University Photographer

Dillard University; New Orleans (LA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

Dillard University seeks a creative, organized University Photographer for the Office of Communications & Marketing to capture events, campus life, and official portraits, and to build the visual identity.

The role manages the photo library, supports social media with high-quality content, and collaborates with campus partners; occasional videography may be included.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in photography, visual communications, media arts, or related field.
• 2–3 years of professional photography experience.
• Proficiency with DSLR/mirrorless cameras, lighting, and photo editing software (Lightroom, Photoshop).
• Strong composition, lighting, and visual storytelling.
• Experience managing large collections of digital images.
• Experience creating content for social media platforms (Instagram, Facebook, X/Twitter, LinkedIn).
• Ability to work flexible hours—including evenings and weekends—as photography needs arise.
• Strong communication and collaboration with campus stakeholders.
• Ability to meet tight deadlines and manage multiple projects.

Responsibilities

• Photograph university-wide events and campus life.
• Produce editorial, marketing, and promotional images for print, digital, and web-based communications.
• Edit, retouch, and deliver photos according to university brand standards.
• Organize, catalog, and maintain the university's photo archive with metadata.
• Manage the university's social media content planning, creation, and scheduling.
• Collaborate with campus partners to develop engaging visual content that supports institutional priorities.
• Assist with occasional videography projects when required (preferred, not required).

Skills

DSLR cameras

Lighting

Photo editing

Visual storytelling

Social media

Project management

Education

Bachelor's degree in photography or related field

Tools

Adobe Lightroom

Adobe Photoshop

DAMs

Job description

Position Overview Dillard University seeks a creative, organized, and highly skilled University Photographer to join the Office of Communications & Marketing. The University Photographer will play a key role in shaping the visual identity of the institution by capturing compelling images that highlight the Dillard experience. This role is responsible for photographing a wide range of university events, campus life moments, academic and student achievements, and official university portraits. The photographer will also manage and maintain the university’s digital photo library and support the university's social media platforms with high-quality content and consistent posting. This position reports to the Assistant Director of Communications & Marketing.

Key Responsibilities

Photography & Visual Production

• Photograph university-wide events, including academic ceremonies, student activities, athletic events, special programs, fundraising events, and campus life.
• Capture high-quality images that reflect Dillard's mission, values, culture, and brand identity.
• Coordinate and execute faculty, staff, student, and Board of Trustees headshots as requested.
• Produce editorial, marketing, and promotional images for print, digital, and web-based communications.
• Edit, retouch, and deliver photos according to university brand standards.

Digital Asset Management

• Organize, catalog, and maintain the university's photo archive using a consistent metadata and folder structure.
• Ensure all images are tagged, stored, and accessible for internal communications needs.
• Monitor permissions, usage rights, and photo release forms when appropriate.

Social Media Content Management

• Manage the university's primary social media accounts, including content planning, creation, and scheduling.
• Select and edit photography for posts that align with Dillard's communications goals and brand guidelines.
• Collaborate with campus partners to develop engaging visual content that supports institutional priorities.
• Monitor trends, engagement, and analytics to help strengthen the university's digital presence.

Collaboration & Cross-Department Support

• Work closely with the Communications & Marketing team to plan visual coverage for major university initiatives.
• Provide photography support for admissions, development, alumni relations, academic departments, and student organizations as needed.
• Assist with occasional videography projects when required (preferred, not required).

Qualifications Required

• Bachelor's degree in photography, visual communications, media arts, or a related field; equivalent professional experience considered.
• Minimum 2–3 years of professional photography experience.
• Proficiency with DSLR/mirrorless cameras, lighting equipment, and photo editing software (e.g., Adobe Lightroom, Adobe Photoshop).
• Strong understanding of composition, lighting, and visual storytelling.
• Experience managing and organizing large collections of digital images.
• Demonstrated experience creating content for social media platforms (Instagram, Facebook, X/Twitter, LinkedIn).
• Ability to work flexible hours—including evenings and weekends—as photography needs arise.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate with diverse campus stakeholders.
• Ability to meet tight deadlines and manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Preferred

• Experience with videography and basic video editing.
• Experience working in higher education or with nonprofit organizations.
• Knowledge of digital asset management systems (DAMs).
• Familiarity with brand management and marketing principles.

Working Conditions

• This position requires frequent movement across campus and the ability to carry equipment.
• Some evening, weekend, and holiday work will be required based on the university calendar.
• Must maintain the security and care of university-issued photography equipment.