The Photography Specialist plays a vital role in the Office of Communications and Marketing by producing compelling visual content showcasing the institution's vibrancy and achievements. Reporting to the Photography Manager, the Photography Specialist collaborates with teams across campus to capture high-quality images for use in print, digital, and social media platforms.

This position requires creativity, technical expertise, and a passion for storytelling through photography, as well as the ability to work in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

Advances and protects Boise State’s institutional identity by assisting in the art direction and implementation of brand-level photography for marketing campaigns, Boise State Magazine, advertisements, special projects, website, social media and design projects and more. Creates, coordinates and implements photoshoots.

Willingness to work evenings and weekends as required for event coverage.

Fully competent and productive professional contributor who applies acquired job skills, policies, and procedures to complete substantive assignments/projects/tasks of moderate scope and complexity. Works independently with general supervision; exercises judgment within defined guidelines and practices to determine appropriate action. May provide guidance and assistance to entry level professionals and/or support employees.

60% – Visual Asset Development
● Apply brand and visual design best practices to create print, digital, web, and social media assets.
● Serve as a subject matter expert in visual storytelling through brand-level photography, selecting images for various university platforms under the guidance of the Creative Director.
● Capture high-quality images for marketing campaigns, event coverage, campus life, and institutional publications.
● Provide on-location photography services for events, portraits, and special projects.
● Maintain professional flexibility to adapt to changing processes, program information, and priorities.
● Recommend and implement industry best practices.
● Manage and deliver visual concepts to effectively communicate with various stakeholder groups.
● Work effectively both independently and collaboratively on tasks and projects.
● Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders on project planning, content, layout, and publication of marketing materials, ensuring timely delivery.
● Manage multiple, simultaneous projects.

35% – Photoshoot Planning and Execution
● Develop creative briefs outlining the art direction for photoshoots to meet campaign or project goals.
● Assist in the planning and execution of creative photoshoots under the direction of the Photography Manager.
● Coordinate with the Photography Manager to schedule, lead, and direct student workers on photo and visual projects.
● Support and mentor student photographers or interns as needed.
● Perform post-production photo editing using Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop to ensure quality, consistency, and alignment with the institution’s brand standards.
● Organize and prepare final deliverables for print and digital use.
● Co-manage the brand-level photo archive, tagging and cataloging images for easy retrieval, and ensuring proper backup and storage following office protocols.

5% – Administrative Duties
● Complete business processes and administrative tasks, including travel arrangements and p-card reconciliation, adhering to budget parameters.
● Perform other duties as assigned.

● Creative Development: Proficient in design and photography best practices, including print production and art direction.
● Technical Proficiency: Skilled in photo editing software (e.g., Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom) and experienced with DSLR (preferably Nikon) and mirrorless cameras.
● Lighting Techniques: Knowledgeable in natural, indoor, and studio lighting methods.
● Visual Asset Management: Experience in producing and editing visual content across various media and co-managing visual asset libraries for organizational use.
● Brand Photography: Demonstrated ability in capturing images for advertising, marketing campaigns, and brand materials across print and digital platforms.
● Interpersonal Skills: Aptitude for building and maintaining professional relationships, with strong verbal and written communication abilities.
● Flexibility: Willingness to work adaptable hours to meet stakeholder needs.
● Independence and Problem-Solving: Capable of working autonomously, making informed decisions, and effectively resolving issues. Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

● Bachelor’s degree in photography, visual arts, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.
● 2+ years of professional photography experience with a portfolio showcasing a range of work (e.g., event, portrait, and editorial photography).

Preferred Qualifications:

Cover letter and resume and recent photography portfolio.

Nestled along the Boise River and steps from the state capitol, Boise State University fosters a vibrant and welcoming academic environment that fuels student and employee success. We’re a trailblazing institution, nationally recognized for our innovative spirit and commitment to positive impact on Idaho and beyond.

Boise State is proud to be recognized by Forbes as the only Idaho employer listed in the top 100 of all national midsize and large employers. We’re building a thriving community of faculty and staff whose unique skills, experiences, and perspectives come together to create a rich and rewarding academic experience. Applications from all backgrounds are welcomed.

Learn more about Boise State and living in Idaho’s Treasure Valley at https://www.boisestate.edu/about/