Description
Photo/Video Content Specialist
Department: Marketing & Communications
Reports to: VP, Marketing and Communications
Status: Non-Exempt
Organization: The Living Desert
Position Overview
The Zoo Photographer/Videographer is a creative and technically skilled visual storyteller responsible for capturing, editing, and producing high-quality photo and video content that supports a wide range of marketing, communications, and revenue-generating initiatives. This role plays a critical part in shaping the zoo’s public image, driving audience engagement, and supporting institutional goals through compelling visual media used across digital, print, paid advertising, media relations, and on-site experiences.
The position balances field production (photography and videography) with post-production (editing, color correction, motion graphics, and formatting) while collaborating closely with marketing, communications, education, development, and operations teams.
Key Responsibilities
Content Capture & Production
- Photograph and film animals, habitats, guests, staff, conservation work, events, and behind-the-scenes moments.
- Capture content in a way that is authentic, brand-aligned, and emotionally engaging, with strong attention to storytelling.
- Plan and execute photo and video shoots independently or with creative partners, adapting to live-animal environments and changing conditions.
- Maintain technical excellence in camera operation, lighting, audio, and composition.
Post-Production & Asset Creation
- Edit, retouch, and color-correct photos for use across digital, print, and experiential platforms.
- Edit video content for multiple formats including short-form paid ads, social media, broadcast, website, and in-zoo displays.
- Create motion graphics, titles, captions, and formatting variations as needed for different channels and specifications.
- Organize, archive, and maintain a well-structured digital asset library for long-term use.
- Ensure all assets meet brand standards, accessibility guidelines, and media specifications.
Marketing & Communications Support
- Produce visual content to support:
- Paid digital media and advertising campaigns
- Print ads, billboards, and promotional materials
- Publications, annual reports, and donor communications
- Press kits, media releases, and editorial outreach
- Website, email marketing, and organic and paid social media
- Adapt and repurpose content efficiently for multiple campaigns and audiences.
- Respond to time-sensitive requests related to media, leadership, or special initiatives.
Collaboration & Project Management
- Work closely with marketing and communications teams to understand objectives, target audiences, and creative briefs.
- Coordinate with animal care staff and operations teams to ensure safe, ethical, and respectful content capture.
- Manage multiple projects simultaneously while meeting deadlines and maintaining quality.
- Implement efficient production workflows and organized asset management.
Requirements
Experience:
- 3-5 years professional work as a photographer/videographer with a portfolio demonstrating excellence
Skills & Qualifications
- Strong portfolio demonstrating photography, videography, and post-production expertise.
- Proficiency with professional camera systems, lighting, audio equipment, and drones (if applicable).
- Advanced skills in Adobe Creative Cloud (Photoshop, Lightroom, Premiere Pro, After Effects, Firefly or equivalent tools).
- Understanding of content requirements for paid media, print production, and digital platforms.
- Ability to work in dynamic outdoor environments and around animals safely and professionally.
- Excellent storytelling instincts, visual composition skills, and attention to detail.
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in photography or film, or equivalent experience as demonstrated in portfolio of work
- Preferred Attributes
- Knowledge of conservation messaging, nonprofit marketing, or experiential brands.
- Comfort working independently and taking creative initiative.
- Strong communication skills and ability to translate strategy into visual execution.
- Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and special events.
Measures of Success
- Consistent delivery of high-quality, on-brand visual assets.
- Increased engagement and performance across digital and paid campaigns.
- Positive feedback from internal stakeholders and external media partners.
- Visual content that strengthens brand perception and supports organizational goals.
Salary aligned with skills and experience
