About Company
The Drostdy Hotel, a proud member of the distinguished Newmark Hotels, Reserves & Lodges collection, stands as an iconic landmark in the heart of Graaff-Reinet, the ‘Gem of the Karoo’. Steeped in history and exuding timeless elegance, our hotel offers an unparalleled luxury experience, blending exquisite Cape Dutch architecture with modern comforts. We are dedicated to providing exceptional service and creating unforgettable memories for our guests, whether they are here for leisure, business, or special occasions. From our opulent suites to our award-winning restaurant, every detail at The Drostdy Hotel is meticulously crafted to reflect our commitment to excellence. Joining our team means becoming part of a legacy of hospitality, contributing to a brand that values creativity, quality, and a passion for delivering extraordinary experiences in one of South Africa’s most charming and historic towns.
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Job Description
We are seeking a highly creative, skilled, and passionate Photographer to join our dynamic team at The Drostdy Hotel. This is a unique opportunity for an individual with an exceptional eye for detail and a flair for storytelling through imagery. As our dedicated Photographer, you will be instrumental in capturing the essence of our luxury hotel, its stunning interiors, exquisite culinary offerings, vibrant events, and the captivating beauty of the surrounding Graaff-Reinet area. Your work will be crucial in shaping our visual brand identity across all marketing channels, including our website, social media, print collateral, and public relations efforts.
You will be responsible for both commercial photography, showcasing the hotel’s amenities, rooms, and dining experiences, and event photography, documenting a diverse range of functions from intimate weddings and corporate conferences to festive celebrations and special promotions. We are looking for someone who can not only produce high-quality, professional photographs but also consistently convey the luxurious and welcoming atmosphere that defines The Drostdy Hotel. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment, possess excellent technical skills, and have a proven ability to translate brand messaging into compelling visuals, we invite you to contribute your talent to our story. This role demands a proactive approach, an ability to manage multiple projects, and a deep understanding of post-production techniques to ensure every image meets our exacting standards. Be prepared to become our visual ambassador, capturing moments that guests will cherish and images that will inspire future visits.
Key Responsibilities
- Plan, set up, and execute commercial photoshoots for hotel rooms, suites, F&B outlets, spa facilities, common areas, and staff portraits.
- Cover a variety of hotel events, including weddings, conferences, private functions, and promotional activities, capturing key moments and atmosphere.
- Perform extensive post-production work, including culling, editing, retouching, colour correction, and formatting images to meet brand guidelines.
- Manage and maintain a comprehensive digital asset library, ensuring proper organization, tagging, and archiving of all photographic content.
- Collaborate closely with the marketing, events, and F&B teams to understand photography requirements and conceptualize visual content that aligns with campaigns and objectives.
- Ensure all visual content consistently reflects The Drostdy Hotel’s luxury brand identity, tone, and quality standards.
- Maintain all photography and lighting equipment, ensuring it is in excellent working condition and reporting any necessary repairs or replacements.
- Stay abreast of current photography trends, techniques, and software to continuously enhance skills and bring innovative ideas to the team.
- Provide creative direction and guidance during shoots to subjects (staff, models, guests) to achieve desired outcomes.
Required Skills
- Proven proficiency with professional-grade DSLR/mirrorless camera equipment and associated lenses.
- Expert-level knowledge of Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom, and other relevant image editing software.
- Exceptional understanding of lighting techniques (natural, artificial, studio), composition, and colour theory.
- A strong, diverse portfolio demonstrating a high standard of commercial and event photography.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to direct subjects and collaborate effectively with teams.
- Ability to work independently and manage time efficiently to meet project deadlines.
- Sharp attention to detail and a strong creative vision.
- Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required by events schedule.
Preferred Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree or Diploma in Photography, Visual Arts, or a related creative field.
- Minimum of 2-3 years of professional experience in hospitality, luxury brand, or high-end event photography.
- Proficiency in videography and video editing (e.g., Adobe Premiere Pro, DaVinci Resolve) is a significant advantage.
- Familiarity with the Graaff-Reinet and broader Karoo region's unique landscapes and attractions.
- Experience with studio setup and product photography for culinary items.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary package commensurate with experience.
- Opportunities for professional development and skill enhancement.
- Generous staff discounts on accommodation, dining, and other services across Newmark Hotels, Reserves & Lodges properties.
- A stimulating and supportive work environment within a historic and beautiful setting.
- Being part of a passionate and dedicated team committed to luxury hospitality.
- Contribution to a highly respected and growing brand in the tourism industry.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are invited to apply by visiting the Newmark Hotels Careers page. Please navigate to the ‘Apply Now’ section or look for open vacancies, and be sure to mention your interest in the Photographer (Commercial & Event) role at The Drostdy Hotel, Graaff-Reinet. We encourage you to submit your comprehensive CV, a compelling cover letter, and a link to your online portfolio showcasing your best commercial and event photography work. Only applications submitted through the official Newmark Hotels careers portal will be considered.
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