Lead Wedding & Event Photographer

Dean Michaels Studio is a busy, established photography studio seeking seasoned wedding and event photographers to serve in a lead photographer contract role for weddings and select events throughout New Jersey.

This opportunity is ideal for experienced photographers who love shooting weddings, working with couples, and being part of a professional team — without the responsibility of running a solo photography business.

• 7 years of experience shooting weddings and events in a lead photographer role
• Strong ability to pose couples, give direction, and manage wedding-day timelines
• Professional, confident, and personable with couples and vendors
• Comfortable handling pre-wedding engagement sessions and pre-wedding calls
• Reliable transportation and willingness to travel throughout NJ (and occasionally beyond)
• Professional appearance and demeanor

• Professional mirrorless or DSLR camera bodies with backups
• Professional lenses appropriate for weddings and events
• On-camera and off-camera lighting experience
• Reliable internet speed for post-wedding uploads
• Ability to follow studio workflows and standards

• $600–$650 day rate (based on coverage length and role)
• Consistent wedding opportunities with a busy, established studio
• No client acquisition, marketing, contracts, editing, or delivery
• Organized planning, clear timelines, and full studio support

While this role is focused on contracted lead photography, for the right long-term fit there may be opportunities over time for increased involvement, priority assignments, and leadership responsibilities within the studio. This is not the focus of the role but something we’re open to as the studio continues to grow.