Understory is an independent creative agency building a different kind of agency model. One that's leaner, more collaborative, more culturally connected, and focused on making work that drives impact
We bring together strategy, design, and creative thinking to help brands grow. We're small by design, growing intentionally, and looking for people who are excited to help shape the next phase of the company.
the opportunity
We're looking for a Denver-based freelance content creator to lead monthly social content shoots for Smashburger, with opportunities to contribute to concepting, editing, and content creation for other clients.
You'll collaborate with our existing team of content creators, bringing strong creative instincts, an understanding of social trends, and the ability to independently lead shoots. This starts as a small, recurring freelance engagement, with potential to grow into a larger role as Understory grows.
what you'll do
- Lead monthly, on-location social content shoots in Denver.
- Capture engaging video and photography, primarily using your phone.
- Help turn creative concepts into shot lists and shoot plans.
- Bring fresh ideas and an understanding of social trends to the work.
- Direct people, products, and moments to capture authentic content.
- Collaborate with our content creators and creative partners.
- Edit short-form videos for TikTok, Instagram Reels, and other platforms.
- Organize and hand off footage for the broader team.
what we're looking for
Great content and strong creative instincts. We care more about what you've made than your résumé, degree, or years of experience. We're looking for someone who:
- Has examples of engaging social content they've created, whether for brands or personal channels.
- Understands social trends, formats, and what makes content work.
- Has a good eye for composition, lighting, and visual storytelling.
- Can confidently capture great content on a smartphone.
- Can edit short-form video using CapCut, Premiere Pro, or similar tools.
- Takes ownership, communicates well, and works independently.
- Brings good energy, curiosity, and a collaborative mindset.
- Lives in the Denver area and is available for recurring shoots.
You don't need professional production equipment or agency experience. If your content is good and you understand what makes it work, we want to see it.
how we work
We're building Understory around a few beliefs:
- Impact over awards. We pursue what drives our clients’ businesses forward.
- Culture over commercials. We're interested in creating work that is talked about.
- Courage over convention. Good ideas don't always follow the usual playbook.
- Progress over paralysis. We'd rather quickly make, learn, and improve than overthink.
- Brains over bloat. Small, thoughtful teams can do exceptional things.
the details
- Engagement: Freelance, with recurring monthly shoots and additional project opportunities.
- Initial commitment: Approximately one on-location shoot per month, plus planning, editing, and other creative work as needed. (think 5hrs/week on average)
- Location: Denver, Colorado. Local availability required.
- Equipment: A smartphone capable of capturing high-quality video is all you need. We'll provide additional equipment as needed.
- Long-term potential: Opportunities for a larger role, potentially including full-time employment, as the agency grows. Any future role depends on mutual fit and business needs.
compensation
$40–$60/hour, depending on experience and scope.
interested?
Send us:
- A resume, outlining your experience.
- Examples of your work. Brand content, client projects, personal channels, whatever shows your creative/social instincts.
- Bonus points for sending a specific piece of content you're proud of. Tell us what you contributed and why you think it worked.
