About Company
Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) / Doctors Without Borders is an international, independent medical humanitarian organisation that provides aid in nearly 70 countries to people affected by armed conflict, epidemics, natural disasters, and exclusion from healthcare. Our teams offer medical assistance based on need, irrespective of race, religion, gender, or political affiliation. While our core mission is primarily focused on delivering essential medical care and humanitarian relief, MSF recognises the profound impact of social and cultural well-being on a community’s overall health and resilience. In our commitment to holistic community support, MSF sometimes undertakes specific projects that extend beyond direct medical intervention. These initiatives aim to foster a deeper understanding, document, preserve, and celebrate local life and traditions, thereby contributing to the psychosocial fabric and strengthening the communities we serve. It is within this unique and vital framework of community engagement and cultural documentation that we are seeking a dedicated and sensitive Photographer.
Job Description
MSF is launching a special community documentation and cultural preservation project in Lisala, Mongala Province, and we are actively seeking a talented and profoundly culturally sensitive Photographer with a specialized focus on Wedding & Portrait photography. This unique and impactful role is integral to a broader initiative designed to respectfully capture and celebrate the rich tapestry of local life, placing particular emphasis on significant personal and community events that shape identity, collective memory, and social cohesion. The successful candidate will be tasked with ethically and sensitively documenting weddings, family portraits, rites of passage, community gatherings, and individual stories, all while strictly adhering to MSF’s stringent ethical guidelines regarding consent, privacy, and cultural sensitivity—principles inherent to our humanitarian mission. This is distinct from a typical medical photography role; rather, it represents an unparalleled opportunity to leverage your photographic artistry to honour the dignity, resilience, and vibrant culture of the people of Lisala. You will contribute to creating a powerful visual archive that reflects their joy, traditions, everyday existence, and the profound strength of their community. Working closely with respected community leaders and MSF field teams, you will proactively identify opportunities for ethical and impactful visual storytelling, thereby contributing to a deeper understanding and appreciation of local culture within the broader humanitarian context. This role demands not only exceptional technical photography skills but also an unwavering sense of empathy, profound respect for the communities we serve, and an ability to navigate sensitive situations with grace and professionalism. Your work will play a crucial role in building bridges and fostering understanding.
Key Responsibilities
- Execute high-quality wedding and portrait photography, capturing candid and posed moments with artistic integrity.
- Plan and coordinate photography sessions in collaboration with MSF field teams and community representatives.
- Ensure all subjects provide informed consent prior to photography, in accordance with MSF's ethical guidelines.
- Process, edit, and retouch photographs to professional standards, ensuring consistency and adherence to project aesthetics.
- Organise and maintain a comprehensive digital archive of all photographic assets.
- Manage photographic equipment, ensuring its proper use, maintenance, and security.
- Travel within Lisala and surrounding areas as required for assignments, often in challenging conditions.
- Collaborate effectively with local community members, respecting local customs and traditions at all times.
- Provide visual content for internal reports, community feedback, and potential external communication (with appropriate consent and ethical review).
- Adhere to all MSF safety and security protocols during field assignments.
Required Skills
- Proven professional experience in wedding and portrait photography.
- Demonstrable portfolio showcasing strong technical skills in composition, lighting, and post-production.
- Proficiency with professional-grade DSLR/Mirrorless cameras and relevant software (e.g., Adobe Lightroom, Photoshop).
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport quickly and respectfully.
- Strong understanding of ethical photography practices, especially when working with vulnerable populations.
- Fluency in Lingala and/or Swahili; working knowledge of French is a significant advantage.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team in a dynamic environment.
- Resilience, adaptability, and a strong commitment to humanitarian principles.
Preferred Qualifications
- A degree or diploma in Photography, Visual Arts, or a related field.
- Prior experience working in humanitarian or community-based projects, particularly in remote or challenging settings.
- Familiarity with the cultural nuances and traditions of the Mongala Province and DRC.
- Experience with video production and editing is a plus.
- Certification in first aid or basic security awareness.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive local salary package commensurate with experience.
- Comprehensive health benefits for the employee and eligible dependents.
- Opportunity to contribute to a meaningful community documentation and cultural preservation project.
- Professional development and training opportunities within a leading humanitarian organisation.
- A supportive and diverse international team environment.
- Accommodation and per diem provided for field assignments outside Lisala center, if applicable.
- Generous paid time off and public holidays.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are invited to submit a detailed CV, a cover letter explaining your motivation and suitability for this unique role, and a link to your online photography portfolio (or attach a PDF portfolio of your best 10-15 wedding and portrait photographs). Please ensure your application clearly highlights your experience with ethical photography and working with diverse communities. Click on the application link below to apply for this job.