At a Glance
- Tasks: Capture stunning images of unique items for auctions and marketing.
- Company: Join a renowned auction house with a dynamic and collaborative team.
- Benefits: Enjoy a pension scheme, paid leave, and opportunities for further learning.
- Other info: Standard hours with potential travel for on-site photography.
- Why this job: Showcase your photography skills while working with art and antiques.
- Qualifications: Experience in product photography and proficiency in editing software required.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
As the Auction Photographer you’ll be responsible for capturing high-quality images of lots for sale, documenting items accurately and attractively for catalogues, online listings and marketing materials. Your work helps maximise visibility and appeal of items to bidders and buyers globally.
Key Responsibilities
- Photograph a wide variety of items: fine art, antiques, jewellery, silver, furniture, etc.
- Ensure proper lighting, composition, background and colour accuracy while photographing items.
- Process images (RAW to edited JPEG/TIFF), cropping, colour correction, retouching as needed in Lightroom/Photoshop (or equivalent).
- Name and organise files according to the internal cataloguing system.
- Work closely with the Cataloguing team to check items.
- Upload edited images into the company’s digital catalogue system in a timely manner ahead of auctions.
- Maintain photography studio/space, ensure equipment is in good working order and stock of consumables (batteries, memory cards, lighting gear) is maintained.
- Occasionally travel to view/collection points or clients’ homes/locations to photograph items in situ if required.
- Work to tight deadlines (pre-sale deadlines for auctions), manage time efficiently, coordinate with other departments.
- Maintain consistency in image style to match the company’s brand guidelines.
Essential Skills & Experience
- Experience in product or object photography (ideally in an auction house, art gallery, museum or e-commerce environment).
- Strong technical photography skills: lighting, studio set-up, macro work (for jewellery, small objects), large objects (furniture) if applicable.
- Proficiency with photo editing software (Adobe Lightroom, Photoshop or equivalent).
- Excellent attention to detail: correct colour rendition, accurate representation of condition, sharp focus, appropriate background/scale.
- Excellent file management, organisational skills, ability to work under deadline pressure and coordinate with other departments.
- Good communication skills: ability to liaise with specialists, cataloguers, marketing.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Interest in antiques, art, design, collectibles is a plus.
Desirable
- Experience photographing jewellery, precious metals, or fine art.
- Experience photographing large items (furniture, sculpture, vehicles).
- Knowledge of digital asset management/catalogue systems.
- Familiarity with online auction platforms and listing requirements.
- Basic video or 360° item-photography experience.
Remuneration & Benefits
- Pension scheme, paid annual leave.
- Potential to partake in further learning.
- Free Parking.
Working Hours & Conditions
- Standard hours: Monday to Friday, 9am-5:30pm.
- Based in Dorchester with possibility of travel to external sites for item photography.
- Competitive salary based on experience.
If you would like the opportunity to work in a renowned auction house with a collaborative and dynamic team please contact Victoria Wild at victoria.wild@dukes-auctions.com with a CV and a brief covering letter and a link or attachment to your photography portfolio.
Auction Photographer in Dorchester employer: Duke's Auctions
Join our esteemed auction house in Dorchester as an Auction Photographer, where you will thrive in a collaborative and dynamic work environment. We offer competitive salaries, a pension scheme, and opportunities for further learning, all while working with a passionate team dedicated to showcasing fine art and collectibles. Enjoy the unique advantage of free parking and the chance to engage with a variety of intriguing items, enhancing your skills in a supportive atmosphere that values creativity and attention to detail.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Auction Photographer in Dorchester
✨Tip Number 1
Get your portfolio sorted! Make sure it showcases your best work, especially in product photography. We want to see that you can capture the essence of fine art, antiques, and jewellery like a pro.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a champ! Reach out to people in the auction house scene or related fields. We can’t stress enough how valuable connections can be when it comes to landing that dream job.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! When you get that interview, be ready to talk about your experience with lighting, composition, and editing. We want to hear how you can bring your skills to our team.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Auction Photographer in Dorchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Photography Skills:Make sure to include a link or attachment to your photography portfolio that highlights your best work. We want to see your unique style and how you capture different items, especially fine art and jewellery!
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter:When applying, customise your CV and cover letter to reflect the skills and experience mentioned in the job description. We love seeing how your background aligns with what we’re looking for, so don’t hold back!
Highlight Your Technical Know-How:Don’t forget to mention your proficiency with photo editing software like Lightroom and Photoshop. We’re keen on candidates who can handle the technical side of things, so let us know about your experience!
Apply Through Our Website:For the best chance of getting noticed, apply through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of applications and ensures you’re considered for this exciting role!
How to prepare for a job interview at Duke's Auctions
✨Showcase Your Portfolio
Make sure to bring a well-organised portfolio that highlights your best work. Include a variety of items you've photographed, especially fine art and jewellery, as this will demonstrate your versatility and attention to detail.
✨Know Your Equipment
Be prepared to discuss the photography equipment you use and why you prefer it. Familiarity with lighting setups and editing software like Lightroom or Photoshop is crucial, so brush up on your technical knowledge before the interview.
✨Understand the Auction Process
Research how auction houses operate and the importance of high-quality images in maximising item appeal. This will show your genuine interest in the role and help you connect your skills to their needs.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect questions about how you handle tight deadlines and coordinate with other departments. Think of specific examples from your past experiences where you successfully managed time and collaborated effectively.
