News Field Photographer NBCU Local Chicago

News Field Photographer, NBCU Local Chicago

We are looking for a highly skilled and motivated News Field Photographer who is both a visual journalist and a creative technologist. This role requires exceptional technical expertise and a passion for continuous growth.

• Craft visually compelling and meaningful content that informs, engages, and inspires across broadcast, streaming, digital, and social platforms.
• Operate Sony ENG-style cameras, Sony FX-series cinema systems, and DSLR/mirrorless platforms to achieve both fast‑turn and cinematic visual results.
• Execute professional field lighting setups—from single‑subject interviews to multi‑talent productions—using portable lighting kits and creative techniques to shape tone and depth.
• Record, monitor, and troubleshoot field audio wireless microphone/IFB systems, ensuring high‑quality sound capture.
• Configure and operate CBNG, and IP‑based bonded‑cellular field systems for live news, breaking coverage, and special events.
• Use newsroom rundown systems and media asset management platforms to organize, label, and upload content, maintaining complete metadata accuracy for efficient newsroom workflows.
• Transition seamlessly from field capture to full post‑production—editing your own footage using Adobe Premiere Pro to produce professional, broadcast‑ready packages.
• Edit efficiently under deadline pressure: assemble and color‑correct footage, sync natural sound, build strong story pacing, mix multi‑track audio, and export for multiple platforms and aspect ratios.
• Collaborate with producers, reporters, and editors to refine content, integrate feedback, and ensure consistency across NBC and Telemundo brands.
• Maintain strong communication with the newsroom and control room when working independently, proactively sharing updates and solving challenges in real time.
• Exercise excellent editorial judgment—identifying key story elements, capturing decisive visuals, and applying creative storytelling to enhance viewer engagement.
• Troubleshoot camera, audio, lighting, and transmission issues quickly and calmly while multitasking in high‑pressure environments.

• Minimum 5 years of professional news photography experience in a mid‑to‑major broadcast market.
• Advanced proficiency with Sony ENG cameras, Sony FX‑series cinema cameras, and DSLR/mirrorless workflows.
• Expertise in Adobe Premiere Pro, including timeline editing, color correction, multi‑track audio mixing, graphics integration, and export for broadcast and digital platforms.
• Proven ability to deliver shoot‑to‑edit content—handling all aspects of production from field acquisition to post‑production delivery.
• Strong knowledge of field lighting and audio mixing, capable of executing clean, polished productions in varied environments.
• Experience with CBNG, and other IP‑based or bonded‑cellular systems for live contribution.
• Understanding of newsroom rundown systems and media asset management systems for efficient ingest, tagging, and archiving.
• Valid driver’s license with a clean record; ability to lift 50 lbs. of gear and work outdoors in all weather conditions.
• Availability to work variable schedules, including nights, weekends, holidays, and breaking‑news call‑outs.

• Operational experience with Fonn Saga (NRCS) and Mimir (MAM) systems.
• FAA Part 107 Drone License and field‑operation experience are strong advantages.
• Outstanding communication and teamwork skills—able to collaborate closely with crews and producers while excelling independently on solo assignments.
• Highly self‑sufficient, resourceful, and proactive—anticipates needs, solves problems in real time, and ensures every assignment is delivered at the highest standard.
• Strong multitasking ability—capable of managing shooting, audio, editing, live coordination, and storytelling simultaneously.
• A passionate storyteller who uses visuals, sound, and pacing to engage and captivate viewers.
• Growth‑oriented mindset—actively seeks opportunities to learn, experiment, and master new technologies and workflows.
• Energized by innovation—excited to explore new gear, contribute to workflow evolution, and be part of NBC and…