Photography Researcher (Volunteer)

Description

Who We Are

Unruled Masses is a New York-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit that is building new and dynamic public civic intelligence and direct action infrastructure for peaceful civic engagement. These tools enable ordinary people to expose abuse patterns, map corruption networks and coordinate civic engagement and community building worldwide. We are nonpartisan, guided by evidence, grounded in human rights, and partner-focused to support pro-democratic coalitions. UM seeks to unite people and partners with intelligence, materials and communications to rebuild connected and hopeful communities where institutions are accountable to the people.

Who You Are

You have a strong visual eye and understand that the right image can tell a powerful story. You enjoy the process of searching, evaluating, and selecting visuals that capture meaning, emotion, and context.

You may come from a background in photography, design, media, or visual research—or be building experience in these areas. You are detail-oriented, curious, and thoughtful about how images are used to communicate serious topics.

You are also mindful of licensing and usage rights, and you take care to ensure that all visuals are used appropriately and responsibly.

What You’ll Do

As a Photography Researcher, you will:

• Research and source photography and visual assets for UM publications
• Identify images that effectively tell stories related to corruption, civic action, and human rights
• Ensure all images comply with licensing and public-use requirements
• Organize and catalog visual assets for team use
• Collaborate with content, research, and creative teams
• Support visual storytelling across reports, social media, and campaigns
• Use tools like Canva or similar platforms to edit or prepare images

Exceptional volunteers may:

• Help define visual standards and style guidelines
• Build a centralized visual asset library
• Support design and creative direction initiatives
• Mentor other volunteers in visual sourcing and storytelling

Ideal Qualifications

• Interest or experience in photography, visual research, or media
• Strong attention to detail and visual judgment
• Familiarity with image sourcing platforms and licensing rules
• Experience with Canva or similar design tools is a plus
• Ability to work independently in a remote environment
• Interest in civic engagement, human rights, or social impact

Compensation & Commitment

This is an unpaid volunteer role. We are flexible on time commitments but ask for at least five hours a week to be able to provide any meaningful project / program. Those with higher availability and capability will be considered for team, program, or project leadership opportunities. We are an all-volunteer force. However, as fundraising allows we will need to fill paid positions and will provide first consideration to our volunteer leaders.

Benefits of Volunteering with Unruled Masses

• Join the founding team of a high-impact, global movement
• Gain hands-on experience in visual storytelling and media research
• Contribute to impactful content across multiple platforms
• Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team
• Be part of a mission focused not just on exposing harm—but rebuilding agency, joy, and community

Remote (U.S.-based; NY or DC a plus)