Sports Photographer/Editor
Job description
About the role
A seasonal freelance position produces highlights from Northwest Ohio high school football games for Friday night broadcasts. The role supports WTOL 11's Big Board Friday coverage by delivering edited content under tight time constraints. Collaboration with producers and newsroom staff guides the work.
Content writers produce the words that explain products and ideas. They write articles, landing pages, emails, and social posts. The work combines research, editing, and search awareness. Good writers adapt their voice to the audience and the channel. Content teams plan around editorial calendars and measure performance with traffic and engagement. Most writers revise their own work several times before publishing.
Key facts
What you'll do
High-quality video captures game action, interviews, and stadium atmosphere for broadcast. Edited highlights and packages are prepared quickly to meet strict broadcast deadlines. Assigned high school football games are visited every Friday evening to cover live action. Station camera equipment and, when applicable, station vehicles are operated safely. WTOL 11's production standards are met consistently on every Friday night broadcast.
Requirements
The posting states a pay range of $20 to $21.
Professional experience with professional video cameras and non-linear editing systems is preferred. Work is performed quickly and accurately in a deadline-driven, high-pressure environment. Strong storytelling and visual composition skills shape compelling sports highlights. Reliable transportation and a valid driver's license with a clean driving record are required. Camera equipment is lifted and carried for on-site operations. Availability every Friday evening throughout the approximately 16-week football season is mandatory. Football knowledge and sports production experience may be advantageous when present.
Practical notes
This freelance role operates under a collective bargaining agreement that may affect benefits. All employment practices must comply with equal opportunity and non-discrimination policies. Typical interview steps
Content hiring usually starts with a writing test or portfolio review. Candidates may be asked to rewrite a passage, outline an article, or draft a landing page. Editing skill is tested as often as original writing. Clear structure and attention to detail matter. Interviewers often assign a timed writing test. Following the brief exactly and editing ruthlessly are the two habits that score highest.
Good to know
Video journalists often work in fast-paced, deadline-driven environments where equipment handling and storytelling intersect. Modern sports coverage relies on non-linear editing systems to assemble highlights quickly and accurately. Clear communication with producers and anchors helps align footage with broadcast needs. Physical readiness is essential when moving camera gear in varied game conditions. Understanding of football rules and strategies can improve shot selection and timing.
Questions to ask
Useful questions for the interview: what a typical week looks like, how work is assigned, what tools the team uses, and how feedback works. Asking how the role has changed recently and what the team wishes it had known when joining is also reasonable. Questions about the manager's priorities are especially valued.
Career growth
Content careers grow from writer to senior writer, editor, and content lead roles. Some people specialize in search, technical writing, or brand voice. Proving measurable impact, such as traffic or conversion lift, drives progression. Content careers reward a visible portfolio and proven business results. Writers who understand their company's product and audience grow fastest.
About the company
TEGNA operates broadcast, digital media, and marketing services from offices in Tysons, Virginia. The company supports local news, weather, and community information across television and online platforms. Teams work in newsrooms and digital products, focusing on accurate reporting and audience engagement.
Open roles target content production, editorial, engineering, marketing, and audience analytics. You contribute to news operations, product improvements, and data-informed marketing solutions.