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.

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