Application Open:
Full-Time
MBZUAI is seeking an in-house Photographer to deliver high-quality photography across the university’s day-to-day requirements: high-profile events, VIP visits, corporate portraits, product photography, and interior photography. We’re looking for someone with technical excellence and the ability to manage multiple concurrent projects within a busy creative team. Beyond these essential service demands, we’re looking for a photographer with the vision to take an editorial and documentary approach to capture the story of MBZUAI as a cutting-edge AI institution that can communicate it to the world.
Key Responsibilities
- Capture a diverse range of photography assignments, including high-profile events, VIP visits, corporate portraits, product photography, and interior photography.
- Plan and execute photo shoots with a focus on professional lighting, composition, and brand consistency. This includes developing shot lists, coordinating with key stakeholders, and adapting styles for various contexts.
- Perform high-quality retouching and post-production editing, including colour correction, cropping, resizing, and image enhancement for digital and print use.
- Take the initiative to document compelling portraits, candid interactions, moments of discovery, researchers at work in labs and studios, and the energy of an institution at the cutting edge of AI.
- Organize, tag, and archive digital photo assets in line with internal data management protocols. Implement effective file management practices to ensure quick access and long-term asset preservation.
- Manage all camera and production equipment, including regular maintenance schedules, battery management, and equipment checks to ensure operational readiness. Maintain detailed inventory of equipment and coordinate repairs or servicing as needed.
Collaboration
- Work across university departments to build relationships and develop a more editorial and documentary approach focused on capturing the university’s story.
- Work with the Head of Creative to develop a strategic approach to more effective and high quality visual storytelling.
- Collaborate effectively with marketing and other university departments to ensure consistent brand messaging.
- Align with the in-house videographer as you’ll often be on the same shoots, supporting each other with lighting and setup.
- Work closely with the design lead, staying ahead of requirements for future publications and campaigns.
- Communicate directly with internal clients across the university from initial brief through to final delivery.
- Maintain openness to challenge client requests with fresh ideas and creative thinking.
- Build and manage effective partnerships with external suppliers when additional photography services are required, ensuring high-quality service delivery and alignment with project requirements.
Professional Experience Required
Essential:
- 8+ years of relevant experience.
- Strong portfolio demonstrating creative vision.
- Strong technical skills in DSLR/mirrorless photography, lighting setups, and Adobe Creative Suite (especially Lightroom and Photoshop).
- Ability to manage multiple assignments under tight timelines.
- Organized, dependable, and professional in high-stakes environments.
- Familiarity with digital asset management and basic studio operations.
Preferred:
- Understanding of compliance and ethical considerations in public communication.
- An editorial sensibility inspired by culture and lifestyle publications.
