Aurora Portrait Photographer

Adventures; Fairbanks (AK); On-site; USD 22,000 - 32,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

End-of-season bonus

On-site housing

Job summary

Borealis Basecamp in Fairbanks is seeking an Aurora Portrait Photographer for nightly aurora photography sessions. You will lead small group shoots, stage guests for portraits, and creatively capture high-quality images under Arctic conditions.

The role requires DSLR operation, editing, and strong guest communications. This is a full-time seasonal position with on-site housing options and an end-of-season bonus.

Qualifications

• Prior photography experience required; professional experience preferred.
• Proficiency operating DSLR cameras, tripods, flashes, and multiple lenses.
• Experience with photo editing software and basic computer systems.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work evening and overnight shifts (typically 5–6 days per week).
• Ability to stand and remain active for extended periods (up to 8 hours).

Responsibilities

• Professional delivery of an established Aurora Borealis presentation, grounded in science, on a nightly basis
• Lead nightly aurora photography sessions for small groups
• Monitor aurora activity and adjust timing and locations to optimize photo opportunities
• Stage guests on igloo decks and provide direction for posing and positioning
• Capture high-quality aurora portraits using professional camera equipment
• Edit photos promptly and deliver completed images to guests using designated software systems
• Communicate clearly and professionally with guests throughout the experience
• Ensure a positive, engaging, and memorable guest experience
• Maintain photography equipment and ensure proper care and storage
• Support additional operations and perform other duties as assigned

Skills

Photography experience

DSLR proficiency

Photo editing

Communication skills

Evening/overnight shifts

Stand long periods

Tools

DSLR cameras

Tripods

Flashes

Lenses

Job description

Adventures

Aurora Portrait Photographer

$19.00 / hour + tips

Fairbanks

Key Responsibilities

• Professional delivery of an established Aurora Borealis presentation, grounded in science, on a nightly basis
• Lead nightly aurora photography sessions for small groups
• Monitor aurora activity and adjust timing and locations to optimize photo opportunities
• Stage guests on igloo decks and provide direction for posing and positioning
• Capture high-quality aurora portraits using professional camera equipment
• Edit photos promptly and deliver completed images to guests using designated software systems
• Communicate clearly and professionally with guests throughout the experience
• Ensure a positive, engaging, and memorable guest experience
• Maintain photography equipment and ensure proper care and storage
• Support additional operations and perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• Prior photography experience required; professional experience preferred
• Proficiency operating DSLR cameras, tripods, flashes, and multiple lenses
• Experience with photo editing software and basic computer systems
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to work evening and overnight shifts (typically 5–6 days per week)
• Ability to stand and remain active for extended periods (up to 8 hours)

Preferred Skills

• Experience in portrait or low-light/night photography
• Knowledge of astrotourism, the Aurora Borealis, night sky
• Strong guest service and interpersonal skills
• Creative eye for composition, lighting, and guest presentation
• Experience working in tourism, hospitality, or remote environments
• Ability to multitask and adapt in dynamic outdoor conditions

Physical Demands

• Ability to navigate uneven terrain in low-light conditions
• Ability to work in extreme weather conditions, including Arctic cold
• Ability to stand and work outdoors for extended periods
• Ability to safely handle and transport photography equipment

Compensation & Benefits

End-of-Season Bonus

A $1.50 per hour bonus is paid for every hour worked throughout the season to employees who complete the full season. Employees who leave prior to April 12 are not eligible for this bonus.

Employee Housing

On-site housing is available for $10.50 per day. Rooms are double or triple occupancy. Amenities include shared common areas with TV, Wi‑Fi, dining space, and an exercise area.

Housing also includes private bathrooms, laundry facilities, staff-prepared lunch and dinner, and a self‑serve continental breakfast (oatmeal, cereal, fruit, etc.).

Pre-Employment Requirements

Borealis Basecamp is committed tomaintaininga safe and professional work environment. All offers of employment are contingent upon the successful completion of a backgroundcheck conducted by a third-party provider.

Employees may be subject to drug testing conducted by a third-party provider, including pre-employment, random, reasonable suspicion, and post-incident testing,in accordance withcompany policy and applicable law.

Reports To

Adventures Manager

Employment Type

Full-time Seasonal

Season Start Date

August 24

Season End Date

April 12