PHOTOJOURNALIST (MORNING) - WMTV

About the Company

Gray Media is a growing multimedia company headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, and the nation's largest owner of top-rated local television stations and digital assets. The company serves 117 full-power television markets, reaching approximately 37% of US television households. Gray Media's portfolio includes 80 markets with the top-rated television station and 100 markets with the first or second highest-rated station. The company also owns the largest Telemundo Affiliate group (46 markets) and Gray Digital Media, a full-service digital agency.

WMTV serves south central Wisconsin as the #1 station in the market, leading in news and weather coverage. The station is recognized for delivering accurate and immediate information across digital platforms.

About the Role

WMTV in Madison is seeking a Morning Photojournalist who thrives on live television and excels in fast-paced, dynamic environments. This role requires a creative and technically skilled individual who can own the morning shift, pivot seamlessly to breaking news, and contribute to digital content creation. You’ll collaborate with reporters, producers, and the control room to deliver high-quality live shots, interviews, and visual storytelling. The ideal candidate is a self-starter with a passion for journalism and a commitment to keeping Madison informed and engaged.

Responsibilities

• Own the morning live experience by partnering with reporters to execute dynamic, high-quality live shots and interviews.
• Pivot quickly to breaking news coverage, providing urgent and visually compelling context for viewers.
• Gather digital content and social snippets for every story to ensure coverage excels across all platforms.
• Act as the liaison between the field and control room, serving as the producer’s eyes and ears for seamless execution.
• Fuel midday newscasts by gathering fresh content and providing live support for the 11 AM broadcast.
• Troubleshoot technical challenges in the field with a calm, solution-oriented attitude.
• Capture high-quality audio, natural sound, and visuals to enhance storytelling.

Requirements

• Journalism degree or technical college video production degree preferred.
• 1-2 years of experience in a professional newsroom, with a strong understanding of its pace.
• Technical mastery of white balancing, the rule of thirds, sequencing, and 3-point lighting.
• Ability to capture high-quality audio and natural sound for storytelling.
• Digital-first mindset, ensuring stories are optimized for social and web audiences.
• Part 107 drone certification (or willingness to obtain it) to elevate storytelling.
• Strong communication skills to manage field operations and collaborate with the control room.
• Morning energy and a positive attitude, with the ability to thrive in early hours.
• Reliability and composure under pressure, serving as a calming presence for the team.
• Ability to carry 35+ pounds of gear, including camera, tripod, TVU, and accessories.

Familiarity with TVU, ENPS, Arc, Edius, Syncbak, and Chartbeat is a plus but not required.