Director of Photography

J  o  b    D  e  s  c  r  i  p  t  i  o  n

Job Information:

Title:

Director of Photography

Classification Title:

3038 - Senior Photographer

Job Location or Region:

Urbana-Champaign - 133

Job Description Reason:

Vacancy

Appointment Type:

Permanent

Position Number:

UC8759

Position Class Code:

30381-SNR PHOTOG (LU)

Employee Group:

C - Civil Service Web/Dpt Tm Entry

COA:

1 - Urbana

Organization Code:

336000

Organization Name:

Intercollegiate Athletics

College/Administrative Unit:

NU-Div Intercollegiate Athletics

HR Information:

Full Time Equivalent (FTE):

1

Is this position Security Sensitive?

Is this a Protection of Minors position?

Purchasing Authority of $5,000 or more?

Supervisory Authority of 20 or more?

Organizational Relationship:

Chancellor

Director of Athletics

Chief Commercial Officer

Associate Director of Athletics, Creative Solutions

Director of Photography

PRIMARY POSITION FUNCTION/SUMMARY

The Director of Photography leads all photography efforts for the University of Illinois Division of Intercollegiate Athletics. This role is responsible for capturing compelling imagery that supports storytelling, enhances the Illinois Athletics brand across platforms, and serves marketing, communications, and team initiatives. The position also oversees the department's photo archive, maintains digital asset systems, and mentors student photographers.

This is a hands-on role for a visual storyteller who thrives in fast-paced environments and understands how photography shapes perception, builds fandom, and contributes to a world-class student-athlete experience.

•

Photography Execution

 • Manage all photography services for Illinois Athletics events, providing timely, high-quality images for press releases, FightingIllini.com, social media, public relations, and archival use.

 • Collaborate with internal stakeholders to ensure consistent, brand-aligned photo content across platforms.

 • Plan and execute stylized photo shoots for social media, posters, campaigns, and other external-facing materials.

 • Operate industry-standard cameras, lenses, lighting equipment, and studio setups with a high level of technical proficiency.

 • Work closely with creative, communications, marketing, and sport program staff to meet storytelling and visual branding goals.

40%

•

Archiving and Asset Management –

 • Edit, organize, and archive images in accordance with departmental standards and timelines.

 • Maintain and manage the department’s PhotoShelter library and lead efforts to digitize physical archives.

 • Partner with campus IT and creative staff to oversee file storage systems, including local servers.

 • Use editing software such as Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Camera Raw, and Photo Mechanic.

 • Support long-term archiving efforts by digitizing pre-digital photo assets.

40%

•

Creative Development –

 • Oversee scheduling of photography staff and manage shot lists for Illinois Athletics events.

 • Develop and lead a training and mentorship program for student photographers within the department.

20%

QUALIFICATIONS:

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Minimum Qualifications:

Per SUCSS Class Spec

Specialty Factors:

Preferred Qualifications:

Bachelor’s Degree in photography, graphic arts, communications or sports administration or closely related field.

4 years’ experience in in sports photography, or related field.

Demonstrated ability to lead photo coverage for a wide range of sports, including fast-paced live events and controlled environments (e.g., studio or staged shoots)

Maintain knowledge of, and compliance with, specific NCAA, Big Ten Conference, and institution rules that relate to this position is required.

Strong knowledge of photographic equipment, editing software, and asset management practices.

Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, particularly Photoshop and Camera Raw; familiarity with MacOS.

Working knowledge of studio lighting and off-camera flash setups.

Ability to manage digital files, metadata, and workflow across large volumes of content.

Strong interpersonal skills; able to work effectively with coaches, staff, and student-athletes.

High level of creativity, attention to detail, and artistic judgment.

Strong organizational skills and the ability to meet tight deadlines.

Excellent customer service and communication skills.

Championship Mindset and Expectations

Understands and displays professionalism and integrity that builds and maintains trust between student-athletes and fellow DIA staff;

Prioritizes and contributes to the life changing student-athlete experience;

Adheres to University, DIA, Big Ten, and NCAA rules and regulations;

Commitment to the Athletics Department and University’s mission and values;

Flexible to various scheduling to include nights, weekend work and some holidays, team travel; and

Maintain professional competency and skills required for professional practice.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORKING CONDITIONS

Providing this information helps ensure that the essential functions of the position are fully documented for the benefit of employees, applicants, and the university.

Physical Demands/Working Conditions Comments:

Must be able to work a variety of hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays, in alignment with athletic schedules and event coverage

Ability to lift, carry, and transport photography equipment weighing up to 50 lbs

Must be able to stand, walk, crouch, and move quickly and efficiently for extended periods of time, often in outdoor environments and varying weather conditions

Frequent use of hands for camera operation, editing on a computer, and handling equipment

Ability to travel for off-site assignments, including away games, tournaments, or media productions

Must be able to work in dynamic, fast-paced environments such as courtside, sidelines, and other high-energy settings while remaining focused and aware of surroundings for safety

Manager Approval

Manager Approver

Todaro, Frank

Date Approved/Finalized

5/22/2025