working with teams and directing shoots
- Proficiency in editing software (Lightroom, Photoshop, etc.)
- Bonus: Experience shooting in natural light or travel-style content
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
This is a role where your work will actually be seen—and valued. You’ll have creative freedom, team support, and the opportunity to build campaigns from the ground up. If you love blending storytelling with photography, you’ll feel right at home here.
Perks and Benefits
- Competitive salary
- Health and dental insurance
- Paid travel for shoots
- Gear stipend
- Paid time off and holidays
- Creative growth budget (for courses, tools, or conferences)
How to Apply
We use WorkScreen to evaluate candidates based on creative skill—not just resumes.
👉 [Insert Application Link]
Complete the short evaluation and share your portfolio. We’ll follow up with every applicant.
✅ Option 2: Structured Format (Job Brief + Responsibilities + Requirements)
Job Title: Photographer
Company: [Company Name]
Location: [City or Hybrid]
Job Type: [Full-Time / Part-Time]
Salary Range: [$X – $Y]
🎥 Hear from our [Creative Lead/Founder] on what makes this role special:
[Insert Video Link]
Job Brief
[Company Name] is seeking a talented photographer to join our creative team. This role is responsible for capturing and editing visual content for our products, campaigns, and digital platforms. The ideal candidate will have a strong eye for detail, a collaborative mindset, and a passion for storytelling through imagery.
Key Responsibilities
- Plan and execute product and lifestyle shoots
- Work with the creative team to align on shoot direction
- Edit, retouch, and prepare final images for use
- Organize photo files for internal and external use
- Maintain camera equipment and studio setup
Requirements
- 2–3 years of experience in photography or a strong portfolio
- Proficiency in editing software (Lightroom, Photoshop)
- Excellent time management and communication skills
- Ability to work independently and with a team
- Flexibility to travel or shoot in various locations
Benefits
- Competitive salary
- Health/dental/vision coverage
- Paid vacation and sick days
- Gear/equipment allowance
- Career growth and learning budget
- Travel opportunities
Application Process
We use WorkScreen to help us evaluate skills fairly.
👉 [Insert Application Link]
Apply through the link, share your portfolio, and complete the short skill test. We’ll get back to every applicant—we don’t ghost.
Let WorkScreen Handle the Next Phase
Writing a great job post is just the beginning.
Now comes the hard part—sorting through applications, spotting real talent, and making sure the person behind the portfolio is actually the right fit.
That’s where WorkScreen.io makes your life easier.
WorkScreen helps you:
✅ Quickly identify your most promising candidates
WorkScreen automatically evaluates, scores, and ranks applicants on a performance-based leaderboard—making it easy to spot top talent, save time, and make smarter, data-driven hiring decisions.
✅ Test real-world skills—not just resumes
With WorkScreen, you can administer one-click skill tests to assess candidates based on real-world ability—not just credentials like résumés and past experience. This helps you hire more confidently and holistically.
✅ Eliminate low-effort or AI-generated applicants
WorkScreen automatically eliminates low-effort applicants who use AI Tools to apply, copy-paste answers, or rely on “one-click apply.” This way, you focus only on genuine, committed, and high-quality candidates—helping you avoid costly hiring mistakes.
If you’ve put effort into crafting a thoughtful, candidate-first job description, don’t let a weak hiring process ruin it.
Let WorkScreen take care of the heavy lifting—so you can hire confidently, efficiently, and without second-guessing and post your first job today
Photographer Job Description – FAQ
Look for more than just technical camera skills. A great photographer combines creative vision with soft skills like communication, adaptability, and attention to detail.
Key skills include:
- Strong portfolio that matches your project or brand style
- Proficiency in editing tools like Lightroom and Photoshop
- Ability to direct subjects and manage a shoot environment
- Reliable organization of files and delivery timelines
- An eye for storytelling, composition, and lighting
If you’re hiring for commercial or brand work, also look for experience collaborating with designers, marketers, or creative directors.
Photographer salaries vary widely depending on the industry, location, and level of experience. Here’s a general breakdown:
- Entry-Level / Assistant Photographer: $18–$25/hour
- Mid-Level Photographer: $45,000–$65,000/year
- Senior or Commercial Photographer: $70,000–$100,000+/year
- Freelancers: Rates vary based on project type, typically $50–$200/hour
Note: Rates are higher in commercial industries (e.g., fashion, tech, advertising) and in major cities like New York, LA, or London.
Portrait photographers focus on capturing individuals, couples, or families—often in studio or natural light settings. Their work is emotion-driven and personal.
Brand photographers, on the other hand, create imagery that supports a company’s marketing strategy. This could include product shoots, lifestyle content, or campaign visuals. They’re expected to align with brand aesthetics and often collaborate with creative teams.
Not necessarily. In fact, many of the most successful photographers are self-taught or trained through workshops, mentorships, or hands-on experience.
What matters more is:
- A strong portfolio that matches your needs
- Professionalism on set
- A commitment to learning and adapting to your style
Degrees can help in certain industries (like journalism or fashion), but they aren’t a must.
Pay attention to how they communicate. During interviews or test shoots, assess whether they:
- Take feedback well
- Can collaborate across departments
- Handle pressure or last-minute changes
- Have a client- or team-oriented mindset
A good culture fit isn’t just about being “friendly”—it’s about working well with your people, respecting deadlines, and aligning with your brand tone.
