smartdept. inc. is hiring: Freelance Photographer in Lake Forest

Freelance Photographer

Smartdept. is searching for a Freelance Photographer for a higher education client. This is a freelance, project-based, onsite opportunity (shoots on campus with select travel), starting late November to mid December 2026, with ongoing work as needed.
Our client is relaunching its printed magazine, published twice a year, and is looking for a photographer to capture a true day in the life of their students. The work will run in print, so images need to hold up on the page, not just on a phone screen. This is a long term relationship for the right person, someone the team can rely on issue after issue.
What You'll Do:
Shoot authentic, candid student life on campus
Capture life at the college's off campus location, including its small housing community
Possibly shoot at study abroad locations where the college runs programs
Plan shots with the Creative Services team so each story has the coverage it needs
Deliver high resolution files ready for print production
What You'll Need:
Education/Experience:

A portfolio of lifestyle, editorial, or documentary photography
Experience shooting for print publications (magazines, viewbooks, or similar)

Comfort working with students and making real moments feel natural
Ability to travel for select shoots
Open communicator who flags issues early, stays organized, and tracks hours accurately
Nice-to-Have Skills:
Strong Photoshop skills to handle your own retouching
Higher education or campus photography experience
Experience with natural light and on location shooting