Photography Intern

The perfect position for a budding outdoor photographer and adventure enthusiast.
Kayakers in the sunrise on a calm lake.

Job Description

Wilderness Adventures boasts over 50 years of success in providing life-changing summer adventures for students. Capturing the WA experience through photos and videos is paramount to sharing our story. WA is looking for an enthusiastic Photography Intern who is passionate about travel, photography, and enjoys working with youth to capture the essence of our adventure experiences. 

The Photographer Intern will travel independently to various locations as assigned by the WA team, will be camping in a tent most nights, and will accompany groups of 8-13 students on excursions like rock climbing, backpacking, hiking, surfing, and more. You will be expected to capture the thrill of these activities, as well as the in-between moments that make WA special like cooking, sitting around the campfire, and playing games. 

This position offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in adventure and document a range of subjects, including student experiences, landscapes, and accommodations. Your work will play a crucial role in showcasing our programs to prospective families and highlighting the unique and valuable experiences we offer.

We are seeking an individual who excels in decision-making, adaptability, and risk management, and who can thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. As a Photographer Intern at Wilderness Adventures, you will work closely with co-leaders and students and report to the Marketing Lead, all while serving as a positive role model and inspirational figure for our students. You must supply your own photo/video equipment. This is a paid position that includes transportation, lodging (camping) and meals.


Qualifications

  • Must be able to troubleshoot and be solution-oriented.
  • A passion for working with youth.
  • A passion for living outside for an extended period of time.
  • A positive, can-do attitude.
  • Proficient in using high-end photography equipment to take quality images. 
  • Excellent time management and organizational skills to meet deadlines consistently while traveling independently.
  • Comfortable traveling alone. 
  • Ability to adapt to various lighting and weather conditions.
  • Ability to adapt to changing group dynamics.
  • Proven experience in adventure photography, preferably in a high-volume, deadline-driven environment in the outdoor industry. 
  • Excellent understanding of lighting techniques, composition, and color correction/editing techniques.
  • Ability to work quickly without sacrificing overall image quality.
  • Video experience (shooting and editing) is not required but is a bonus!
  • Adaptable to itinerary changes.
  • The ability and willingness to work through difficult situations. Including but not limited to: logistical complications, budget management, unexpected obstacles, interpersonal conflict with students, interpersonal conflict with co-leaders, etc.

Requirements

  • Minimum 18 years old by June 2025.
  • A valid U.S. Driver’s License.
  • A clean driving record.
  • Strong portfolio showcasing relevant expertise.
  • Previous experience in adventure photography.
  • Personal photography equipment – Wilderness Adventures does not provide cameras. 
  • Experience in post-production software such as Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop.
  • Willingness to travel extensively and work irregular and long hours.
  • Strong communication skills and a collaborative mindset to work effectively with Trip Leaders, students, and other team members.
  • Ability to work independently in an outdoor setting and willing to travel between trip groups.
  • A Wilderness First Responder (WFR) medical certification or higher certification that is valid through our 2025 Season (June-August) – you do not need to currently have this certification to apply. We do offer a discounted WFR Course option for our staff! You will learn more about this through your interview process.
  • A recent physical examination ensuring physical and mental health.
  • Available from June 1 – August 4th, 2025.

Expectations

  • Maintain organized file management and documentation of all content.
  • Capture high-quality photographs of program destinations, student experiences, accommodations, and landscapes.
  • Manage equipment and gear, travel arrangements, and logistical details on a daily basis.
  • Collaborate with Marketing Lead to create compelling visual content for print and digital platforms.
  • Occasionally shoot video content (video editing not required).
  • Creative-minded person who brings ideas to help share the story of WA!
  • Ensure timely delivery of all edited photos.
  • Process, organize, and edit files in a timely manner.

Salary & Benefits

  • Experience-based pay scale – not limited to time working at Wilderness Adventures.
  • Bonus opportunities for staff referrals.
  • Opportunity to earn a WFR Certification at a discounted price through the Wilderness Adventures sponsored course.
  • All program expenses are paid for while working for Wilderness Adventures (i.e. transportation and flights, all accommodations (camping), all meals, all activity fees).
  • Access to a variety of pro-deals with outdoor brands like Outdoor Research, Orvis, Mountain Hardware, Crocs, Smith, and more!

Disclaimer

Please be advised that Wilderness Adventures will not be liable for any loss, damage, or theft of personal photography equipment while on contract. It is your sole responsibility to ensure the safety and security of your own gear during the period of engagement. We strongly recommend securing appropriate insurance coverage for your equipment to protect against any potential issues. 

If editing is not completed by the end of contracted dates, you are responsible for completing these by a date agreed upon with your manager at no extra compensation.

Does this sound like your dream job?

Please apply via the link below and reach out to [email protected] with a portfolio of your photography work. We look forward to hearing from you!
Group of people backpacking along the Lost Coast of California.