LA Modern Auctions is seeking a full-time photographer to join our creative team & work in our studio in Van Nuys, CA. Candidates should have professional studio experience shooting furniture, fine art & objects – as well as experience using medium format digital camera systems, knowledge of studio lighting, and experience shooting for print and digital. The person in this role will work with our graphics department for art direction and presentation of material. Candidates should possess the technical photographic skills below, and the ability to think creatively about how to present each object, while adhering to brand standards & style guides. Excellent communication and organizational skills are a necessity for adapting to a fast-paced, high-volume (30+ product shots a day during peak times), deadline-driven work environment. The ability to adhere to established specifications and workflow processes in detail to maintain consistency, quality and efficiency is paramount.
LA Modern Auctions is part of Rago/Wright: a network of independent auction houses specializing in 20th century art, design, and luxury objects. Our innovative style and superior expertise set us apart in the auction industry and together, we maintain a compelling and original voice in the worlds of art and design. We value creativity and focus on the quality of presentation and content; at the core of our brands is the craft and quality of photography. All photography is produced and art directed in-house—the creative team is composed of 18 individuals including photographers, retouchers, and graphic designers. Photographers collaborate across departments and with our other two studio locations in Chicago, IL & Lambertville, NJ.
Communicate daily with the Director of Photography & Property Handlers regarding priority inventory / projects
Management of all 2d art, book & copy stand photography
Adhere to image requirements for sets & naming, coordinating with creative & post-production as needed
Meet auction deadlines and assist senior photographer when necessary to keep photo shoots running smoothly & on-schedule
Maintain a complete understanding of all lighting scenarios and build sets accordingly
Photograph furniture and fine art for our auction catalogs, websites and other promotional materials
Photograph & assist with Rago/Wright tabletop, sweep, wall-mount, hanging item & carpets sets
Assist senior photographer in maintaining the studio and equipment
Assist, support and digital tech for freelance photographers when necessary
Assist property handlers in moving heavy objects on and off set
Required Experience:
At least 3 years of professional photography practice
Knowledge of Phase One digital camera systems
Proficiency using Capture One Software
Knowledge of studio lighting for various sized subjects
Working Knowledge of Profoto lighting equipment
Fluency with Photoshop and Bridge; familiarity with retouching processes for print and web
Organized and capable of managing a high volume of image files
Capable of lifting 50 pounds
Preferred Experience:
Prior knowledge/interest in 20th century design
Experience photographing luxury furnishings/interiors
Experience working in a high-volume studio environment
Video production experience, lighting, editing and/or sound
Phase One Certified Professional
Benefits:
We are offering a competitive salary range of $55,000 to $75,000, depending on the candidate’s experience, skillset, and qualifications. Benefits include paid vacation time, comprehensive medical, dental, life insurance, paid parental leave, Employee Assistance Program, Commuter Benefits Program and free on-site parking, and a Safe Harbor 401K with 3% company contribution. We also have approximately 10 paid company holidays each year, including company closure between Christmas and New Year’s Day.
Please submit cover letter, resume and portfolio/link when applying.