National Geographic Photo Editing Intern, Summer 2026 at National Geographic Washington DC

September 23, 2026

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National Geographic Photo Editing Intern, Summer 2026 job at National Geographic. Washington DC.

Job Summary:

About the Role & Program

Join us for the opportunity to intern with the National Geographic’s Photo Department and see firsthand how compelling visual stories come to life. As part of the team that produces photography for National Geographic magazine, nationalgeographic.com, the special print editions, and our leading global social media presence, interns will learn how to curate and commission images and published for audiences around the world. Working alongside experienced photo editors, interns will gain hands-on experience in image research, selection, sequencing, caption development, and editorial processes that uphold National Geographic’s standards for accuracy, ethics, and narrative excellence.

The approximate date of this internship is a full-time, three-month commitment in Washington, DC, from May/June –August/September 2026. If selected for this opportunity, you will report directly to the Manager, Photography, Digital. A portfolio and cover letter are required in order to be considered for this opportunity. Be sure to include any links or examples of personal projects (social media or websites) to your application, if applicable.

What You Will Do

Research a wide range of stories and partner with editors to identify compelling visual solutions across our platforms.
Work with a Photo Editor mentor on assigned tasks with clear goals and deadlines.
Opportunities to work on short-term and more in-depth photo research/editing projects, to propose ideas, and to collaborate with both the mentor and other photo/video/design staff on projects they are involved in.
Opportunities to sit in on a photo edit or design session with colleagues working on a feature story or similar assignment.

Required Qualifications & Skills

Basic understanding of photo editing software programs (Photoshop, Lightroom, etc.)
Interest in photography and photojournalism, which can include coursework and examples of work showing excellent visual taste and an appreciation for visual storytelling
Strong oral and written communication skills
Strong organizational skills and an ability to handle and prioritize simultaneous projects and meet deadlines

Preferred Qualifications & Skills

Curiosity about video/social media a plus
Passion for history, science, environment, and/or wildlife

Education

Pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree or Master’s Degree in Photojournalism, Visual Arts or a related field

Eligibility Requirements & Program Information:

Candidates for this opportunity MUST meet all of the below requirements:

Be enrolled in an accredited college/university pursuing a degree taking at least one class at time of application OR currently participating in a Disney College Program or Disney Internship.
Current Disney Interns, College, International, or Culinary Program Participants: You may only work for ONE consecutive year (12 months) in any combination of an internship and/or program.
Be at least 18 years of age
Possess unrestricted work authorization

Additional Required Documents

A portfolio and cover letter are required in order to be considered for this opportunity. Be sure to include any links or examples of personal projects (social media or websites) to your application, if applicable.

Additional Information

Able to have a consistent, reliable work schedule throughout the internship
The approximate dates of this internship are May/June 2026 through August/September 2026.
Fully available from Monday through Friday, 9am to 5pm EST for the duration of the internship
Able to provide own housing for the duration internship program in the Washington D.C. area
Able to provide/have reliable transportation to/from work

The pay rate for this role in Washington D.C. is $22.50 per hour. Select benefits may be provided as part of the compensation package, such as medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the level and position offered. To learn more about our benefits visit:

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