About the Role:
Manchester has a rich creative and cultural scene, and at Pure Creations Photography & Media, we bring that same energy into visual storytelling. We create high-quality photography and media content that blends commercial precision with artistic expression. We believe photography is more than capturing images—it’s about directing emotion, shaping narratives, and delivering impactful visual experiences for clients and brands.
We are looking for a Lead Photographer & Creative Director who can take ownership of our creative output and visual direction. This is not just a production role—you will define how our brand and client work looks, feels, and evolves. You will lead shoots from concept to final delivery, guide creative decisions on set, and ensure every project meets a high professional and artistic standard. You will act as the key creative lead, bridging client expectations with strong visual execution.
Why Work With Us?
The Environment: We are a Manchester-based creative studio with a flexible and collaborative working style. Our focus is on producing strong visual work in environments that allow creativity to thrive—whether that’s in-studio or on-location shoots across the UK.
Creative Ownership: You will have real influence over the visual direction of projects. We don’t believe in micromanagement—we value creative leadership and trust your expertise in shaping outcomes.
Diverse Work: You will work across portraits, events, lifestyle, and commercial projects, giving you a varied and dynamic workload rather than repetitive production tasks.
Growth: This role is designed for someone who wants to grow with a studio, not just work within one. There is room to expand into broader creative leadership responsibilities as the company develops.
Key Responsibilities:
Creative Direction: Lead the visual style and direction of all photography and media projects, ensuring consistency and high-quality output across all work.
Shoot Leadership: Plan, direct, and execute photography sessions from concept development through to final delivery, including both studio and on-location shoots.
Client Collaboration: Work closely with clients to interpret briefs and translate them into strong visual concepts and finished work.
Technical Execution: Manage lighting setups, composition, styling direction, and on-set decision-making to achieve professional-grade results.
Post-Production Oversight: Ensure editing, retouching, and final image delivery meet brand and client standards.
Team Coordination: Guide assistants or freelancers during shoots, ensuring smooth workflow and production efficiency.
Quality Control: Maintain a consistently high creative and technical standard across all delivered work.
What We Are Looking For:
Experience: 4–6+ years of professional photography experience, ideally with exposure to commercial, portrait, or lifestyle work. Leadership or lead-shoot experience is highly valued.
Portfolio: A strong, professional portfolio is essential. We want to see complete projects that demonstrate your ability to lead a shoot, not just individual images.
Technical Skills: Strong understanding of studio lighting, composition, and camera systems. Proficiency in Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop is required.
Creative Leadership: You are confident directing shoots, making creative decisions, and guiding others on set.
Communication: Strong ability to work with clients, interpret briefs, and present creative ideas clearly.
Mindset: You are detail-oriented but practical—you know how to balance creative ambition with deadlines and real-world production constraints.
Pay: £52,955.56-£69,298.12 per year
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Flexitime
- Health & wellbeing programme
- Paid volunteer time
- Sick pay
- Work from home
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Manchester
