Internship :: Municipal Photo Archive of New York City
From July to December of this year, I have been volunteering my time at the Municipal Photo Archive of the city of New York. Michael Lorenzini, Curator of Photography, was my co-panelist at an American Society of Picture Professionals (ASPP) presentation earlier this year (see related post). I originally approached him to see if I could help him in some way to improve the Archive’s visibility and use among professional photo researchers and photo editors.
Some of my tasks included:
Formulating and designing an easy-to-use fee schedule so the Archive’s users and customers can easily refer to image pricing and terms of use.
Redesigning the existing website with a proposed e-commerce functionality to enable online image purchasing/licensing.
Editing the Archive’s Works Progress Administration database (in Microsoft Access) for inclusion into a new LUNA Insight platform.
Providing feedback and insight regarding the needs of professional picture buyers.
It was a rewarding period during which I was able to apply my insights into the stock photography industry, while simultaneously gaining hands-on experience in a photo archive.
To date, none of these projects have yet been implemented, so more information is to come. The photo collection at the Municipal Archives is unique and beautiful, and Michael’s efforts in launching the new online platform is truly commendable.
An internship is one of the best ways to learn what is available in your field of interest, and to gain needed experience. Good luck!
I’m impressed with your resume of photo editing and photo research skills!