Photo Intern, HQ (Summer 2027)

About the role

POLITICO is seeking an emerging photojournalist for its Summer 2027 photo internship. This role offers hands-on experience in photojournalism, photo editing and visual storytelling. You’ll work closely with POLITICO’s photo editors and staff photographer to support daily news coverage while learning how photography is assigned, produced and edited in a fast-paced newsroom.

Responsibilities

• Support daily photo coverage across POLITICO’s newsroom.
• Research, source and edit photography for breaking news and enterprise stories.
• Assist photo editors with assignments, visual research and image selection.
• Photograph news, events, portraits and other assignments alongside POLITICO’s staff photographer and photo editors.
• Write and edit accurate captions, credits, alt text and photo metadata.
• Help organize assignments, photo files and other newsroom photography resources.
• Work with reporters and editors to identify opportunities for original photography and visual storytelling.
• Contribute ideas for creative and distinctive approaches to POLITICO’s journalism.

Requirements

• Strong passion for journalism, Washington, politics and policy.
• Demonstrated experience in photography or photojournalism.
• A portfolio that demonstrates strong visual storytelling and journalistic instincts.
• Excellent news judgment and attention to detail.
• Ability to work quickly and efficiently under deadline.
• Strong communication, organizational and research skills.
• Familiarity with photo-editing tools such as Adobe Photoshop or Photo Mechanic is a plus.
• Previous newsroom, freelance, student publication or other journalism experience is preferred.

Benefits

• Work on some of the biggest stories in Washington as they unfold.
• Gain hands-on experience in both photo editing and original photography.
• Work closely with experienced photo editors and photographers and receive direct feedback.
• Build your skills and portfolio through meaningful newsroom assignments and intern-specific training.

Pay

$23/hr

Schedule

Hybrid, full-time, 40 hours/week

Internship Details

Location: Arlington, VA (HQ). Dates: June–August 2027.