Photography Intern

How to Apply

A cover letter is required for consideration and should be attached as the first page of your resume. Use the cover letter to explain your interest in the position, highlight the skills and experience that make you a strong candidate, and include a link to a portfolio featuring 15-20 of your best images along with at least one photo essay, multi-image project, or a video story. Applications missing any of these components will not be reviewed.

Job Summary

Michigan Photography nationally recognized for delivering outstanding professional photography services to the University of Michigan community, the media, and the public, and the exclusive provider of still imagery for U-M Athletics is seeking a talented and versatile Photography Intern to join our award-winning team. This is a post-graduate internship.

As the visual storytelling arm of the Office of the Vice President for Communications, Michigan Photography produces portraits, event coverage, athletics photography, and creative imagery that help shape how the university is seen, remembered, and celebrated. This role offers the opportunity to work on meaningful assignments across a world-class institution while collaborating with a team of experienced visual storytellers. The position reports to the Director of Michigan Photography.

Responsibilities*

As a member of our creative team, you will have the opportunity to photograph people, places, events, and activities across the University of Michigan. Your work may be used for university news, marketing, social media, publications, and other communications.

Responsibilities May Include

Photographing campus events, student activities, academics, and university programsCreating portraits of individuals and groups in a variety of settingsPhotographing athletic events and other fast-paced assignmentsAssisting photographers with shoots, equipment, lighting, and other production needsEditing and organizing photographs for delivery and useLearning and following digital file management, captioning, and metadata practicesHelping maintain and organize the university's digital photo archiveWorking with photographers and staff on a variety of creative projectsCommunicating with team members and clients in a professional and friendly mannerBeing flexible and willing to learn as assignments and priorities change

This role routinely moves audio/visual equipment weighing up to 50 pounds across campus to client locations and remains in a stationary position throughout the entire shift, including evenings and weekends.

Required Qualifications*

Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and professional experienceDemonstrated experience producing visual storytelling through portraits, events, athletics, and feature photographyPhoto-editing and retouching skills while maintaining authenticity

Skills You Have

Collaborative: Works effectively as part of a team and supports colleagues when neededAdaptable: Thrives in a dynamic environment with changing priorities and schedulesCommunicative: Builds strong relationships with clients and colleagues through clear, responsive communicationOrganized: Maintains accurate workflows and attention to detail while managing multiple assignmentsSelf-Motivated: Demonstrates sound judgment and accountability while working independently

Desired Qualifications*

Experience working in higher education, editorial, collegiate athletics, or similarly fast-paced environmentsVideo experience is a plus, as social media and b-roll shooting is a regular

Why Work at Michigan?

Benefits

In addition to a career filled with purpose and opportunity, the University of Michigan offers a comprehensive benefits package to help you stay well, protect yourself and your family, and plan for a secure future. Benefits include:

Generous time off, including family care and maternity and parental leavesA retirement plan that provides two-for-one matching contributions after one yearMany choices for comprehensive health insuranceDental coverageLife insuranceLong-term disability coverageFlexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses

Modes of Work

Positions that are eligible for hybrid or mobile/remote work mode are at the discretion of the hiring department. Work agreements are reviewed annually at a minimum and are subject to change at any time, and for any reason, throughout the course of employment. Learn more about the work modes.

Work Schedule

This is a full-time, 40-hour position that includes paid overtime, as evening and weekend work is often required to support university events and athletic coverage. Occasional overnight travel outside of Michigan is required. A valid driver's license and access to a personal vehicle are necessary. While most assignments take place in Ann Arbor, travel throughout the state including Detroit, Dearborn, Flint, Lansing, and Grand Rapids may be required.

Work Locations

This position is based in the Michigan Photography studio on the University of Michigan's central campus in Ann Arbor. The role follows a hybrid schedule that includes studio work, on-location assignments, and remote work.

Application Deadline

Job openings are posted for a minimum of seven calendar days. The review and selection process may begin as early as the eighth day after posting. This opening may be removed from posting boards and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended.

U-M EEO Statement

The University of Michigan is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.