Photography Volunteer - Outdoor Connections Program

Los Padres ForestWatch is a nonprofit based out of Santa Babara, CA, dedicated to protecting and conserving Los Padres National Forest, the Carrizo Plain National Monument and other public lands in our region. Through political advocacy, scientific collaboration, and community engagement, ForestWatch ensures that a small but mighty team makes a meaningful impact on our cherished lands.

Outdoor Connections is a ForestWatch program designed to connect people to nature. We focus on underserved communities in and around Santa Barbara and Ventura Counties who lack adequate access to the forest. We believe access to the wellness benefits nature has to offer are for everyone regardless of background.

Location

Our office is located in Santa Barbara, California. However, Outdoor Connections outings take place within, and around Los Padres, in Santa Barbara and Ventura counties. Location details will be communicated in advance before the date of each outing.

Supervisor

The volunteer will work with both the Director of Youth and Community Engagement and Outdoor Connections Program Coordinator to photograph outings and help create a cohesive narrative of events. The volunteer may also have the opportunity to work with other programs within LPFW.

The Role

As our primary photographer, you'll capture the people, stories, and connections to the land that make our outings meaningful. Your photos will help us share our work with the wider community.

What You'll Do

• Photograph outings, campouts, and community events, capturing the moments and interactions that reflect participants' connection to the land
• Connect with participants during outings to learn about their experiences and gather quotes
• Help create social media posts that tell the story of each event through images, quotes, and short write-ups
• Deliver edited photos within 34
• days of each event.
• Occasionally help with event tasks such as setup, check-in, etc.

Who We're Looking For

• Experience photographing events and people in a variety of settings (required)
• Comfort outdoors, including walking on uneven terrain and dealing with unpredictable weather (preferred)
• A basic understanding of social media and visual storytelling
• A passion for the outdoors and for working with local communities
• Eagerness to learn and make an impact

Language

English fluency is required. Spanish fluency is strongly preferred, since many of our community members are Spanish speakers.

Commitment

• One or two weekend days per month
• Two full weekends (Friday–Sunday) per year for campouts
• Length of commitment 6 months to a 1 year

Equipment

• Your own camera and editing software.
• Personal camping gear (tent, sleeping pad, sleeping bag, etc.). If you do not have gear, we may be able to lend you gear.

What You'll Gain

• Free participation in outdoor recreation, community outings, and campouts
• Meals are provided at some events
• Opportunities to network with nonprofit leaders, policy advocates, and advocates for the outdoors, conservation, and recreation
• Recommendations and connections that support your professional growth, especially if you're looking to grow within the nonprofit sector in Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties

Send your resume, a brief introduction, and a link to your portfolio or a few sample photos to Graciela@forestwatch.org. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

To learn more about Los Padres ForestWatch visit forestwatch.org.