Spotlight Photographer

VARSITY SPIRIT, A VARSITY BRANDS COMPANY - THE DRIVING FORCE IN SPIRIT ACROSS CHEER, DANCE, BAND AND YEARBOOK

For over 50 years, Varsity Spirit has been the leading global source for all things spirit, including cheerleading, dance team, performing arts and yearbook. Focused on safety, entertainment and traditional school leadership, Varsity Spirit’s 5,000+ employees are dedicated to celebrating school spirit. A leader in apparel innovation, educational camps, clinics, competitions, and yearbook, Varsity Spirit impacts more than a million athletes each year.

OUR COMMITMENT TO SAFETY

At Varsity Spirit, the safety and wellbeing of the young people we serve is of the utmost importance. Since our inception 50 years ago, we have been – and remain – steadfastly committed to doing our part to create a safe and positive environment for our participants’ physical, emotional, and social development, and promoting an environment free from abuse and misconduct. Varsity has a zero tolerance for abuse in its programs, events, and associated business activities. Varsity is committed to reporting all suspicions, allegations, and incidents of abuse in full accordance with local laws and reporting requirements. Learn more at Our Commitment to Safety - Varsity.com.

Spotlight Events, Inc. is a purpose-driven organization headquartered in Eagle, Idaho. For nearly three decades, our brands—Spotlight Dance Cup and LEAP National Dance Competition—have stood at the forefront of the competitive dance industry, producing approximately 90 events in 30 states and 50+ cities annually.

Our Mission is simple: Inspire and Celebrate Young Adults through the Arts. Powered by the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) and grounded in accountability, excellence, and growth, we are rapidly expanding our national footprint and seeking dynamic leaders who can grow with us.

Work Type: Contract/ Seasonal

Location: Remote Position (Travel Required)

Pay Range: Per-event stipend + Travel Reimbursement, DOE

Travel: Travel is required during our event season (January–July), and team members must reside within reasonable proximity to a U.S. international airport or hub to accommodate frequent travel.

On average, the role involves attending approximately 6–10 regional events each year, typically lasting 3–5 days, with the possibility of 1–2 national events lasting 6–8 days.

HOW YOU WILL MAKE AN IMPACT:

You’re a creative and detail-oriented professional with a strong eye for composition and storytelling through photography. You thrive in fast-paced, live event environments, consistently delivering high-quality work under pressure. You enjoy being part of a collaborative team, solving challenges on-the-fly, and capturing the moments that define unforgettable experiences.

If this is you, consider joining us as we grow and doing amazing things in the performing arts industry!

WHAT YOU WILL DO:

The Photographer is responsible for capturing and delivering high-quality images of live performances at Spotlight Events’ competitions. Because client deliverables are “shoot to product,” the Photographer maintains photo output that meets brand quality standards, manages equipment and files, and collaborates with technical and stage teams to support marketing and social media needs. The Photographer also assists with event setup, load-in/load-out, and supports the media team in delivering a cohesive product that reflects Spotlight’s standards of excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Capture, log, and deliver exceptional images of hundreds of performances each weekend
• Collaborate with Video Specialist and Technical Assistant to ensure proper stage lighting for photography
• Assist with Video Specialist operations
• Set up and ensure functionality of camera and related software
• Troubleshoot equipment and setup issues as needed
• Deliver consistent, high-quality photos that meet color/composition standards
• Provide marketing and social media images in coordination with the Social Media Team
• Assist with stage setup after media setup is complete
• Support truck load-in/load-out and gear handling

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Experience photographing live events (sports, dance, wedding or similar) (Preferred)
• Proficient with photography cameras and photography fundamentals
• Strong reading comprehension and communication skills
• Basic Windows OS troubleshooting and computer networking knowledge
• Ability to maintain a positive attitude during long workdays in dynamic environments
• Willingness to travel extensively and adapt to varied travel arrangements (airports, car rentals, road trips)

TRAINING:

All new/first year event staff are required to attend an audition and training session in Eagle, Idaho (Typically hosted January 4th–8th). Spotlight provides flights, transport, lodging, and meals. Travel may occur one day before or after the scheduled dates.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

Physical demands include lifting up to 50 pounds, setting up equipment, and working in a variety of environments, such as event venues, hotels, and stages. Staff members must also be comfortable sharing hotel accommodations with same-gender colleagues during event assignments.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities required of the employee for this job.

OUR VALUES

Service - We lead with heart. We champion community.

Passion - We love what we do. It fuels our purpose.

Integrity - We do what we promise. We own our actions and decisions.

Respect - We earn it by giving it. Because everyone deserves it.

Innovation - We never stop striving to be better. For ourselves and our community.

Transparency - We are committed to openness and honesty in everything we do.

OUR BENEFITS

We are committed to putting you and your families first. For benefits eligible roles, we offer a variety of choices and costs as well as program enhancements that align with our responsibility to elevate the employee experience. Some of our offerings include:

• Comprehensive Health Care Benefits
• HSA Employer Contribution/ FSA Opportunities
• Wellbeing Program
• 401(k) plan with company matching
• Company paid Life, AD&D, and Short-Term Disability
• Generous My Time Off & Paid Holidays
• Varsity Brands Ownership Program
• Employee Resource Groups
• Access to Financial Coaching and member-owned Credit Union
• St. Jude Partnership & Volunteer Opportunities
• Employee Perks including discounts on personal apparel and equipment!

Eligibility for company-sponsored benefits is determined by scheduled work hours, and the terms of the applicable benefit plans. Benefit offerings and eligibility requirements may vary by position and are subject to change in accordance with plan documents and applicable law.

Varsity Brands companies are equal opportunity employers. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran’s status, age or disability.