At a Glance
- Tasks: Select, edit, and present impactful imagery for news content across digital platforms.
- Company: Join the Guardian, a diverse and inclusive global organisation committed to fearless journalism.
- Benefits: Enjoy six weeks annual leave, private healthcare, and generous pension scheme.
- Other info: Hybrid work environment with excellent career development opportunities and support for wellbeing.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in visual journalism while working with award-winning professionals.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in picture editing and a good network of photographers.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ per year.
Join our team at the Guardian and be a part of a diverse and inclusive global organisation that delivers fearless, investigative journalism and holds power to account. Our team of award-winning journalists, cutting-edge commercial professionals and industry-leading digital experts are committed to making a difference and represent a wide range of backgrounds and perspectives. We offer a challenging and exciting environment for career development, with a focus on training, growth and fostering an inclusive culture.
We are looking for a picture editor, news, to join the Guardian’s picture desk. You will help select, edit and present visually impactful imagery for our news content to engage readers and reflect editorial priorities across our digital platforms. The role is pivotal in driving our ambitions to expand and future proof our visual journalism with engaging and dynamic presentations and photography choices that reflect the richly diverse stories we report on. This position is a full-time, permanent NUJ contract and it follows a nine-day fortnight schedule.
- Generate creative ideas for illustrating breaking news stories, working to tight deadlines
- Work closely with editors and art directors to plan visuals for upcoming news stories to align photography with story angles
- Create galleries, slideshows, photo essays, composites and video loops
- Provide social media assets as required
Proven experience in picture editing and research, ideally within national or global media. Experience of commissioning photography. Sound knowledge of generalist and specialist picture agencies and online archives. A good network of contacts and knowledge of freelance photographers in the UK and abroad. Knowledge of Mac and Photoshop. Aligned with Guardian values: honesty, integrity, courage, fairness and a sense of duty to the reader and the community.
We actively encourage applications from groups traditionally underrepresented in the UK media. We operate in a hybrid environment working the majority of shifts from our offices in King’s Cross in London. Please let us know if there are any changes we could make to help your application, this includes providing documents in accessible formats or personalising the process to better support your needs.
You will have six weeks of annual leave per year (plus bank holidays) with the option to purchase an additional 5 days. Our pension scheme is generous; season ticket loans are also available. You are entitled to private healthcare, life cover, income protection, and eye tests. You can also opt in to dental insurance. We have enhanced maternity, paternity, adoption and shared parental leave policies in place. We also support our employees by offering an IVF, menopause, baby loss, and trans equality policy.
We want everyone to feel like they belong at the Guardian and we champion diversity of thought. We became the first major media organisation to achieve B Corp status. We offer tools to help you prioritise your wellbeing including access to our employee benefits platform which provides tailored support for health and wellbeing. These run alongside our corporate gym membership and cycle to work scheme. We encourage personal and professional growth. Employees have access to a broad range of tools and solutions, and we are happy to support the pursuit of professional qualifications through vocational courses and apprenticeships.
Picture editor, News in London employer: GUARDIAN NEWS AND MEDIA
GUARDIAN NEWS AND MEDIA is an exceptional employer that fosters a dynamic and innovative work culture, particularly for those passionate about shaping the future of journalism through shortform video. With a commitment to employee growth and collaboration, this role offers unique opportunities to lead creative teams in a vibrant central London setting, where your contributions will directly impact audience engagement and media reach.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Picture editor, News in London
✨Get Involved in Local Journalism
Join local journalism groups or community events to meet industry folks and make connections. Try volunteering for community newspapers or online platforms – it's a great way to get your foot in the door and show your commitment to the craft.
✨Showcase Your Work Online
Create a personal website or a blog to showcase your best articles, videos, or multimedia projects. This not only highlights your skills but also demonstrates your passion for journalism and helps establish your personal brand in the media landscape.
✨Stay Updated on the Industry Trends
Follow industry leaders on social media and stay updated on the latest trends in journalism. Engage with them by sharing your thoughts or asking questions – you never know when an informative tweet might catch the eye of a recruiter or journalist at GUARDIAN NEWS AND MEDIA!
✨Explore Internships for Full-Time Opportunities
Don’t shy away from internships, even if you’re looking for full-time roles. Many journalism companies, like GUARDIAN NEWS AND MEDIA, often hire from their intern pool, so using these as stepping stones can really pay off. Keep an eye on their career page for any openings!
We think you need these skills to ace Picture editor, News in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Writing Skills:In journalism and media, your ability to write well is essential, so make sure your CV and cover letter reflect that. Include diverse writing samples, whether they’re articles, blog posts, or reports, that showcase your style and versatility. We want to see your voice and ability to engage an audience from the get-go!
Highlight Relevant Experience:If you've interned at a media outlet or contributed to any publications—whether student-run or professional—don't keep it a secret! We love seeing real-world experience, so clearly detail your responsibilities and achievements. Quantify your impact where possible, like mentioning audience growth or story reach.
Tailor Your Application for GUARDIAN NEWS AND MEDIA:When applying for the Picture editor, News role at GUARDIAN NEWS AND MEDIA, really dig into what makes their content stand out. Reference their tone, style, or any recent articles that resonated with you in your cover letter. This shows we you’re not just sending out generic applications—you’re genuinely interested in what we do!
Prepare for a Portfolio Spotlight:Since you're applying for a full-time role, you're likely expected to have a portfolio ready to go. Make sure to curate a selection of your best work that aligns with what GUARDIAN NEWS AND MEDIA produces. Provide a link to your online portfolio in your CV and be prepared to discuss your favourite pieces in interviews—this is your chance to shine!
How to prepare for a job interview at GUARDIAN NEWS AND MEDIA
✨Show Off Your Writing Skills
Prepare a portfolio that highlights your best writing samples. This is crucial in journalism as hiring managers want to see your voice and style. Make sure to include a variety of pieces, like news articles, features, and opinion pieces, showing your versatility.
✨Master the Art of Storytelling
During the interview, be ready to discuss how you approach storytelling. You might be asked to outline a story you reported on, your process for gathering information, and how you engage your audience. Practice telling a couple of your best stories concisely and compellingly.
✨Know the Current Media Landscape
Be prepared to discuss industry trends and how they affect journalism today. Familiarise yourself with key developments in media, and have opinions ready for discussions about digital versus traditional platforms, as well as ethical considerations in reporting.
✨Convey Your Passion and Drive
As you’re applying for a full-time role, they’ll want to know about your long-term commitment to journalism. Share your aspirations for future projects, any internships or freelance work, and how you see yourself growing within GUARDIAN NEWS AND MEDIA. Show that you’re not just looking for a job, but a career in journalism.
