Lead Photographer (Associate Creative Director)

About our agency:

Handcar is a band of nimble strategists, thinkers, content creators, designers and dreamers living and working in beautiful Detroit, USA. Born of an old car wash-turned-studio — we’ve grown since then, but our stance has remained the same — to push the limits of what we should do versus what we could do. We've created a space where innovative ideas flourish, and experimentation, strategic thinking, and the magic that is team-wide collaboration is thriving. In short, we’re an extremely rad full-service creative agency for the world’s finest DTC brands.

Our story is one of passion and purpose. We don't just create world class brand strategy + scroll-stopping content for DTC brands; we craft stories that resonate, inspire, and spark connections. We believe that every brand or organization has a unique story waiting to be told, and we're here to share it. From our roots in Detroit to our expanding horizons, we embrace the unknown — diving headfirst into challenges, learning, and growing along the way.

About this role:

At Handcar, fresh, high-quality, and impactful creative photography is at the heart of our offerings. We are seeking a Lead Photographer (ACD) who will play a pivotal role in shaping and executing the visual identity of our clients' brand product photography. The ideal candidate will have expertise in both studio and lifestyle photography. As ACD/Lead Photographer, you will collaborate with Handcar’s creative team to elevate our brand + more importantly our clients brands and produce stunning visual content across all channels. 

This position is hybrid/on-site at our Detroit, MI, studio. We can offer relocation assistance for non-local candidates interested in moving.

Success in this role requires the following attributes:

• Communication — You are comfortable working with all parts and pieces of the Handcar team or clients throughout the creative process to meet objectives and timelines.
• Creative + Detailed — You immerse yourself in art, design, photography, and social trends, drawing inspiration and insights.
• Collaboration — Partner with the creative team and stakeholders to bring conceptual and photographic visions to life across all channels.
• Project Management — A strong work ethic, responsiveness, and a focus on results are essential at Handcar. Effective project planning skills are crucial in our fast-paced environment.
• Creative Standards — You hold yourself and your team to the highest standards, paying attention to every detail and inspiring others to do the same.

Accountabilities:

• Extensive experience in both studio and lifestyle photography
• Effectively interpret and execute shot lists, mood boards, and creative briefs
• Consistently produce images that are within established studio photo guidelines.
• Contribute to the creative concepts and location options as well as potential location scouting when appropriate.
• Drive the ongoing visual evolution of the Handcar brand
• Proficiency with photo editing software and camera equipment
• Expertise in light, color, composition, and movement
• Collaborate with team members to ensure cohesive brand representation through images and design
• Maintain high creative standards
• Stay informed on the latest gear, photography trends, and styles, inspiring fresh and innovative approaches
• Responsible for equipment and testing.

Qualifications and Attributes:

• 5+ years of photography experience (in-house or agency experience is a plus, previous roles stretched to ACD responsibilities also a plus)
• Inventive studio product photography is paramount to what we do — interested candidates must have experienced + similar studio work in their portfolio to be considered.
• A compelling portfolio showcasing relevant work experience
• Keen awareness of trends with the ability to translate them into high-performing, brand-consistent creative
• Balances a strong creative vision with a collaborative spirit
• Strong branding and photography aesthetic
• Creative problem-solving abilities
• Ability to process and act on creative feedback
• Highly collaborative and responsible
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously
• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite and CaptureOne

Compensation

• Competitive Salary
• Health Insurance Benefits
• Unlimited PTO + Paid Holidays
• Generous parental leave

Handcar is proud to be an equal opportunity employer that values diversity in all forms. All employment decisions at Handcar are based on business needs, job requirements, and individual qualifications, without regard to race, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, HIV status, marital status, or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where we operate.