Space Needle photographers picket

In the midst of contract negotiations, management announced intent to shutter the department within the month

SEATTLE, WA (May 15, 2025) — They had hoped to be finalizing their contract, but photo department workers at the Space Needle were instead picketing Monday in protest of management’s plan to eliminate their jobs and entire  department by the end of the month.

These workers provide a service offering guests professional photos as they tour the Space Needle, and in the Chihuly Garden. Every day they capture mementos of marriage proposals, family vacations, and special occasions, helping make these iconic Seattle landmarks memorable destinations for tourists and locals alike.

They were blindsided when Space Needle management announced on May 6 their intention to terminate the entire department within weeks.

Photo department workers at the Space Needle flyering during their recognition fight in 2024. Photo: UNITE HERE Local 8

Photo department workers won union recognition a year ago, becoming members of UNITE HERE Local 8, like many other workers at the Space Needle. Photo department staff had been negotiating their first contract, hoping to secure benefits like affordable healthcare coverage.

While organizing, workers shared how vital the essential service they provide is, considering it’s alignment with the Space Needle’s brand: “For a business that relies so heavily on its visual appeal, the photography team is an essential part of the experience,” said Space Needle Photo Lead Casey in a statement last May.

Per reporting in the Seattle Times, workers have felt the ripple effects of the decision to shutter the photography department, with co-workers in other departments fearing their jobs may be on the line next.