Job Details
Description
The Museum of Modern Art is currently accepting applications for a Collections Photographer. The Collections Photographer creates high-resolution images to digitize the Museum’s collection including, two-dimensional works, three-dimensional works, complex installation imaging, and related as required. Creates image files suitable for the highest levels of reproduction and electronic publishing. Photographs in accordance with Museum and international imaging standards, including those for color management and metadata. Uses all relevant capture and editing software tools to create the most accurate digital surrogates of the original works. Ensures the welfare of artwork throughout the imaging procedure. Participates in curatorial meetings to determine the best photographic approach.
Responsibilities
- Photographs works of art in all mediums, including large installation works, utilizing tethered and untethered capture with a variety of camera systems.
- Photographs using a variety of lighting solutions for studio and in situ imaging.
- Performs daily system check using reference targets and validation software.
- Participates in curatorial meetings to plan a photographic approach that will best communicate the important elements of individual collection objects.
- Performs condition photography of artwork as needed.
- Edits digital image files, using advanced techniques in the latest editing software suites.
- Digitizes archival documents as needed.
- Ensures welfare of works of art during imaging.
- Performs basic equipment maintenance and troubleshooting.
- Advises and assists other staff Photographers.
- Utilizes project management software.
- Communicates any workflow or system inconsistencies to the Imaging Manager.
- Performs digital print output as needed.
- Meets productivity goals as outlined.
- Performs any other duties reasonably related to the functions described above.
- Bachelor of arts, bachelor of science or bachelor of fine arts degree in photography, and three years professional digital photographic experience, including studio work. Minimum two years imaging fine art or cultural heritage objects.
- Working knowledge and technical skill in high-resolution digital imaging procedures, equipment, and lighting for fine-arts imaging.
- Ability to use medium-format studio cameras and expertise in photographic lighting in a variety of controlled and less than ideal conditions.
- Knowledge of major artists and movements of modern and contemporary art history.
- Skill at rendering essential esthetic elements of works of art as they translate to photographic images.
- Solid working knowledge of the Mac operating system.
- Advanced knowledge of Photoshop.
- Excellent color judgment and ability to make own color corrections.
- Basic digital video capture and editing skills.
- Strong communication skills.
- Experience with handling fine art, specifically works on paper preferred.
- Flexibility to work at MoMA’s midtown and Queens locations.
- Fully vaccinated with a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and/or the World Health Organization authorized vaccine (or approved for an exemption as a reasonable accommodation due to a qualified disability or sincerely held religious belief or other legal basis).
