A National Geographic Photographer Jobs in Decatur, GA

Description

U.S. Soccer Overview

The U.S. Soccer Federation exists in service to soccer. Our aim is to ignite a national passion for the game. Because we believe that soccer is more than a sport; it is a force for good.

We understand the importance and the power of teamwork, on and off the pitch. That is why we work closely with our Federation partners and members, to inspire, support and guide every level of the game: from the grassroots to the National Teams. We want to bring soccer into every home and every community, right across America. Because we believe that soccer can transform lives like no other sport. Soccer can represent the best of U.S.

U.S. Soccer is in a period of significant growth, with ambitious plans for U.S. Soccer in the near and far future. We are, therefore, looking for dynamic servant leaders to join us on this journey: in service to soccer. Applicants must be able to demonstrate visionary leadership, analytical decision-making, professional flexibility, and an empathic management style that builds bold teams and delivers globally significant results.

Position Description

U.S. Soccer is seeking a talented and versatile photographer to join our Federation content team. The Federation Photographer will help capture and tell the stories of U.S. Soccer's Youth National Teams (YNTs) and Extended National Teams (ENTs) through compelling imagery across camps, matches, tournaments, and behind-the-scenes environments. This role will also support photography coverage of National Training Center events, Soccer Forward initiatives, and broader Federation programming that advances the growth of soccer in the United States.

This role supports still photography coverage across a wide range of Federation programs and initiatives, helping bring fans closer to the players, coaches, and communities that represent the future and breadth of soccer in the United States. The position will own in the end-to-end photography process including shooting, editing, color correction, asset organization, and delivery of imagery optimized for digital, editorial, and commercial distribution.

There is a strong emphasis on speed to market, especially during camps and matchdays, ensuring content is delivered in real time to support social, editorial, and commercial objectives.

This individual will collaborate closely with Social Media, Brand and Creative, Media, Editorial, Content Strategy, and Partnership Marketing to ensure photography supports storytelling, audience growth, and revenue-driving initiatives including photo licensing, Insiders, ticket sales, and partner integrations.

In addition, the role will likely support photography capture at domestic, non-tournament Senior National Team games.

Primary Responsibilities

• Capture high-quality photography of Youth National Team and Extended National Team camps, matches, training sessions, and off-field moments
• Deliver real-time and near real-time photo selects for distribution across social and owned platforms
• Edit, color correct, and optimize imagery for various formats, platforms, and audiences
• Maintain and organize photography assets within U.S. Soccer's digital asset management systems
• Execute content plans around camps, tournaments and events to ensure a comprehensive visual coverage
• Collaborate with Social Media and Editorial teams to align on storytelling priorities and platform needs
• Curate and deliver photo selects for internal takeholders and external distribution partners
• Support commercial and marketing initiatives through photography, including photo licensing, partner content, Insiders growth, and ticket sales
• Stay current with industry trends, technology, and best practices in sports and editorial photography
• Travel domestically and international to support Federation programming and events

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications  

• 3+ years of professional photography experience, preferably in sports or live event environments
• Experience capturing high-quality imagery in fast-paced, high-pressure environments
• Strong portfolio demonstrating storytelling through photography
• Expertise in DSLR/mirrorless camera systems and professional lenses
• Proficiency in Photo Mechanic (or equivalent), Adobe Lightroom, and Adobe Photoshop
• Familiarity with digital asset management systems
• Strong understanding of photo composition, lighting, and color grading
• Ability to manage and prioritize multiple projects under tight deadlines
• General knowledge of soccer
• Must be able to connect "micro" details to the "macro" vision and mission
• Proficient experience with Microsoft Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Outlook)
• Ability to work non-traditional hours including nights, weekends, and holidays
• Willingness to travel up to 50% domestically and internationally
• Valid passport required

Desired Qualifications

• Experience working with elite athletes or professional sports teams
• Understanding of content optimization across social and digital platforms
• Knowledge of soccer and its global landscape
• Experience capturing stylized, lifestyle photography

U.S. Soccer offers a comprehensive compensation package, casual work environment, an inclusive culture, and an atmosphere for professional development.

U.S. Soccer is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, citizenship, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, genetic information, military status, political belief, or any other characteristic protected under the law. This policy applies to all our employment practices within our organization. We strongly encourage women, people of color, LGBTQIA, veterans, parents, and persons with disabilities to apply.