The Office of Communications
Preferred Vendors: Freelance Photography
The Office of Communications regularly works with a small group of trusted freelance photographers to produce high-quality images that support the college’s core communications needs.
This includes photography for admissions materials, the main Oberlin College website, social media channels, signature events, and flagship publications such as the Oberlin Alumni Magazine.
Academic departments and administrative offices are encouraged to work directly with our preferred photographers.
Freelancers operate independently; academic departments and administrative offices can work directly with preferred photographers and are responsible for coordinating logistics and payment directly with the photographer.
Types of Photography
Our preferred freelance photographers are skilled in the areas below. If you do not see your need listed, please feel free to reach out. We will be happy to offer support.
Environmental Portraits
A portrait that captures a subject in their natural surroundings
Student Clubs and Organizations
Images that depict student life
Classroom/Candids
Indoor and outdoor classes
Lectures/Panel Discussions
Guest lectures and group discussions
Science
Labs, research, and all areas of the sciences
Close-ups
Detailed images of objects, places, etc.
Drone
Typically used for architectural photography or large events
Local and Nonlocal Site Visits
Contact Yvonne Gay for nonlocal photographers
Group Photos
Departments, offices, and student groups
How to Book a Photographer
- Step 1: Determine how photos will be used (social media, web, print, etc.). Your usage will help you choose your professional photographer.
- Step 2: Decide which image type you will need. See the photo grid above for assistance.
- Step 3: Confirm the location, start and end time, and date of your photo shoot.
- Step 4: Confirm your photo budget.
- Step 5: Confirm who will be on-site to serve as the photographer’s point person during the photo shoot.
- Step 6: Create a list of specific and general photo needs (e.g., wide shots from varying angles, general candids). Art direction will help ensure you receive the images you need and let the photographer know what equipment they should bring.
- Step 7: Be mindful of those being photographed to ensure that they are comfortable having their pictures taken.
- Step 8: Select your photographer [Oberlin login required] and send a request for coverage to confirm availability. Initial message must include date, and beginning and end time of photography needed.
- Step 9: If the photographer is available send a follow-up response that includes information gathered from steps 1–5.
Tip
Schedule your photographer at least two weeks in advance. Keep in mind that freelance photographers work not only for Oberlin College but also for other outside clients.
Need additional assistance?
Contact Yvonne Gay, photo coordinator at the Office of Communications.
Ready to Hire a Photographer?
