Professional Headshot Intern

Job Summary:
Penn State University Career Services is seeking a highly motivated and creative Professional Headshot Intern to join our team. The intern will support the creation of high-quality professional headshots for students, faculty, and staff, ensuring that all images meet Penn State's brand standards. This position provides an excellent opportunity for individuals pursuing careers in photography, communications, or marketing to gain hands-on experience in a dynamic and fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Photograph individuals for headshots, ensuring high-quality, professional results.

• Assist with scheduling, coordinating, and managing mobile headshot sessions for student organizations, classes, etc.

• Set up and break down photography equipment (lighting, backdrop, camera) for mobile headshot sessions.

• Organize and maintain photo files and databases for easy access and retrieval.

• Send headshots out to students via our Professional Headshot email account (professionalheadshots@psu.edu) and answer any questions that come to the inbox.

• Collaborate with the Career Services, Events & Programs team to ensure that all headshots are consistent with the university's branding and visual standards.

• Provide general support to the professional headshot service for other media-related tasks, as needed.

• Maintain a professional, positive, and friendly demeanor when working with students during photo sessions.

• As part of the role, the Professional Headshot Intern may also assist in managing and organizing the professional attire closet, providing students with access to appropriate clothing for their headshots and other professional events during peak times or when there is short staffing.

Qualifications:

• Previous experience or coursework in photography is preferred.

• Must be able to work at least 10 hours per week during operating hours.

• Strong attention to detail and an eye for aesthetics.

• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.

• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work effectively with people from diverse backgrounds.

• Knowledge of studio lighting and photography equipment is a plus.

• Must be dependable, punctual, and maintain a professional demeanor.

Learning Outcomes:

• Gain hands-on experience in professional photography.

• Learn how to work within a large organization to uphold brand identity and standards.

• Develop skills in client interaction, project coordination, and time management.

• Build a professional portfolio with real-world experience at a top-tier university.

The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and be accountable for advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and sustainability in all its forms. We embrace individual uniqueness, foster a culture of inclusion that supports both broad and specific diversity initiatives, leverage the educational and institutional benefits of diversity in society and nature, and engage all individuals to help them thrive. We value inclusion as a core strength and an essential element of our public service mission.