The Photography Manager reports to the VP of Creative Services and is responsible for overseeing all product photography for Moda Operandi. This leader manages and inspires a team of full-time and freelance photographers (domestically and abroad) to ensure the consistent delivery of best-in-class imagery that aligns with the company’s luxury position. The ideal candidate will possess a keen eye for detail, a strong sense of aesthetics, and extensive experience in fashion and product photography. The successful candidate will also excel in relationship management, with particular savvy to the nature of brand relationships within luxury retail.
Primary Responsibilities, include:
- Lead, mentor, and manage a team of photographers to deliver high-quality product imagery across all sets and categories
- Ensure all product imagery meets company standards, with an acute attention to detail in lighting and composition
- Create imagery that is accurately exposed, color consistent, and follows our brand guidelines
- Properly archive imagery to be easily accessed when needed
- Monitor the website and alert the appropriate teams of any discrepancies
- Ensure photography guidelines are current and uphold the highest standards of quality and creativity
- Photograph 42 styles on a model set, 80 styles on a bust form set, or 40 styles on a still life set per shift
- As the primary photo representative on set, maintaining the highest level of professionalism and excellence in executing photo shoots for Moda Operandi and our clients
- Partner with the on-set Stylist to select and upload all necessary perspectives that feel fresh, directional, and inspiring
- Partner with on-set teams to make sure ’Shop The Look’ outfit credits are scanned for every style shot
- Liaise constantly with the Retouching team by providing appropriate notes to be actioned
- Work closely with the Production team to ensure shoots are executed within appropriate timelines and that all asset needs are met
- Work closely with other departments, including Creative, Marketing, Merchandising, and IT to guarantee seamless integration of visual content
- Responsible for the tracking, care, and upkeep of all studio equipment and expendables
- Manage relationships with equipment/expendable vendors, securing optimal pricing, timely delivery, and continuity of supply
- Manage and maintain the studio space
- Stay informed on industry trends, competitive landscape, emerging technologies, and best practices to continuously innovate, streamline processes, drive efficiencies, and reduce costs
- Innovate and experiment with new photography techniques, equipment, and software to enhance visual storytelling
- Continuously evaluate and improve photography techniques and workflows
- Must be available for overnight and weekend shoots (as needed)
- Must be available to travel internationally (as needed)
- Photograph elevated creative photography when needed
- Capture and direct video on creative projects when needed
- Exhibit flexibility and willingness to take on new responsibilities and assignments as identified, and assist with various ad hoc projects as needed
- Consistently role model our company culture and core values
Qualifications/Ideal Experience:
- Bachelor’s degree in Photography, Visual Arts, or a related field
- 8+ years of relevant, progressive experience
- Proven track record leading a photography team, preferably in the luxury fashion e-commerce space
- Professional videography experience, preferably in an e-commerce or digital marketing environment
- Must showcase a strong portfolio demonstrating expertise in luxury product photography
- Include link to portfolio with application submission
- Established relationships within the industry: photographers, photography assistants, and equipment rental houses
- Systems knowledge for this role includes:
- Expert knowledge of Mac Operating Systems, CaptureOne, Helicon Focus, and professional digital photography equipment
- Proficiency in Creative Force
- Proficiency with photo editing software (e.g., Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Lightroom)
- Proficiency with video editing software (e.g., Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, After Effects)
- Experience with monday.com and Google workplace applications is a plus
- Proficiency in French and/or Italian is a plus
- Travel required up to 25% of the time (domestic and international as needed)
- Physical requirements in this role include:
- Lifting and carrying; sitting & standing for extended periods of time; walking; near and far visual acuity; pushing and pulling; reaching at or below shoulder level and overhead; typing
- Competencies in this role include:
- Collaborative team player - work closely with multiple teams and give/receive feedback
- Agile and adaptable - able to react quickly and maintain composure under pressure
- Resourceful and a creative problem solver
- Ability to improve processes and identify opportunity for efficiencies
- Focus on delivering results, balancing quality with efficiency
- Process oriented with a business mindset
- Demonstrate good judgment and fiscally responsible decision making
- Proactive, sense of urgency
- Flexible and comfortable with change
- Leadership presence - maintains composure and efficiency in high-pressure situations and when facing tight deadlines
- Passionate and positive mindset - exceptional work ethic with a can-do attitude
- Exceptional organizational skills - ability to multi-task while remaining detail oriented
- Excellent written and verbal communication
- We are open to a Manager or Senior Manager title commensurate with experience level
Job Type: Full-time; Onsite role, Brooklyn NY (Industry City office space)
Salary: $90,000 - $120,000 per year + Discretionary Bonus & Equity Eligible
Benefits:
- Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance Benefits (day1)
- 401(k) with Company Match
- Company Paid Life Insurance Benefit
- Voluntary Supplemental Insurance Benefits (STD, LTD, Accident, Critical Illness)
- Unlimited Paid Time Off (Exempt & FT)
- Tuition Reimbursement
The above statements describe the general nature of work being performed in this role, they are not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required. Additional responsibilities may be required from time to time. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, sex, disability, veteran, or other protected status.
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Moda Operandiis an e-commerce platform transforming the way people discover and shop for designer fashion. Through its innovative mix of commerce and content, Moda allows women to shop for what’s new and what’s next in designer fashion from the world’s leading emerging designers and luxury brands. Founded in 2010, Moda Operandi’s mission is to make it easy for designers to grow their businesses and consumers to realize their personal style. Today, Moda’s platform carries more than 1,000 brands and designers across fashion, fine jewelry and home, shipping to customers around the world.
