Photo Studio Apprentice

Job Title

Job Description

About the People Inc. Apprentice Program:

The People Inc. Apprentice Program empowers Iowa’s next generation of creators, innovators, and problem-solvers. Rooted in Des Moines and open to students across the state, it bridges classroom learning with real-world impact, offering apprentices the chance to grow with purpose while helping People Inc. shape the future of media, technology, and storytelling.

People Inc. is committed to diversity, equity and inclusion and representing the communities that we serve.  We strongly encourage BIPOC and LGBTQIA students to apply. 

This is a paid Apprenticeship, offering $15/hour. 

Deadline to Apply: Sunday, March 29, 2026

Eligibility Requirements:

• Junior, Senior or recent graduate at an accredited college or university

• Located in the state of Iowa 

• Available to work 15-20 hours per week, September 7, 2026 - May 22, 2027

• Ability to spend at least 2 days a week on site in our DSM office 

• Access to your own housing and transportation to/from the DSM office 

About the Team:

The People Inc Content Studios consists of 5 full time Photographers. We photograph a range of topics consisting of food for Premium Publications, product packaging and marketing photography for the Better Homes and Gardens brand licensing for Walmart, and occasional internal portrait photography.

About the Role:

•  Photography Assistants support photographers in setting up, executing, and moving photoshoots both in the studio and on location. A strong passion for photography and  willingness to learn are a must. Responsibilities also include assisting the Art and Prop departments as well as video production and editing as needed.

Apprentice Responsibilities will Include: 

• Setup and teardown of photography sets. This includes lighting equipment, camera equipment, and photography props. 

• Organize studio bays before and after each shoot.

• Assist Photographers / Prop Stylists / Art Directors during the day.

• Interaction with clients and customers including portrait posing and positioning.

• Excellent communication and listening skills.

• Must be a self-starter.

• Must be willing to work flexible hours.

• Must have a positive attitude and be willing to take direction from others.

• Good organizational skills.

• Must be able to lift and move heavy objects such as C-stands or surfaces.

About You: 

Candidates for this role should have:

• Experience in photography or other similar qualifications.

• Must be proficient with Canon photography equipment.

• Experience with Capture One Pro and Capture One Pro file management.

• Experience with Adobe Photoshop.

• Experience with Profoto lights and modifiers.

It is the policy of People Inc. to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, genetic information, marital status, status with regard to public assistance, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. In addition, the Company will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities. Accommodation requests can be made by emailing [email protected].

The Company participates in the federal E-Verify program to confirm the identity and employment authorization of all newly hired employees. For further information about the E-Verify program, please click here: https://www.e-verify.gov/employees