Eames Institute is hiring: Photographer in Richmond
Eames Institute - Richmond, VA, United States, 23214
Work at Eames Institute
Overview
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Overview
The Eames Institute of Infinite Curiosity is a nonprofit public charity dedicated to advancing the dynamic legacy of 20th-century designers Ray and Charles Eames. By sharing the things the Eameses made and loved, along with their joyful and rigorous approach to life and work, we seek to inspire creative problem-solving that positively shapes our world.
With our vast collections, digital and print offerings, extensive program of events, and the Eames Ranch, we aim to demonstrate the enduring value of the Eameses' philosophy and invite people to explore their own curiosity, ask questions, and implement creative solutions to the challenges of today.
About the Role
We are seeking a talented photographer to join our team as a pivotal member supporting multiple departments: Collections, Creative & Communications, and Experiences. This role reports directly to the Senior Director of Collections, Senior Creative Director, and Senior Director of Retail, ensuring alignment with the organization's vision and standards.
The Photographer plays a pivotal role in safeguarding and enhancing the invaluable digital assets in the collections of the Eames Institute, thus contributing significantly to the success of the broader mission of the Eames Institute, to safeguard and share our collections with the world, bringing the best of technology to bear. As a member of several dynamic teams, this role is not merely about photographing and overseeing production standards for the collection; it's about preserving the essence of our collections' histories and impact for generations to come. The Photographer ensures that the collections we care for are not only preserved but also made accessible to diverse audiences worldwide, as well as increasing awareness of the rich stories and legacy of the Eameses through the Institutes' many and varied surfaces and offerings. Join us in this role, where each task performed contributes to the larger vision of preserving these histories for posterity.
In this role, you will...
Collections Photography (50%)
- Build out flexible and adaptable studio setup and lighting for collections photography.
- Photograph artifacts from our collection, both 2D and 3D, ranging in scale from very small tabletop set-ups to large format cyc set-ups.
- Adhere to established standards in place at the Eames Institute for lighting, equipment usage, and capturing objects at consistent angles to ensure accurate representation of artifacts.
- Maintain proper file naming conventions and metadata standards, as informed by the Collections Team.
- Deliver all files to the Institute's Digital Asset Management System (DAMS).
- Set up and execute art-directed photography of collection artifacts under the guidance of the Senior Creative Director.
- Ensure photography aligns with the creative direction and brand guidelines of the organization.
- Capture high-quality product images that adhere to brand standards and e-commerce platform guidelines.
- Collaborate closely with the Marketing & Communications team to deliver high-quality assets for various media to promote and share the Institute's stories and offerings.
- Deliver all files to the Institute's Digital Asset Management System (DAMS).
- Photograph retail items for sale on the Eames Institute's website.
- Capture product images that highlight features and details effectively.
- Coordinate with the Experience team to maintain visual consistency across all retail photography.
- Stout Architectural Books. Document Eames Institute and Stout Books events.
Required skills, abilities, competencies
- Strong technical skills in studio photography, including lighting, composition, and high-resolution image capture. Experience should include reportage, portrait, and event photography.
- Proficiency in handling collection artifacts and understanding their unique photographic requirements.
- Excellent attention to detail and ability to consistently produce high-quality work.
- Familiarity with Digital Asset Management Systems and metadata standards.
- Ability to manage time effectively and prioritize tasks across multiple departments.
- Strong communication skills and ability to collaborate effectively with diverse teams.
- Background in art history, museum studies, or related fields.
- Proven experience in photographing artifacts within visual arts organizations.
- Experience with studio lighting setups and equipment.
- Proficiency in image editing software (e.g., Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom).
- Portfolio demonstrating previous work in artifact photography and product photography.
Please note: this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job.
Work hours, working styles, and additional benefits:
- This position is expected to be primarily onsite at the Institute's Richmond location, with occasional travel to the other Institute workplaces in Petaluma and San Francisco, working Monday-Friday 9-5pm.
- Please note: this is a two-year position expected to last from around Spring, 2025 - Spring, 2027. May be potential for extension or consideration for a permanent role based on organizational needs and performance.
- The Eames Institute offers a competitive benefits package, including...
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance, for which the organization covers 99% of the cost for employees and 75% of the cost for dependents
- Base salary range: $62,475-$84,525
- 401k employer match up to 6%, commuting benefits, and parental leave
- Wellness benefit of $600 per year to spend on anything that contributes to your mental and physical wellness
- Professional development benefit up to $600 per year to support your continued learning and career development
- $500 match for charitable giving, for every year of service up to five years
- Unlimited paid time off policy in addition to fourteen paid holidays
The Eames Institute values diversity, inclusion, and belonging for all, and is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We strive to create a workplace that empowers people of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences to feel respected, valued, and able to contribute at the highest level. If you're excited by this role but your professional experience doesn't perfectly align with the qualifications listed, we still encourage you to apply.