Full-time | Dorchester, Dorset
Are you an enthusiastic photographer looking to start your career in a unique and creative environment? Duke's Auctioneers is seeking a Junior Auction Photographer to join our friendly team in Dorchester.
Working alongside our experienced Lead Photographer, you'll help photograph everything from historic jewellery and fine art to designer furniture, classic cars and rare collectibles. No two days are the same, and this is a fantastic opportunity to develop specialist studio photography skills while working with remarkable objects that pass through one of the UK's leading auction houses.
About Duke's
Established in 1823, Duke's Auctioneers is one of the UK's leading regional auction houses. We hold specialist sales throughout the year covering fine art, jewellery, watches, silver, Asian art, wines and spirits, antiques and interiors, attracting buyers from across the world.
The Role
As an Auction Photographer you'll be responsible for producing accurate, high-quality images for our printed catalogues, website and online auction platforms.
Working closely with our specialists and cataloguing team, you'll photograph hundreds of objects each month while learning the techniques needed to present every item at its very best.
What You'll Be Doing
- Photograph antiques, jewellery, paintings, furniture and works of art in a professional studio environment.
- Set up lighting, control reflections and capture accurate colour and detail.
- Edit images using Capture One and Adobe Photoshop.
- Prepare clean, consistent images for auction catalogues and online listings.
- Organise and upload files using our digital cataloguing system.
- Work closely with specialists to ensure lots are accurately represented.
- Assist with handling and moving objects safely.
- Occasionally photograph items at clients' homes or external locations.
- Support the wider team during auction and viewing days when required.
About You
We're looking for someone passionate about photography and keen to learn. You may be a recent graduate or someone with some commercial photography experience looking for the next step in your career.
You'll ideally have:
- A degree, HND or equivalent qualification in Photography (or relevant experience).
- A portfolio demonstrating strong product, still-life or studio photography.
- Experience using Capture One and Adobe Photoshop.
- Excellent attention to detail.
- Strong organisational and file management skills.
- A positive attitude and willingness to learn.
- The ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- An interest in art, antiques or design would be an advantage, but isn't essential.
Desirable Skills
Experience with any of the following would be beneficial, although training can be provided:
- Macro photography
- Colour-managed workflows
- Tethered shooting
- Basic video editing
- Adobe InDesign
- 360° product photography
What We Offer
- Full training and mentoring from our experienced Lead Photographer with over 30 years' industry experience.
- The opportunity to work with exceptional works of art and historic objects every day.
- Paid annual leave.
- Ongoing professional development.
- Free on-site parking.
Working Hours
Monday to Friday, 9.00am - 5pm.
Based at our Dorchester salerooms, with occasional travel to photograph collections at clients' homes or external locations.
How to Apply
Please send your CV, a short covering letter explaining why you're interested in the role, and a link to your photography portfolio (or PDF portfolio) to: [email protected]
Subject: Junior Auction Photographer Application – [Your Name]
Closing Date is Wednesday 19th August.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: £24,000.00-£28,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Company events
- Company pension
- Free parking
- On-site parking
- Transport links
Work Location: In person
