Image Editor (Volunteer)

Image Editor (Volunteer)

Note: This is a remote, part-time volunteer position. Please do not apply if you are only seeking paid employment.

Join our Creative team and help bring our journalism to life through powerful visual storytelling.
 

We’re looking for an Image Editor to support story production by sourcing, editing, and enhancing compelling visual elements — from photographs to charts to video stills. You’ll work closely with our Creative, Editorial, and Marketing teams to find and prepare graphics that elevate and complement our journalism.

This is an ideal role for someone with mid-level to advanced photo editing skills, experience working with Creative Commons and editorial content, and a good sense of visual tone and journalistic integrity.

Who We Are

WhoWhatWhy is a nonprofit investigative news organization producing deep-dive journalism on the most pressing issues of our time. We’re powered by skilled volunteers and a small core staff — from students to seasoned pros — who believe in ethical, independent journalism free from corporate or political influence.

About the Role

As an Image Editor, you’ll:

• Read and review assigned stories and associated editorial materials
• Source or create relevant visuals, including photos, illustrations, charts, videos, and graphics
• Modify, retouch, and prepare images for publication using Photoshop or Lightroom
• Use Creative Commons, public domain assets, or original creations in line with copyright policy
• Write image captions and provide full, accurate attribution
• Present work through a collaborative Google Docs workflow with writers and editors
• Make revisions based on editorial feedback
• Collaborate regularly with the Lead Image Editor and creative teammates to maintain visual quality and consistency

What We’re Looking For

• Proficiency in Photoshop and/or Lightroom for high-quality photo editing
• Knowledge of sourcing assets through Creative Commons, stock libraries, and public domain
• Strong attention to copyright attribution and legal use of imagery
• Ability to communicate clearly and work within story deadlines
• Mastery of spoken and written English
• Comfortable working independently and as part of a virtual team
• Bachelor's degree in Photography, Graphic Design, Journalism, or a related field is a plus
• Bonus if you have experience in video editing, illustration, or creative content design

What You’ll Gain

• Portfolio-worthy experience contributing to published journalism
• A chance to shape how stories are visually experienced by our readers
• Collaboration with experienced editors and creatives across departments
• Flexible, remote schedule (ideally with some daytime availability for assignments)

Commitment

We ask for a commitment of 5–10 hours per week and a minimum of 6 months. Schedules are flexible, but ability to respond to assignments on short deadlines is appreciated.

How to Apply

Please send:

• Your resume highlighting relevant creative or editorial experience
• A link to your portfolio, with examples of retouching, layout, sourcing, or composite work
• A customized cover letter explaining why this role interests you and how you align with WhoWhatWhy’s mission

To confirm you’ve read this description, please include the phrase “Committed to the Mission” and the result of 12 ÷ 3 somewhere in your letter.

If you are unable to upload your cover letter, please email it to [email protected]. Check your spam folder for responses.

Reminder

We will not review mass-submitted or AI-generated applications. We’re looking for original responses and genuine enthusiasm.

Join Us

Help tell impactful stories through powerful visuals — and be part of a creative team that brings truth to light.