Description
Capture and deliver compelling, accurate visual news coverage of events, people, and issues for print and digital platforms. Work on tight deadlines in the field using professional cameras, lighting, and editing software while adhering to journalistic ethics, legal standards, and safety protocols. Collaborate with editors and reporters to produce images, captions, and photo stories.
- • Photograph breaking news, daily assignments, and long-form features on location.
- • Adjust camera settings for fast-changing conditions, low light, and action.
- • Use DSLR/mirrorless cameras, lenses, tripods, remotes, and lighting gear as needed.
- • Create and balance natural and artificial light with flashes and reflectors when appropriate.
- • Determine visual approach and composition to tell clear, accurate stories.
- • Research assignments, scout locations, and coordinate with editors and reporters.
- • Verify identities, spellings, and context; gather accurate caption information.
- • Write clear, factual captions and metadata following newsroom style.
- • Edit, tone, and crop images responsibly with minimal manipulation.
- • Prioritize safety and situational awareness in high-risk environments.
- • Transmit images quickly from the field via mobile or laptop workflows.
- • Meet tight deadlines and multiple publication schedules.
- • Maintain cameras, lenses, memory cards, batteries, and firmware.
- • Test and prepare gear before assignments; maintain backups and redundancies.
- • Organize, archive, and tag images for retrieval and re-use.
- • Obtain access, credentials, and permissions; respect legal and ethical constraints.
- • Build rapport with sources and subjects while maintaining independence.
- • Produce photo essays, galleries, and multimedia packages when required.
- • Collaborate on story planning and visual placement with editors and designers.
- • Adhere to copyright, usage rights, and newsroom ethics; file releases when needed.
- • Travel on short notice; work irregular hours, weekends, and holidays.
- • Operate in adverse weather and challenging environments.
- • Coordinate with videographers and reporters; capture short video or audio as assigned.
- • Maintain communication with the newsroom during assignments.
- • Calibrate and profile monitors; maintain color-consistent workflow.
- • Use remote or automated cameras for sports and events when appropriate.
- • Follow safety protocols and regulations for drones and specialized gear when authorized.
- • Participate in community outreach or exhibitions to showcase work.
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Related Pathways
Arts, Entertainment, & Design
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Tasks & skills:
O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge).
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Sources & Standards:
This site includes information from O*NET by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under the CC BY 4.0 license. Career Clutch has modified some of this information for student readability. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.
Last reviewed: Jan 2026
