The Associated Press is an independent global news organization dedicated to factual reporting. Founded in 1846, AP today remains the most trusted source of fast, accurate, unbiased news in all formats and the essential provider of the technology and services vital to the news business. More than half the world's population sees AP journalism every day.

The Associated Press seeks a talented visual journalist to work in Washington, D.C. as a photographer and multi-format journalist. In this role, you will work among a team of journalists and editors to deliver spot, politics, sports and enterprise imagery that breaks news, has impact and is exclusive to AP. This is a staff position covered by AP’s agreement with the News Media Guild.  

Responsibilities: Reporting to the assistant Washington chief of bureau for photography, this photographer will cover spot news and enterprise, including coverage of the presidency, Congress and other political and Washington stories that will resonate around the world. You should be a self-starter with a passion for photojournalism and the ability to generate visually led story ideas that go beyond spot news. You should be eager to cover Washington and politics – including the White House and presidential campaigns – as well as other news, including sports and entertainment. We’re looking for a photojournalist with a talent for documentary photo storytelling. You will have ideas for photo essays that illustrate the human impact of issues that Washington politicians talk about.

We’re looking for someone who will:

• demonstrate a history of success as a news photographer, with a record of creating compelling visual journalism on deadline and producing visual enterprise that is illuminating and entertaining.
• communicate and work collaboratively with the diverse team of journalists at the AP who operate in all formats: text, photo, video, audio, digital/social, interactive and graphics.
• have a great news sense, with the ability to communicate stories that people will want to share on social media and other platforms according to AP standards.
• routinely contribute to the video and text report as coverage needs require.
• pursue innovative and inclusive coverage techniques while maintaining AP’s standards for integrity and objectivity.
• be able and willing to work any shift, including at night and on weekends, or as coverage demands, as AP is a 24/7 operation.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience, such as at least three years of full-time experience as a photographer at a daily newspaper, broadcast station, online or digital news outlet, or an AP bureau.
• All applicants must be able to work in the U.S. or be able to gain permission to do so.
• Advanced-level professional competency in written and spoken English. Professional competency in a language besides English is a plus.
• Present portfolio of work.
• Strong interpersonal, organizational and planning skills, with the ability to juggle multiple projects.

Preferred Qualifications: You should have a demonstrated history of success as a news photographer, with a record of creating compelling visual journalism swiftly and accurately on deadline, with an emphasis on speed and quality. You must be able to illustrate complex stories in clear and compelling ways with arresting visuals. A strong set of technical skills are required, including the ability to compose as events unfold, edit digital images, write accurate and informative captions and transmit images swiftly. You must be able to work effectively as a member of a team.

We will consider strong candidates who do not meet every listed qualification. You may use a cover letter to describe the unique qualifications you would bring to this role.
 

This position is covered by The Associated Press’ contract with the News Media Guild, which provides for an annual salary for Class A staff of between $52,046 and $82,934 based on location and years of professional experience. AP may offer additional compensation based on a job candidate’s skills, qualifications and market location.

The Associated Press offers comprehensive benefits which include:

• Competitive medical, dental and vision coverage
• Retirement benefits
• Company paid life insurance
• Paid vacation and sick days
• Paid parental leave for any new parent
• Mental health resources

Benefits may vary based on the job, full-time or part-time schedule, location, and collectively bargained status.

Application deadline is February 4, 2025 at 11:59 PM EST.
 

AP seeks to build an inclusive organization grounded in respect for differences. We support all aspects of diversity and provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, marital status, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, status as a veteran, or other characteristic protected by law. We encourage members of historically underrepresented communities, including women and BIPOC, to apply.