Photographer, Federation
U.S. Soccer Federation exists in service to soccer, aiming to ignite a national passion for the game. We believe soccer is a force for good, fostering teamwork and transforming lives. As we enter a period of significant growth, we seek dynamic servant leaders to join us in advancing soccer at every level across America.
About the role
The Federation Photographer will capture and tell the stories of U.S. Soccer’s Youth National Teams (YNTs) and Extended National Teams (ENTs) through compelling imagery across camps, matches, tournaments, and behind-the-scenes environments. This role supports still photography for a wide range of Federation programs, including National Training Center events, Soccer Forward initiatives, and broader Federation programming. The position manages the end-to-end photography process, from shooting to editing, color correction, asset organization, and delivery of imagery optimized for digital, editorial, and commercial distribution. The role emphasizes speed to market, especially during camps and matchdays, to support real-time content needs for social, editorial, and commercial objectives.
This individual will collaborate with Social Media, Brand and Creative, Media, Editorial, Content Strategy, and Partnership Marketing teams to ensure photography aligns with storytelling, audience growth, and revenue-driven initiatives such as photo licensing, Insiders, ticket sales, and partner integrations. The role may also include supporting photography at domestic, non-tournament Senior National Team games.
Responsibilities
- Capture high-quality photography of Youth National Team and Extended National Team camps, matches, training sessions, and off-field moments
- Deliver real-time and near real-time photo selects for distribution across social and owned platforms
- Edit, color correct, and optimize imagery for various formats, platforms, and audiences
- Maintain and organize photography assets within U.S. Soccer’s digital asset management systems
- Execute content plans around camps, tournaments, and events to ensure comprehensive visual coverage
- Collaborate with Social Media and Editorial teams to align on storytelling priorities and platform needs
- Curate and deliver photo selects for internal stakeholders and external distribution partners
- Support commercial and marketing initiatives through photography, including photo licensing, partner content, Insiders growth, and ticket sales
- Stay current with industry trends, technology, and best practices in sports and editorial photography
- Travel domestically and internationally to support Federation programming and events
Requirements
- 3+ years of professional photography experience, preferably in sports or live event environments
- Experience capturing high-quality imagery in fast-paced, high-pressure environments
- Strong portfolio demonstrating storytelling through photography
- Expertise in DSLR/mirrorless camera systems and professional lenses
- Proficiency in Photo Mechanic (or equivalent), Adobe Lightroom, and Adobe Photoshop
- Familiarity with digital asset management systems
- Strong understanding of photo composition, lighting, and color grading
- Ability to manage and prioritize multiple projects under tight deadlines
- General knowledge of soccer
- Ability to connect “micro” details to the “macro” vision and mission
- Proficiency with Microsoft Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Outlook)
- Ability to work non-traditional hours including nights, weekends, and holidays
- Willingness to travel up to 50% domestically and internationally
- Valid passport required
Qualifications
- Experience working with elite athletes or professional sports teams
- Understanding of content optimization across social and digital platforms
- Knowledge of soccer and its global landscape
- Experience capturing stylized, lifestyle photography
Benefits
U.S. Soccer offers a comprehensive compensation package, a casual work environment, an inclusive culture, and opportunities for professional development.