Captivating Career Opportunity: Photographer Wanted in Washington, D.C.

The Associated Press operates as an autonomous global news entity committed to factual reporting. Established in 1846, AP continues to be the most reliable provider of prompt, precise, and impartial news across all formats, as well as the essential supplier of the technology and services critical to the news industry. Over half of the global population engages with AP journalism each day.

The Associated Press is on the lookout for a skilled visual journalist to join the Washington, D.C. team as a photographer and multi-format reporter. In this position, you will collaborate with a group of journalists and editors to deliver news-breaking, impactful, and exclusive imagery focused on spot news, politics, sports, and enterprise. This is a staff role governed by AP’s agreement with the News Media Guild.  

Key Duties: Reporting to the assistant Washington chief of bureau for photography, this photographer will cover immediate news and enterprise, including the presidency, Congress, and other political narratives that will resonate globally. An independent spirit with a passion for photojournalism and the capacity to create visually driven story ideas that extend beyond immediate news is essential. A desire to cover Washington politics – including the White House and presidential elections – along with other news topics, such as sports and entertainment, is expected. We seek a photojournalist adept at documentary photo storytelling, with ideas for photo essays showcasing the human consequences of the subjects Washington politicians discuss.

We are searching for an individual who will:

• exhibit a successful track record as a news photographer, with a background in producing engaging visual journalism under tight deadlines and delivering visual enterprise that is enlightening and enjoyable.
• effectively communicate and collaborate with the diverse team of journalists at the AP working across all formats: text, photo, video, audio, digital/social, interactive, and graphics.
• possess a strong sense of news, with the capability to articulate stories that capture attention on social media and other platforms in accordance with AP standards.
• regularly contribute to video and text reporting as coverage demands.
• seek out innovative and inclusive coverage methods while upholding AP’s principles of integrity and impartiality.
• be adaptable and willing to work during any shift, including nights and weekends, or as coverage necessitates, as AP operates around the clock.

Essential Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent expertise, such as at least three years of full-time experience as a photographer at a daily newspaper, broadcast station, digital news outlet, or an AP bureau.
• All candidates must be authorized to work in the U.S. or be able to secure permission to do so.
• Advanced proficiency in both written and spoken English. Proficiency in another language besides English is a plus.
• Portfolio of work must be presented.
• Strong interpersonal, organizational, and planning capabilities, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Desirable Qualifications: You should possess a proven record of success as a news photographer, demonstrating the ability to create compelling visual journalism promptly and accurately under pressure, emphasizing both speed and quality. The capability to depict complex stories in clear and engaging ways with striking visuals is essential. A robust set of technical skills is required, encompassing the ability to compose as events unfold, edit digital images, write precise and informative captions, and transmit images efficiently. You should work effectively as a team member.

We will consider strong candidates who do not meet all listed qualifications. A cover letter may be used to outline the unique attributes you would contribute to this role.

 

This role is governed by The Associated Press’ agreement with the News Media Guild, which stipulates an annual salary for Class A staff ranging from $52,046 to $82,934 based on location and years of experience in the field. AP may offer additional remuneration based on a job applicant’s abilities, qualifications, and market placement.

The Associated Press provides extensive benefits that include:

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Retirement plans
• Company-sponsored life insurance
• Paid time off for vacation and sick leave
• Paid parental leave for new parents
• Mental health support services

Benefits may differ based on the position, whether it is full-time or part-time, location, and collectively bargained status.

Application deadline is February 4, 2025, at 11:59 PM EST.

 

AP aims to cultivate an inclusive organization rooted in respect for diversity. We uphold all aspects of inclusiveness and offer equal employment opportunities to all employees and candidates without regard to race, color, religion, sex, marital status, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We encourage individuals from historically underrepresented communities, including women and BIPOC, to apply.