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Event Volunteer Role

Event Photographer

The Event Photographer captures the excitement and spirit of FIRST events by photographing teams, robots, volunteers, and key moments. This creative and collaborative role helps tell the story of the event through digital images. 

Volunteer as an Event Photographer

Event Photographers work with the Event Planning Committee or Event Leadership to develop a shot list and visually document the event. Volunteers must bring and use their own professional camera equipment (cell phones not permitted). This role requires self-direction, creativity, and strong communication skills.

Minimum Age: varies by program (see below)

Experience: Either FIRST or related Field Experience required

  • Event leadership may request portfolio or samples

Training: No pre-event training

  • Photographer may receive expectations and shot list from Event leadership prior to event

Role Details / Responsibilities:

  • Collaborate with Event Leadership or Planning Committee to create a shot list but typically photograph teams, robots, matches, volunteers, and the overall event atmosphere
  • Use personal professional camera equipment (not smartphones)
  • Ensure photos are appropriate, professional, and do not include selfies or inappropriate content
  • Share final photos with Event Leadership within the requested timeline (usually within 2 weeks)
  • Adhere to event guidelines, including restrictions around field access and impartiality
  • Maintain professionalism while navigating a fast-paced environment
  • Volunteers should focus on the role they are filling at that event. This includes:
    • Helping avoid the appearance of bias by not cheering for one specific team when wearing official event apparel (volunteer shirt or FIRST/Partner staff clothing). Instead, we encourage volunteers to cheer for all teams equally.  
    • Refrain from accessing sensitive event areas unless they are necessary to fulfill your volunteer role for this event. This can include playing field access, scoring table and judging rooms.
    • Wearing volunteer specific apparel (e.g. FTA shirt, Robot Inspector hat, etc) only when filling that specific role.  
  • Must read and comply with the Volunteer Handbook

Reports to: varies by program

Volunteer as an Event Photographer in three distinct FIRST programs

Learn more about volunteering as an Event Photographer in each program.

Program Role Details

Be an Event Photographer with FIRST LEGO League Challenge

  • Works with Tournament Director to develop a shot list
  • Captures team moments, activities, and awards 

Minimum age: 18

Role Training: Event day guidance only 

Role Resources:


Program Role Details

Be an Event Photographer with FIRST Tech Challenge

Minimum Age: 13, 18+ preferred  

  • Exceptions may be granted by event Volunteer Coordinators after review and approval by the local Program Delivery Partner 

Experience: Experience shooting in fast-paced environment, indoors in low light, and with photo processing preferred

Reports to: Varies by event - Volunteer Coordinator, Event Director, and/or Program Delivery Partner.

Role Training: Volunteer expectations and guidelines provided pre-event

program role details

Referee with FIRST Robotics Competition

Minimum Age: 13, 18+ preferred

  • Exceptions may be granted by event Volunteer Coordinators after review and approval by the local Program Delivery Partner 
Experience: Experience shooting in fast-paced environment, indoors in low light, and with photo processing preferred

Volunteer Time Commitment:
  • Time commitment varies by event 
  • Preferred 2 full day commitment (Districts) or 3 full day commitment (Regionals)

Reports to: Varies by event - Volunteer Coordinator, Event Director, and/or Program Delivery Partner.

Role Training: Volunteer expectations and guidelines provided pre-event

Championship Role Details

Be an Event Photographer at FIRST Championship

This role is available in the following programs at Championship with the additional requirements below:

FIRST LEGO League Challenge:

  • Responsible for photographing the Championship event (Wednesday–Saturday) 
  • Works with Volunteer Coordinator and Tournament Director to capture important moments 
  • Hours/days may be split among two photographers 
  • Must bring own equipment 
  • Captures images of teams, awards, and event energy 
  • Championship Volunteer Time commitment:
    • 3-6 hours per day, Wednesday - Saturday 

FIRST Tech Challenge & FIRST Robotics Competition:

  • Championship Volunteer Time Commitment:  
    • Wednesday morning through Saturday afternoon.  
    • Detailed scheduling information will be provided in advance of the event. 
  • Reports to: FIRST Staff

Volunteer at a FIRST event near you

Find a local event to volunteer in one of our many event volunteer roles.