Bonhams
Photographer (Watches)
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About the Bonhams Network
Founded in 1793, Bonhams is one of the world's leading auction houses — defined by connection, and home to the curious.
With over 230 years of expertise, Bonhams operates a global network of trusted specialists across 24 countries, including flagship salerooms in London, New York, Paris and Hong Kong. Across more than 60 specialist categories, Bonhams serves collectors of every kind — from emerging to established — with the objects, stories and expertise that define their collecting journey.
Beyond auctions, Bonhams is both a destination for discovery and for industry-leading services and support. Its rotating programme of exhibitions and public programming is free and open to all, reflecting a longstanding commitment to curiosity, cultural conversation and the enduring power of objects.
For forthcoming auctions and details of specialist departments, visit Bonhams.com.
Bonhams: A house built on knowledge. Defined by connection. Home to the curious.
About the Role
We are currently seeking a skilled Photographer with a specialty in watches to join our team, based at our London studio.
Watch photography sits at the most technically demanding end of still life work. The successful candidate will bring a strong portfolio demonstrating the ability to control reflection, render dial detail faithfully and handle the full range of materials found in fine horology - polished and brushed steel, precious metals, sapphire crystal, enamel, ceramic and leather. Working closely with the Watches department, you will produce imagery of the highest standard to support catalogues, digital platforms and marketing materials.
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This is a high-volume environment with fixed catalogue deadlines, so the role requires the ability to maintain both consistency and pace across large consignments.
Key Tasks and Responsibilities
- Produce high-quality still life photography of watches, including full case, dial, movement, case back and strap detail.
- Control lighting to manage reflection and specular highlights across polished, brushed and transparent surfaces.
- Deliver accurate colour and tonal rendering of dials, metals, gemstones and straps.
- Work to consistent house styling and image standards across large, multi-lot sales.
- Collaborate closely with the Watches department and wider photography team to meet catalogue and marketing deadlines.
- Manage photography from end to end, including studio set-up, capture, and file handling.
- Support a smooth and efficient studio workflow, maintaining throughput without compromising image quality.
- Handle high-value items with appropriate care and in line with departmental protocols.
Key Skills and Experience
- Strong portfolio demonstrating watch photography or closely comparable specialist work in jewellery or high-reflectance objects.
- Demonstrable technical understanding of lighting for reflective and mixed-material subjects.
- Previous professional studio photography experience.
- Proficiency in studio lighting techniques, including diffusion, flagging and reflection control.
- Meticulous attention to detail, particularly around dial legibility, alignment and finish.
- Ability to work at pace and maintain consistency across high-volume shoots.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities to deadline.
- Comfortable working with Mac platforms, tethered capture and file management systems.
- A genuine interest in and knowledge of watches is highly desirable.
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What We Offer
Some of our benefits and perks include:
- 28 days holidays (including Bank Holidays), increasing to 33 with service
- Healthcare and Life Assurance
- Enhanced maternity and paternity leave
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- Season Ticket Loan
If you wish to apply, please send your CV and cover letter by the 17th September 2026 at midnight.
We thank you for your interest in this position but please note that we will only contact candidates chosen for further consideration.
Bonhams is an Equal Opportunity Employer. As part of our commitment to fight for equality, we work to ensure a fair and consistent interview process. We celebrate diversity and we are committed to an inclusive work environment.
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