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Writer's pictureRuth Gilmour

Choosing your In-House Editor



Finding the right person to work in your business can be a tricky task. Especially when they are going to be working next to you or in your space! Here's a few of the things I was thinking about when I recently interviewed for my first in house editor/assistant role.

  • Communication This was one of the top qualities I prioritised when interviewing for my in house editor. Unfortunately I had learned the hard way earlier on in my career that not everybody will be able to communicate if they are uncertain how to approach a job. In this case it was due to lack of confidence, not wanting to interrupt me to clarify instructions, as well as a language barrier. This can end up causing a lot of additional work, so find someone who is a confident communicator!


  • Future Proofing The last thing you want is for your In- House editor and you to be going in a different direction. Training an editor is an investment in time. I knew that I wanted someone who could be with me for several years. While you can't explicit ask for someone to commit to a specific length of time when they are subcontracting to you, it's a conversation that can be had informally. With my assistant/editor I was able to share with her what I needed now, but also how I hoped her role would grow in the future and she was really on board and excited for this.

  • Hours that align As a full time photographer who also is the primary caregiver of my children I wanted someone who could align with my school time work hours. I also appreciated the flexibility my editor could offer if we need to shift her work days. When family shoots are rescheduled due to the weather or illness, I've found myself on occasion without work for her, so she is flexible to skip a day or come later in the week when I actually have something to edit! This flexibility works for both of us as she also has a busy life with two kids and sometimes can't come on the days we have planned or needs to work from home.


  • Personal Surround yourself with people who support you to be the best photographer you can be! A photographer and editor will often work in close proximity so having a positive relationship is key. Gut instincts are often spot on but before you employ someone to work in your space get references! We also did a one month trial and I often checked in to see how everything was working for her. It has to be the fit it right for both of you and a trial period is a risk free way of keeping the lines of communication very open in that induction phase!

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