Associate Photographer / Event Shooter – Sweet 16 Event
WYK Events is looking for a talented and reliable Associate Photographer to join our team for an upcoming Sweet 16 event on Saturday, August 15th, 2026.
This opportunity is for a specific event, but we are also looking to build relationships with photographers we enjoy working with for future weddings, private events, and celebrations.
For this event, the day may begin in Valencia, CA for getting-ready or pre-event coverage, with the main celebration taking place in Burbank, CA. Exact timeline and location details are still being finalized.
Job Summary
We are seeking an experienced event photographer who is comfortable working as an associate shooter under the WYK Events brand. The ideal candidate is professional, punctual, confident photographing fast-paced events, and able to capture clean, polished, story-driven images throughout the day.
This role requires someone who can follow creative direction, work well with a team, interact professionally with clients and guests, and capture important event moments with consistency and care.
Responsibilities
Photograph event coverage for a Sweet 16 celebration, including but not limited to getting-ready details, family photos, portraits, party details, candid moments, entrances, speeches, dancing, and key event moments.
Work as an associate shooter representing WYK Events professionally at all times.
Follow the provided timeline, shot priorities, and direction from the lead team.
Capture a mix of candid, posed, detail, and storytelling images.
Communicate clearly and professionally with the WYK Events team, vendors, clients, and guests.
Be prepared to shoot in changing lighting environments, including indoor reception lighting.
Safely back up and deliver RAW files to WYK Events after the event, according to the agreed delivery instructions.
Arrive on time and be prepared with all necessary gear, charged batteries, memory cards, and backups.
Requirements
- Must have professional event photography experience.
- Must have your own professional camera gear.
- Minimum of two camera bodies required.
- Must have appropriate lenses for event coverage, including low-light reception environments.
- Must have reliable transportation and be able to travel to and from all shooting locations, including Valencia, CA and Burbank, CA.
- Must be comfortable working as an associate photographer under the WYK Events brand.
- Must be punctual, professional, and responsive in communication.
- Must be comfortable photographing private events, family moments, portraits, and reception-style coverage.
- Must be able to work independently while also following direction from the WYK Events team.
- Must be able to provide a portfolio or sample gallery of previous event, wedding, quinceañera, Sweet 16, or portrait work.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience photographing weddings, quinceañeras, Sweet 16s, birthdays, or luxury/private events.
Strong understanding of flash photography and low-light event coverage.
Ability to capture both documentary-style candids and clean posed portraits.
Professional and friendly presence with clients and guests.
Availability for future associate shooting opportunities with WYK Events.
Schedule
Event Date: Saturday, August 15th
Possible Start Location: Valencia, CA — TBD
Main Event Location: Burbank, CA
Final call time and schedule will be shared once confirmed.
Compensation
Paid freelance opportunity. Rate will be discussed based on experience, gear, portfolio, and final coverage hours.
Pay: $60.00 - $90.00 per hour
Work Location: In person