Description
The Photography Teaching Assistant Intern at the NYC Resettlement, Asylum, and Integration (RAI) office will support the lead photography instructor during a photography class for newcomer youth and a collaborative photo project of NYSA and IRC HQ.
Responsibilities:
- Assist the lead photography instructor in facilitating weekly lessons, ensuring that students understand concepts such as camera operation, composition, lighting, and storytelling.
- Plan and lead photography learning sessions under the supervision of the lead photography instructor.
- Provide one-on-one and small group support to students during class activities, helping them with camera settings, troubleshooting technical issues, and providing feedback on their work.
- Set up and break down equipment (cameras, tripods, lighting, etc.) before and after each class.
- Support equipment management and maintenance, ensuring cameras and accessories are properly handled, stored, inventoried, and kept in good working condition.
- Assist with file management, including organizing, labeling, and archiving student images and maintaining clear digital folder structures.
- Assist students with photo editing software (e.g., Adobe Lightroom), helping them enhance their images and learn basic editing techniques.
- Accompany the group on photography field trips, providing supervision and assisting students with their photography projects in real-world settings.
- Facilitate communication with parents and students about class updates, special events, or any issues that may arise during the program.
- Help with translating written materials into different languages through a language service (training provided).
Collaborative Photo Project:
- Track progress on different parts of the project and communicate updates to the team.
- Document project activities, behind-the-scenes moments, and events through photo and/or video.
- Assist with exhibit planning, coordination, and production as requested.
Learning Objectives:
- Gain experience in photography education and mentoring, particularly in working with refugee and immigrant youth.
- Develop skills in classroom management, lesson planning, and providing individualized instruction in a creative subject.
- Build professional experience in an educational, nonprofit setting with a focus on youth development and cultural integration.
- Enhance planning and facilitation skills by supporting photography-based partnerships between IRC NY and other IRC departments.
Requirements:
- Currently enrolled or graduated from a college or master’s program in Photography, Art, Design, Media Studies, or a related field.
- Minimum of 1 year of coursework in photography or visual arts (can include continuing education programs).
- Minimum of 2 years of experience using DSLR cameras, either through formal education or self-directed/personal projects.
- Portfolio of 5–10 original images that demonstrate a strong understanding of composition, lighting, and visual storytelling.
- Experience working with youth, particularly those from refugee or immigrant backgrounds.
- Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships with students and work collaboratively in a classroom setting.
- Organizational skills and attention to detail, particularly in managing class logistics and student work.
- Photo equipment management skills and file management skills for organizing digital assets.
- Fluency in written/verbal English required; preferred but not required fluency in any of the listed languages: Spanish, Russian, Ukrainian, Mandarin, Haitian Creole, Dari, Pashto, and/or Arabic.
- Self-starter and team player.
- Competency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook), Google Apps (i.e. Google Drive), and Adobe Creative Suite.
- Must be based in US, must be a US citizen or have US work authorization.
- Willing to adhere to IRC intern and workplace policies.