by Zandrea Diggs

Matthew Rory Diggs is a visual storyteller and communications specialistliving in the Nashville area with his lovely artist wife Zandrea. Below is his resume. Connect with him on LinkedIn.

Education
Union University - Jackson, Tennessee
Bachelor of Science in Digital Media Studies, 2008
Emphasis in Communication Arts
Minor in Photojournalism

Work History
Genesco - Journeys

Journeys Ecommerce Photography Studio Manager (2019-Present)
Achievements:
Providing leadership for the Ecommerce Photography Team in the day-to-day management of all website photography operations. Communicating departmental strategies, gaining cross-functional alignment, managing studio equipment and supplies and troubleshooting studio technical issues. Providing steady production flow of product photos prepped for website and catalog. Photographing product alongside the photo team, working closely with creative directors, models and stylists to realize the seasons aesthetic and feel. Bringing all of the pieces together to provide digital assets for product launches and special initiatives. Producing product videos, as well as scanning products so 3D models are built for Virtual-Try On.

Genesco - Licensed Brands
Licensed Brands Photography Coordinator (2016-2017)Licensed Brands Photographer Videographer (2018-2019)
Achievements:
Building and operating an in-house photography studio to photograph and retouch images for ecommerce platforms for major fashion brands including Lucky, Dockers footwear, G.H.BASS and others. Photographing lifestyle images, hero shots, as well as still life footwear images for use in email marketing, catalogs, banners, trade show booths and advertisements. I was responsible for budgeting, planning and execution of seasonal lifestyle and video shoots, including hiring talent, location scouting and working closely with the VP of Marketing to align with brand strategy.

Saks Fifth Avenue

Digital Tech (2013-2015)
 Jr. Photographer (2015-2016)
Achievements Include: Working in the high-volume Saks Fifth Avenue commercial photography studio to shoot and edit images for ecommerce on a tight deadline. Maintaining and organizing studio equipment to increase productivity. Demonstrating problem-solving abilities under pressure by creating sets and lighting configurations on demand. Keeping thorough notes and records of issues on tracking sheets while producing work in accordance with Saks standards. Working closely with digital techs, other staff photographers and stylists to ensure an efficient collaborative workflow. I also worked with and coached freelance staff.

Dollar General Corporation
Public Relations/Communications Specialist – Intern (2011-2012)
Accomplishments include: Writing concise and targeted press releases that are distributed nationally through wire services. Writing pieces for internal communication to be published on the company intranet and newsletter. Creating media reports using media monitoring services, including Cision and MyMediaInfo. Contacting and interacting with various media outlets.  Photographing corporate events, and proofreading documents.

Tennessee State University
Freelance Photographer/Social Media Coordinator (2008-2009)
Accomplishments Include: Working with TSU’s Media Relations Department to create and publish media of events including student life, sports and other special occasions. Photographing campus life to be used in University promotional material. Drafting press releases, proofreading and posting to University social media outlets.

Skills
Software: Adobe CS6, Lightroom 5, Photo Mechanic, Capture One Pro 7, Final Cut Pro, Microsoft Office.
- Knowledge and experience pertaining to all technical aspects of manual still photography including both digital SLR and film development.
- Proficient in utilizing studio lighting for portraits and illustrations and field lighting for sports using radio equipment.
- Capturing and editing video, audio, and photography for multimedia packages.
- Clear, concise and creative writing skills with both corporate and journalist experience in AP style.
- Extremely personable with strong people skills.
- Understanding of HTML and CSS.

Other Accomplishments
Matthew Diggs Photography
Photographer/Videographer (2007-Present)
Accomplishments include: Working for various clients including Sharp Shooter Imaging, LNR Design, Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, VIP Murfreesboro and the APLU. Services also include wedding and portrait photography.

Union University
Student Photographer and Writer (2006-2008)
Accomplishments include: Conducting interviews to complete stories for student publication. Photographing campus life for University promotional material. Working closely with the University relations department to expand the Union photo project.

Englewood Baptist Church
Web designer and Photographer (2007-2009)
Accomplishments include: Creating and redesigning web pages using HTML and CSS inside a content management system. Photographing special events and creating multimedia pieces. Selecting photographs for design layout for both print and web use.

References are available upon request