Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Paid Media • Key Messages • Reputation Management

Photo Op

Term from Public Relations industry explained for recruiters

A Photo Op (short for Photo Opportunity) is a planned event where people, usually public figures or organizations, pose for photographs to gain media attention. It's a common public relations tool used to create positive publicity and visual content for news stories, social media, and promotional materials. PR professionals arrange these staged moments to help their clients get media coverage and share their message visually. Photo ops can range from simple handshakes to elaborately planned events, like ribbon-cutting ceremonies or charity appearances.

Examples in Resumes

Organized 25+ Photo Op events for city mayor, resulting in increased positive media coverage

Coordinated Photo Opp and Photo Opportunity sessions between CEO and major news outlets

Managed timing and logistics for celebrity Photo Opportunities during charitable foundation events

Typical job title: "PR Coordinators"

Also try searching for:

Public Relations Specialist Media Relations Coordinator Communications Coordinator PR Manager Press Secretary Events Coordinator Media Relations Manager

Where to Find PR Coordinators

Professional Organizations

Online Communities

Job Resources

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you handle a photo op that goes wrong or receives negative media attention?

Expected Answer: A senior PR professional should discuss crisis management strategies, including having backup plans, preparing statements in advance, and methods to redirect narrative while maintaining client reputation.

Q: How do you measure the success of a photo opportunity?

Expected Answer: Should explain tracking media coverage, social media engagement, message effectiveness, and how to tie photo op results to broader PR campaign goals.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What factors do you consider when planning a photo op location?

Expected Answer: Should discuss lighting, background, accessibility, weather contingencies, and how the location supports the intended message or story.

Q: How do you coordinate with photographers and media outlets for a photo op?

Expected Answer: Should explain media advisory creation, photographer briefing process, timing coordination, and how to ensure all outlets get fair access.