Photography Intern

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

• Photographing campus events, student activities, academics, and university programs
• Creating portraits of individuals and groups in a variety of settings
• Photographing athletic events and other fast-paced assignments
• Assisting photographers with shoots, equipment, lighting, and other production needs
• Editing and organizing photographs for delivery and use
• Learning and following digital file management, captioning, and metadata practices
• Helping maintain and organize the university's digital photo archive
• Working with photographers and staff on a variety of creative projects
• Communicating with team members and clients in a professional and friendly manner
• Being 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.

Requirements

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

Skills

• Collaborative: Works effectively as part of a team and supports colleagues when needed
• Adaptable: Thrives in a dynamic environment with changing priorities and schedules
• Communicative: Builds strong relationships with clients and colleagues through clear, responsive communication
• Organized: Maintains accurate workflows and attention to detail while managing multiple assignments
• Self-Motivated: Demonstrates sound judgment and accountability while working independently

Desired Qualifications

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

Benefits

• Generous time off, including family care and maternity and parental leaves
• A retirement plan that provides two-for-one matching contributions after one year
• Many choices for comprehensive health insurance
• Dental coverage
• Life insurance
• Long-term disability coverage
• Flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses

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.