Seasonal Photographer

Job Title: Photographer – Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden

Overview:

The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden (CZBG) is seeking enthusiastic, creative, and self-starting individuals to capture lasting memories of our guests throughout the season. As an official Cincinnati Zoo Photographer, you will be responsible for taking high-quality photos of our visitors at picturesque locations across the zoo and during special interactive experiences like Giraffe Feedings at Giraffe Ridge. This is a guest-facing position ideal for independent individuals who enjoy photography and guest engagement in a dynamic, outdoor setting. 

By building Collaborative Relationships, displaying Positivity & Energy, having Pride, Passion, and a Sense of Ownership, supporting Accountability, Mutual Trust, & Respect, and embracing Progressive Thinking, we’ve developed/created a dedicated team that focuses on our visitors, community, and future. 

We are looking for Photographers anticipating working Fall 2026. The estimated start date for this position will be September 19th. There will be opportunities to continue employment into the Jack O Lantern Glow and Festival of Lights Santa Photography seasons.

Orientations will be held on a rolling basis. 

Job Duties:

As a Zoo Photographer, you’ll help guests turn their special zoo memories into fun, lasting photographic keepsakes. We’re looking to you to provide an INSPIRED guest experience while offering families the opportunity to bring home a wonderful reminder of their visit. You will:

• Provide an INSPIRED experience and guest engagement in an independent, dynamic, outdoor setting
• Work independently across various zones of the zoo, using your judgment to approach guests and identify great photo moments
• Capture professional, high-quality photographs of visitors at scenic and interactive locations throughout the zoo or at various private events.
• Engage with guests in a friendly and professional manner to create a welcoming atmosphere and INSPIRED experience. 
• Be a self-starter, managing your time and responsibilities with minimal supervision while maximizing guest engagement.
• Set up and maintain portable camera equipment, lighting, and backdrop to ensure optimal photo quality. 
• Work efficiently to manage a steady flow of visitors while maintaining high photo standards. 
• Ensure all photos are properly linked, organized, and processed for potential printing or digital distribution.  Print and prepare various photo packages
• Monitor and manage guest queues at popular photo locations, ensuring smooth operations.
• Processing accurate photo package purchases via a point-of-sale station. 
• Understand and effectively use our digital photo software, CaptureLife. 

Qualifications:

• 16 years of age or older. (Minors will be required to provide a work permit when applicable.)
• Constantly work outdoors in all climates & weather conditions with prolonged stationary positions/traversing at all locations.
• Move, transport or position 35llbs unassisted.
• Ability to work well in a fast-paced, high-volume setting. 
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills. 
• Must be punctual, reliable, and flexible with scheduling (availability to work weekends, evenings, and holidays). 
• Passion for creating memorable guest experiences, especially with families and children. 

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working in a seasonal, event, or customer-service-oriented environment. 
• Background in digital photography and file management. 
• Ability to troubleshoot basic technical issues with photography equipment.  

CZBG is dedicated to fostering employee success. While we strive to accommodate individual needs, it's important to note that we may not be able to fulfill all requests. However, we are committed to working collaboratively with each team member to discover optimal solutions tailored to their needs.

Availability:

• Seasonal/non-benefitted.
• Variable hours can be between 15-35/week, not to exceed an annual average of 30 hours/week. Shifts range throughout the day from an 8am start time until 11:00pm end time, with 5-8 hour shifts.
• At least 3 days per week, with a requirement of 1 weekend day (Saturday-Sunday)
• Students: If you currently attending classes, we will accept an availability for 2 days a week, with the expectation that it will increase to 3 days once classes are finished.

Benefits:

• Pay Rate is $15/hr
• Flexible Scheduling (college & retiree friendly!)
• Complimentary Zoo tickets and Zoo-wide discounts
• Incentive programs and employee engagement opportunities
• Fun and engaging work environment with a positive team culture
• Free Metro Bus Pass provided for duration of employment
• Personal & professional development opportunities

Characteristics of a Zoo Photographer:

• Friendly and empathetic, enjoys getting to know people from all backgrounds.
• Expresses positivity and energy to guests entering/exiting the Zoo.
• Willing to adapt and learn.
• A passion for creating special memories for our visitors at the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden.

Through on-the-job training & employee engagement opportunities, you will:

• Gain experience, enhance your resume, & build transferable talents.
• Hone-in on skillsets across all career fields & areas of interest.
• Develop your interpersonal skills through teamwork, initiating guest interactions, answering questions, & addressing concerns.
• Enhance critical thinking & communication abilities by helping with wayfinding & offering suggestions for each guest’s optimal visit.
• Build logistical masterminding by brainstorming & devising plans along with accuracy/attention to detail while cash handling at locations.

Applications will be reviewed as they are received, so please apply soon!