Docuvitae is hiring: Photography Studio Manager in Santa Monica

Overview

Docuvitae Photography, located in Santa Monica, CA, is seeking a Studio Manager to be trained on a part-time basis this fall, with the goal of assuming the role fully in 2026 as either a part-time or full-time studio manager.

Docuvitae is led by photographer Laura Kleinhenz, and the business operates in a dedicated space in her Santa Monica home.

Responsibilities

• Oversee pre- and post-production on all jobs that come through the studio.
• Prep and organize photo equipment for shoots (film and digital cameras) and coordinate with field contractors.
• Manage post-production workflows, including file management for all digital files from each job and oversight of film work.
• Implement and follow our file management and backup protocols; strong image file management knowledge is essential.
• Perform imaging work in Lightroom and understand Lightroom catalogs, as all images for each job are processed in Lightroom.
• Deliver images via Dropbox and our client-friendly web gallery; provide multimedia slideshows and boxed/loose prints as needed.
• Understand print and bookmaking preparation for fine-art prints and books.
• Provide basic admin support to Laura, including scheduling meetings, coordinating with contractors, preparing contracts, maintaining studio stock, answering sales calls, and sales support.
• Time permitting, assist with marketing and maintaining social media presence (Instagram, Facebook, TikTok) and relevant industry publications.

Qualifications

• Extensive knowledge of the Creative Cloud suite, particularly Photoshop, Lightroom, and InDesign, plus Microsoft Word, Google Docs, and Mac platforms (including iCloud, iCal, and Mail).
• Retouching skills in Photoshop are essential.
• Knowledge of QuickBooks and Pixellu is a plus and can be learned on-site.
• Strong knowledge of workflow protocols for both film and digital photography and an understanding of file preparation for fine-art printing and bookmaking.
• Very strong organizational skills with the ability to multitask; professional, punctual, and meticulous with a sense of personal responsibility for supporting the studio and delivering high-quality imagery and service.
• Prior experience in the photo industry and studio management is essential.

Employment Details

• The position will begin as a contract role and may become salaried over time; compensation commensurate with experience.
• Past full-time employees have received a bi-weekly salary, paid vacation, paid sick days, and a stipend toward health insurance and phone data plan.
• Flexibility to accommodate peak and off-peak seasons.
• Before applying, please visit the website to learn about our work and include in your cover letter why this job is a good fit for you.